Luang Prabang A Venerable Cruise to the Pak Ou Caves with Lunch
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Thousands of Buddha images await at the Pak Ou Caves, named after the Ou River that flows nearby. A religious site that is not only high on guests’ bucket list: locals from around the country often pay respect to this huge collection of donated statues.
• Be stunned by thousands of donated Buddha statues
• Take a gentle sailing trip over the Mekong and Ou river
• Get front seat views of how slowly Laos life moves on
• Admire the beautiful murals of Ban Xieng Mene
• Lunch is included at a local restaurant
Available options
Oct 1, 2025 - Sep 30, 2026
Pickup included
What's included
All applicable taxes and service charges
Return boat transfers to the Pak Ou Caves
All entrance and donation fees for visits as mentioned in the description.
A full day private tour with a professional English-speaking guide.
Lunch included at local restaurant (food only)
Detailed itinerary
1
An early morning rise is followed by meeting your guide for the day at your hotel lobby. A short transfer to a local boat pier along the Mekong signals the start of a leisurely day out and about in Luang Prabang. The friendly captain and his trustworthy vessel shortly commence its upstream journey once you’ve settled comfortably.
By taking a local boat cruise, it’s by far one of the most rewarding ways to discover the laid-back life style along these waterways. Before reaching the famed caves, we stop at Ban Xang Hay, a village which specializes in making traditional rice-wine and continue to keep traditional weaving methods intact. From here, a short boat ride further ends at our lunch address.
2
Stop 2
After enjoying a local lunch near the Pak Ou, you will reach the confluence of the Mekong River and the Nam Ou River, the latter of which the name of the caves has been derived. The limestone caves are directly located at the banks of the Mekong and consist of a lower cave (“Tham Ting”) and an upper cave (“Tham Phun”).
Tham Phun is the main attraction where currently more than 3000 Buddha images are placed, ranging in size from a few centimetres tall to the height of a human being.
3
After visiting both caves, we embark back onto our boat for a leisurely cruise downstream back towards Luang Prabang. As you cruise along, observe the daily activities of fishermen, how they throw their nets in elegant arm gestures, and rely on the water to provide for their daily needs. For these riverside villages, the Mekong is commonly seen as their main access road.
4
Just before we reach our disembarkation point at Luang Prabang, we hop over to the other side of the river to get a glimpse of the lives of the locals at Ban Xieng Mene. Walk through the village and visit the local Wat Long Khoune temple with its mural paintings. Cross the Mekong over back into Luang Prabang and your driver will bring you back to your hotel.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.
Compulsory Christmas, country-specific festival and/or New Year dinner at included hotels
Gratuities
Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point
Transfers from any airport or resorts located outside the general pick-up and drop-off locations
Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
3.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request / subject to availability and supplementary charges may apply
Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside Luang Prabang. Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation outside this area such as Kuang Si, along the Ou and Nam Khan River, Nong Kiau and Luang Prabang International Airport are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.
We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of local restaurant.
We regret to inform you that this excursion is not suitable for wheelchair users. Guests are advised that some walking is required during this excursion; we always ensure that we take the most comfortable ways from the entrance of the sight to the sight itself.
We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.
Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.
Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It is the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.
Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.
The protection of the country’s flora and fauna is of immense importance for us. We will not pursue any activities for guests that are not in line with our animal, wildlife and environment protection principles.
It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.
In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.
Customers are reminded to submit their passport number and expiration date with their reservation. These are essential requirements as outlined by local immigration regulations.
Important notes
- Please contact Asian Trails at least 72 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Changes within 24 hours may be on request.
- Pick-up times for excursions will be reconfirmed one day prior to commencement of your booked excursion. As an indication, the pick-up time from your accommodation is scheduled 30-60 minutes prior to the confirmed starting time.
- Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minute prior to your scheduled pick up time.
- Upon pickup, please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.
In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.
About Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved traditional Laos architecture and serene natural beauty. Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, it offers a unique blend of historic temples, French colonial buildings, and lush landscapes.
Top Attractions
Wat Xieng Thong
One of the most important temples in Laos, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate mosaics.
Religious
1-2 hours
5 USD
Mount Phousi
A small mountain in the center of Luang Prabang offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Nature
1-2 hours
5 USD
Kuang Si Falls
A stunning series of waterfalls and turquoise pools, perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Nature
Half day
10 USD
Must-Try Local Dishes
Larb
A spicy minced meat salad with herbs, spices, and lime juice.
Main Dish
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian with tofu.
Tam Mak Hoong
Green papaya salad with tomatoes, chilies, and lime juice.
Main Dish
Vegetarian if made without fish sauce.
Khao Soi
A Northern Lao noodle dish with a coconut curry broth.
Main Dish
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the surrounding mountains
Kayaking on the Mekong River
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Sunset watching at Mount Phousi
Attending a traditional Lao dance performance
Participating in a cooking class
Swimming at Kuang Si Falls
Boat tours on the Mekong River
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the cool and dry season, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. The weather is pleasant, and it's the peak tourist season.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Lao
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Lao Kip (LAK)
Time Zone
Indochina Time (ICT), UTC+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Luang Prabang is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious with your belongings and use common sense.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Luang Prabang International Airport • 3 km from city center
By bus
Northern Bus Station, Southern Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The most common and affordable mode of transport. Negotiate fares before starting your journey.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Limited app-based services
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town
Ban Phou Khoune
Day trips
Pak Ou Caves
25 km north of Luang Prabang • Half day
A complex of caves filled with thousands of Buddha images, dating back to the 16th century.
Living Land Farm
15 km from Luang Prabang • Half day
A working farm offering insights into traditional Lao farming practices and sustainable agriculture.
Festivals
Lao New Year (Pi Mai) • April 13-15
Boun Ok Phansa • October (date varies)
Pro tips
- Visit Kuang Si Falls early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool weather.
- Attend the alms-giving ceremony (Tak Bat) for a unique cultural experience, but be respectful and follow the rules.
- Explore the city on foot or by bicycle to discover hidden gems and local life.
- Try local Lao coffee and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at the many cafes in town.
- Bargain politely when shopping at markets, as prices are often inflated for tourists.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
