Description
Experience the Enchanting Mekong: 2-Day Cruise to Luang Prabang
Discover the Magic of Laos with Shompoo Cruises
Embark on a breathtaking journey down the mighty Mekong River, from Houay Xai to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang. Over two unforgettable days, immerse yourself in the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality that Laos has to offer.
DOWNSTREAM CRUISE
2 DAYS OF BOAT SERVICES
Houay Xai to Luang Prabang
Departure Schedule:
- April to September: Every Monday and Friday
- October to March: Every Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday
Day 1: Houay Xai – Pakbeng
- 08:00 AM: Meet our friendly English-speaking team at the Chiang Khong immigration office in Thailand. We will assist you through the border formalities and take you by shuttle bus to the Lao border (included).
- After obtaining your visa, board our comfortable minivan for a scenic transfer to the slow boat pier, where your adventure begins.
- 10:00 AM: The boat leaves Houay Xai for downstream the Mekong to Pakbeng.
- Morning: Learn about Laos’ unique culture with a brief presentation on local customs and fun facts.
- Lunchtime: Savor a traditional Lao lunch set served on board as you glide through picturesque landscapes.
- Afternoon: Visit Ban Kang Lae, a quaint Kamu village home to about 70 families, where you will gain insight into the rural lifestyle of this remote community.
- Evening: Arrive in Pakbeng before nightfall, where you will enjoy a peaceful overnight stay at your hotel.
Travel Tip: We recommend arriving at the Chiang Khong Thailand immigration border by 07:30 AM to ensure a timely meeting with our team. If you are already in Houay Xai, we will arrange a convenient pick-up from your hotel between 09:00-09:30 AM. The boat departs Houay Xai at 09:45 AM.
Day 2: Pakbeng – Luang Prabang
- 08:00 AM: Set sail from Pakbeng as you continue your journey through the lush jungle scenery.
- Morning: Enjoy a live demonstration by our guide and chef on how to prepare delicious Lao desserts and local drinks, which you will taste later in the day.
- Mid-Morning: Visit Ban Mouang village, a unique blend of Lao Loun, Shan, and Tai Lue ethnicities, renowned for its traditional lao lao whiskey.
- Lunchtime: Delight in another Lao traditional lunch set, freshly prepared on board.
- Afternoon: Explore the mystical Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting), home to over two thousand Buddha statues and a revered pilgrimage site for the Lao people.
- Late Afternoon: Indulge in the homemade desserts and drinks prepared during the morning demonstration.
- 04:30 PM: Arrive in Luang Prabang, where your unforgettable journey with Shompoo Cruises comes to an end.
UPSTREAM CRUISE
2 DAYS OF BOAT SERVICES
Luang Prabang to Houay Xai
Departure Schedule:
- April to September: Every Wednesday and Saturday
- October to March: Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday
Day 1: Luang Prabang – Pakbeng
- 06:45 AM: Meet at our boat pier in front of T56 restaurant, Ban Pakham, and prepare for departure.
- 07:00 AM: Set sail from Luang Prabang, beginning your scenic journey upstream.
- Morning: Start your day with a delicious continental breakfast on board as we cruise towards the famous Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting), home to over two thousand Buddha statues. This sacred site is one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations for the Lao people.
- Lunchtime: Enjoy a traditional Lao lunch set as you take in the serene river views.
- Afternoon: Participate in an insightful lecture by our English-speaking guide about the diverse ethnic groups of Laos.
- Evening: Arrive in Pakbeng before nightfall, where you will unwind and spend the night at your hotel.
Day 2: Pakbeng – Houay Xai
- 07:00 AM: Board the boat with your takeaway breakfast box prepared by your hotel in Pakbeng.
- Morning: Watch and learn as our guide and chef demonstrate how to make traditional Lao desserts and local drinks, which you will get to sample later in the day.
- Late Morning: Visit the charming Kamu village of Ban Kang Lae, home to about 70 families. Here, you will gain insight into the simple yet rich lifestyle of this remote community.
- Lunchtime: Another delightful Lao traditional lunch set is served on board.
- Afternoon: Savor the homemade desserts and drinks prepared earlier as we approach our final destination.
- 4:30 PM: Arrive at Houay Xai, with the option to continue your journey into Thailand on the same day.
Package Information
Child Policy
We warmly welcome families on board and offer the following pricing for children:
- Children Under 6 Years Old: Free of charge.
- Children Aged 6 to 12 Years: Charged at 50% of the normal rate.
- Children Over 13 Years Old: Full rate is applied.
Exclusions
Please note that the following items are not included in the cruise package:
- Shuttle Bus: Transfer from Houay Xai to Chiang Khong (for upstream cruise).
- Transfers in Luang Prabang: Transportation from your hotel to the boat pier and vice-versa.
- Visa and Immigration Fees: Any visa, immigration, or overstay fees in Laos or Thailand.
- Accommodation and Meals in Pakbeng: Lodging and meals during your stay in Pakbeng.
- Personal Insurance: Travel or health insurance coverage.
- Beverages and Personal Expenses: Drinks, personal expenses, and tips.
- Other Expenses: Any other costs not explicitly mentioned above.
We recommend making arrangements for these items in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Important Travel Tips
To ensure a comfortable and safe journey, please take note of the following recommendations:
- Stay Warm: From December to February, temperatures can drop during the cruise, especially in the early mornings and evenings. Don’t forget to bring a jacket to keep warm.
- Pack Light: You have the option to leave your luggage and suitcase securely on the boat and take only a small daypack with you for your overnight stay in Pakbeng. This will make your journey more comfortable and convenient.
- Weather and Safety Considerations: For your safety, the cruise itinerary may be subject to changes based on weather conditions. Our team will make adjustments as necessary to ensure your safety and enjoyment, but please be prepared for possible changes without prior notice.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we strive to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Book Your Shompoo Cruise to Luang Prabang
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Luang Prabang with our exclusive Cruise package!
Follow these simple steps to book your trip:
1. Select Type of Cruise: Choose between our Downstream Cruise (Houay Xai to Luang Prabang) or our Upstream Cruise (Luang Prabang to Houay Xai).
2. Select Passengers: Choose between adults and children. Please note that children 13 years and older are charged at the adult rate. Children aged 6-12 enjoy a 50% discount on the regular price.
3. Choose Departure Locations: Select your preferred departure points to match your travel plans.
4. Select Travel Date: Choose your preferred travel date from our guaranteed departure dates. If no guaranteed departures are available for your preferred month, select “Other Date” and fill in your desired travel date.
5. Accommodation in Pakbeng Village: Decide if you need accommodation in Pakbeng. We can arrange a room for you and confirm your booking once your order is placed. after that, click “Select this package” to confirm, then “Add to Cart” to proceed with your booking.
6. Solo Travel: If you are traveling solo, please note that a Single Supplementary charge applies for a single room.
7. Provide Contact Details: Fill in your contact details, including your email and WhatsApp number, for immediate follow-up after placing your order.
8. Confirmation and Document Submission: After placing your order, we will confirm your travel date and departure time. We will also request a picture of your passport and the passports of all participants.
9. Before Payment: Review all booking details, including travel dates, times, destinations, accommodations, and any special requests. Ensure everything is correct before proceeding to payment.
10. Make Payment: Complete your payment using a credit card via our secure online payment link. A 3.5% credit card usage fee applies, and we accept international credit cards.
11. Receive E-Travel Voucher: Within 24 hours of payment, we will send your e-travel voucher to your email or WhatsApp. This voucher includes all package details and is necessary for the service team to welcome you at the meeting point.
Additional Information
- After crossing the Laos border, you can apply for a Laos visa at the border as a Visa On Arrival, which costs 40 USD per person.
- At the Laos visa counter, you need to pay an additional 40 THB to the officer as a document handling fee.
- The USD banknote used to pay for the visa needs to be in good condition without any stain marks, pen/pencil/marker writing, tears, or folds.
- If you do not have USD currency available, the visa fee will be charged at 1700 THB – 2000 THB per person.
- You will need one photo to attach to the visa application form. If you do not have a photo available, there will be an additional charge of 40 THB at the visa counter.
- E-visa is acceptable at this border Apply for an E-Visa Here.
- Traveling on public holidays, weekends, or weekdays after 04:00 PM, there will be an additional overtime fee at immigration.
Book your Shompoo Cruise today and embark on a journey through the heart of Laos!