Heritage Line Anouvong 3 Nights (Upstream)
Destination: Luang Prabang, Pak Ou, Khok Phou, Khok Luang, Khok Ek, Pakbeng, Huay Xai
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore the ancient streets in Luang Prabang and talk with expert about its hitsory
- Enjoy cinema nights and traditional dance performances on Anouvong Cruise
- Admire stunning landscapes from sundeck and visit the well-known Kuang Si Falls
- Trek through lush jungles to reach Pak Ou Caves
- Visit a modern buffalo dairy farm, almsgiving, weaving and other traditions
Day 1 Luang Prabang - Pak Ou - Khok Phou
In the morning, Laos River Cruises extended a warm welcome to guests at the mooring of the ‘Anouvong’ Heritage Line in downtown Luang Prabang. Our dedicated staff will assist you with check-in and look after your luggage. Once ready, the captain of the ‘Anouvong’ will depart on a captivating 3-night cruise along the Upper Mekong.
Heading to our first destination, the famous Pak Ou Caves, our expert guide will present a fascinating lecture on the intricate tapestry of Laos' diverse ethnic groups along the Mekong River Kong.
Come to Pak Ou Caves, nestled along the rocky banks of the Mekong River, there are two caves containing about 4,000 sacred statues and Buddha statues. We delved into the lower cave, the most impressive and most accessible.
After the cave tour, Laos River Cruises offers two options to enhance your tour: an adventurous kayaking tour along the peaceful Nam Ou River or a tour of Ban Muang Keo village nearby, famous for traditional silk weaving and whiskey distillation of Laos.
As the afternoon wore on, we arrived at our anchorage for the night and explored the 200-year-old village of Ban Khok Phou. This place is mainly inhabited by ethnic Lao people. The highlight is the traditional Baci ceremony, a heartfelt Lao ceremony led by local elders, blessing your journey. If time allows, we can go to a small temple and pray for quiet moments of meditation with local monks and novice monks.
The evening begins with a welcome cocktail on the sand, followed by a BBQ dinner amid incredible natural surroundings. Welcome to a memorable exploration of Lao culture along the Mekong River.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner


Day 2 Khok Phou - Had Sako - Khok Ek (Jul-Oct) / Khok Phou - Khok Luang (Nov - Apr)
Tourists will have 2 flexible schedules depending on the time you travel
Khok Phou - Had Sako - Khok Ek (July-October)
Join our daily yoga class on the rooftop terrace, surrounded by stunning Mekong river views
The Heritage Line Anouvong boat departs early, allowing you to enjoy breakfast while observing nature's morning life along the riverbank. A mid-morning stop takes us to the enchanting village of Had Sako. This place thrives with the Hmong ethnic community, famous for its unique corn growing profession. The highlight awaits at a local house, where residents in traditional costumes will introduce the fascinating traditional musical instrument called “Kene” and treat us to the hypnotic melodies of this flute accompanied by a unique dance.
Sailing mid-afternoon, another breathtaking sight on the river awaits as we reach another remarkable village. Here, three distinct ethnic groups - Hmong, Lao Loum and Khamo - coexist almost literally under one roof. Each group has its own history, traditions, lifestyle and housing style. If time permits and the season permits, visitors can be briefly introduced to the organic gardens where villagers tend their crops.
Back on board, as afternoon turns to evening, gather at the bar to enjoy snacks while previewing the day's program ahead. Prepare for an enriching pre-dinner experience as a traditional dance performance takes place on the terrace or sandbank in front of our boat.
After dinner, join us in the lounge to enjoy a cozy cinema setting with 'Chiang' (Lao for “elephant”).
Khok Phou - Khok Luang (November - April)
Join our daily yoga class on the rooftop terrace, surrounded by stunning Mekong river views.
The boat departs early, allowing you to enjoy breakfast while observing nature's morning life along the riverbank. A mid-morning stop takes us to the enchanting village of Khok Luang, home to the Khum people. Visitors will observe their lifestyles and engage in insightful conversations to better understand their unique experiences.
We returned to the ship for lunch. For the rest of the day, you can enjoy a wonderful stay on board. The ship remains moored to the shore with excellent views of the river.
In the afternoon, there is some entertainment on board. Join our Lao cooking class and learn how to make exceptional dishes that can be easily made at home. Relax on deck or in your cabin. Choose a spa or relax in our bar-lounge with a good book or chat with fellow passengers.
In the evening, we invite you to have dinner on the terrace (if conditions allow). After dinner, join us in the lounge to enjoy a cozy cinema setting with "Chiang" (Lao for “elephant”).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 3 Khok Ek - Pakbeng - Huay Ting (Jul-Oct) / Khok Luang - Khok Ek - Pakbeng (Nov - Apr)
Tourists will have 2 flexible schedules depending on the time you travel
Khok Ek - Pakbeng - Huay Ting (July-October)
Wake up to the sun for an invigorating yoga class.
As 'Anouvong' moves upstream, get creative in the bamboo weaving workshop, where you'll make your own bamboo basket-a cherished memento of this traditional art.
After lunch, the next stop on our journey is Pakbeng. Along the riverbank opposite town and nestled in the jungle lies Laos's most sustainable elephant sanctuary. Here, in an almost pristine natural setting, we are privileged to meet these majestic creatures.
If time permits, we'll take you to the top of the hill in Pakbeng town (by vehicle), offering breathtaking panoramic views - perfect for capturing lasting memories. There is a small Buddhist temple left on the hilltop of the former Lan Na Kingdom.
As afternoon fell, our journey continued. Once again, we moored to a splendid sandbar, creating a picturesque setting for a leisurely aperitif, ideally accompanied by a stunning sunset. A farewell dinner was then served on the terrace, marking the end of this remarkable journey.
Khok Luang - Khok Ek - Pakbeng (November - April)
This morning, after having breakfast on the 'Anouvong' boat, we had to temporarily leave the 'Anouvong' boat to switch to a traditional long-tail boat and continue the journey upstream. Because the water level and rapids above the river did not allow our boat to pass.
Enjoy the passing scenery and reach Khok Ek village. Here, three distinct ethnic groups - Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khamo - coexist almost literally under one roof. Each group has its own history, traditions, lifestyle and housing style.
Our chef will serve lunch on the longtail boat while we cruise around Pakbeng. Along the riverbank opposite town and nestled in the jungle lies Laos's most sustainable elephant sanctuary. Here, in an almost pristine natural setting, we are privileged to meet these majestic creatures.
If time permits, we'll take you to a hilltop vantage point in Pakbeng town (by vehicle), offering breathtaking panoramic views - perfect for capturing lasting memories.
After the tour, you'll check in to Le Grand Hotel & Resort with great views of the town and river below. Dinner is served at the hotel's restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 4 Huay Ting - Huay Xai (Jul-Oct) / Pakbeng - Huay Ting (Nov - Apr)
Tourists will have 2 flexible schedules depending on the time you travel
Huay Ting - Huay Xai (July-October)
After an exhilarating 3-night cruise, today invites you to a more leisurely pace, allowing you to savor the memories created during our journey.
Feel free to extend your morning sleep time if you wish. Breakfast was deliberately simplified, with fewer options or a la carte options, as we prepared for the culinary-rich brunch that followed - a prelude to saying goodbye.
We then sail into the heart of the Golden Triangle, the morning is yours to relax or take part in our fascinating presentation that unravels the complex history of the Golden Triangle.
Just before the appetite awakens, visitors will participate in a Lao cuisine cooking class, preparing for a late brunch with a buffet of main dishes and attractive desserts to stimulate their taste buds. Friend.
When we docked at Huay Xai wharf mid-afternoon, we said goodbye in front of the Lao immigration office. We extend our best wishes for an exciting journey ahead.
