A Unique Mekong Cruise In Laos To Catch Sight Of The Freshwater Dolphins

Laos - a wonderful landlocked in Southeast Asia with the Mekong River stretching along the significant part in western boundary, is one of the most picturesque countries with the richness in tourist attractions. Being dubbed as the Land of Million Elephants, Laos has a long-standing history and unique culture which evolved alongside the Mekong river for over 10,000 years. As a result, a Mekong river cruise can unearth an array of the national treasure, including the legendary freshwater dolphins.

The Significance Of Mekong River

The Mekong is the 12th longest river worldwide. The river course spreads over six countries: China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In its downstream area, the Mekong has formed Mekong Delta, which is called a "biological treasure trove" by scientists.
The Mekong covers a massive area of about 795,000 km2 and a considerable length of 4,350 km. Hence, a Mekong cruise leads you through a wide variety of topography ranging from vast salt marshes, wetlands, flooded forests to giant limestone mountains and even a vast freshwater lake. This diverse geography has been home to a large number of species. In fact, the Mekong aquatic biodiversity is only second to that of the Amazon. It is estimated that there are up to 430 of mammals, 1,200 of birds, 800 of reptiles and 850 of fish inhabiting in and around Mekong river.

Key Stops And Best Experiences On A Mekong River Cruise In Laos

Travel to Laos, you will get a chance to discover a mystery land with breathtaking untamed natural beauty from forested landscapes and mountainous terrain. If you plan to take a trip on this vacation, beautiful Laos with diversity in both culture and nature will be the best suggestion which brings you an unforgettable experience.

Set Off At The Tourism Hub Of Luang Prabang

Travel up to the North of Laos, Luang Prabang town, which is a UNESCO Heritage Site is an attractive destination that every traveler cannot overlook. The architecture of this beautiful town resembles with a quaint European village with the flow of Mekong River and Nam Khan River running alongside. Therefore, it's worthwhile to cruise on the Mekong River to fascinating tourist attractions.

You can merge into nature by cruising to Pak Ou Caves, an impressive place with natural limestones and sculpted Buddha images. Whiskey Village, where is the home of Laos rice whiskey, is also an ideal destination on a boat trip. Take a glance at history by visiting the famous Royal Palace Museum. For your best sunset or sunrise ever, climbing on Phousi Hill will bring you an exciting adventure with breathtaking panorama and super-nice photo opportunities.

When in Luang Prabang, joining in local activities such as planting, cropping and harvesting rice at the living farm will bring you memorial experiences in the peaceful countryside of Laos. For your best relaxation, Utopia - a multi-complex of bars, pubs, and restaurants will be the best choice ever. These options are tremendous compliments for your Mekong cruise on the capital city of Luang Prabang.

Drift Downstream Of The Mekong To Wat Phou

The outskirts of the town slowly give way to villages and immense rice paddy fields. The stilt houses settle on both sides of the river flow. Homegrown animals for agriculture such as the buffalo and the cow leisurely relax on the narrow channels. Occasionally, you will notice the golden peak of a stupa hidden in the patchy fog. Things turn out to be a watercolor painting with delicate strokes and elegant shades.

If you are cruising in the early morning, you stand an excellent chance to witness the brilliant dawn on Wat Phou. It is an ancient temple built a millennium ago on a high rocky ridge. The sculpture of Hindu gods carved out prominently on the walls are now covered in moss and weeds. Still, the magnificence and holiness of a long-established religious building remain constant. 

A steep stone staircase is lined with rugged frangipani trees leading up to the highest temple in Wat Phu. Since its re-discovery, this temple has become an essential place of pilgrimage. Especially at the time of the full moon, the Buddhist monks have a walk from the banks of the Mekong River to the temple for praying ceremony. The antique ritual is like secret magic, luring the guests in the magical space of a holy place.

Stop At The Riverine Archipelago Of Si Phan Don Of Mekong River

When the Mekong flows to the south toward Cambodia and reaches its widest point, it also changes in the water flow. It is no longer a single river but divides into many small tributaries. About 20 miles north of the southern border of Laos, the network of channels and branches of the Mekong connects the region into many small islands in Champasak province.

This island is called Si Phan Don by local people. The name "Si Phan Don" actually means 4000 islands. It is a symbolic way the ancient residents called this region. Most of the flows here are too shallow and narrow, so only long ferries and fishing boats can be used as water transport.
River dolphins, a super rare and endangered freshwater cetacean, is the top attraction here. There are seven species of this animal, and many of them have been declared functionally extinct. However, all of a sudden, a tiny group makes their way to the upstream of the Mekong river and inhabits there. However, the number of Irrawaddy dolphins, the type of species existing in Southeast Asia is minimal. Scientists estimate that approximately 70 to 100 individuals are occupying 190 kilometers of the Mekong River.

If you are a nature enthusiast, a Mekong cruise will help you broaden your horizon as it features a myriad of exotic plants and animals.