From Luang Prabang: Slow Boat to Huay Xai 2 Days, 1 Night

Embarking on a slow boat journey from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai is a captivating way to experience the natural wonders of Laos. This two-day, one-night adventure offers travelers a chance to enjoy the region’s stunning riverscapes, verdant jungles, and local culture. With prices starting at just €63.15 per person, this hassle-free package includes hotel pickup, boat tickets, and an overnight stay in the charming town of Pakbeng. But as the border between Thailand and Laos closes at 8 PM, travelers will need to plan their journey carefully. Dive in to uncover more about this enchanting slow boat experience.

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Luang Prabang.

Key Points

• A two-day, one-night slow boat journey from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai, offering stunning views of the Mekong River and an overnight stay in Pakbeng for culture.
• The journey is priced at €63.15 per person and includes hotel pick-up/drop-off and a free cancellation policy (24 hours in advance).
• The slow boat journey takes approximately 6-7 hours from Pakbeng to Huay Xai, and it’s important to plan arrival time at the border, which closes at 8:00 PM.
• Transportation options to cross the Laos-Thailand border include shared taxis, private taxis, and buses, with travel time to the border control being around 20 minutes.
• Customers have generally rated the experience positively, with praise for the stunning scenery, authentic overnight stay in Pakbeng, and hassle-free transportation arrangements.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The tour is a two-day, one-night slow boat journey from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai, priced from €63.15 per person.

The journey offers stunning views of the Mekong River, water buffalo, untouched jungle, and local life. Travelers will have the chance to enjoy the local culture with an overnight stay in Pakbeng.

The package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for hassle-free travel. Guests can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Experience Highlights

Breathtaking views of the Mekong River, water buffalo, untouched jungle, and local life await travelers on this scenic journey.

The overnight stay in Pakbeng provides an authentic culture experience. Guests can observe the daily routines of the locals and gain insights into their way of life.

Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off ensure a hassle-free travel experience.

Whether it’s admiring the natural beauty or immersing in the local culture, this slow boat tour from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai promises an unforgettable adventure along the legendary Mekong River.

Itinerary Details

On the first day, guests are picked up from their hotels in Luang Prabang between 7:00-7:30 AM before departing from Bandon Pier around 8:00-8:30 AM.

The journey continues until around 5:00 PM when the boat arrives in Pakbeng, where accommodation isn’t included.

The next day starts with a departure from Pakbeng around 8:30-9:00 AM, and the boat reaches Huay Xai by 6:00 PM.

The itinerary includes:

1. Hotel pick-up in Luang Prabang
2. Boat journey from Luang Prabang to Pakbeng
3. Boat journey from Pakbeng to Huay Xai

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes boat tickets from Luang Prabang to Pakbeng and from Pakbeng to Huay Xai, as well as hotel pick-up in Luang Prabang. However, the price excludes accommodation in Pakbeng, visa/immigration fees, and personal expenses like beverages and tips.

Includes	Excludes
Boat tickets	Accommodation in Pakbeng
Hotel pick-up	Visa/immigration fees
	Personal expenses, beverages, and tips

Transportation options to cross the border into Thailand after arriving in Huay Xai include shared taxis, private taxis, and buses, all of which have different costs.

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Transportation Options

Various transportation options are available for travelers to cross the border from Huay Xai into Thailand after completing the slow boat journey.

Shared taxis to the Laos immigration office cost 170 LAK per person. For those seeking more privacy, private taxis are available for 350,000 LAK.

Alternatively, buses to cross the border can be booked for 30,000 LAK. The travel time from the Slow Boat Pier to the Laos Border Control is approximately 20 minutes.

Travelers should note that the Thai and Laos borders close at 8:00 PM, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.

Border Closure

Travelers should be aware that the Thai and Laos borders close at 8:00 PM. This means that it’s crucial to plan your arrival at the border before this time to ensure a smooth crossing.

The slow boat journey typically takes around 6-7 hours from Pakbeng to Huay Xai, so it’s essential to factor in any potential delays or unexpected circumstances.

Failure to reach the border before closing time could result in being stranded overnight, requiring additional arrangements and expenses.

It’s advisable to monitor the schedule and plan accordingly to avoid any issues at the border.

Customer Rating

According to the information provided, the overall customer rating for this slow boat tour from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai stands at 4 out of 5 based on a single review.

While a small sample size, this rating suggests a generally positive experience for travelers.

Some key takeaways from the customer feedback include:

1. Stunning scenery along the Mekong River.
2. Authentic overnight stay in Pakbeng.
3. Hassle-free transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Given the limited reviews available, it’s advisable to research further and consider other sources to get a more comprehensive understanding of the tour’s quality and suitability for your travel needs.

Additional Tips

To further enhance the slow boat experience, there are a few additional tips worth considering.

Bring sun protection, as the boat can get quite hot and exposed during the day.

Pack a small travel bag with essentials, as luggage storage is limited.

Consider bringing snacks and drinks to enjoy along the journey.

Be mindful of the border closing times and plan accordingly.

Plus, it’s a good idea to have some Lao kip on hand for incidental expenses.

With these tips in mind, travelers can make the most of the leisurely and scenic Mekong river cruise from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, it’s best to confirm the policy with the tour operator before the trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Are There Restrooms Available on the Boat?

Yes, there are restrooms available on the slow boat from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai. Passengers can use the onboard restroom facilities throughout the 2-day journey along the Mekong River.

Can I Charge My Electronic Devices During the Trip?

Yes, passengers can charge their electronic devices during the slow boat trip from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai. The boat is equipped with power outlets, allowing travellers to keep their phones, cameras, and other gadgets powered throughout the 2-day journey.

What Should I Pack for the Overnight Stay in Pakbeng?

For the overnight stay in Pakbeng, travelers should pack essential items like comfortable clothes, toiletries, a flashlight, a power bank to charge devices, and any medications. It’s also a good idea to bring snacks and water.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Boat?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a private boat for the journey from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai. The cost for a private boat is 350,000 LAK, which provides a more exclusive and personalized experience.

Recap

This slow boat journey from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai offers a unique opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty and local culture of the region. Travelers can expect breathtaking views, an overnight stay in Pakbeng, and a hassle-free adventure that includes hotel transfers and boat tickets. With the borders closing at 8:00 PM, it’s essential to plan the border crossing carefully.

You can check if your dates are available here: