Mekong River Tours & Trip Packages

Mekong River Tours & Trips

34 Mekong River trips. Tours from 16 tour companies. 312 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

34 Trips match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

Cambodia: Hike, Bike & Kayak
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Killing Fields, Mekong River , Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh , Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Temple hop through the Angkor complex and surrounding jungle by bike – two wheels allow you to discover this incredible UNESCO World Heritage site from unique perspectives.
  • Paddle through the spectacular flooded forests of Stung Treng by kayak and try to spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins from the water on a boat excursion along parts of the Mekong River.
  • Take to a mountain bike and cycle through quiet roads, orchards and rice paddies on an island within the Mekong Delta.
  • Cycle off the main streets and into the heart of Phnom Penh with a guided backstreets bike tour – weaving through small villages and rice paddies to see local life firsthand.
  • Discover traditional Khmer villages and their dedication to reforestation on the island of Koh Trong and swing the day away in a hammock at your rural homestay, getting to know the locals over a homecooked dinner.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"I did the EBC trek with Intrepid in September and October. Our group missed the first 3 days of the planned 12 day trek due to bad weather. There was a real fear we would not be able to do the trek at all. Intrepid sorted out additional accommodation and flights once we were able to fly. Our group made it to EBC by missing the 2 acclimation days on the accent and descending in 3 days instead of 4. This was only possible because of the awesome staff (guides and porters) employed by Intrepid and by Intrepid's backroom staff making alternative accommodation and flight arrangements for us."

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Best of Cambodia
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Battambang , Killing Fields, Mekong River , Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh , Siem Reap, Ta Prohm, Tonle Sap Lake

Highlights

  • Watch the sun rise over Angkor Wat just as it did over 800 years ago. Wander through the ancient temples of this UNESCO World Heritage Site on a guided tour – with a three-day pass to cover your whole time in Siem Reap, you can explore this incredible complex as much and as often as you like!
  • Discover the temple ruins at Sambor Prei Kuk and enjoy a village homestay to experience everyday life in rural Cambodia, with local food, local life and plenty to see.
  • Get familiar with Khmer cuisine with an included visit to the acclaimed pepper plantations of Kampot, a cycling tour of local producers in Battambang and a local village dinner in Sambor Prei Kuk.
  • Put your feet up and enjoy a well-deserved break on the white sand coasts of Koh Rong Island – home to one of the best beaches in Asia (and a few of the Survivor seasons).
  • Enjoy an in-depth tour of Cambodia at an easy pace, mixed with insightful tours by local guides, plenty of chances to rub shoulders with the locals and free time to customise your adventure.
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"I did the EBC trek with Intrepid in September and October. Our group missed the first 3 days of the planned 12 day trek due to bad weather. There was a real fear we would not be able to do the trek at all. Intrepid sorted out additional accommodation and flights once we were able to fly. Our group made it to EBC by missing the 2 acclimation days on the accent and descending in 3 days instead of 4. This was only possible because of the awesome staff (guides and porters) employed by Intrepid and by Intrepid's backroom staff making alternative accommodation and flight arrangements for us."

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Thailand & Laos Adventure
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Luang Prabang, Mekong River , Vientiane

Highlights

  • Travel from Thailand's lively capital and activity-filled Chiang Mai, to the riverside tranquillity of Laos and its stunning scenery.
  • Ensure your holiday gives back by supporting organisations like COPE, which helps those injured by unexploded ordinance left from the Vietnam war.
  • Rock the night away on the rails on a sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, then drift down the Mekong on a slow boat.
  • Discover just why Luang Prabang has UNESCO status as you uncover the French Colonial influence, beautiful temples, traditional arts and the world renown night markets.
  • Indulge in a sweet and socially responsible treat at Laos Buffalo Dairy, an enterprise that produces delicious ice-cream while giving back to the community.
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"I did the EBC trek with Intrepid in September and October. Our group missed the first 3 days of the planned 12 day trek due to bad weather. There was a real fear we would not be able to do the trek at all. Intrepid sorted out additional accommodation and flights once we were able to fly. Our group made it to EBC by missing the 2 acclimation days on the accent and descending in 3 days instead of 4. This was only possible because of the awesome staff (guides and porters) employed by Intrepid and by Intrepid's backroom staff making alternative accommodation and flight arrangements for us."

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Signature Cambodia & Vietnam
5/5 Excellent
21 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Wheelchair Accessible
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Highlights

  • 10 nights hotel accommodation
  • Overnight cruise on Halong Bay
  • Daily breakfast
  • Comprehensive sightseeing as outlined in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees to museums and sites as outlined in the program
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Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"We booked a trip to Italy with Sky Vacations and could not have been happier with the results. We didn’t want to do the usual tourist visits because we had been to Italy before. They designed a trip that took us to Umbria and Marche and Lake Bracciano and it was great. We wanted to stay in luxury, smaller hotels, do cooking classes, wine tasting and some touring and every item was executed perfectly. We’re now booking Greece with them. A great company we highly recommend."

