Begin your full-day boat excursion by transferring to Mandalay Jetty, where you will set off to explore the southern part of the Ayeyarwady Dolphin Protected Area.

Your first stop is Myayson Village, where you will witness local people using public boat transportation for trading and exchanging goods and crops from their farms on the east bank of the Ayeyarwady River in Mandalay. From there, take a small canoe and follow the lead of local fishermen to observe the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in action. Watch as they collaborate with the fishermen to catch fish using traditional methods, and learn how the fishermen send signals to the dolphins by tapping the canoe.

During the trip, you’ll have another chance to see locals using public boat transportation for trading and exchanging goods and crops on the river.

Next, visit the Sin Kyun Community, a small remote community specializing in peanut farming and bamboo hat making. Learn about their way of life and immerse yourself in their culture before heading to a nearby fishing village for lunch. Enjoy a meal prepared by the community and gain insight into their daily lives along the Ayeyarwady River.

Finally, on your way back to Mandalay, stop at Mingun to see the unfinished pagoda Pathodawgyi, which was built by King Bowdawpaya, as well as the world’s largest Mingun bell weighing about 90 tons. You’ll also visit Hsinbyume pagoda, a stunning white temple built by King Bagyidaw.

Sail back to Mandalay Jetty and transfer to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

A little bit about the Irrawaddy dolphins

The Irrawaddy dolphin, also known as Orcaella brevirostris, is an endangered species that can be found in three rivers – the Ayeyarwady in Myanmar, the Mahakam in Indonesian Borneo, and the Mekong – as well as coastal areas of South and Southeast Asia. They have a gray color, blunt foreheads and noses, and lack distinctive marks except for a lighter belly. These dolphins are known for spewing fish, deep diving, and occasional social activities, and have a lifespan of 30-50 years. The Irrawaddy dolphins are critically endangered, with less than 70 remaining in the Ayeyarwady River out of 7,100 estimated in total.

The Irrawaddy dolphin tours are designed to promote sustainable tourism practices and support community development, while raising awareness about the importance of protecting the Irrawaddy dolphins and their ecosystem. The tours prioritize sustainability and responsible travel practices, with eco-friendly accommodations and activities that minimize environmental impact. Additionally, the tours offer a unique experience on the Ayeyarwaddy River while ensuring a commitment to sustainability.