Mekong River Boat Cruise. Today you will explore the scenic rural villages along the Mekong River. You will board a private boat for a short cruise across the Mekong to the village of Ban Xieng Maen. Explore the quiet village, and hike to Wat Chom Phet, a temple built by the Thai army in 1880. Climb the approx. 100 steps to visit this small dilapidated temple from where you have an undisturbed and peaceful view over the Mekong River and Luang Prabang. A short walk brings you to the ancient Royal temple of Wat Long Khoun, that was formerly used by past Kings and Queens for meditation purposes.

Pak Ou Caves. Board your boat and continue your cruise up the mighty Mekong River. Pay a visit to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Although the caves are not as massive as some of the famous caves in Southeast Asia, they are very interesting because Buddhists have been venturing here for centuries to place Buddha statues in them. The lower cave contains the largest part of the collection, well over 3000 statues, and hence a fairly arduous climb up some steep stairs to the upper cave is purely optional.

Wat Done Khoun Temple. After your visit to the caves, you will head back toward Luang Prabang, making a stop at Wat Done Khoun temple, a unique temple situated on an island in the Mekong, before continuing to Luang Prabang.

Phousi Mountain. Early evening you have the option of a guided excursion to Phousi Mountain. This is a hill in the center of the old town that provides a breathtaking view of the town and the Mekong River at sunset. This excursion involves a fairly rigorous climb up 350 paved steps, but the view from the top is an amazing photographic opportunity, as it showcases the remarkable beauty of Luang Prabang.