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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Luang Namtha to Huay Xai?
The direct drive from Luang Namtha to Huay Xai is 108 mi (174 km), and should have a drive time of 2 hrs 51 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Luang Namtha to Huay Xai, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with top places to visit like Green Discovery Adventure & Eco-Tourism and NatureLife Eco Tours, or the ever-popular Water Fall Nam Dee.
The top stops along the way from Luang Namtha to Huay Xai (with short detours) are Gibbon Experience Camp 7, Phu Chi Fa Forest Park, and Mekong River. Other popular stops include Discovering Laos, Forest Retreat Laos, and Mekong Smile Cruise Office.
The Nam Dee waterfall is a small yet charming attraction that definitely merits a brief hike to reach. Tourists should make it a point to visit this cascade, which boasts natural beauty and picturesque scenery. Despite its size, the waterfall is well worth the effort required to get there, offering visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
The waterfall is pretty cute, but the best was the hike you can do if you keep going on the left. Look at the map at the entrance, I forgot to take a picture.
They are restoring the trails. It is really enjoyable since they are building stairs in the clay, it makes it easier. I walked at least 45 to 60 minutes and I only reach the top of the mountain, I wasn't expecting to go that deep in the woods so I turned back. Not enough water.
At the moment, it is free. I am sure it is going to change soon, they've built a nice restaurant and café next to the water stream.
Clara — Google review
The Waterfall is nice with great coffee shops to relax… if you’re looking for more adventure & a hike, stay on la left and you’ll find a trail taking you up and down the mountains -I walked for 2.5-3 hours… Beautiful and serene Forest
D Lopez — Google review
There is little to see during the dry season (no Waterfall, just a rock). Entrance is currently 11.000 kip per person.
L. Geerlings — Google review
A nice place to relax,enjoy some nature and great coffee by the water.
There's a hiking trail after the waterfall -but be careful! It's not mended enough and you can get lost.
עדי גרינשפן — Google review
Good atmosphere to enjoy and relax with the nature around you.
Roko Kire — Google review
So the waterfall itself is pretty useless and super small, BUT! If you follow the little stairway path on it's right (jump on rocks in the water for the other side), it is going round the mountain (up and down) into the jungle for about an hour and you end up in the village on the main road to the waterfall (basically, doing a free jungle trek with nice path). The path is clear, with barriers to hold on steep places and not dangerous. Not for little kids though! But an adventurous couple will do just fine! This was the highlight of the day. Have fun!
Ugnė Čer — Google review
This is now open but they are still developing the site to be more tourist friendly. Currently there is no entrance fee. You can walk to the waterfall. There is also a hiking trail which goes up to the left of the waterfall and crosses a bridge above the waterfall. I didn't go much further after this because the trail became very steep and muddy. Hopefully this is improved along with everything else but it might take a while.
I will say that the drive to the waterfall is more worthwhile than the waterfall itself at this point. Truly stunning scenery by the paddy fields and through Nam Dee village.
Philip Smith — Google review
I tried to bike here on a regular city bike and found that the road was too bumpy. It was a really nice hour-plus walk through rice paddies and a couple of villages but the waterfall itself isn't very impressive.
Anna Khandros — Google review
The folk craft shop was closed, and the tracks are really rough and not usable. Nice coffee.
John Napier — Google review
3.4
(70)
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3.5
(25)
2C7R+MV8, Luang Namtha, Laos
2
Green Discovery Adventure & Eco-Tourism
Corporate office
Tours
Nature & Wildlife Tours
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Historical & Heritage Tours
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Multi-day Tours
It is a great agency, vey professional and responsive and accommodated to our needs.
I recommend 100%. We did a 1 day trek in the Nam Ha jungle and the guide was amazing. We learned a lot about the nature and how we could use plant/trees to eat, cure.
We also eat together in the jungle.
The guide made it really special.
The trek was not too hard but great
Stephanie Deloumeaux — Google review
I highly recommand this young company if you're in Luang Namtha. Let them bring you outside of the overrun grounds.
We tried the cultural tour and it was a memorably day ! Thanks to Anik, Sai and Katarina we had a chance to learn more about laotian's people way of life and meet Akha's tribe.
Guides known what they were talking about and they were kind, very friendly and well organised !
Don Marcos — Google review
Great eco tourism company offering fantastic services
David Ormsby — Google review
(Translated by Google) Reliable agency with very competent guides
(Original)
Agenzia affidabile con guide molto competenti
Discovering Laos offers a variety of eco-tourism experiences in the Nam Ha Biodiversity Conservation Area. The company provides trekking, kayaking, and cycling tours that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the region. With knowledgeable guides who speak English fluently, travelers can visit ethnic minority villages, learn about local traditions, and immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes.
First of all I want to share that the owner of discovering laos is the kindest person ever. We arrived by night bus from Huay Xai and there were no tuktuks (or any sign of life) at the busstation. Luckily we were able to contact discovering Laos and he arranged a tuktuk for us. He also helped us rent a motorbike and let us stay at the office the second day of the trek until our bus left. We are so greatful for this and therefore we cannot recommend this company more.
We did the 2 day trek and stayed at the eco lodge. The first day we were unlucky because it rained all day long and were not able to make lunch in the jungle. Nevertheless we really enjoyed our trek the first day since you really feel like you’re in the jungle and not just on a frequently walked path as we experienced with other Trekkings. We also liked that we were able to get some food at the local market. Our guide Warth was really kind, spoke good english, told us some interesting things about the jungle and let us try some plants. It was really great that we were only 2 persons because we could decide what we would do ourselves. We chose to do a little longer route the first day which we definitely not regret. The ecolodge was different than expected. It is close to the river and you sleep in 1 big room on thin mattresses under a mosquito net. It is located near a ricer and there is no electricity or a toilet so it is a little like you’re still in the jungle. People from the village come and prepare the beds and food.
The second day we visited 2 villages and walked up a hill. We were already back at 1 pm which we thought was too early. It would be nicer to do some extra stuff.
Mareike Lohse — Google review
An amazing, unique experience. One of, if not the best tour I've ever been on.
Some of my personal highlights include eating freshly caught fish, shrimps, honey and frogs from the river for a jungle breakfast, dancing and singing with the Khmu people around a fire and climbing the great fig strangler trees for a birds eye view of the jungle.
alex papuca — Google review
We had a nice two day trek to the jungle and hill tribe villages. Our guide was speaking English very well so we got a lot of interesting information from him about Laos and the tribes. The whole trip was a great adventure, it was good organised and the places we visited were authentic (although not wild, there were shops, souvenirs, etc). The only minus was the number of people in our group, we were 11 and there was just one guide speaking English. So if he told something interesting while standing at the beginning of the group on the narrow jungle path only the first 4-5 people heard what he said and it just felt crowded... Of course the more people the less you pay, but the smallest price is when there are 8 people and the piece will not get lower if there are 11 which is a little bit unfair.
Salty Travels — Google review
We went for the 3 days trek and kayaking and just had the best time. We were lucky to meet Thong and the whole guides crew who made this experience unforgettable. We were a groupe of six people, we trekked the first day, kayaked the second one and had a third day of walking in the jungle. The guides were very easy going and kind, they taught us a lot about the jungle and the people living in the area, they cooked three times a day delicious meals for us; we had a very good time. We paid 99 USD for the whole thing which was very reasonable and not that expensive if we look at the prices of other agencies in the city.
Glad we made the choice to trust Discovering Laos !
Ségolène Antoine — Google review
We had an incredible time on the 2 day trek/kayak combo tour; would highly recommend to anyone looking for some adventure! We loved Discovering Laos’ mission statement for ethical and eco tourism and felt pleased to support them.
Jonathan D — Google review
We did a 1 day jungle trek (4hours) with the company. The man running the shop was helpful when asking question and equally as polite in person. We had a great guide called Tong, he taught us about lots of different plants in the jungle and fed us jungle snacks as we walked (berry’s and nuts and bugs from the trees). He’s had really great English so could ask him lots of questions about the locals and their cultures. Id definitely choose them again for another trip!
Felix Sebastien — Google review
We had an amazing 2D1N trek and kayak with this company. Our guides Tong and Seong were the best. They cooked amazing fresh food with supplies from the market and jungle, they work wonders with bamboo building us cups, pots, spoons, chopsticks and shot glasses, as well as our shelter. Their English was amazing also. The gentleman in the shop was very helpful with information, not too pushy and very accommodating with requests and dietary requirements. I’d definitely recommend the jungle camp option as we had great fun building the shelter and cooking in the evening. Overall amazing experience and would highly recommend to anyone in the area.
Jake Essex — Google review
We had a very good experience with discovering Laos.
Since they don't have a physical office yet, the manager came to our hotel to discuss all the options. We immediately felt very comfortable and had a lot of options to arrange a trip to our wishes.
We chose a two day trekking followed by one day of kayak. The first night we slept in a homestay and the second night in a campsite where we slept under banana leafs.
Our guide, Toua, was very fluent in English and had a lot of knowledge about the local villages and life in the jungle in general.
We had a great experience and would DEFINITELY recommend this company to anyone who wants a similar experience in the jungle.
stijn gevens — Google review
We did a 1 day cycling tour through Luang Namtha Valley with Discovering Laos. We visited several villages of ethnic minorities in the area as well as a stupa and handicraft centre. Our guide was very knowledgable and spoke English very well. He told a lot of stories about all the ethnic groups and villages and could answer all our questions. Having a guide on this cycling trip is definitely worth it, because of all the inside information you get and you will not get lost haha! I definitely recommend doing this trip when you want to learn more about the different ethnic groups while being active on a bicycle!
Ilse Nadort — Google review
So happy to be the first tourists since covid on the 2 day kayak / 1 night homestay tour with Discovering Laos!
We arranged it only the day before via what's app (contact number on the website) and they pulled together the tour perfectly.
With just 2 of us booked, the price was a little more expensive (as tours are priced depending on group numbers) but this was definitely worth it especially having 2 fantastic guides, Toua and Xai, just for us.
The kayaking was so much fun, the homestay was such a great experience and did feel really authentic (helped by the fact they weren't expecting lots of tourists on a weekly basis!), our guides were absolute jungle life pros and gave so much great insight into village life as well as preparing some fab, authentic food!
Couldn't reccomend this tour enough, our favourite experience in Laos!So happy to be the first tourists since covid on the 2 day kayak / 1 night homestay tour with Discovering Laos!
We arranged it only the day before via what's app (contact number on the website) and they pulled together the tour perfectly.
With just 2 of us booked, the price was a little more expensive (as tours are priced depending on group numbers) but this was definitely worth it especially having 2 fantastic guides, Toua and Xai, just for us.
The kayaking was so much fun, the homestay was such a great experience and did feel really authentic (helped by the fact they weren't expecting lots of tourists on a weekly basis!), our guides were absolute jungle life pros and gave so much great insight into village life as well as preparing some fab, authentic food!
Couldn't reccomend this tour enough, our favourite experience in Laos!
Cheryl — Google review
I signed up for the 3 day, 2 night tour. We did hiking on the first day and kayaking on the 2nd and 3rd days.
Overall, a great value for the money. And THE BEST food I had during my whole 2 weeks in Laos. Cooking in the bamboo and making our utensils/table/chairs/sleeping area from what we found around us was a really unique experience.
FYI the village we spent the night in was not really my cup of tea. It seemed like the village lived on tourism. Almost every house was set up for tourists to stay in, and it really did not seem like an "authentic" village. There were probably 30 other trekkers we saw in the small village during our stay. I prefer something more off the beaten path, but maybe this doesn't matter for you.
Suggestion:
The guides should wear gloves when preparing food. As this is a camping trip, sometimes with no proper toilet, proper sanitation is very important. I bring this up because on day 3 I had food poisoning. I have a strong stomach and over 3 months in Asia this was the firs time I got sick. Anyways, I just thing that gloves for meal prep would be a good addition to the trip.
Complaint:
My only complaint was that the whole trip felt like it was very slow paced. For example, we would stop every 15 minutes on the hiking day. We only walked maybe 4 miles. It seemed like the guide was trying to not allow us to arrive too early at the village. I wouldn't call it trekking- more like an easy walk. I would have enjoyed a longer/harder trek.
