Huay Xai to Luang Prabang 1-Day Mekong Boat and Pak Ou Caves

Laos , Laos

Huay Xai to Luang Prabang 1-Day Mekong Boat and Pak Ou Caves

Active

11h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Cruise the Mekong River in comfort on this one-day slow boat journey from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang. Discover the scenic beauty of northern Laos, visit the sacred Pak Ou Caves filled with thousands of Buddha images, and learn about local culture from an English-speaking Lao guide. This all-in-one transfer includes hotel pickup, lunch, cave entrance, and hotel drop-off in Luang Prabang — the most scenic way to travel into Laos.

Available options

Huay Xai to Luang Prabang 1-Day Mekong Boat and Pak Ou Caves

Pickup included

What's included

Basic accident coverage

Onboard English-speaking Lao guide

Hotel pickup in Huay Xai (within 3 km from pier)

Entrance fee to Pak Ou Caves

Hotel drop-off in Luang Prabang (within 3 km from pier)

Lunch box (vegetarian option available)

Infant document fee is included in the price. No cash payment is needed on the travel day.

Slow boat ticket to Luang Prabang

Detailed itinerary

06.40 - 07.10 AM. Travelers will be picked up from their accommodation and transferred to the slow boat pier. It's about a 10–20 minute transfer from your hotel to the pier.

08:00 AM – Arrival at the pier and preparation for boarding.
Our team will assist you with necessary documentation and ensure you have everything you need before boarding the slow boat. This includes checking travel documents, confirming luggage, and giving a short briefing about the journey ahead.

08.05 AM. The boat journey from Huay Xai to Pak Ou Caves takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on river conditions and water levels. Along the way, you'll enjoy peaceful scenery, observe local riverside life, and learn about the Mekong region from your onboard guide.

Stop 4

01:30 – 2:00 PM: Midday Stop at Pak Ou Caves (Approx. 40 mins)
Explore the famous Pak Ou Caves, where thousands of Buddha statues have been placed by pilgrims over the centuries. Set at the scenic confluence of the Mekong and Ou Rivers, the caves offer a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. Admission is included in your tour.

1.5 – 2 Hours, Afternoon – Scenic Cruise to Luang Prabang
Relax and enjoy the final stretch of your Mekong River journey. Cruise through peaceful riverside landscapes for another 1.5 to 2 hours before arriving at the Luang Prabang pier, where your unforgettable adventure concludes.

5:00 – 6:00 PM – Arrival in Luang Prabang
Arrival time may vary slightly depending on river conditions. Complimentary hotel drop-off in Luang Prabang is included (available for accommodations within 3 km of the pier).

What's not included

Drinks (water, soft drinks, alcohol)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For separate bookings, please send all booking references at least 2 days before the travel date so we can try to seat your group in the same van.

Please provide a WhatsApp-enabled phone number when booking so our team can easily reach you on the day of the tour.

If you have a flight after the tour, please let us know. Airport drop-off is not included, and return times may vary depending on traffic.

People prone to seasickness

People with motion sickness

About Laos

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia known for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements, and Buddhist monasteries. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Top Attractions

Luang Prabang

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and vibrant Buddhist culture.

Cultural 2-3 days Moderate

Vang Vieng

A scenic town surrounded by limestone karsts, known for its outdoor activities and stunning landscapes.

Nature 1-2 days Budget to Moderate

Plain of Jars

A mysterious archaeological site featuring thousands of stone jars scattered across the landscape.

Historical Half day to full day Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Laap

A minced meat salad with herbs, spices, and lime juice, often served with sticky rice.

Main Dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken, beef, or pork

Tam Mak Hoong

Green papaya salad with tomatoes, chili, and lime juice.

Side Dish Vegetarian (can be made with fish sauce)

Khao Jee

Baguette sandwich with a variety of fillings like pork, pâté, and pickled vegetables.

Breakfast Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Tubing Caving Kayaking Spa treatments Yoga Meditation Temple visits Traditional dance performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the dry season with pleasant temperatures and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Lao
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Lao Kip (LAK)

Time Zone

Indochina Time (ICT, GMT+7)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Laos is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious with adventure activities and road travel.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious with adventure activities

Getting there

By air

Wattay International Airport • 5 km from Vientiane city center

By bus

Northern Bus Station, Southern Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No major taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Vientiane Luang Prabang Vang Vieng

Day trips

Kuang Si Falls

30 km from Luang Prabang • Half day to full day

A stunning multi-tiered waterfall with turquoise pools, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Pak Ou Caves

25 km from Luang Prabang • Half day

A complex of caves filled with thousands of Buddha statues, accessible by boat on the Mekong River.

Festivals

Lao New Year (Boun Pi Mai) • April 14-16 That Luang Festival • November (full moon day)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Lao phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
Carry small denominations of Lao Kip for local purchases
Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season
Respect local customs and traditions, especially at religious sites
Be cautious with adventure activities and ensure safety precautions are in place