Chiang Mai: 3 Days 2 Nights Slow Boat Transfer to Luang Prabang
Embark on a scenic 3-day journey from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, traveling in comfort via VIP van and a traditional slow boat along the Mekong River. Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of northern Thailand and Laos as you cross borders, cruise through stunning landscapes, and stay in charming riverside towns.
Hassle-free transfer from Chiang Mai with a comfortable VIP van. Authentic slow boat along the Mekong River, shared with locals for a cultural experience. Scenic river journey, passing lush jungles, remote villages, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Convenient overnight stays in Huay Xai and Pakbeng (accommodation included in Huay Xai). Smooth border crossing assistance from Thailand to Laos.
Options
Chiang Mai: 3 Days 2 Nights Slow Boat Transfer to Luang Prabang
Pickup included
What's included in Chiang Mai: 3 Days 2 Nights Slow Boat Transfer to Luang Prabang
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Important Notes: The number of boats allowed to depart from Lao ports is regulated solely by the Lao government and is beyond our control. During the high season (November to February), some days may be very busy, and the boats can become crowded, which affects comfort. We kindly ask for your understanding and encourage you to plan and prepare accordingly before booking this trip. You must stay on the boat for at least 6 hours. If you have health conditions such as knee pain, heel pain, or osteoarthritis, please consider this before booking. Pack wisely: Bring warm clothing for cooler temperatures, personal snacks, and a power bank. Currency in Laos: You can use Thai Baht (THB) and US Dollars (USD) for purchases in border towns, Pakbeng, and on the slow boat.
Program
Day 1: Chiang Mai – Chiang Khong – Huay Xai (Laos) 09:00 – 09:30 AM: Pickup from your hotel in Chiang Mai by VIP van. 12:30 PM: Stop for lunch at a local restaurant (meal not included). 04:00 PM: Arrive at Chiang Khong, the Thai-Lao border. 04:30 PM: Cross the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge No. 4 into Laos (border fee included). 05:00 PM: Complete visa-on-arrival at Laos border control. (Please wait for the entire group.) 06:00 PM: Check in at your Huay Xai accommodation (twin-sharing or private room for solo travelers).
Day 2: Slow Boat from Huay Xai to Pakbeng 08:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel. 08:45–09:00 AM: Transfer to the boat pier to begin the slow boat journey to Pakbeng. Enjoy a full day cruising down the Mekong River. Meals and drinks are not included, but can be purchased on board. 05:00 PM: Arrive in Pakbeng.You need to take all your luggage from the back and bring it back tomorrow. Accommodation not included—please arrange your own stay.
Day 3: Pakbeng to Luang Prabang
09:00 AM: Continue the scenic boat ride to Luang Prabang.If the boat is too crowded, we recommend arriving early to reserve a seat. Enjoy breathtaking views of Laos’ unspoiled landscapes as you cruise down the Mekong. 05:00 PM: Arrive at Slow Boat Terminal, Luang Prabang.
Optional shared taxi to downtown Luang Prabang available for $2 per person.
Inclusions
- Boat tickets 2 Days
- The experienced driver
- Accommodation at the Huay Xai Riverside Hotel on day 1
- Transportation in air-conditioned van
- A bus ride across the border
- Lunch on days 1, 2, and 3
- Accommodation in Pak Beng on day 2
- Visa fee: Pay directly in cash 1,800 THB, 40 USD. You can apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival
- Laos Visa Photo: If not available, our team can help you find it at the border
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- People with haemophilia
- People prone to seasickness
- People with motion sickness
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 5 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
We offer pick-up and drop-off service from hotels in the city center. We will check if your location is within our service area and let you know. Pickup time depends on your location. We will confirm the pickup time after we receive your complete hotel name and address. This is a shared transfer, and pick-up could be early or late. The pickup time is about 09.00–9:30 am.
End Points
- Slow Boat Terminal.The shared taxi from Slow Boat Terminal to Luang Prabang downtown area is 2 USD per person
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
Please present your booking number to redeem your ticket. On Day 2, the driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the pier. Upon arrival at the pier, you will receive your boat ticket—please keep it safe for both days as you will need to show it when boarding the boat
