While Asia’s bustling cityscapes and iconic landmarks captivate many, there’s more that lies beyond the well-trodden tourist path. River cruising offers a captivating alternative, unveiling the soul of Asia through its majestic waterways.
Thanks to an increasing number of comfortable small ships, these riverine journeys strike the perfect balance between adventure and luxury. From exploring remote villages on the upper Mekong River to encountering orangutans deep in the Indonesian jungle, EXO’s collection of river cruises present a unique opportunity to experience the unexpected in Asia.
Upper Mekong River: Laos
Laos’ Upper Mekong is a serene stretch of water, marked by emerald jungles, remote villages and untouched beauty.
Accessible from Chiang Khong, Thailand, most cruises offer a journey of approximately 160 kilometres (100 miles) to Luang Prabang, Laos’ cultural capital. That journey can be made in a day but the best way to appreciate the Upper Mekong’s beauty is through a slower, multi-day cruise.
Along the way, the boats stop for shore excursions to riverside villages provide opportunities to witness the traditional ways of life and customs of rural Lao and the Hmong people. The mystical Pak Ou Caves, filled with Buddha statues, are also visited along the way, providing an introduction to Laos’ rich spiritual culture.
EXO’s suggested cruise options vary from 2-night journeys to week-long sojourns that continue south to the Laos capital, Vientiane.
Best months for an Upper Mekong cruise: October to February boast clear skies and mild temperatures
Kalimantan: Indonesia
Located in the southern reaches of Indonesian Borneo, Kalimantan is one of the two places in the world where orangutans roam free. A multi-day houseboat journey through Tanjung Puting National Park’s languid rivers offers an experience that combines unparalleled access to nature and comfort.
Stops are made to go ashore and visit conservation projects, where guests will learn more about endemic wildlife and the amazing work being done to preserve natural habitats. In addition, these centres provide an incredible opportunity to see orangutans and other wildlife, such as proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards and sun bears, in their natural environment.
At night time, there are options for guided walks at Tanjung Harapan or Pondok Tanggui to spot nocturnal wildlife. There may also be an opportunity to spot thousands of fireflies flickering amid the Nipa palms found along the riverbanks.
Best months for a Kalimantan cruise: July to September are recommended
Mekong Delta and lower Mekong River: Cambodia and Vietnam
The Mekong Delta and lower Mekong River are the lifeblood of Southeast Asia, with millions depending on it for food, water and transportation. It is also an area rich with history, diverse cultures and natural beauty.
Short one to two night cruises, focused solely on Vietnam’s Delta, introduces guests to the incredible labyrinth of waterways, villages and farms that make the Delta so unique.
Longer cruises that travel across these vital waterways from Vietnam to Cambodia, showcase the vibrant and distinct cultures of the two neighbouring countries. From bustling floating markets and tranquil villages to historic temples and lush rice paddies, the lower Mekong cruises go beyond the normal sites seen by travellers and offer intimate encounters with local life, including traditional heritage and regional cuisine.
Best months for a lower Mekong cruise: Although possible year-round, we recommend October to April
Halong Bay: Vietnam
Although not a river, Halong Bay is one of the most popular cruise locations in Asia. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, around 2.5-hours drive from Hanoi, the waterway is famous for its towering limestone karsts which form a stunning backdrop for overnight cruises.
One-night and two-night cruises take guests around the waters, stopping to visit intricate cave systems, pearl farms, secluded beaches and/or fishing villages. Lan Ha Bay is growing in popularity as an alternative to neighbouring Halong Bay. We suggest a two night cruise in order to fully enjoy the journey. Bai Tu Long is a quieter alternative however fewer boat companies operate in this area, resulting in a lack of choice and availability.
Larger rooms with balconies, private boats or a seaplane flight over the bay are great upgrade options.
Please note that in recent years, Halong Bay has been experiencing increasing environmental problems such as pollution and overfishing, as well as damage to its natural habitats.
EXO Travel encourages all of our guests to follow responsible tourism practices, as outlined in our Tips for Travellers guide. Through collective action, travellers can play a key role in preserving the beauty of Halong Bay for future generations.
Best months for a Halong Bay cruise: All year! Summer (March-May) brings blue skies and the mild winter (Oct-Nov) is marked by a moody, misty atmosphere. Late August – September brings the occasional typhoon, but cruise cancellations are thankfully limited to only a few days per season.
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