But overall 5 stars. Just suggestions to possibly improve in future.
Natalie — Google review
One of the better agencies, I'm told.
I did a 4-day individual trek for USD 447 with them. My guide spoke good English, was super nice, knowledgeable of the jungle since he had been a hunter, and taught me some interesting things about the local Kamu people. The food on the trek was fresh and fantastic. The first two days of the trek were lovely, doing some jungle bushcrafting the first day, and spending the second night in a charming village.
The last two days, however, were lackluster (kayaking and a small hike), especially since the second homestay was neither clean nor particularly embedded in the local community.
Altogether, I genuinely enjoyed the trek, although I wouldn't do it as a single traveler again. Better book it in a group of 2-4, which is cheaper.
Also don't be shocked by the locals' alcohol abuse. Some villagers, including my guide (until I intervened), liked getting drunk on Lao Whiskey at 9am in the morning, which certainly dampens the kayaking and hiking experience if guides are too drunk or hung over to do their job properly.
Logistically, they could definitely improve. They currently don't have an office in Luang Namtha, which seemed dodgy at first. A manager came to my hostel and we only communicated via WhatsApp, no reply to emails. Since I wanted to pay the steep price of 447 USD via credit card and not in cash, we had to check 3 different places owned bis his friends who had a working machine, since he claimed that his credit card machine was at the bank for an update. These aspects certainly seemed unprofessional. Another agency called The Hiker has these things figured out.
I went on a two day trek with the Hiker into the dense jungle in Nam Ha National Protected area. It was a fantastic experience. We trekked for 5 hours a day, ate our food off huge banana leaves and came across countless types of plants and insects. Our guides were great and knew so much about the jungle, having practically grew up there. We slept outside in a shelter, under a mosquito net in the middle of the forest. Awesome experience, even in the lashing rain. The agency provided all equipment and hire local people as guides and helpers. It's nice to know your money is going back to the people you have met along the way. If you are visiting Luang Namtha, this is a must do!
?ine Kavanagh — Google review
I’m just back from the 3 day 2 nights forest tribe trek through the jungle. Xai and Puan were our guides and were absolutely exceptional!! Xai is the kindest, most generous person. He was always checking in with us and worked so hard providing amazing food for us every single meal! This trip exceeded all my expectations, it was a super authentic experience getting to explore the jungle and the ethnic minority villages. (And heads up the hiking can be challenging in parts and accommodation is quite basic but it’s all part of the journey!) Thank you Xai and Puan 💜
Ciara Galligan — Google review
An incredible cultural and adventurous experience in the beautiful Nam Ha NPA! From visiting the morning market to collect our food supplies, to chatting around the fire at the jungle camp to learning about the local flora and its traditional uses, this was a real immersive and informative trek. Our guide Mun was a wealth of knowledge, super friendly and spoke excellent English; the other traveller and I learnt a lot about Laos and Khmu culture from him. We barely saw any other tourists and ventured deep into the jungle which I loved. We stayed in a jungle camp the first night and Mun cooked us a delicious meal (and catered for me as a vegetarian), and a lovely homestay in Nalan Neua the second night.
Swimming in the Nam Ha river with the local kids after trekking for 6 hours the second day was amazing. As an ecologist I was also excited about seeing an Asian Tree Pit Viper. The ‘moderate’ level for the trek is appropriate, I’ve never sweated so much in my life but it was so worth it! An unforgettable experience that I would highly recommend to all.
Thanks Tom, Mun and the rest of the team 🙂
Miranda Braakhuis — Google review
We did a 2 days trek and camping in the jungle with the Hiker. I really recommand it ! We had an amazing experience sleeping in the jungle. The Trek was fun. A bit more challenging than expected but the Guide waited for us and made sure that everyone was following and safe. 5 stars for our guides and especially Peng who cooked some delicious jungle meals. He showed us which plants we could eat and actually puted some in our plates. We felt safe and well guided and we had a great view of the jungle life.
Cadot Susan — Google review
We did a 3 days trek and camping in the jungle with them. I really recommand it ! We had an amazing experience sleeping in the jungle. The Trek was fun. A bit more challenging than expected but the Guide waited for us and made sure that everyone was following and safe. 5 stars for our guides and especially Peng who cooked some delicious jungle meals. He showed us which plants we could eat and actually puted some in our plates. We felt safe and well guided and we had a great view of the jungle life.
Bark Kara — Google review
The Hiker is a very good company to do a hike in Luang Namtha National park. Peng was Our guide we did 2day1night which was really great expierience the food was very good and sleeping in the forest was a great expierience. Book at them as they are the best👍
Rien Janssen — Google review
Great agency! They provide everything you need and taking care of you during the trekking. Phonsak is professional, charming young guide with a great knowledge about his country, Lao people and the jungle of course and he shared it willingly with us. Two local helpers prepared delicious food for all of us - the food we would never try on our own. In the jungle we ate more than whole last week! Adventure for almost everyone!
asbesu — Google review
A few weeks ago a friend and I did a 3 day 2 night jungle trek (hunter trails) with Xai and Thong as our guides. It was an amazing experience.
We got so see plenty of the jungle and the locals that still live secluded in their village.
Xai is an excellent cook, we got most of our food from the market which we visited on day 1 early in the morning. Here and there we also got to try a little jungle delicacy.
The walking pace was adjusted to what Xai thought my friend and I could handle, and that was no joke. If you go for one of the more challenging hikes be sure that you have practiced a little or enjoy pushing past limits. One step after the other, it will be worth it.
Justin Welleman — Google review
Awesome experience. We did the Hunter Trails, with one night in a bamboo hut and one night in a village homestay. Great trails, varied jungle, some hard work and excellent local food prepared on the way.
Our English speaking guide Pheng was a good communicator and zealous about the future of Laos. Our local guide, Som (please forgive misspelling) was supportive, showed us some neat jungle tricks and was a sensational cook.
Few things to be aware of. It’s a jungle trek so obviously you can get (potentially very) wet if it rains. The nights can be cold too. Bring proper gear, enough clothes etc.
If you’re staying in the bamboo hut, you’ll be sleeping on a mat on a wooden floor in a sleeping bag. You’ll be knackered enough that it’s not hard to sleep but maybe worth bringing something you can repurpose as a pillow, and some earplugs. Maybe in future there could be an option to carry a hammock or something but we didn’t think it was a big deal. The homestay is really comfortable, so you’ll be rewarded on the second night.
Speak to the guide beforehand about the difficulty level. We were happy with the challenge but some parts aren’t easy so make sure you’re clear about what you’re looking for.
Overall, an excellent experience.
Martin Young — Google review
One of the best experience ever. Xai our guide was just one of the most skilled and nicest person I had the pleasure to meet. I chose the 3 days trek with one night homestay and one night camping, it was perfect. No much wildlife to spot but a flying squirrel. Highly recommend the hiker!
Marie Jourdain — Google review
Amazing experience with the Hiker ! I did a 3 days trek with a very good group and our guide, Thid, was incredible ! We tried many local food at every meal.
100% recommended if you want to spend some nature days and have fun 👍
Gabrielle Herrmann — Google review
We did a two day trek with jungle-camping.
The staff was very friendly and explained everything about the trip in detail.
The trail was amazing and we almost didn’t meet other travelers.
Our guides Ae and Wong were knowledgeable, caring (we were the only 2 vegans in the group and the food was great!) and very pleasant.
The only downside on our part was that the cabin we slept in was very uncomfortable and the mattresses and sleeping bags provided were not in good shape.
שגיא שמעונוב — Google review
I did 3 days Wild Thrill Trek and I can only recommend for an authentic jungle and ethnic village experience, I was alone with the guide but I felt safe and comfortable. I enjoyed the food and the way it was prepared, I wasn't hungry at all. From my experience the company is reliable and trying to provide good service for the customers.
Had a fantastic 3 day 2 night jungle survival trek! A fun kayak ride led us to a beach where we a shelter frame out of bamboo and then covered it with banana leaves. Very satisfying experience!! A great jungle trek and a home stay.followed by a rigorous and challenging trek through the jungle while tackling two mountains. Very technical yet fun and rewarding! Highly recommend. Ask for Kham. Super guide!
