Two days on the Mekong: Our slow boat trip from Luang Prabang to Ban Houayxay
- ca. 500.000 Kip
- Fahrtdauer ca. 16 h
- Booking via accommodation
The slow boat trip on the Mekong is a real experience for anyone who wants to get to know Laos in its most authentic form. For two days, the boat leisurely travels down the river, passing lush jungle landscapes, small villages and picturesque sandbanks.
This tour was not only a relaxed way for us to travel from Luang Prabang to Ban Houayxay and then on to Thailand, but also an opportunity to immerse ourselves in life along the Mekong River. In this article, we share what awaited us, which impressions particularly moved us, and how best to prepare for this adventure.
Stage 1: By slow boat from Luang Prabang to Pak Beng
Our trip began in Luang Prabang, where we conveniently booked the tour through our hotel. In the morning, we were picked up by a tuk-tuk, which took us directly to the boat landing stage. If you are planning this tour, you should get some snacks and drinks for the long journey beforehand, as the food on board is limited to instant noodles. A thin blanket or scarf can also be useful – the wind can be surprisingly cool.
On the boat, we were greeted by a charming mix of improvised cosiness and adventure. The seating consisted of dismantled bus seats mounted on wooden beams – definitely not luxurious, but that was precisely what made the trip so charming. The slow boat meandered leisurely upstream, stopping repeatedly in the middle of nowhere to drop off or pick up locals and their goods.
Compared to the busy route from Thailand to Luang Prabang, our boat was pleasantly empty. It is worth choosing this route if you want to enjoy the journey in a peaceful atmosphere.
The first stage of the day took us about eight hours upstream to Pak Beng, a small town that lives almost exclusively from slow boat tourism and generally doesn't have much to offer.
From home, we had already booked a room including breakfast at the Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge because we didn't want to have to search for accommodation after the long journey. Our room was comfortable, clean and had its own balcony. An absolute highlight was breakfast on the hotel terrace: with a view of the Mekong and the surrounding nature – for us, the perfect start to the next stage of our river cruise to Thailand.
Stage 2: By slow boat from Pak Beng to Ban Houayxay
The second day started early. The journey from Pak Beng to Ban Houayxay also takes about 8 hours. Along the way, the landscape constantly changed between dense jungle, small villages and extensive sandbanks.
Another highlight is the many little moments that arise spontaneously: children waving from the shore, fishermen casting their nets, and occasionally even water buffalo or other animals can be seen on the riverbank.
After a total of two days, we reached Ban Houayxay, the border town with Thailand. Those who wish to continue their journey to northern Thailand can easily cross the border from here. Alternatively, the surrounding area invites further exploration, such as the famous Gibbon Experience, where you can stay in tree houses and glide through the jungle on zip lines.
For our overnight stay, we had booked a 4-bed room in advance from home at Little Hostel. A small, charming hostel with just a few rooms. The rooms are simple, clean and ideal for falling into a comfortable bed in an air-conditioned room after a long day.
Conclusion & tips
The slow boat tour on the Mekong is not a quick trip, but a journey that requires time and leisure – but that is exactly what makes it so special. It is an opportunity to experience Laos at its most authentic, to enjoy the landscape at a leisurely pace and to observe life along the river.
We particularly recommend this tour to travellers who have plenty of time and plan to continue their trip in Thailand anyway. However, those who mainly want to enjoy the experience of a boat trip on the Mekong might be better off taking a half-day tour, for example to the Pak Ou Caves.
- Snacks
Be sure to take enough for both days, as the selection on the boats is rather limited. However, there are also numerous shops in Pak Beng where you can replenish your supplies.
- Piloow
A pillow or scarf makes sitting more comfortable and makes the journey even more relaxing.
- Lodging
It is best to book in advance to avoid stress on arrival. Many accommodations offer pick-up directly at the pier.
- Jacket
It is best to always have a jacket or jumper handy, as it can get a little chilly in some places.
- Drinks
Be sure to take enough for both days, as the selection on the boats is rather limited. However, there are also numerous shops in Pak Beng where you can replenish your supplies.
- Preparation
The route from Luang Prabang to Ban Houayxay is less crowded than the opposite direction. It is worth arriving early to secure the best seats on the boat.
- Cash
Useful for spontaneous purchases in Pak Beng or during short stopovers.
- Tickets
Tickets can usually be purchased through your accommodation, at travel agencies in the city, or directly at the pier. Purchasing tickets at the pier is usually slightly cheaper, but the pier is located outside the city and can only be reached by tuk-tuk or scooter.