Skip to content

Authentic Mekong River Cruises in Laos Since 1999

Slow-boat cruises between Houayxay and Luang Prabang
1 or 2 days · from $120 per person

Choose your cruise Follow the journey

Your cruise

Choose how you sail the Mekong

Downstream Houayxay → Luang Prabang Upstream Luang Prabang → Houayxay

A Mekong Cruises boat on the river below Luang Say Lodge, its teak buildings on a forested hillside A Mekong Cruises boat on the Mekong Main deck of the Mekong Cruises boat with lounge seating and panoramic windows on the Mekong River Window seat on the Mekong Cruises boat overlooking forested mountains of Laos Luang Say Lodge in Pakbeng, wooden bungalows on a green hillside above the Mekong Terrace of Luang Say Lodge overlooking the Mekong River at sunset, Pakbeng, Laos Teak bungalow on stilts surrounded by tropical garden at Luang Say Lodge, Pakbeng

Signature cruise

2-Day Mekong Cruise with a Night at Luang Say Lodge

FROM $205 per person

Our 2-day Mekong cruise with an overnight stay at the Luang Say Lodge is the signature experience of Mekong Cruises. Embark on a full journey down (or up) the Mekong River between Houayxay and Luang Prabang, with a night in our wooden bungalows overlooking the river in Pakbeng.

Included

  • 2 Days / 1 Night
  • Bungalow at Luang Say Lodge
  • All meals and non-alcoholic drinks on board
  • Guided village visits

DOWNSTREAM

Houayxay – Pakbeng – Luang Prabang

Itinerary & Booking

UPSTREAM

Luang Prabang – Pakbeng – Houayxay

Itinerary & Booking

Children under 6 travel free; 7 to 12 pay half price.

  • Since 1999

    27 years sailing the Mekong

  • 1 or 2 days

    Houayxay ⇄ Luang Prabang, in both directions

  • Meals on board

    All meals and non-alcoholic drinks included

  • Met at the border

    Your guide meets you at Lao immigration and helps with the visa

Discover all our cruises

Discovering the wonders of the Mekong since 1999

The unique Mekong River cruises

For over two decades, we have been creating unforgettable journeys along the legendary Mekong River, connecting Huay Xai on the Thai border to the charming UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang in Laos. Our Mekong cruises in Laos offer a truly authentic slow boat experience through one of Southeast Asia’s most pristine waterways.

Step aboard and discover a region rich in colour and steeped in history, largely untouched by the modern world. Whether you’re looking for a slow boat to Luang Prabang or a Huay Xai to Luang Prabang boat journey, your Mekong adventure starts here.

Real guests · Real reviews

What our guests say

Wonderful cruise! We loved every minute of our two-day cruise in Laos! The journey from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai. The guide, Sommay, was excellent: funny, informative and very attentive to his guests.
Maddy Louitt Upstream · 2 days
An absolutely magical experience from start to finish. The boat crew were attentive and the scenery along the Mekong was breathtaking. The Luang Say Lodge exceeded all our expectations — we’ll be back!
James T. Downstream · 2 days
A perfect balance of adventure and comfort. Watching the morning mist rise over the Mekong was an unforgettable experience. The staff went above and beyond at every stage of the journey
François M. Downstream · 2 days

Through our guests’ eyes

  • The boat’s saloon in the late-afternoon sun: tables and cushioned benches along open windows on the Mekong
  • Lunch buffet on board: salads, stir-fried vegetables and fried chicken by a window over the Mekong
  • Wooden deck chairs on the Luang Say Lodge terrace, bougainvillea and the forested Mekong valley behind
  • Tables set for dinner on the Luang Say Lodge restaurant terrace above the Mekong
  • Double bed under a mosquito net in a Luang Say Lodge bungalow

The Journey Begins

An adventure on the Mekong in three stops

From Huay Xai to Luang Prabang, or in reverse, our laos river cruise itineraries invite you to discover Laos from the water. Whether for a single day or a two-day slow boat Mekong voyage with an overnight stop in Pakbeng, enjoy a journey blending spectacular scenery, the gentle pace of life, and authentic experiences.

Illustrated map of the Mekong cruise route from Houayxay, on the Thai border, via Pakbeng to Luang Prabang Houayxay Pakbeng Luang Prabang
Houayxay seen from the Mekong: red-roofed houses on the riverbank below forested hills

The Gateway to Laos

Houayxay

On the Thai border

Located on the eastern bank of the Mekong, facing the Thai town of Chiang Khong, Huay Xai is the capital of Bokeo Province. Its quiet charm, French colonial architecture and Buddhist temples make it a perfect introduction to Lao culture.

It is here, on the banks of the river, that your adventure begins aboard our traditional teak boats. Before boarding your Huay Xai to Luang Prabang boat, take time to discover Wat Chom Khao Manilat, perched on its hilltop, or wander through the local markets.

Boarding
10:30 AM, after the border formalities with your guide
Arrival
Around 5:00 PM, shared minibus to the border with your guide

On the river

Houayxay – Pakbeng

Pakbeng – Houayxay

  • Day 1 of the 2-day cruise
  • Day 2 of the 2-day cruise
  • Also sailed as a 1-day cruise

  1. 10:30 AM Departure from Houayxay. Visa formalities done with your guide, the boat leaves the slow-boat pier and heads downstream into the heart of Laos.

  2. Around noon Lao lunch on board. A traditional lunch of regional flavours, while green hills and riverside villages drift by.

  3. Afternoon A mountain village. A stop at a remote Khamu or Hmong village, for a glimpse of daily life.

  4. End of the day Arrival in Pakbeng. The quiet riverside town where travellers on the lodge cruise check in at Luang Say Lodge.

  1. 7:00 AM Departure from Pakbeng. An early start as the boat heads upstream towards the Thai border.

  2. Morning A mountain tribal village. A glimpse into daily life in a remote rural community.

  3. Midday Lao lunch on board. A traditional lunch showcasing the authentic flavours of the region.

  4. Afternoon A treat from the crew. A treat prepared by the crew, enjoyed with serene river views.

  5. Around 5:00 PM Arrival in Houayxay. Continuing to Thailand? Your guide accompanies you to the border by shared minibus.

Interior of a traditional Mekong river cruise boat in Laos, tables set for lunch Window seat on the Mekong Cruises boat overlooking forested mountains of Laos
Luang Say Lodge in Pakbeng, wooden bungalows on a green hillside above the Mekong

The Jungle Riverside Refuge

Pakbeng

Overnight stop · Luang Say Lodge

Halfway between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang, Pakbeng is a riverside village clinging to a hillside where the Beng River flows into the Mekong. Far from the bustle, it is a timeless haven where silence is broken only by birdsong and the gentle lapping of the river.

This is where our Luang Say Lodge is located — an exclusive eco-lodge where travellers spend the night during our two-day mekong river cruise itineraries. Its wooden bungalows, organic garden and breathtaking views over the Mekong offer a rare moment of communion with nature.

The night
Luang Say Lodge on the lodge cruise, dinner included
Departure
Next morning at 8:00 AM
Departure
Next morning at 7:00 AM

On the river

Pakbeng – Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang – Pakbeng

  • Day 2 of the 2-day cruise
  • Day 1 of the 2-day cruise
  • Also sailed as a 1-day cruise

  1. 8:00 AM Departure from Pakbeng. The journey resumes downstream as the landscape begins to change.

  2. Mid-morning Ban Baw. A village known for its lao-lao whisky and fine handicrafts.

  3. Midday Lao lunch on board. Another traditional Lao lunch, served as the river carries you on.

  4. Afternoon Pak Ou Caves. Sacred limestone caves holding thousands of Buddha statues, lit by flickering candles. A refreshing roselle drink awaits afterwards.

  5. 5:00 PM Arrival in Luang Prabang. The UNESCO World Heritage city, seen first from the river. Shared minibus transfers to your hotel are available.

  1. 7:00 AM Departure from Calao pier. The boat leaves Luang Prabang upstream; a Western breakfast with coffee or tea is served on board.

  2. Mid-morning Pak Ou Caves. More than 2,000 Buddha statues in a revered Lao pilgrimage site.

  3. Midday Lao lunch on board. A traditional lunch, followed by your guide’s stories of Lao culture and history.

  4. Around 5:00 PM Arrival in Pakbeng. The quiet town nestled in the hills, where travellers on the lodge cruise settle in at Luang Say Lodge.

Buddha statues in the Pak Ou Caves above the Mekong Tropical fruit and coffee service on board, with the Mekong River in the background
Luang Prabang seen from above, its roofs among palm trees with the Mekong and the hills behind

The Spiritual Heart of Laos

Luang Prabang

UNESCO World Heritage city

Former royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and the Nam Khan, it gracefully combines gilded Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture and living traditions.

At dawn, hundreds of monks in saffron robes file silently through the streets for the Tak Bat ceremony. In the evening, night markets light up and the alleyways come alive with a thousand scents. This is also where our boutique hotel, the Maison Dalabua, is located, surrounded by lotus ponds. For those taking the slow boat to Luang Prabang, arriving by river offers an unforgettable first impression of this magical city.

Arrival
5:00 PM, shared minibus transfers to your hotel available
Boarding
7:00 AM at Calao pier, breakfast served on board

Ready to board?

Choose your cruise

Our Fleet & Amenities

The onboard experience

Step aboard our custom-built traditional teak boats. They blend authentic Lao craftsmanship with modern comfort, offering you a smooth and peaceful slow boat Mekong journey through jungle-lined waterways.

