In preparing to come to Laos one of my selling points was the opportunity to see rare freshwater dolphins that live in the Mekong River at the Lao-Cambodian border. Our trip to the South was, therefore, centered on a sunset boat ride to see these unique creatures. Growing up to 8 feet long, these dolphins have more rounded noses than their ocean-dwelling cousins are sacred animals to the Lao. Sadly, there are only around 16 left in these waters. Luckily we were able to see them on two consecutive nights. Apologies for the limited number of pictures but these dolphins were quickly in and out of the water with only a little spray of water and a loud exhalation as warning.
The boat ride to see the dolphins was almost as enjoyable as seeing the dolphins themselves. The local boat drivers were expert at navigating the many rocks and shallow water. They were also reliable tour guides, pointing out the side of the river that was Cambodia several times during the trip.
In fact, the water was so low you could see where the normal current severely affecting the growth of these trees. 
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