Pakbeng - Huay Ting (November - April)
This morning wake up to the sunshine and get ready for your final day on the river. We had to leave quite early to be able to manage the distance to Huay Xai.
Breakfast is served on the longtail boat while you can enjoy the morning breeze and wonderful riverside scenery passing by. During the middle of the day, lunch is served and fruit and drinks are provided at intervals.
When we docked at Huay Xai wharf mid-afternoon, we said goodbye in front of the Lao immigration office. We extend our best wishes for an exciting journey ahead.
Meals: Breakfast


What's Included/Excluded
- All group excursions, entrance fees & activities as mentioned in the itinerary
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner as mentioned in the itinerary
- Coffee, tea and water at all times
- Fruit juices are included in addition during breakfast
- Breakfast on private balcony (on request)
- Daily turn down gift
- Tour guides (English speaking)
- Transfers from meeting points to ship and vice versa
- Passenger liability insurance
- Internet on the ship (subject to cellular network signal)
- Port and anchorage fee
- Crew and guide gratuities
- Visa fees
- Private transfers
- Personal expenses
- Other beverage not included
- Fuel surcharges
- Medical services
- Spa treatments
- All other services or items not listed under inclusions
Thank you for taking care of our cruise on Anouvong
jessica - United States
I'm 100% satisfied with my trip on the Anouvong Cruise last November. Impressed with the unique architecture and Laos culture. I will come back here ASAP. P/s: Ms. Ngoc asked me to write a review but I totally forgot, my bad.
The Heritage line Anouvong cruise is va 10/10
Liam Scott - Canada
The Heritage line Anouvong cruise is very comfortable and well designed. The bar and lounge area is airy and very comfortable. all the staff were exceptional. They are all excellent at their jobs. We were also fortunate to book this ship. Great cruise, I highly recommend.
Best cruise I haver had in southeast asia
Élise - France
I had a wonderful 3 day trip on the Anouvong cruise ship with my family. I was particularly impressed by the enthusiasm of the staff on board, they were always ready to help us whenever we needed it.
Spent 7-day trip on Heritage line Anouvong
Klaus - Germany
During the 7-day trip on the Anouvong cruise ship, I was enjoyed every moment. We visit many interesting places in Huay Xai and Luang Prabang. Enjoyed delicious food on the cruise in the afternoon and relax with music in the evening.
Nothing to complain about
Robert - United States
The food on the Anouvong cruise is delicious, the menu is diverse so my whole family can choose dishes that each person loves. The space on the cruise is luxurious and clean.
We had the most wonderful time on this 7-day Anouvong trip.
noah - Canada
Thanks to Laos River Cruises, our journey from Vientiane to Huay Xai was flawless. It was like we became Royal because right from the moment we stepped Aboard the Anouvong, we were pampered, cared for, and fed beautiful food.
The facilities are fantastic, with air conditioning, beautiful cabins with private balconies and great bars, dining rooms and relaxation areas.
Thank you very much! <3
Anouvong make it more than just a cruise trip
Nicolas - France
We participated in many interesting activities about Laotian culture on the Anouvong boat. We learned to dance traditional dances, watched music and participated in the Baci ceremony to pray for good luck :)
lovely crusing experience with Anouvong on mekong river
Hans Müller - Germany
The activities of the ship are very interesting. I love doing yoga classes with friends every morning on the rooftop terrace, which has a beautiful view of the Mekong in the background.
attentive staff and luxury accommodations
Levi Jones - Canada
My experience aboard the Anouvong Cruise was nothing short of magical. The journey took us to all the classic must-see destinations in Laos, and we could see the country's rich cultural and historical heritage, it was amazing!! The luxurious accommodations and attentive staff made us feel so warm, my son had a good time this trip and he expected to come back one more time. thanks a lot for everything!