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South East Asia Uncovered
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • The two day boat journey down the iconic Mekong River passes incredible rural scenery and is one of the must-dos to truly experience South East Asia.
  • Sample local food wherever you go, from a seafood dinner on Ha Long Bay, street snacks at markets, a meal at a buddhist nunnery, coconut candy and tropical fruits in the Mekong Delta, and a final dinner at KOTO restaurant.
  • Sail through Ha Long Bay's limestone karsts and island caves, visit a centre that turns the bay's discarded trash into treasures and spend the night checking out the stars on an overnight cruise.
  • Discover the mysterious beauty of the Lao jungle as you walk side by side with recently rescued elephants on stroll through their natural habitat.
  • Rise with the sun and watch saffron-robed monks shuffle between houses, where the faithful wait with offerings as part of an alms giving ritual.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"I did the EBC trek with Intrepid in September and October. Our group missed the first 3 days of the planned 12 day trek due to bad weather. There was a real fear we would not be able to do the trek at all. Intrepid sorted out additional accommodation and flights once we were able to fly. Our group made it to EBC by missing the 2 acclimation days on the accent and descending in 3 days instead of 4. This was only possible because of the awesome staff (guides and porters) employed by Intrepid and by Intrepid's backroom staff making alternative accommodation and flight arrangements for us."

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Chiang Mai & Golden Triangle
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mekong River

Highlights

  • Journey into the countryside north of Chiang Mai on this short trip and experience the Golden Triangle, the infamous area where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet
  • Discover rural village life with an overnight stay in Doi Mae Salong, a beautiful region up in the mountains where tea is grown and local hilltribe people come to sell their crafts in the town market
  • No trip to Chiang Rai would be complete without a visit to the funky White Temple. Check out the startling modern design, and see where traditional Thai art and murals are broken up with pop culture references
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, EcoThailand Foundation. Donations help educate school children on important environmental issues like climate change, nature appreciation, conservation and sustainability.

Themes

Cultural, Relaxing Retreats

What travelers are saying

"I did the EBC trek with Intrepid in September and October. Our group missed the first 3 days of the planned 12 day trek due to bad weather. There was a real fear we would not be able to do the trek at all. Intrepid sorted out additional accommodation and flights once we were able to fly. Our group made it to EBC by missing the 2 acclimation days on the accent and descending in 3 days instead of 4. This was only possible because of the awesome staff (guides and porters) employed by Intrepid and by Intrepid's backroom staff making alternative accommodation and flight arrangements for us."

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Luxury tour of Vietnam
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Themes

Cultural, Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel

What travelers are saying

"Third holiday with Audley and the best yet. They really know the countries and work with you to put together the perfect itinerary. They think of everything. They are also on hand to deal with any issues that arise while you are away. We’ll be travelling with Audley again."

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Inside Vietnam
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • View the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh
  • Visit to the Temple of Literature
  • Enjoy a water puppet show
  • Discover wonderful architecture and hard-working, friendly people.
  • Visit the unofficial symbol of Hué—the seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda.
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Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Religious

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

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Mekong River Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
312  Reviews
See all Mekong River tour reviews
Excellent
78
Great
23
Average
0
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
H

Heather W

Feb 2024

Written on

Outstanding Services!

Exotic Voyages is first class all the way. Lacey our travel advisor helped plan a trip for my brother and I to Thailand. I gave Lacey a rough of idea of what I wante...

M

Mariann Z

Apr 2023

Written on

Magical Family Adventure To Thailand

We had a trip of a lifetime to Thailand thanks to the perfect planning from Exotic Voyages. They covered every detail the moment we stepped off our international fli...

S

Supercarkids

Apr 2023

Written on

Wonderful family adventure!

"We just returned from an amazing family adventure to Thailand, with many thanks to Lacey at Exotic Voyages! We had little time to plan the trip and left almost ever...

J

Jim

Jun 2020

Written on

Another Great trip to Thailand

Mai Phuong put together Another wonderful trip for us. (She booked our beautiful trip to Vietnam in 2017). We went to Thailand over New Year’s and Mai took care of e...

J

Juerg

May 2020

Written on

Best 14 days Tour around Thailand

A very big compliment to Ha Vy, Mai Phuong, and everybody involved in setting up our Thailand itinerary. From the moment our first tour guide Patrick picked us up at...

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Mekong River Tour Selection Trips

  • Common choices include either a one-week Mekong-only cruise or a two-week land-and-water tour of the region that includes the week-long cruise. 
  • Winter is the best, or at least the coolest, time to take a Mekong cruise; summer is rainy season. 
  • Temperatures are hot any time of year. 
  • Be sure to apply for visas to Vietnam and Cambodia well in advance.

Additional details

The best Mekong River tours are about experiencing the local lifestyle, culture, and beauty of the river. You’ll have full days of excursions with time to rest on the boat between destinations. The amount of stops and cultural attractions you will see depends on the length of your trip and route.

The highlights of the trip are being able to get off of the boat and immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle of the villages that sit on the river. Many of these stops provide options for you to interact with the culture such as bicycle riding, cooking classes, and temple visits.

