You can obtain a visa on arrival at all airports and most international borders, including Houay Xay, or apply for an E-Visa a week prior to your arrival at https://www.laoevisa.gov.la/index for approximately $52 USD. The visa on arrival is valid for 30 days and costs $40 USD. Laos immigration is very strict about the following three requirement.

1. Your passport must contain at least one completely blank page.
2. Please bring two 3×4 cm photos to attach to the visa form. If you do not have these photos, you will need to pay an additional $1 USD for them.
3. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months. Many individuals have been turned away due to these requirements.

The Lao – Thai immigration checkpoints at Houay Xay and Chiang Khong open at 08:00 am and close at 06:00 pm. If you are cruising downstream from Houay Xay, you will have ample time to complete all formalities, including obtaining a visa, before your cruise departs. If you are cruising upstream from Luang Prabang, you will reach the border in time to cross into Thailand or stay overnight in Houay Xay. We will drop you off at the border after the cruise and assist you with crossing into Thailand, although it is a fairly simple procedure if you prefer to do it yourself at any other time.

Crossing between Laos and Thailand is quite straightforward. The immigration checkpoints are located on either side of the Friendship Bridge over the Mekong River. You will need to complete the exit formalities in one country, take a shuttle bus to the other side (which costs $1.50 USD per person and takes only 10 minutes), and then complete the entry formalities in the other country.

Foreign nationals from Western countries are generally permitted to enter Thailand for a 60-day visa-free stay. Upon arrival, their passports will be stamped, granting entry without the need to pay for or obtain a visa. It is required to possess an onward flight ticket departing from Thailand within one month. Failure to present such a ticket may result in refusal of entry, particularly at international airports. For more info at Thailand Entry.

ATMs are available throughout Laos, dispensing funds in Lao kip. Most high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit card payments, although some may impose a bank fee. US dollars and Thai baht are interchangeable with Lao kip, allowing payments in dollars or baht and receiving change in either currency or kip. Additionally, Euros, Australian dollars, and Japanese yen can be exchanged at banks.

The boat departs from Houay Xay at 09:30 AM for downstream travel. Kindly arrive at the boat pier by 09:00 AM to allow sufficient time for boarding and settling in. Our upstream cruise departs from Luang Prabang at 07:00 AM. Please ensure you are at the boat pier by 06:45 AM at the latest.

The upstream journey from Luang Prabang to Houay Xay requires more time than the downstream voyage from Houay Xay to Luang Prabang. Both days are spent entirely on the boat. With comfortable seating, ample space to move around, and breathtaking scenery to admire, you will remain comfortable throughout the journey.

Traveling times are influenced by various factors, including water levels, river conditions, the number of passengers on the boat (larger groups tend to be slower), and other considerations. Generally, you should expect to arrive at each destination between 04:30 and 05:00 PM, although this can vary significantly.

The boat comfortably accommodates 35 to 40 passengers, with ample space for walking and standing.

Please do not worry about your larger bags and suitcases. We recommend packing an overnight bag for your one-night stay at the hotel. The larger bags will be securely stored on the boat, which is locked, and the staff remain on board overnight to ensure their safety. Kindly ensure you bring all your valuables with you and do not leave them on the boat overnight. Your belongings will be well-protected throughout the journey.

The boat is well-equipped with fire extinguishers and life jackets available in both adult and children’s sizes. Additionally, a boat mechanic accompanies every cruise to ensure safety and address any technical issues promptly.

Houay Xay and Chiang Khong primarily provide basic, guesthouse-style accommodations. Should you prefer more upscale or hotel-style lodging, you may wish to consider staying in Chiang Rai. For a nominal additional fee, we can arrange a private transfer between Chiang Rai and the border on the day following your cruise, or at your convenience.

• The Upstream departure from Luang Prabang to the boat pier is approximately 10-15 minutes from your hotel.
• The downstream journey from the immigration checkpoint to the boat pier takes approximately 30 minutes.

Rainfall causes river levels to rise, and heavy rain in China can also affect the Mekong River. The difference between dry and wet seasons is significant. High water levels speed up downstream travel, sometimes arriving two hours early, while upstream travel takes longer with stronger currents. You will still reach the border in time to cross into Thailand.

Malaria cases do occur occasionally, so it’s always wise to take preventative measures. Wear long, loose clothing that covers your arms and legs, and apply mosquito repellent, especially in the evenings.

Laos has two seasons:

• A dry season from October to April.
• A rainy season from May to September. 

The best time to visit Laos is generally during the dry season, from November to February, when the weather is most pleasant and ideal for cruises.

The boats are already insured. However, we strongly recommend that our customers also obtain their own insurance, as claims can often be complex and time-consuming.