Chiang Mai to Houay xai Laos

The Experience for the slow boat chiang rai to luangprabang

Day 1: Chiang Rai to Huay Xai, Laos

• 8:30–9:00 am: Be picked up from a hotel in Chiang Rai in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
  
  
  
• Morning: Begin the overland journey towards the Chiang Khong border. A brief stop can be made at the magnificent White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), located just south of Chiang Rai, for photos before continuing the scenic drive.

   

• ~11:00 am: Arrive at the Thai–Laos border. A local guide will provide assistance with Thai immigration exit formalities.

   

• ~11:30 am: Cross the Friendship Bridge by shuttle bus to Huay Xai, Laos.

   

• ~12:00 pm: A Lao representative will greet you and provide full assistance with the Laos visa-on-arrival process.

   

• Afternoon: After clearing immigration, you will be escorted to your pre-booked accommodation or a central point in Huay Xai. The rest of the day is free to explore the small town and watch the sunset over the Mekong.

   

Day 2: Mekong River, Part 1 (Huay Xai to Pakbeng)

• 8:30 am: A guide will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the slow boat pier.

   

• 9:30 am: The slow boat departs, beginning its gentle journey downstream.

   

• Full Day: Spend the day relaxing on the boat. Find a comfortable seat and watch the timeless scenes of rural Lao life unfold on the riverbanks water buffalo bathing, children playing, and villagers tending to their crops. The boat will have basic restroom facilities and snacks/drinks for sale.

   

• ~5:00 pm: The boat arrives in the small riverside village of Pakbeng. This is the mandatory overnight stop for all boats. Disembark and check into your guesthouse (not included) for the night.

   

Day 3: Mekong River, Part 2 (Pakbeng to Luang Prabang)

• 8:30 am: Re-board the boat to continue the final leg of your journey to Luang Prabang.

   

• Morning/Afternoon: The scenery becomes even more dramatic today, with large limestone cliffs and dense jungle lining the river.

   

• ~3:00 pm: Shortly before reaching Luang Prabang, the boat will make a stop at the famous Pak Ou Caves. You will have time to disembark and explore the two caves crammed with thousands of Buddha statues (entrance fee not included).

   

• ~4:30 pm – 5:00 pm: Arrive at the Luang Prabang slow boat pier, located just outside the city center. The tour concludes upon arrival. You can easily find a tuk-tuk to take you to your hotel.