The Mekong River is one of the most important waterways in Southeast Asia. Spanning six countries -China, Laos, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam - it covers a total distance of 4,350 kilometers. It is a river of immense cultural, economic, and ecological importance, and offers travelers a unique and varied experience.
Begin your journey in the northwest corner of the Mekong, in the Yunnan Province of China. From there, you’ll travel 1,000 kilometers downstream to a side-arm of the river in northern Laos, known as the Nam Ou. As you traverse the length of the river, you’ll encounter incredible natural scenery and wildlife, from blooming wildflowers to bustling water buffalo. You’ll cross some of the most picturesque landscapes of Southeast Asia, including karst mountains, tropical rainforests, and endless terraced rice paddies.
As you make your way along the Mekong, you’ll enter into the culturally-rich region of northern Laos and Southern Thailand. Your journey will take you through Bokeo and Luang Prabang, the former royal capitals of Laos, and you’ll experience a diverse range of cultures and customs. Take a boat ride to visit a Hmong village, or explore the unique local markets and crafts of the Lao, Thai, and Khmu peoples. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit some of the most spiritual places in Southeast Asia, such as the stunning temples of Chiang Mai or Vientiane.
From Thailand, you’ll venture through the jungles of Northern Cambodia. There you’ll find a much different atmosphere, an untamed and mysterious terrain that has been largely untouched by the ravages of War and the highway of progress. The air here is fresh and clean, and the views are spectacular - plenty of opportunities for photography and contemplation.
Once you pass through Cambodia, you’ll enter Vietnam, and make your way southward through the lower Mekong Delta. Day trips are possible from Ho Chi Minh City as you’ll likely be heading back down the river after having passed through the mountainous north of Laos and Cambodia. Here, in the south of the region, you’ll find the bustling cities and villages of the Mekong Delta, where you’ll be able to observe the lively floating markets and sample some of the freshest and most delicious tropical fruits of Southeast Asia.
Once you’ve made your way through Vietnam, you’ll reach the end of your journey as you arrive in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. From here, you’ll be able to browse the French-inspired architecture, visit the grand National Museum, and explore the well-preserved Royal Palace. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even travel out to the iconic Angkor Wat temple ruins, the largest religious site in the world.
The Mekong River is truly a remarkable journey, one that combines natural beauty with vibrant culture, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Southeast Asia. From pristine highland peaks to bustling river towns, the Mekong will continuously reveal new and exciting scenes every mile of your journey. As you traverse the length of the river, you’ll get to experience some of the most iconic tourist attractions in the world, as well as some of its more hidden secrets. No matter your destination, no traveler should miss out on a trip to the Mekong.
