Slow Boat Chiang Rai: to Luang Prabang 2Day 1Night

Venturing along the Mekong River from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang is a popular 2-day, 1-night journey for travelers. It’s an opportunity to witness the region’s stunning landscapes in a relaxed manner. The slow boat itinerary includes crossing the Thai-Laos border, an overnight stay in Pakbeng, and arriving in the ancient city of Luang Prabang. While the journey itself is the highlight, there are a few essential details to consider before embarking on this memorable adventure.

Good To Know

• The 2-day slow boat journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang costs $79.00 per person, including hotel pickup, border crossing, boat tickets, and several meals.
• The first day involves a 5 AM pickup from Chiang Rai, applying for a Lao visa at the border, and an overnight stay in Pakbeng.
• On the second day, passengers should check in before 8 AM to continue the scenic journey along the Mekong River, arriving in Luang Prabang around 5:30 PM.
• Meals are provided on the boat, but passengers are advised to bring their own snacks, and a tuk-tuk is available to reach the city center.
• Advance booking of accommodation in Pakbeng is recommended due to potential crowding and difficulty in finding lodging upon arrival.

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Overview

The 2-day slow boat journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang, Laos costs from $79.00 per person.

This activity includes hotel pickup, border crossing, slow boat tickets, and several meals.

The trip starts with a 5 AM pickup from any hotel in Chiang Rai’s city center. Once at the border, travelers apply for their Lao visa before boarding the slow boat for an overnight stay in Pakbeng.

The next day, the boat continues to Luang Prabang, arriving around 5:30 PM.

This package offers an English-speaking driver and staff, as well as a tourist fund tax.

Itinerary: Day 1

On the first day, participants are picked up from their hotel in Chiang Rai’s city center at 5:00 a.m.

They’ll head to the Lao border, where they’ll apply for their Lao visa. After crossing the border, they’ll board a slow boat for a leisurely ride down the Mekong River.

The journey continues until the group reaches Pakbeng, where they’ll overnight.

Accommodation in Pakbeng is recommended to be booked in advance, as the slow boat trip can get crowded and finding lodging upon arrival may be difficult.

Itinerary: Day 2

After checking in before 8:00 a.m., passengers continue their slow boat journey to Luang Prabang.

The boat is expected to arrive around 5:30 p.m. The journey along the Mekong River allows travelers to admire the scenic landscapes of northern Laos.

Passengers should bring their own snacks, as meals aren’t included during the boat ride.

Upon reaching Luang Prabang, travelers can take a tuk-tuk for about 40,000 Kip to reach the city center, which is approximately 10 km away from the boat landing point.

Inclusions

This two-day slow boat journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang includes a range of services to make the trip more convenient.

The package covers hotel pickup from Chiang Rai, a cross-border bus ticket, and the slow boat tickets to Luang Prabang. Dinner, lunch, and breakfast on the boat are also included.

Travelers will receive assistance from English-speaking drivers and staff throughout the journey. The visa on arrival fee is covered, and a tourist fund tax is paid.

However, the overnight stay in Pakbeng is an optional add-on that must be booked separately.

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Travel Tips

When planning the slow boat journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang, travelers should remember to bring essential items like their passport, comfortable clothing, and cash in both dollars and Lao kip.

A passport-sized photo is also required for the visa-on-arrival process at the border.

Snacks are recommended, as the boat has a small shop, but meals aren’t included.

Travelers should also be aware that the boat can get crowded, and some passengers may not have seats.

It’s best to book accommodation in Pakbeng in advance, as it’s not included in the package.

Customer Feedback

How does the customer feedback rate this slow boat journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang?

Based on a 4/5 overall rating from a single review, here are the key highlights:

1. The pickup service and minivan were good.

2. The border crossing takes about an hour, so have cash and a photo ready.

3. The boat can get crowded, and some passengers may not have seats.

4. The overnight stay in Pakbeng isn’t included, so plan transportation with local hostels.

While the journey has some minor drawbacks, the overall customer feedback suggests a satisfactory slow boat experience from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang.

Border Crossing Experience

Crossing the border from Thailand into Laos takes about an hour, so travelers should prepare accordingly.

Visa fees are paid directly to the Lao Luang Travel Company staff at the border crossing. It’s recommended to have cash ready – either US dollars or Lao kip.

Cash, either in US dollars or Lao kip, is required to pay visa fees directly to Lao Luang Travel Company staff at the border crossing.

Travelers will also need to provide a passport-sized photo for the visa application. The process can be a bit crowded and chaotic, so maintaining patience and organization is key.

Once through, the slow boat journey along the Mekong River to Luang Prabang can begin, with an overnight stay in Pakbeng.

Transportation to Luang Prabang City Center

The slow boat journey ends at the Luang Prabang pier, approximately 10 kilometers from the city center.

Visitors have a few options to reach their final destination:

1. Hire a tuk-tuk, which typically costs 40,000 Kip (about $4 USD) for the 10-kilometer ride.

2. Take a local minibus, which runs regularly and costs around 8,000 Kip (less than $1 USD) per person.

3. Arrange a private transfer with the tour operator, which can be more convenient but more expensive.

4. Walk, which takes about 1.5 hours and allows you to explore the riverside scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can bring your own food and drinks on the boat. The itinerary notes a small shop is available on board, but meals are not included, so bringing snacks is suggested.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Boat or in Pakbeng?

The overview states that there is no information provided about Wi-Fi availability on the boat or in Pakbeng. Travelers should plan accordingly and come prepared with their own internet access or make arrangements with local accommodations.

Can I Store My Luggage Somewhere During the Boat Journey?

Yes, luggage can be stored on the slow boat during the journey. The boat has designated storage areas where passengers can keep their bags and belongings securely throughout the trip.

Are There Any Toilet Facilities on the Boat?

Yes, the slow boat from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang has toilet facilities on board. Passengers can use the basic restrooms located on the boat during the multi-hour journey along the Mekong River.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Activity?

There is no minimum age requirement for this slow boat activity. Children of all ages are welcome to join the 2-day journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang, as the tour provides appropriate accommodations and facilities for families.

The Sum Up

The Slow Boat journey from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang offers a unique 2-day, 1-night experience along the Mekong River. Travelers can expect stunning landscapes, an overnight stay in Pakbeng, and a convenient arrival in Luang Prabang. While meals are provided, bringing snacks is advised for added convenience. This adventure is a memorable way to explore the region and cross the border into Laos.

You can check if your dates are available here: