Explore the enchanting waterways of Laos on a captivating river cruise from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang. This one-day journey immerses travelers in the serene natural beauty of the Nam Ou and Mekong Rivers, offering an intimate experience guided by an English-speaking expert. Along the way, visitors can discover the Pak Ou Caves, a revered site for its multitude of Buddha statues, and venture to a local whiskey village. With limited group sizes, this cruise promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

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Key Points

1-day cruise from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang, priced at $55.00 per person, with a small-group experience limited to 8 participants.
Scenic boat journey along the Nam Ou and Mekong Rivers, including a visit to the Pak Ou Caves and a stop at a local whiskey village.
Opportunity to explore the Buddha Caves at Pak Ou and enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong River.
Free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now & pay later option offered.
Early arrival recommended, at least 1 hour before the 8:45 AM meeting time, to enjoy scenic sunrise views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The 1-day cruise from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang is priced from $55.00 per person.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a reserve now & pay later option.

The small group experience is limited to 8 participants, allowing for a more intimate and personalized journey.

The small group size of 8 participants allows for a more intimate and personalized cruise experience.

Visitors are advised to arrive early, at least 1 hour before the 8:45 AM meeting time, to enjoy the scenic sunrise views along the Nam Ou River.

Looking for more options in Nong Khiaw? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang, Mekong & Nam Ou River Cruise

Itinerary Details

Travelers meet at the Manifa Travel office, located near the Nong Khiaw Bridge, at 8:45 AM to begin the day’s activities.

The itinerary includes:

A 2-hour cruise along the scenic Nam Ou River.
A visit to the Manifa Elephant Camp for a 1.5-hour lunch stop.
A 40-minute Mekong River cruise to the Pak Ou Caves, where visitors will explore for 30 minutes.
A stop at the Ban Xang Hai whiskey village for a 30-minute visit.

The day concludes with a 2-hour cruise to Luang Prabang, arriving before 6 PM.

Highlights and Experiences

The scenic boat journey along the Nam Ou and Mekong Rivers offers travelers stunning vistas of the Laotian countryside. Along the way, visitors can explore the renowned Pak Ou Caves, home to hundreds of Buddha statues. This spiritual site provides a glimpse into the country’s rich Buddhist heritage. Plus, travelers will have the opportunity to visit a local whiskey village, learning about traditional production methods. The cruise culminates with a serene sunset river crossing to Luang Prabang, allowing guests to fully enjoy the region’s natural beauty and cultural traditions.

| Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| Scenic River Cruises | Travel along the Nam Ou and Mekong Rivers, taking in the stunning Laotian landscape. |

| Pak Ou Caves | Explore this iconic Buddhist site, home to hundreds of Buddha statues. |

| Cultural Experiences | Visit a local whiskey village to learn about traditional production methods. |

| Sunset Cruise | Enjoy a peaceful sunset crossing of the Mekong River to Luang Prabang. |

| Small Group Size | Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. |

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, lunch and drinking water, entrance fees for the Pak Ou Caves, car transfers between locations, and boat cruises.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or visually impaired persons.

The tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues, wheelchair users, or those with visual impairments.

The tour package includes:

Exploring the Buddha Caves at Pak Ou
Sunset cruise on the Mekong River
Hotel drop-off in Luang Prabang

Please note that the tour is limited to 8 participants for a small group experience, and it’s recommended to arrive early (1 hour in advance) at the meeting point for sunrise viewing.

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Important Information

Duration of the tour is 1 day.

This small-group experience is limited to 8 participants, providing a more intimate setting. Guests should arrive at the meeting point an hour early to enjoy the sunrise.

Check availability for the various start times. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or visually impaired persons.

Visitors can expect a scenic boat journey along the Nam Ou and Mekong Rivers, exploration of the Buddha Caves at Pak Ou, and a sunset cruise on the Mekong River – all led by an English-speaking guide.

Meeting Point and Departure Time

Participants meet at the Manifa Travel office, located near the Nong Khiaw Bridge, at 8:45 AM to begin the 1-day cruise from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang.

The meeting point provides:

Convenient access to depart the cruise
Close proximity to the starting point of the journey
Ample time for guests to assemble before the 9 AM departure

After check-in, the group sets off on their scenic boat journey along the Nam Ou and Mekong Rivers, en route to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang.

Mekong and Nam Ou River Cruises

After departing Nong Khiaw, the tour embarks on a scenic 2-hour cruise along the Nam Ou River.

Travelers will admire the dramatic limestone cliffs and lush green hills that line the riverbanks.

Upon arrival at the Mekong River, the tour transitions to a 40-minute cruise, offering views of the iconic Pak Ou Caves.

During the final 2-hour journey to Luang Prabang, travelers can marvel at the stunning Mekong River sunset.

Throughout the river cruises, an English-speaking guide provides commentary, ensuring guests fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural significance of the region.

Visiting Pak Ou Caves and Ban Xang Hai

As the cruise transitions to the Mekong River, travelers have the opportunity to explore the renowned Pak Ou Caves.

These ancient sanctuaries are home to thousands of Buddha statues, ranging from small trinkets to large wooden figures.

The Pak Ou Caves house thousands of Buddha statues, from diminutive trinkets to towering wooden figures.

Visitors can:

Marvel at the various Buddha images adorning the cave walls and niches.
Observe the local rituals and offerings made by pilgrims.
Hike up to the upper cave for panoramic views of the Mekong River.

After the cave exploration, the journey continues to the nearby Ban Xang Hai village, known for its artisanal whiskey production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, the tour operator provides lunch and drinking water, so bringing additional items is optional.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for children on the tour. The tour is suitable for all ages and can accommodate families with children. Infants and toddlers can join the cruise as well.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Cruise?

The cruise is a 1-day experience, and there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the duration. The itinerary is fixed, covering the specified activities and locations within the provided timeframe.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as you will be on boats and exploring caves. No formal attire is required for this all-day river cruise experience.

Can I Take Photographs During the Pak Ou Caves Visit?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs during the Pak Ou Caves visit. The tour includes 30 minutes of exploration time within the caves, providing ample opportunity to capture the impressive Buddhist statues and cave formations.

The Sum Up

The Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang cruise offers a captivating journey through Laos’ stunning landscapes. Travelers will marvel at the serene rivers, visit the Pak Ou Caves, and explore a local whiskey village. With an intimate group size and an expert guide, this 1-day experience provides a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this enchanting region.