Deck plan of our traditional teak boat seen from above, from the bow on the left to the stern on the right.
Deck plan · Top view Select a camera to see the view from that spot
  1. Foredeck
  2. Wheelhouse
  3. Dining & lounge saloon
  4. Restrooms, crew galley & passage to the aft deck
  5. Aft deck

Take a look on board

  • Panoramic Views

    Open-air covered decks offering stunning 360-degree views of the spectacular Mekong gorges.

  • Authentic Cuisine

    Savour freshly prepared traditional Lao dishes alongside international fare, served on board.

  • Comfort

    Spacious seating, relaxing daybeds, and well-maintained Western-style facilities.

  • Expert Guides

    Passionate local guides accompany you, ready to share the rich history and legends of the river.

WILDERNESS WONDER

Luang Say Lodge: our refuge in Pakbeng

Perched above the majestic Mekong River in Pak Beng, the Luang Say Lodge is a tranquil retreat where nature, culture, and comfort come together. Built in 1998 and set across four hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens, the lodge reflects the timeless charm of traditional Lao architecture while offering a peaceful escape between the river and the mountains.

Stay in one of 20 spacious teak and rosewood bungalows, thoughtfully designed to blend with the surrounding landscape and provide stunning views of the Mekong. Wander along wooden pathways through lush gardens, savour authentic Lao cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and experience the warm hospitality that has made the lodge a beloved stop on Mekong journeys for over two decades.

Whether as part of a Mekong cruise or a destination in itself, Luang Say Lodge offers an authentic and unforgettable immersion into the natural beauty and serenity of northern Laos.

See the lodge cruise
Teak bungalow on stilts surrounded by tropical garden at Luang Say Lodge, Pakbeng Luang Say Lodge in Pakbeng, wooden bungalows on a green hillside above the Mekong Terrace of Luang Say Lodge overlooking the Mekong River at sunset, Pakbeng, Laos Double bed with mosquito net in a Luang Say Lodge bungalow, Pakbeng, Laos

Before You Go

Frequently asked questions about our cruises

What cruises does Mekong Cruises offer on the Mekong River?

Mekong Cruises offers a full range of river journeys along one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic waterways. Our fleet operates between Houayxay, Pakbeng, and Luang Prabang in Laos, with the following itineraries:

2-day downstream and upstream cruises between Houayxay, Pakbeng, and Luang Prabang.
1-day downstream and upstream cruises between Houayxay, Pakbeng, and Luang Prabang.
Private charter cruises of 1 or 2 days.

All cruises include meals, carefully selected shore excursions, and the option to stay at the Luang Say Lodge in Pakbeng.

How can I book a Mekong River cruise in Laos?

You can book directly through our website, which offers secure online payment options, or contact our team for assistance.

Prefer personalized support? Our team is available by email or phone to help you choose the right itinerary, arrange a private cruise, or answer any questions you may have before departure.

What is included in a Mekong Cruises journey?

Our cruises are designed as all-inclusive experiences. Depending on the itinerary selected, your package generally includes:

Comfortable seating, panoramic windows, and an outdoor deck aboard the slow boat
All meals and non-alcoholic beverages served on board
One night at the Luang Say Lodge in Pakbeng (for 2-day cruises)
Guided shore excursions to villages and cultural sites along the river

Each journey is carefully crafted to provide a comfortable and immersive experience on the Mekong River.

How long does the boat from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang take?

Two days, with an overnight stop in Pakbeng. Downstream, the boat leaves Houayxay at 10:30 AM. The next morning it leaves Pakbeng at 8:00 AM and reaches Luang Prabang around 5:00 PM.

I'm coming from Chiang Rai or Chiang Khong. How do I join the cruise?

Cross the border at Chiang Khong – Huay Xai. Our English-speaking guide meets you at the Lao immigration office in Houayxay, helps you with the visa procedures and takes you by minibus to the pier.

Can I travel only one day on the Mekong?

Yes. Our 1-day cruises run between Houayxay and Pakbeng, or between Pakbeng and Luang Prabang, in both directions, from $120 per person.

How much does a Mekong cruise in Laos cost?

From $120 per person for one day, $180 for two days, and $205 for two days with a night at Luang Say Lodge. Children under 6 travel free, and children aged 7 to 12 pay half price.

Downstream or upstream: which direction should I choose?

Downstream (Houayxay to Luang Prabang) suits travellers arriving from Thailand and runs Monday to Saturday. Upstream starts in Luang Prabang at 7:00 AM and arrives in Houayxay around 5:00 PM, which is convenient if you continue to Thailand. The 2-day upstream cruises run on Monday and from Wednesday to Sunday.

See all questions
  • Instant confirmation
  • Exclusive packages
  • Best price guarantee

Since 1999 – 27 Years of Unforgettable Journeys

★ Save 10% on October departures ★

Book now

Laos Heritage Collection

The rest of the family

★ Save 10% on October departures ★