From Chiang Mai: Luang Prabang 3-Day 2-Night Slow Boat Tour

Exploring the enchanting landscapes along the Mekong River is a captivating experience. This 3-day, 2-night slow boat tour from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang promises a leisurely journey through northern Thailand and Laos. Travelers can enjoy the region’s vibrant culture, visit iconic sights, and discover the charm of Luang Prabang’s UNESCO-listed old town. With transportation, accommodation, and meals included, this tour offers convenience and value. But what truly sets it apart is the opportunity to witness the unparalleled natural beauty of the Mekong River – a journey that will leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Luang Prabang.

Key Points

• A 3-day 2-night slow boat tour from Chiang Mai to the UNESCO-listed city of Luang Prabang, Laos, with stops at the White Temple and Pak Beng.
• Savings of up to 10% on the standard price, with the tour starting from $100 per person.
• The tour includes transportation, boat ride, border crossing fees, accommodation, and meals on the first three days, but excludes meals and drinks on the boat.
• The tour may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or for children under 8 and seniors over 70.
• The boats can accommodate between 100-200 customers, with varying boat sizes and styles, and the average group size falls within the 100-200 range.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This 3-day 2-night slow boat tour from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang allows travelers to soak in the scenic views of the Mekong River while saving up to 10% on the standard price, which starts from $100 per person.

The relaxing journey includes a bus ride across the border from Thailand to Laos, overnight stays in Pak Beng and the UNESCO-listed city of Luang Prabang.

Highlights include visiting the unique White Temple, exploring Luang Prabang’s architecture, temples, and markets. Included are transportation, boat ride, border crossing, accommodation in Huay Xai and Pak Beng, and meals on days 1-3.

Travelers should note certain medical and age restrictions, and that boat sizes vary with between 100-200 customers per boat.

Destinations and Activities

The tour starts with a bus ride from Chiang Mai to the Thailand-Laos border, where travelers cross over into Laos. Participants then board the slow boat and begin the relaxing journey down the Mekong River. Along the way, they’ll stop to visit the iconic White Temple and explore the charming town of Pak Beng before arriving in Luang Prabang.

Destination	Activities
White Temple	Explore the unique architecture and Buddhist iconography
Pak Beng	Wander the local market and take in the riverside views
Luang Prabang	Discover the UNESCO-listed old town, visit ornate temples, and browse the handicraft markets

The tour provides a wonderful opportunity to take in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Laos.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes transportation, boat ride, and border crossing fees, as well as accommodation in Huay Xai and Pak Beng. Meals are provided on days 1-3, and water is included in the room.

Travelers will also have the White Temple entry fees and Laos visa fee covered. However, accommodation in Pak Beng on day 2 must be booked separately. Plus, meals and drinks aren’t provided on the boat itself.

It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for certain medical conditions, and there are age limits. The boats can accommodate between 100-200 customers, and they vary in size and style.

Travelers should also request a king-size bed separately if needed.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation on the 3-day 2-night slow boat tour includes overnight stays in Huay Xai and Pak Beng. Travelers must book their own accommodation for the second night in Pak Beng separately.

Meals are provided on days 1-3 of the tour, but none are included on the boat itself, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The tour includes:

• Transportation, boat ride, and border crossing
• Accommodation in Huay Xai and Pak Beng (first night only)
• Meals on days 1-3
• Bottled water in the rooms
• White temple entry fees and Laos visa fee

However, the tour excludes any meals or drinks on the boat. Travelers will need to plan and budget for their own meals and refreshments during the boat journey.

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Boat and Group Size

The slow boat tours accommodate between 100-200 customers per boat, though the exact boat size and style can vary.

Travelers should note that the boats used for this 3-day, 2-night journey along the Mekong River come in different sizes and layouts.

While the average group size tends to fall within the 100-200 range, it’s best to confirm the specific boat details prior to the trip.

This information is important, as it can impact factors like seating arrangements, storage space, and overall comfort levels throughout the multi-day voyage.

Passengers with special needs or preferences are encouraged to inquire about boat specifications when booking to ensure the tour meets their individual requirements.

Medical and Age Considerations

Prospective travelers should be aware that this 3-day, 2-night slow boat tour may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those outside specific age limits.

Travelers with heart conditions, mobility issues, or respiratory problems should consult their doctor before booking the tour. Plus, the tour may not be appropriate for children under 8 or seniors over 70.

The tour operator has set these guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Travelers are encouraged to disclose any relevant medical conditions when booking to determine if the tour is a good fit.

Border Crossing and Visa

When crossing the border from Thailand to Laos, travelers will need to obtain a Laos visa, which is included in the tour package. This process involves boarding a bus at the Thai-Lao border crossing and completing the necessary immigration formalities. The tour guides will assist with the visa application and ensure a smooth transition across the border.

Once in Laos, travelers can relax and enjoy the scenic Mekong River journey towards Luang Prabang. The border crossing is a seamless part of the overall tour experience, allowing visitors to focus on the cultural and natural wonders that await them in the landlocked kingdom of Laos.

Special Requests and Considerations

Travelers can make special requests for certain accommodations, though these may incur additional costs. For instance, guests wishing to secure a king-size bed must request this separately, as it’s not the default room configuration.

This tour may not be suitable for all travelers. It’s important to consider any medical conditions or age restrictions that could impact your experience.

Boats can carry between 100-200 customers and vary in size and style, so groups may be larger than expected. Plus, while meals and water are provided on the first 3 days, no meals or drinks are included on the actual boat ride.

• Medical conditions may affect suitability
• Age limits apply
• Group sizes can range from 100-200 people
• Boat sizes and styles vary
• No meals/drinks provided on the boat

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy allows customers to cancel up to 30 days before the trip for a full refund. Cancellations within 30 days are subject to a fee, and no refunds are given for no-shows.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for This Tour?

The tour offers up to a 10% discount on the standard price, which starts from $100 per person. There may also be occasional promotional offers available, so customers should check for any current deals when booking the tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Additional Activities?

Customers can’t fully customize the itinerary, but they can add optional activities in Luang Prabang. Any special requests should be made when booking. The tour operator may accommodate add-ons if they fit the schedule and capacity.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Slow Boat Tour?

The tour accommodates groups of 100-200 customers per boat. The boat size and style may vary, so the group size can fluctuate. It’s best to inquire about the specific boat details when booking the tour.

Are There Any Language Support Services Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly mention language support services. However, as it involves crossing the border between Thailand and Laos, it’s likely that some basic English communication will be available to assist travelers during the journey.

Recap

This 3-day, 2-night slow boat tour from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang is a relaxing and immersive way to experience the Mekong River.

Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed old town of Luang Prabang, visit its temples, and browse the local markets.

The tour includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and border crossing fees, providing a hassle-free and budget-friendly way to discover the beauty of northern Laos.

You can check availability for your dates here: