This two-day cruise is on board the Luang Say Cruise boat with a stop made overnight in the town of Pakbeng. Board the Luang Say cruise in the morning at 0700 (please be at pier not later than 0645).

On the way to Pakbeng two stops will be made. The first stop is 2 hours upstream from Luang Prabang at the Pak Ou Caves. Locally referred to as Tam Ting, these two caves are carved out of towering limestone cliffs and contain thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues. The Buddhas range in size from a few centimeters to the size of a human. The caves are as well a destination for local pilgrimages.

The second stop en route to Pakbeng is at the village of Ban Baw.  Here you will be able to see the processing of traditional rice alcohol. 

Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch onboard the boat as you continue your cruise along the scenic Mekong River.

Late this afternoon, you will reach the town of Pakbeng. Located halfway between Houay Xay and Luang Prabang this small town is lined with wooden houses along a steep street on the hillside and is quite dynamic. Depending on the rivers current, you may reach Pakbeng in time to watch the sun set over the river from the balcony of your room. 

Dinner and overnight in Pakbeng

In the morning enjoy breakfast at the hotel before continuing the river cruise upstream.

OPTIONAL: For early risers, there is an opportunity to visit the morning market of where the nearby villagers and hill tribes come to buy and exchange their goods.

Boat departs at 0730 for the second half of the cruise. One stop is made at a small village to visit and admire the authentic rural life of hill tribe settlements.

Lunch is served on board.

This evening, you will reach Houay Xay before 1700 (you may proceed to Chiang Rai in the same day). Transfer to the border is included in Luang Say Cruise package. Crossing border from Lao side to Chaing Khong is client’s arrangement.