The slow boat journey from Thailand to Laos is a preferred option for many backpackers due to its scenic route and relaxed pace. Unlike a quick flight, the slow boat allows you to witness the changing landscapes, from lush jungles to rustic villages, and interact with locals and travellers alike.

It’s also just an adventure and a bit of a right of passage when travelling this area !

How long does the slow boat to Laos take ?

If your starting point is Chaing Mai or Pai, the journey is going to take three days and two nights.

If your starting point is Chaing Rai, the trip can be done in two days… but it will be a long two days

How much does taking the slow boat cost?

In total, you can expect the cost of the slow boat trip to be around $70–$90 USD per person, including the boat ticket, accommodation in Pakbeng, and transport to/from the border, your Visa and meals/snacks. On the more expensive side if you’re paying a hostel to arrange the journey for you.

Doing the journey yourself or booking through your hostel?

In my opinion, there are some things that are worth spending the extra money on. Having my hostel arrange my slow boat experience was one of them. I found it quite difficult to find information online about the journey and to be honest, the difference in price was minimal. I spent a few days in Chiang Rai and stayed at Mercy Hostel. They booked my slow boat experience for me and it took 2 days all in.

However, this blog should provide you with ALL the information you need to make the journey yourself – or if you do choose to book through your hostel, know what to expect!

Overview of the Journey

Starting in Chaing Mai/Pai/ Chiang Rai
Get a bus to Chiang Khong, the Thai border crossing
Exit via Thai immigration
Cross the Thai-Lao Friendship bridge
Enter Lao immigration
Arrive in Huay Xai and spend the night (buying slow boat tickets asap)
Arrive in Pakbeng and spend the night
Early rise for day 2 of slow boat to Luang Prabang

There are two parts to getting from Thailand to Laos. 1. The border crossing and 2. the slow boat experience.

The Thai-Laos Border crossing

Starting Point: Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Pai or Chiang Khong

Your journey typically begins in a city in Northern Thailand – Pai, Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai.

If you are starting from the first two, you’ll need to get a bus to Chiang Rai or directly to the town of Chiang Khong. As this is a long bus ride, you’ll want to spend the night in the town of Chaing Rai or cross the border and stay in Huay Xai on the Laos side.

From Chiang Rai, you can take a bus or a private vehicle to Chiang Khong, a small border town on the banks of the Mekong River.

By Bus: Green Bus Company operates regular buses from Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and costs approximately 65-150 THB depending on the bus type.
By Private Vehicle: Taxis or private transfers can be arranged through hotels or travel agencies. This option offers more flexibility but is more expensive.

If going via an arranged tour, your minivan or car will collect you directly from your hostel and bring you to the border.

In Chiang Khong: Preparing to Cross the Border

Once in Chiang Khong, you need to cross the border to Huay Xai, Laos.

Thai Exit Procedures:
- Immigration Office: Visit the Thai immigration office to get your exit stamp. This is located near the Friendship Bridge.
- Transport to the Bridge: Tuk-tuks or taxis can take you from central Chiang Khong to the Friendship Bridge for around 50-100 THB.
Crossing the Friendship Bridge:
- Shuttle Bus: A shuttle bus runs across the Friendship Bridge for a small fee (approximately 20 THB). This bus runs frequently and takes only a few minutes to cross the bridge. You CANNOT cross the bridge by foot, so unfortunately, you will need to pay up. The bus won’t leave until there’s enough people so give yourself some extra time and factor this in so not to miss your boat!

Entering Laos: Huay Xai

After crossing the bridge, you’ll arrive at the Lao immigration office in Huay Xai.

Visa on Arrival:
- Eligibility: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival. Check the latest visa requirements for your nationality before travelling.
- Required Documents:
  - Passport with at least six months of validity.
  - One passport-sized photo ($1 additional fee if you don’t have one)
  - Completed visa application form (available at the immigration office).
- Visa Fee: The visa fee varies by nationality and is usually between $30 and $40 USD. Payment is accepted in US dollars, Thai baht, or Lao kip but US dollars will work out cheapest. There is a currency exchange at the immigration office and please note, your notes must be in pristine condition (no rips or pen marks) or they won’t be accepted!
- Processing Time: The visa process is generally straightforward and takes about 15-30 minutes.
Additional Entry Requirements:
- Arrival/Departure Card: Fill out the arrival/departure card provided at the immigration office.
- Health Declarations: Occasionally, health declaration forms may be required, especially in light of recent global health concerns.

In Huay Xai: Getting Ready for the Slow Boat

After clearing immigration, you are officially in Huay Xai, Laos – the starting point for the slow boat journey.

Depending on what time of the day you’ve arrived, you might need to go straight to the pier or spend the night in Huay Xai. You’ll be greeted by many TukTuk drivers on the Laos border. Try get a group together to reach the main town for a price of around 25-30,000 Kip per person (€1-1.30).

Where can you buy tickets for the Laos, Slow Boat?

In Huay Xai, you can purchase your slow boat ticket either at the dock or through a travel agency. Prices generally range from $25 to $35 USD. The boat typically departs in the morning, around 10:00 AM, so it’s wise to arrive early to secure a good seat – and trust me there are good seats or the floor.

When you get your ticket, you will be given two slips – one for each journey. It is SO important you keep both of these or you may be required to repay for the second leg of the journey!

The Two- Day Journey: What to Expect

The journey from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city in Laos, takes two days, with an overnight stop in the small village of Pakbeng.

Day 1: Huay Xai to Pakbeng

Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours.

Experience: The boat glides through the Mekong, offering stunning views of rugged hills, dense forests, and remote villages. You’ll have plenty of time to relax, read, and chat with other travellers. Don’t be surprised if you see adults and children swimming along the river in various spots and at times, coming up to the boat to see you friendship bracelets.

Arriving in Pakbeng

The slow boat typically arrives in Pakbeng in the late afternoon or early evening. As you disembark, you’ll be greeted by a host of local residents and guesthouse representatives offering accommodations.

Accommodation:

Budget Options: There are plenty of budget-friendly guesthouses like DP Guesthouse and Mekong Backpackers which offer basic amenities and a comfortable stay. I stayed in Mekong backpackers and it was fine.
Mid-Range Options: For a bit more comfort, consider places like the Monsavanh Guesthouse or Pakbeng Lodge. These provide additional amenities like hot showers and better views of the Mekong.

Most travellers will join together and go out for a meal and then head to the local bar ‘happy bar’ which has cheap drinks and pool tables. A word to the wise though, speaking from experience, being hungover on a 7hr slow boat is not fun.

In the morning, your accommodation might offer lunch options for you to bring with you or there’s a local bakery stand around 10 minute walk from the pier for you to stock up on food for the day.

Day 2: Pakbeng to Luang Prabang

The boat sets off at around 8am so make sure to get there early.

Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours.

Experience: The second day’s journey continues along the Mekong, with more opportunities to appreciate the tranquil beauty of Laos. The landscape becomes more dramatic as you approach Luang Prabang.

Arrival in Luang Prabang

Tired and hungry, you’ll arrive in Luang Prabang – but not quite the main city so you’ll need to go into the Tuk Tuk office and you’ll pay approx 20,000 Kip for a journey into the town. ** the Tuk Tuk will just drop you to the centre of town, so be conscious of that when booking your accommodations as you’ll be walking there with your bags !

Final Thoughts

The slow boat from Thailand to Laos is more than just a mode of transport; it’s an adventure that offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Southeast Asia. By taking this journey, you’ll not only reach a beautiful destination but also create lasting memories of the scenic Mekong River and the people you meet along the way. So pack your bags, embrace the slow pace, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.

FAQs

Where can I purchase slow Boat Tickets? You can purchase your slow boat ticket either at the dock or through local travel agencies. Ensure you buy your ticket a day in advance to secure a spot.

Can I get a Sim card at the Thai/Laos Boarder? Get your local sim card before you get the boat to ensure you have access to the internet for the next two days (i always like to get a new sim straight away so it was great that my guide brought us to a small shop the get sims set up on the way). Now I’m not saying you’ll get a good deal – but it wont be more than $10 for a sim for the month and for me, i don’t mind paying a few dollars extra for the reassurance. You’ll also need the internet to book accommodation for when you arrive in Luang Prabang.

Is there somewhere to buy snacks on the Laos Slow boat? Yes, there is a small tuck shop selling snacks and beers. It is advisable to bring your own as well as It is a long journey.