Anouvong didn’t disappoint us. Love the trip
Angela - United States
We had many great moments on this trip. The best part of the cruise was how it immersed us in local life and traditions. We visited villages, participated in their ceremonies, and genuinely tasted Laos. It felt like we weren’t just visitors but were welcomed as family members into the heart of the country! I have visited Luang Prabang 3 years ago but i can’t imagine that admiring it on cruise can be a higher level
Beautiful nature and fgood food. Better than my land tour exp
Edwin Lee - United Kingdom
Love this tour. I enjoyed the good food in Laos and visited many beautiful places. Cruise tour was so much different from land tour and i found it more interesting thanks to you! If I come back to Lao, will contact asap :)
Weather quiet bad but the trip was good overall
Alice - Canada
One of the best cruise tours Laos in my op :) i literally enjoy my journey even when it rains sometimes. Highly rcm this agent :)
well organized, especially love the elephant sanctuary
Bethany Stone - United Kingdom
We had a great time on the new Anouvong cruise from Vietiane to Huay Xay. The boat is really nice, and the cabins are beautiful. We especially liked our little balcony, especially in the morning when it was cooler. The excursions were well organized, especially the ones to the elephant sanctuary and for kayaking. The meals were all really good, and even the two 15-year-olds in our group enjoyed them. Hope to be back with another great tour!
9 nights with the Anouvong cruise. beautiful Mekong
Aiden - Canada
spent 9 nights on the lower deck of the Anouvong cruise. The ship's decorations were lovely, and everything was really clean and taken care of. Our room was big, with a sitting area and a large bathroom. We enjoyed hanging out in the bar area—it was a nice place to relax and talk. The food looked good and had a good mix of options. The staff were awesome - quick, friendly, and funny. The activities were well-organized and not too long. A river cruise is a cool way to travel because there's always something interesting to see. That’s all I feel on the tour, I would definitely go on another river cruise, and my first choice would be your agent :)
Laos River Cruises organized our trip well
Austin Carter - United States
Thank the Anouvong crew so much for making our journey! My family had so much fun!
Highlight of our trip to Southeast Asia
John - United States
We've been on lots of river cruises in Europe and Australia and visited some cities in Southeast Asia but never really explored the whole region. After an amazing tour on the Anouvong cruise, we can honestly say the reviews didn't do justice to how great the ship is as it traveled through this fascinating country. We were really impressed with all the crew - the people who took care of us, kept the ship clean, the staff, and those who managed the boat—they were all really good at their jobs and super caring. They were clearly dedicated to making the cruise awesome, and what's even better is that they genuinely cared about each passenger. Traveling along the Mekong, we didn't just go to well-known places; we also explored little, peaceful spots. We learned a lot about Laos' culture and history. Some days started with optional tai chi on the deck, followed by a fantastic breakfast with delicious food from Laos. After breakfast, there was usually a trip, then a great lunch, a quick rest, and another afternoon adventure further down the river.
In general, there are so many amazing things to say but you’d better try it by yourself. It has our highest recommendation!!
Happy time on anouvong. Tasty menu we drank a lot
C. Holmes - United Kingdom
I carefully chose anouvong in Laos for our honeymoon and it’s unforgettable by anyway. And our favorite places are the bar and the sun deck, we almost tried all drinks on the menu haha :) Btw the cruise crew was so gooood to us, even the organization was not great at all but ya, you guys got my heart :)
Worth money. Anouvong is a luxury escape to Mekong
Isabella Gagne - Canada
The minute we walked into our suite, we were blown away. It was just perfect: Awesome views from all the windows, incredibly beautiful, and super comfy. It was total luxury. The food was yummy, and the staff were amazing. The guide took us to buy souvenirs and shared good tips for bargains, and those memories will stick with us. But what we loved the most was the peace and beauty - we didn't want to leave. We wished we had booked the two-night trip. Our time on the Anouvong cruise will always be in our hearts. Thanks to everyone!