Boat trip from Nong Kiaow to Luang Prabang

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Explo writer

Vincent

1995 pts.

Off the path Explo

38 %

Off the path Explo rate

Score

1.9 / 5

Comments

Quite famous in Laos. But adventurous.
Article Quality

70 %
Article Quality rate
- Description
  
  Score
  
  4 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Good description
- Plans & useful information
  
  Score
  
  2.5 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Useful information but no plan...
- Pictures
  
  Score
  
  1 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Yep = 1
- Precise localization on map
  
  Score
  
  5 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Yes! The pier is located!
- 1 specific article for 1 specific spot
  
  Score
  
  5 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Yes!
Explo Popularity

%

Why taking a bus to Luang Prabang when you can get there with a fun speed boat cruise?

My experience, Explo description:

The Nam Ou river, having crossed Nong Kiaow, throws itself into the mekong which falls down peacefully towards Luang Prabang. Getting from Nong Kiaow to Luang Prabang by boat is a bit longer than by bus (around 3 hours for a speed boat, 6 for a slow boat compared to 2 hours for a "privatised mini van") and a bit more expensive. But the trip is really worth it !

My personal recommendations:

Renting a speed boat is about $60. So the more you are, the cheaper it will be by person. Try to constitute a group before bargaining with boat drivers.

How getting there:

Speed boat leaves Nong Kiaw to Luang Prabang on the West bank of the Nam Ou river, down the post office and the tourist office.

Useful information:

Open hours:

Speed boats leave early in the morning (8.00am).

Access security:

Depending on the debit of the river, the cruise might sometimes be a bit dangerous. Ask for a helmet.

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