Experience a serene 3-day slow boat journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang. Discover temples, cultural parks, and the majestic Mekong River.
Experience a serene 3-day slow boat journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang. Discover temples, cultural parks, and the majestic Mekong River.
Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong - Huay Xay
Chiang Khong - Chiang Khong is a tranquil district located on the banks of the Mekong River, directly across from Huaixai, Lao PDR. It is situated approximately 115 kilometers from the provincial capital, or about 55 kilometers east of Chiang Saen along Highway No. 1129. Chiang Khong is renowned for being the…
Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong - Huay Xay
Chiang Khong - Chiang Khong is a tranquil district located on the banks of the Mekong River, directly across from Huaixai, Lao PDR. It is situated approximately 115 kilometers from the provincial capital, or about 55 kilometers east of Chiang Saen along Highway No. 1129. Chiang Khong is renowned for being the site where Pla Buk, the giant catfish, is cultivated. The Chiang Khong Fishery Station successfully inseminates and breeds Pla Buk, the largest freshwater fish globally, and fingerlings bred here have been released into various rivers.
It is important to note that the fishing season runs from mid-January to May. Boat tours are available for sightseeing, offering views of the scenery and lifestyles along the Mekong River. Another attraction is a visit to Ban Hat Bai, a Thai Lu community known for producing exquisite local fabrics. To cross over to Huaixai town in Lao PDR, visitors should contact the immigration office or tour agencies in Chiang Khong.
Huay Xai - The capital of Bokeo province, Houayxay (Huay Xai) is situated on the Mekong River opposite Chiang Khong in Thailand. This charming town, surrounded by a vast natural landscape, often serves as a transport stopover to other destinations in Laos and Thailand.
The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and biking. Houayxay (Huay Xai)’s relaxed atmosphere is perfect for those looking to enjoy local Laotian dishes and beer while taking in views of the Mekong River.
PakBeng, Lao
Pak Beng - Pickup: 09:00–09:30 am. Transfer from the hotel to the pier, then embark on a slow boat journey to Pakbeng. The town of Pakbeng is located at the midpoint of the renowned Mekong slow boat river trip.
The complete river journey spans between the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang and the Laotian/Thai border town of Huay Xai. Nearly all travelers, approximately 99%, arrive in Pakbeng in the early evening and depart before 10 am the following day.
The entire town is designed to accommodate this overnight trade.
Luang Prabang, Lao
Luang Prabang - 5:00 pm: Arrive at Slow Boat Terminal.
End Of Services
The shared taxi from the Slow Boat Terminal to the Luang Prabang downtown area costs 2 USD per person.

- Accident insurance (Passport copy/photo required on travel date.)
- Breakfast
- Accommodation at Huay Xai: 1 room for 2 people. If you are alone, you will have your own room.
- Air-conditioned vehicle from Chiangrai to Chiangkong
- Accident insurance (Passport copy/photo required on travel date.)
- Breakfast
- Accommodation at Huay Xai: 1 room for 2 people. If you are alone, you will have your own room.
- Air-conditioned vehicle from Chiangrai to Chiangkong
- Lunch on the boat,there are the snacks&drink to sell on boat
- All Fees and Taxes
- Tips and other expenses
- Accommodations at Pakbeng,please book the room by yourself
- Laos visa fee
- Photo for Laos Visa: if you don’t have, our team can help you find out at the border.
- Ticket at White Temple
- Lunch on the boat,there are the snacks&drink to sell on boat
- All Fees and Taxes
- Tips and other expenses
- Accommodations at Pakbeng,please book the room by yourself
- Laos visa fee
- Photo for Laos Visa: if you don’t have, our team can help you find out at the border.
- Ticket at White Temple
Please be aware: The number of boats permitted to depart from Laos ports is strictly governed by the Lao government and is not within our control. During the peak season (November to February), some days may be particularly busy, and the boats might be crowded, potentially impacting comfort. We kindly ask for your understanding and suggest planning and…
Please be aware: The number of boats permitted to depart from Laos ports is strictly governed by the Lao government and is not within our control. During the peak season (November to February), some days may be particularly busy, and the boats might be crowded, potentially impacting comfort. We kindly ask for your understanding and suggest planning and preparing accordingly before booking this trip.
You will need to be on the boat for a minimum of 6 hours. If you have any health concerns, such as knee pain, heel pain, or osteoarthritis, please take this into consideration before booking.
Slow boats accommodate approximately 100-200 passengers. This boat is shared with local tourists. The boat will only stop at Pak Bang.
- For separate bookings, please send all booking references at least 2 days before the travel date so we can try to seat your group in the same van.
- Please provide a WhatsApp-enabled phone number when booking so our team can easily reach you on the day of the tour.
- Not recommended for same-day arrivals or tight onward schedules. Tour timing may vary due to traffic and operational conditions.
- Luggage Policy: Up to 2 bags per passenger are included (1 backpack + 1 small suitcase up to 18”). Additional bags cost THB 100 per item. Rolling suitcases over 20” cost THB 150 per item.
- Visa & Arrival Card (Laos – Land Border): Even with a Laos e-Visa, all travelers entering via Friendship Bridge 4 must complete the paper arrival card at the Lao border. Online arrival forms are for air arrivals only.
- Visa on Arrival (Laos): Cash payment required (THB 1,800–2,000 or USD 40). This visa fee is excluded from the tour price and must be paid separately upon arrival at the Lao border.
- Please keep your original boat ticket for both travel days. Lost or damaged tickets cannot be reissued. If the ticket is lost, a new ticket must be purchased directly by the passenger.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.