When to Travel on the Mekong River

In southern Vietnam and Cambodia the temperature stays consistently between 75-95 degrees all year round. The summer months are the rainy and more humid season. During the summer, the rain falls in short bursts of downpours in the afternoon. There will be plenty of sunlight to still see things during the day.

Even though the dry season is recommended to be on the Mekong River, the wet season is also a good time to visit. During the wet season, the river is higher which allows the boat to travel farther into the river to see more villages. However, the wet season will also include a healthy amount of mosquitos. Make sure to back plenty of bug spray.

In late-January to the end of February, the Lunar New Year is celebrated. Vietnam and Cambodia both follow the holiday, along with other national holidays. Many shops, transportation, and restaurants will be closed the days around the new year. Additionally, for the three weeks of the holiday, transportation and stores will be affected and will make getting around the countries a little more difficult. Double check the calendar for major holidays or festivals before booking your trip.

Who Will Enjoy a Mekong River Cruise

History and culture lovers will love the Mekong River. Mekong River tours pass through some of the most cultural and historical regions in mainland Southeast Asia. Cultural and historical stops such as Angkor Wat, the floating markets, and Toul Sleng are snapshots into the historical makeup of southern Vietnam and Cambodia.

For those seeking a more casual river cruise then those of Europe, a Mekong River cruise will be right up your alley. The Mekong River flows through much of the rural countryside of Cambodia and Vietnam. Many stops along the river include small villages that seem like they are frozen in time. These rural villages provide a break from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh and have a relaxed vibe to them.

The Mekong River is the best spot for amateur photographers. The river flows through rice paddies, small colorful villages, and towering green hills that would fill up anyone’s camera. Make sure to have enough room in your camera to capture every new view around the riverbend.

A word of caution for new travelers to Southeast Asia. Many of the stops on the river will include rural villages and rugged landscape. This means there may be little to no cell reception, non-Western toilets (squat toilets), dirt roads, and very busy streets. Make sure to bring good walking shoes because walking through the villages or getting in and out of small boats may be a little tricky. Travelers who are active and looking to really get into the landscape will enjoy the day excursions.

Mekong River Cruise Safety and Accessibility

Most river cruises are only a few floors high to fit into the smaller areas of the rivers. But, this doesn’t mean there won’t be elevators for travelers traveling in wheelchairs. It may, however, restrict your movement on the ship.

It will be helpful for wheelchair travelers to have another traveler with them. Disembarking and boarding can be difficult due to smaller confines and weather issues. Many of the stops on a Mekong River guided tour feature villages with unpaved roads and floating markets with very small boats which may limit the activities one may do. For travelers with disabilities, it is recommended to do research beforehand to see whether the rugged landscape and day trips would work for you.

Many of the cruise ships have Wifi on board. However, due to traveling in rural and remote areas of the Mekong River, Wifi may be slow and not connect at all. You likely will not have service or Wifi in the villages, but will have better luck in the larger cities. Many of the cafes in the larger cities provide free Wifi.  

The Mekong River is in an area with a growing population, but not unsafe. However, it is important to make sure all valuables are locked and stored in your room before leaving on an excursion. Take just enough money for the day to lower your risk of pickpockets and some of these stops will not have an ATM to use to take out more money. Also, some of the cruise ships only take cash, so make sure to convert enough money before you arrive.

Food along the Mekong River is a cultural experience one shouldn’t miss. However, double check the street food before you take a bite. Make sure the food has been cooked or fried and hasn’t been sitting outside in the sun all day. If you bring along a bottle that can purify water then you can drink from the tap, but it’s best to stay cautious and only drink from bottle water.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit the Mekong River?

Most travelers, but not everyone, who visit Vietnam and Cambodia will need a visa. A few of the European countries and the United Kingdom are allowed to be in Vietnam up to 15 days before requiring a visa. Travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia will need a visa no matter the length of stay. All travelers to Cambodia will need a visa unless you are from a country on the exempt list.

Visas can be obtained upon arrival at the airports or online. Both will need a passport picture, especially if you decide to get a visa upon arrival. For stamp fees upon arrival in Vietnam, US dollars or Vietnam Dong are the only accepted payment for a visa. For online applications, documentation of application should be printed to show the airlines when you check in to your flight, especially for Vietnam. It is recommended to check your country’s international travel websites for a complete and up-to-date description of how to obtain visas for each country.

Common Mekong River Tour Lengths

Mekong River cruises are generally at least two weeks in length to see everything. These two weeks usually include a full day in the starting and final city. If you decide to go with a tour that includes Hanoi or Bangkok, it will be closer to 17 days to include days in those cities and flights to and from the departure city of your cruise.

There are some cruises that are only one week. These tours are more truncated and jam packed every day with new destinations. If you have only a certain amount of time, these tours would be the best option. Most of these tours include many of the main stops, but if you have the time and want to see the entire river, the longer tours would be the way to go.

What Languages are Spoken Along the Mekong River?

The main languages encountered on the Mekong River will be Vietnamese and Khmer (Cambodia). English will be spoken on the cruises and in much of the major cities. However, there may be some communication issues in the smaller villages where English is spoken less.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 34 trips to Mekong River and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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