FAQ | Mekong River Cruises in Laos

What services does Mekong Cruises offer?

We offer scenic cruises along the Mekong River, including:

2-day downstream and upstream cruises between Houayxay, Pakbeng, and Luang Prabang.
1-day downstream and upstream cruises between Houayxay, Pakbeng, and Luang Prabang.
Private charter cruises for 1 or 2 days.

Are meals included on the cruise?

Yes, traditional Lao lunches are served on board each day. For upstream cruises, a Western breakfast is also included on Day 1.

What is the boat capacity?

Each boat can accommodate up to 40 passengers.

Can I book a private charter cruise?

Yes, private charters are available for 1 or 2 days. Please contact us for rates and availability.

Are there any special experiences included in the cruise?

es, our cruises include unique experiences such as:

Visits to Khamu, Hmong, and Lao Loum villages to learn about local life.
Exploring the Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues.
Traditional Lao meals served onboard.

How do I book a cruise with Mekong Cruises?

You can book directly through our website, which features secure online payment options, or contact our team for assistance.

How can I reach the departure point?

For downstream cruises, meet at the Houayxay Lao immigration office for assistance.
For upstream cruises, meet at Wat Thad Pier in Luang Prabang.

Can I get a Lao visa at the border?

It is possible to get a visa on arrival at all airports and most international borders including Houei Say.

There must be at least one full blank page in your passport.
There must be at least 6 months validity on the passport.
Please bring two passport-sized photo and $50 in cash (preferably in USD).

For downstream cruises, you can get a visa on arrival at the Houay Xay border. Our team will assist you with the process.

You can also apply for your eVisa before your trip. Start by clicking on this link: Lao eVisa

What time does the border at Houay Xai open and close ?

The Lao and Thai immigration checkpoints at Houayxay and Chiang Khong both open at 8am, and close at 6pm.

If you are cruising down from Houei Say, you should have plenty of time to complete all the formalities (including making a visa) before your cruise departs. If you are cruising up from Luang Prabang, you will easily reach the border in time to cross over into Thailand if you wish. We have staff on both sides to assist you with your crossing on the day of your cruise, but its a fairly simple procedure if you wish to do it by yourself at any other time.

Frequently Asked Questions