Travelling along the Mekong River by boat is a sublime travel experience with a myriad of activities and sights to enjoy on a cruise along its shores. Even on a shorter trip you will sail past towering mountains covered in tropical forest, the hinterland characterised by teak plantations and rolling farmland. Traditional villages play home to a wide range of ethnic groups and mooring by the riverbank to experience local life is an fascinating part of any trip in this region. Cruising along the Mekong provides almost as many cultural insights as it does natural highlights. This colourful, historic region has hardly changed for centuries so you can leave the modern world behind.

The development of the Mekong region and its people has been heavily influenced by history. The river's banks are scattered with reminders of ancient kingdoms, historic battles and once powerful civilisations. The ruins of ancient cities offer striking reminders of the regions fascinating past. One of the highlights in Laos the Wat Phou ruins, a temple site protected by UNESCO that sits at the base of a unique pointed, mountain surrounded by forest. A 15 metre pinnacle rises at the peak, thought by local people to be a phallic symbol of the Hindu God Shiva. The temple also displays carvings of female sexual organs called Yoni, and historians believe it is one of the most important historical sites in Asia.

For those who prefer more active adventures, a trip along the Mekong also offers the chance to experience the thrill of river rafting. One of the most exciting adventure sports around, rafting is fabulous way to enjoy the stunning riverside scenery and explore the Mekong's tributaries.There are a number of different kinds of river raft available and visitors can also join a group rafting trip that usually includes time at a local village to enjoy lunch and absorb the local way of life. Exploring the the river banks by canoe amid the spectacular natural surroundings makes for a memorable outdoor experience.

Cruising down the Mekong is the perfect way to get a deeper look at the river's unrivalled natural and cultural wealth. A boat tour beginning at the centre of the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Burma and Laos meet, will carry you past some of the region's most inspiring sights. From the Laotian riverside town of Houeisai you can board the impressive Luang Say, a 34m river barge, and take a gentle two-day cruise down the river to the ancient capital of Luang Prabang. Along the way, you will enjoy memorable glimpses of the riverside way of life, learning about the traditions and customs of ethnic minority groups like the Huay Lam Peu and Hmong people.