Situated 4km from the iconic Golden Triangle, The Mekong Explorer Tent may well be Southeast Asia’s newest and most luxurious wilderness retreat. Located within the compound of the Anantara Golden Triangle Resort, the tent is nestled in a 160-acre bamboo forest with sweeping views of the surrounding verdant jungle.
Camp In Style
A big part of the appeal of The Mekong Explorer Tent is that it merges Northern Thailand’s rugged beauty with the refined indulgence at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. Perched high on a jungle-covered hillside overlooking the point where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge, this two-bedroom luxury tent offers panoramic views of the Mekong River and surrounding bamboo forest — home to the resort’s 20 rescued elephants.
Blending the spirit of exploration with Lanna elegance, the tent is thoughtfully appointed with leather and timber furnishings, Jim Thompson fabrics, and locally sourced touches that reflect the region’s artisanal culture.
The adventure begins with an Explorer’s Arrival via longtail boat, setting the tone for a fully immersive escape. Each suite features two oversized king bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, and private outdoor terraces with a 5m x 3m infinity pool and a freestanding bathtub designed for soaking beneath the stars.
Every detail is carefully curated — from chocolates by Northern Thailand’s Kad Kakao to handmade elephant-shaped biscuits and herbal teas from local producer Sawanabondin. The full-board stay includes gourmet meals, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, and a stocked minibar, alongside complimentary access to the Hall of Opium Museum.
Signature Experiences
Guests are invited to choose one signature experience for every night stayed. Options include the deeply moving Walking with Giants elephant encounter, a Thai cooking class with a market visit, a rejuvenating spa treatment, or a private yoga or Pilates session. For those craving adventure, the Sky Bike allows visitors to pedal above the forest canopy.
Later this year, Anantara will unveil the Mekong Explorer Suites, evoking colonial-era journeys with dark wood interiors, antique travel trunks, and jungle-facing balconies — a continuation of the resort’s commitment to celebrating heritage and luxury.
Sustainability underpins the entire experience. The resort eliminates single-use plastics, is partially solar-powered, and maintains its own organic farm, complete with mushrooms, herbs, bees, and free-range chickens.
With rates for the Mekong Explorer Tent starting from US$3,800++ per night, this is not simply a luxurious adventure but a rare opportunity to connect with nature and culture in extraordinary comfort.
(Images: Anantara)
