Vat Phou - Mekong, Southern Treasures
Not far from the shores of the Mekong River in Southern Laos lie two of the regions most remarkable treasures, the mythical World Heritage site of Vat Phou and the Oun Moung Temple. The awe-inspiring pre-Angkorian Vat Phou dates back over a thousand years and is widely regarded as one of the most outstanding examples of Khemer architecture, while the Oun Moung exudes an atmosphere of a city lost in the jungle for centuries.
Embracing the beauty and power of the Mekong and the exotic mystique of ancient Khemer ruins, this 3-day Cruise combines the highlights of the region for an unforgettable experience.
A boutique river-borne hotel is the setting for this journey through the timeless landscapes of Southern Laos. Here, the serenity of this vast and smooth expanse of water is accentuated by the stunning Si Phan Don the "4,000 Islands" and further down, Southeast Asia's largest waterfalls at Pha Pheng.
The leisurely cruise along the fascinating Mekong is as relaxing as it is historic and gives extraordinary insight into the ancient civilization that once shared your path down this mighty waterway.
The Vat Phou Boat
A 34-metre steel hulled craft converted into a floating hotel, the Vat Phou was launched with the support of the World Bank in Vientiane in 1993. Each of the 12 comfortable and elegant air-conditioned cabins offers two single berths and a private western style bathroom.
Charmingly appointed, it also offers:
Modern safety equipment and lifejackets
A large front deck with a wide open area for relaxation.
A lower deck with an air-conditioned dining room.
A set menu combining both Laotian and Continental cuisine.
French, English and Thai speaking staff.
A fully-stocked bar
Itinerary :
Day 1: Pakse/ Xieng Di/ Khone Island (L, D)
On arrival at Pakse, drive to the spectacular roaring falls of Khone Pha Pheng, the “Niagara of the East” and the fishing village of Xieng Di for lunch at local restaurant and where you will board a long tail boat for a visit to Khone Island. After visit, take long tail boat to the Khong Island village of Ban Veuthong, where you will board the waiting Vat Phou for a sunset cruise and dinner, docked riverside for the night.
Day 2: Khong Island/ Oum Moung Temple/ Huei Thamo (B, L, D)
Breakfast on board Vat Phou as we set sail to Ban Dua Tae, and visit this traditional Laotian Village after the visit we sail North, past the island of Don Xai, and into a myriad of islands of all shapes and sizes, the wild paradise of ‘4,000 islands.’ Enjoy the lunch during cruising North to the island of Don Daeng, to visit the village of Huei Thamo and the mysterious Oum Moung forest temple, just a few minutes walk way. Dinner “Under the stars”, aboard Vat Phou.
Day 3: Ban Wat Luang Kao/ Vat Phou/ Champassak/ Pakse (B, L)
While enjoying breakfast on board, the Vat Phou continues its cruise to Ban Wat Luang Kao, where you will join a guided tour by bus to the tenth century pre-Angkorian temple of Vat Phou, after which you will return by bus to Champassak in time for lunch, and the final cruise to Pakse, with arrival in the afternoon.
REMARKS:
+ Minimum 2 persons traveling together for join tour.
+ For safety reasons and according to weather conditions, the program may be amended without prior notice.
+ Child age 2-12 years old discount 50% when sharing cabin with parents. Infant (less than 2 years old) = free of charge.
+ The fix fee per person on charter boat covers for meals / excursions / tours and transfer during the cruise.
+ Group concession: 1 FOC half twin for 15 paying persons
+ The above tour prices exclude current VAT.
+ Charter rate is available on request.
NOTE: In general from 01 - 30 June’09, there is no operation for annual boat maintenance. The exactly date will be advise later.
Services Includes:
3 days cruise with stops and visits as mentioned in the program
English-speaking guide
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
2 nights accommodation on board
All Entrance fee
Services of qualified crews during the cruise.
Group insurance
Service Excludes:
Airfares & airport taxes
Pre/post trip arrangement
Visa and visa arrangement
Travel insurance
Other personal expenses