Mekong Slow Boat to Luang Prabang
Tour overview
One of South-East Asia's great journeys. Cross from northern Thailand into Laos and spend two unhurried days on a private boat on the Mekong, past teak forests, fishing villages and limestone cliffs, with a night in the river village of Pakbeng — then arrive in the UNESCO-listed town of Luang Prabang for three nights of temples, markets and Kuang Si Falls.
- Two days on the Mekong in a private boat
- Village visits along the river
- Pak Ou caves with thousands of Buddha statues
- Morning alms-giving in Luang Prabang
- Kuang Si Falls swim
Day-by-day itinerary
Huay XaiDay 01 · Cross into Laos at Huay Xai
Day 01 · Cross into Laos at Huay Xai
Transfer from Chiang Rai to the border, cross the Friendship Bridge and complete Lao formalities. Evening at a riverside guesthouse in Huay Xai.
PakbengDay 02 · Down the Mekong to Pakbeng
Day 02 · Down the Mekong to Pakbeng
Board your private boat and drift downstream past forested hills, stopping at a Hmong or Khmu village. Overnight in a lodge above the river in Pakbeng.
Luang PrabangDay 03 · Pak Ou Caves & Arrival in Luang Prabang
Day 03 · Pak Ou Caves & Arrival in Luang Prabang
Continue downstream to the Pak Ou caves, filled with Buddha statues left by pilgrims, and arrive in Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. Sunset from Mount Phousi.
Luang PrabangDay 04 · Temples & Night Market
Day 04 · Temples & Night Market
Watch the morning alms-giving quietly from a distance, then visit Wat Xieng Thong and the Royal Palace Museum. Evening at the night market.
Luang PrabangDay 05 · Kuang Si Falls
Day 05 · Kuang Si Falls
Swim in the turquoise pools of Kuang Si and visit the bear rescue centre. Afternoon free for a Lao massage or cooking class.
Departure dayDay 06 · Departure
Day 06 · Departure
Transfer to Luang Prabang Airport or the railway station for the train to Vientiane.
What's included & not included
What's Included
- 5 nights in hotels and riverside lodge
- Daily breakfast, 4 lunches and 1 dinner
- Private Mekong boat Huay Xai – Luang Prabang with crew
- English-speaking guides
- Transfers and touring in the itinerary
- Entrance fees in the itinerary
What's Not Included
- International flights from Europe
- Visa fees (we advise on the latest rules for your passport)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal expenses, tips and drinks
- Anything not mentioned under inclusions
Hotel details
| Hotel name | City | Stars | Room type | Nights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riverside Guesthouse (or similar) | Huay Xai | River View Room | 1 Night | |
| Pakbeng Riverside Lodge (or similar) | Pakbeng | Mekong View Room | 1 Night | |
| Heritage Villa Luang Prabang (or similar) | Luang Prabang | Deluxe Room | 3 Nights |
Hotels are confirmed at the time of booking; equivalent hotels may be offered depending on availability.
Important info
The journey starts at the Thai–Lao border (Chiang Khong / Huay Xai) — we can arrange your transfer from Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai. Laos visas or e-visas are available for most European nationalities; please check the latest rules. Boat facilities are simple but comfortable; bring a light jacket for early mornings on the river.
Travellers who loved this trip
“Eleven days, three regions, zero stress. Paying in euros to a European company gave us real peace of mind.”
“Our guide knew exactly when to visit each temple to avoid crowds. Angkor at sunrise was breathtaking.”
“Laos was the calm surprise of our Asia trip. The alms ceremony was deeply moving and beautifully explained.”
“Great value and a lovely driver-guide. We would book Eurasia DMC again for our next Asia holiday.”
“India can be overwhelming, but with private drivers and great guides it felt easy and fascinating.”
Questions about this package
How do I confirm my booking?
Send us an enquiry or message us on WhatsApp. Your travel consultant will share the final itinerary, payment details and confirmation voucher.
Can packages be customised for families or groups?
Yes. Every itinerary can be adjusted to your flight times, pace, budget and hotel preferences — or built from scratch.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 7 days before travel receive a full refund minus administrative fees and any non-refundable supplier costs. Full details are on our Refund & Cancellation Policy page.
Are international flights included?
International flights from Europe are not included by default, but we are happy to advise on the best routes.
What is included in the package price?
Each package lists exactly what's included and excluded. Typically hotels, breakfast, transfers, guided sightseeing and entrance fees are included.