Mekong, Dolphins and Laos

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Phnom Penh - Kratie - Stung Treng - Laos border
Duration:
4 days / 3 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 449.- per person (excluding flights)

Sail down the swirling Mekong into Laos, keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins on the way. Visit sleepy villages, see gorgeous sunsets and explore small islands. It’s a great way to get a glimpse of local life along the river and a chance to reach some remote spots that many travellers miss. With a little luck, you might spot one of the few remaining Irrawaddy dolphins, native to this area and under threat of extinction.

Days 1-2 – Phnom Penh – Kratie

Today, you’ll journey through some of Cambodia’s most remote and beautiful landscapes to the small city of Kratie, perched on the banks of the Mekong River. It’s a lively but laid back place with stunning Mekong sunsets and crumbling French architecture. You’ll stay in a simple hotel set on a small island in the river, where you can literally watch Mekong life pass you by.

Kratie – free time

Day 2 is free for you to explore Kratie at your own pace. Home to an endangered handful of freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins, you might be even lucky enough to spot one during your stay. Amble amongst the historic Khmer houses that were mercifully spared during the conflict and take in life in northern Cambodia.

Day 3 – Kratie – Stung Treng

Today, you’ll take a car or minibus to the sleepy town of Stung Treng, further along the Mekong River towards Laos. You’ll spend a night at another simple hotel with great views across the broad river.

Day 4 – Stung Treng – Laos

On Day 4, you’ll take a boat trip to the most secluded reaches of the swirling Mekong River, where you’ll see local fisherman reeling in the catch against the morning sun. Afterwards, you’ll continue your journey towards the Laos border, where your Mekong adventure comes to an end.