Our Two-Day Family Adventure in Pakbeng: Staying at Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge and Exploring Mekong Elephant Park
After an exhilarating few days of ziplining and jungle trekking at Nam Kat Yorlapa, our family was ready to experience a different side of Laos: the peaceful riverside village of Pakbeng. Nestled along the Mekong River, Pakbeng was a perfect stop for our family to rest, recharge, and experience the beauty of Laos in a more tranquil way. Over the next two days, we found ourselves connecting with nature in meaningful ways—from staying at the serene Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge to spending an unforgettable morning at the Mekong Elephant Park. We capped off our time in Pakbeng with a scenic river cruise that took us along the iconic Mekong to Luang Prabang. Here's a glimpse into our family’s stay in Pakbeng.
Day 1: Arriving in Pakbeng and Settling into Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge
After a scenic drive from Nam Kat Yorlapa (we organized through the hotel and it was $150 USD for a 4 hour private luxury van), we arrived at the Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge, a beautiful riverside retreat that immediately put us at ease. The lodge is perfectly situated to overlook the Mekong River, offering stunning views and the calming sounds of the water—a welcome change from our earlier adventures. As we checked in, the staff’s warm hospitality made us feel right at home, and the kids loved exploring the property, spotting local birds and wildlife from our balcony.
Our rooms at Sanctuary Pakbeng were spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for our family of six. The kids immediately made themselves at home, enjoying the plush beds and the river view from our terrace. The lodge also provided us with a delicious welcome drink—fresh sugarcane juice. After unpacking, we headed down to the lodge's restaurant for dinner, where we were treated to authentic Lao cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. The chicken and sticky rice were a hit with the whole family!
After a full day of adventure, returning to the peaceful Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge felt like a dream. The lodge’s focus on eco-friendly practices and community involvement made our stay even more special, knowing that they are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the area while supporting local livelihoods.
We spent our final evening relaxing at the lodge, enjoying a delicious family meal by the river. The lodge’s mix of relaxation, adventure, and local culture made it the perfect base for our stay in Pakbeng.
Tip: Take a few moments to enjoy the sunset from the lodge's terrace. Watching the sun dip below the Mekong River was a magical moment that we’ll never forget.
Day 2: Unforgettable Elephant Experiences at Mekong Elephant Park
The next morning, we were up early and excited for our visit to the Mekong Elephant Park. Located just a short boat ride across the river from our hotel, this park is dedicated to the preservation and care of Laos’ elephants, many of whom have been rescued from difficult conditions. The kids couldn’t wait to meet the elephants up close, and neither could we!
Our day at the park began with a peaceful walk alongside these majestic animals. The kids were thrilled to walk beside the elephants, each of them marveling at their size. We learned so much from Ms. Wendy about the history of elephants in Laos and the efforts being made to protect them.
One of the highlights of our visit was observing the elephants’ morning bath in the Mekong River. It was truly heartwarming to watch them splash around and enjoy the cool water. The kids were in awe, and we all felt a deep connection to these incredible creatures. After the bath, we had the chance to feed the elephants bananas, which made for some unforgettable memories.
The Mekong Elephant Park is a truly unique and special destination, dedicated to the ethical care and preservation of elephants while promoting sustainable tourism. What sets this park apart is its genuine commitment to the well-being of the elephants, many of whom were rescued from difficult working conditions. Rather than offering elephant rides or shows, the park focuses on providing a natural environment where visitors can observe these majestic animals as they live peacefully in their sanctuary. The park also works closely with local communities, promoting education and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term protection of elephants in the region. A visit to the Mekong Elephant Park is not only a chance to witness these incredible creatures up close but also an opportunity to support ethical tourism and contribute to the preservation of one of Asia’s most iconic animals. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impact, both on the visitor and the local ecosystem.
Day 3: Scenic River Cruise with Shompoo Cruises
On our third day, we said goodbye to Pakbeng and embarked on a one-day river cruise with Shompoo Cruises to Luang Prabang. This was a serene and beautiful journey that gave us a deeper appreciation for Laos’ untouched natural beauty. The cruise took us along the Mekong River, passing lush forests, small villages, and stunning landscapes.
One of the highlights of the cruise was stopping at the Pak Ou Caves, where the kids were amazed by the thousands of Buddha statues tucked into the limestone cliffs. It was a great way to mix adventure with cultural exploration, and the kids enjoyed learning about the history of this sacred site.
The boat was comfortable and perfect for families, with plenty of space to move around and relax. Lunch was served on board, and the kids especially loved spotting wildlife along the riverbanks. By the time we arrived in Luang Prabang, we felt relaxed and ready for the next part of our Laos adventure.
Final Thoughts
Our two days in Pakbeng were filled with meaningful experiences that brought our family closer to Laos’ wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. Staying at Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge offered us a comfortable, family-friendly retreat with stunning views of the Mekong River, and the unforgettable experience at the Mekong Elephant Park allowed us to bond with these majestic creatures in a responsible and sustainable way. The river cruise to Luang Prabang with Shompoo Cruises added a peaceful conclusion to our time in Pakbeng, making this stop one of the most memorable parts of our Laos journey.
Whether you’re planning a short stop in Pakbeng or looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Laos, we highly recommend staying at Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge and taking the time to visit the Mekong Elephant Park for a truly enriching family experience.
Planning Your Visit
Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge: Comfortable family accommodation with breathtaking views of the Mekong River.
Mekong Elephant Park: A must-visit for families, offering close encounters with elephants and educational experiences on conservation.
Shompoo Cruises: A scenic river journey perfect for families, with stops at cultural sites like Pak Ou Caves.