Chiang Mai: 2-Day Luang Prabang Slow Boat Tour & Hotel Chiang Mai:2-Day River Cruise to Luang Prabang&Pak Ou Caves

Embark on a 2-day journey from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, with a slow boat cruise on the Mekong River, a visit to Pak Ou Caves, and insights from a local English-speaking guide.
Begin your 2-day journey from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang with a hotel pickup and a comfortable ride through the scenic landscapes of Chiang Rai. Make a stop at the renowned White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a stunning example of contemporary Buddhist art and one of Northern Thailand’s most iconic landmarks. Please note that the entrance fee is not included.

Continue to Chiang Khong, where you will receive full assistance with Laos visa documentation before crossing the Thai–Lao border. Upon arrival in Huay Xai, check in to your overnight accommodation with breakfast included and enjoy a peaceful evening in this quiet riverside town.

The next morning, begin your day with a transfer to the boat pier. Our friendly team will assist with check-in and provide a packed lunch for the journey. Board a traditional slow boat and relax during an 8-hour cruise on the legendary Mekong River. Pass by lush jungle scenery, remote riverside villages, and dramatic limestone formations as you enjoy the calm rhythm of the river.

Along the way, your English-speaking Lao guide will offer insightful commentary on Lao history, geography, and local culture. A highlight of the journey is a stop at the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues placed by pilgrims over many generations. Spend approximately 40 minutes exploring this spiritual site (entrance fee included).

The cruise continues through beautiful natural landscapes until you arrive in Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. A complimentary transfer to your hotel (within 3 km of the pier) concludes this relaxing and culturally enriching two-day experience.

Itinerary

Day 1: Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai → Chiang Khong → Huay Xai
09:00–09:30 AM – Pick-up from your hotel in Chiang Mai (air-conditioned van)
14:00–14:30 – Arrive at our office in Chiang Khong, near the border
16:00 – Arrive at Chiang Khong border. Our team will assist with visa paperwork, border procedures, and bus ticket.
Travellers with eVisas and visa exemption must still cross the border as a group.
17:00 – Cross the Friendship Bridge into Laos and meet our Lao team
Hotel check-in in Huay Xai (breakfast included)
Evening at leisure

Day 2: Huay Xai → Mekong River → Pak Ou Caves → Luang Prabang
06:40–07:10 AM – Pick-up from your hotel in Huay Xai and transfer to the boat pier
08:00 AM – Depart on the slow boat to Luang Prabang (approx. 8 hours cruising). Enjoy scenic views, peaceful river life, and commentary from your English-speaking guide.
Midday stop at Pak Ou Caves (approx. 40 minutes) – entry ticket included.
Continue cruising for ~1 more hour
17:00–18:00 – Arrive in Luang Prabang and transfer to your hotel (within 3 km)

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.