11 NIGHTS: MEKONG SLOW JOURNEY
Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Northern Laos and Luang Prabang
MEKONG SLOW JOURNEY
11 nights
Our journey begins in Chiang Mai where we experience Lanna heritage and Northern cuisine before we head to laid-back Chiang Rai and its quirky temples. Then venture deep into the spectacular mountainous landscape of Northern Laos winding down the Mekong River. Engage in authentic cultural experiences amid remote riverside communities on the 4-day cruise to the Royal city Luang Prabang.
DAY 1 CHIANG MAI
Welcome to Chiang Mai
Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Your guide will give you an introduction to the tour. Sit back, relax, enjoy a swim at the hotal and get ready for the adventure ahead.
DAY 2 CHIANG MAI
The Old City and Doi Suthep
Meet with your local guide and board a samlor for a tour of the old city. Begin a Wororat Market, pass by heritage teak buidings and travel through the old city to the Three Kings Monument. Visit Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang with your guide explaining the history of the city along the way. Step inside the silver temple and a silversmith's workshop. Then cruise on the Mae Ping River with lunch onboard before travelling up the mountain to Wat Phra Doi Suthep late in the afternoon.
DAY 3 CHIANG MAI
Lanna Culture and Food Tour
This morning we visit the traditional home of a local family to learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes. Select fresh ingredients from the garden, learning about the various vegetables, herbs and spices. Prepare a chili paste then begin cooking using traditional methods with the guidance to your host. In the afternoon stroll around tranquil Wat Umong and the ancient meditation tunnels then sample street food around Chiang Mai Gate and the old city.
DAY 4 CHIANG RAI
To Chiang Rai
We travel today to Chiang Rai via the scenic route through Mai Ai near the Myanmar border. On the journey, we venture off the main road and head up to a Lahu hilltribe village where you will enjoy a traditionally prepared meal. We then take a stroll through the village and learn about Lahu ways of life before continuing the journey. We stop at Wat Tha Ton temple, with stunning mountain views, then arrive in Chiang Rai late in the afternoon.
DAY 5 CHIANG RAI
The Black House Museum and White Temple
Head to the fascinating Baan Dam Museum, or The Black House, an intriguing collection of buildings, artwork and sculptures by renowned local artist Thawan Duchanee. Continue to Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple. The spectacular white glistening temple was created by a local artist. Visit The Rai Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park, traditional Lanna-style buildings with a collection of folk art and teak artifacts.
DAY 6 NORTHERN LAOS
The Golden Triangle
We travel to the Golden Triangle, stopping at the viewpoint overlooking the confluence of the Ruak and the Mekong Rivers. Delve in to the history, politics and impacts of the opium trade at the The Hall of Opium. Then it is time to enter Laos and board the river boat. Sit back, relax and enjoy the views from the deck and lounge. Welcome dinner and overnight onboard.
DAY 7 NORTHERN LAOS
On the Mekong and Khmu Village
Today we begin the voyage on the Mekong, traveling downstream past Huay Xay to the small village of Pak Tha. Take a long-tail boat excursion on the Namtha River to a Khmu ethnic minority village and a tour a small village school. Back on the boat, continue downstream through northern Laos where the boat will anchor on the riverbank for the evening.
DAY 8 NORTHERN LAOS
Mekong River Cruise
We continue the journey downstream. View the jungle covered hills and rock formations of the countryside. Stop and visit a riverside village community and learn about their culture and daily life. Back onboard, sit back and relax, taking in the spectacular surroundings. The boat will anchor on the riverbank for the evening.
DAY 9 NORTHERN LAOS
Pak Ou Caves
After a relaxing morning onboard, we stop at the Pak Ou Caves on the riverside. Venture inside the caves and view the thousands of small Buddha statues. We take a short jungle hike to a local village which has a rice wine distillery and silk weaving. Return to the boat for a farewell dinner and overnight onboard.
DAY 10 LUANG PRABANG
Royal Luang Prabang
This morning we arrive at the former capital of Laos, Luang Prabang. Begin at Wat Xieng Thong temple and the Royal Place Museum. After lunch, check-in to the hotel then discover the Heuen Chan Heritage House, a Lao style colonial mansion displaying Lao textiles. Stroll up Mount Phousi which offers a spectacular views over the river and the surrounding mountains. As the sun sets, stroll through the Hmong community night market.
DAY 11 LUANG PRABANG
Alms Giving and Rural Laos
Meet with your local guide early this morning take part in an alms giving ceremony with the local monks on the city streets. Then venture out of the city to the impressive Kuang Si Waterfalls and on the return, tour a buffalo dairy farm.
DAY 12 LUANG PRABANG
Departure
Take the morning to see some sites of interest or enjoy it at your leisure. Transfer to Luang Prabang Airport for your homeward flight.