Margaret-Ann Blaney — Google review
I booked a 2 Day Trek with Ethnic Tavel Laos, which was AMAZING! Our 2 great local guides were very knowledgeable and taught us lots about the jungle and its fascinating edible plants and medicines. After some walking through plantations and secondary forest we got to explore beautiful primary forest end enjoyed that real jungle feeling. Lunch was delicious, typical and served on banana leaves. We spent the night in a beautiful ethnic Village, where I felt very welcome in our homestay with a local family. Once again, our guides were very helpful and made communication possible. The second day was just as special, with even more wilderness experience and after lunch our guides even made some bamboo cups for us.
claire perry — Google review
I did a 3 day Trekking Tour with sleeping one night outside at a river and one night in an ethic village. It was a really great experience. The guides were really nice and fun and the group was amazing too. I can just recommend it to everyone. The hike was not very much, could have been more.
One Star less because i got a really bad smelling sleepingbag. Otherwise everything was great.
Bettina Kos — Google review
First off, I should say that the sales staff and guides were good, and it's a shame that it's only a 3 star rating. We booked a 1 day cultural trek, which we thoroughly enjoyed, but it didn't fulfil what it was sold as. First stop on the tour was to the morning market to buy lunch, which wasn't quite the promise that the guide would prepare a lunch and show how to cook it in bamboo. We visited a village before the walk, in which our guide explained a lot about the day to day culture and this was very good. Next, the trek was interesting, not too strenuous and very enjoyable, lasted about 4 hours. And that's when it ended. So only 1 village visited. The heat and humidity was tiring, so we didn't mind too much, but others may feel short changed.
Nigel Jackson — Google review
We did the 2 day hike and 1 day kayak tour with 1 night sleeping in a village and 1 night camping underneath a bamboo shelter along a river (on the outskirts of a village). It was an experience - sometimes uncomfortable, shocking and sad, but mostly very beautiful. Firstly, the deforestation of the jungle is hard but important to see. Only 2 hours were spent in old growth jungle, the rest was through new growth jungle/logged areas, or rice fields near the villages and rubber plantations that surround the protected area. Walking through the untouched sections was worth it all, though the surrounding areas were a bit shocking.
Secondly, we were welcomed by the lovely people of the village (just outside the NPA) and generously provided with food and drinks, which was fun up until our guide came into our shared room (the family guesthouse’s lounge room) quite late after perhaps having a few too many, proceeding to snore loudly for the rest of the night. Because of the route that was taken we then got picked up by a tuktuk the next morning to be taken to the river which made the kayaking feel a bit disjointed. This was accentuated by our guide being replaced by another guide so that he could join the start of another group’s trek - this was fine and obviously just a by-product of being a busy company - but we were driving around town for over an hour before starting kayaking.
Overall it was an unfiltered cultural experience that provided great views of the jungle, hills and rivers as well as an insight into how the local people treat the land and their different understanding of the importance of conservation. In hindsight we probably gave the company too much creative discretion for planning the trip and any negatives with the sleeping arrangements or route could have been avoided by having more involvement with planning.
Gigi — Google review
We extended our stay in Luang Namtha to go to the 2 days trekking / 1 day kayaking and it was the best decision ever : the 3 days were awesome. The trek was very nice, we went through the Nam Ha national reserve. The rhythm was perfect : a bit challenging but with regular stops to get some tricks from the jungle, take a bath in a river, or taste some gift from nature. Our guides were amazing, they made us discover the jungle as a playground, they gave us a lot of explanations and cooked for us delicious traditional meals. The kayaking day was really great too. You can observe the local life from the river and the nature is really beautiful. About the nights we spent one night camping and one night homestay and it was really perfect. We definitely recommend the agency, so far it was our best experience in Laos!
Paul and Clem — Google review
This Agency is the best and the cheapest in the town! Super recommenced! I had a 2-days trekking in the jungle and it has been one of the best experience ever taken in my life. Guide speaks fluently english, he cooked a lot of tasty and authentic food grabbing ingredients in the jungle and fishing crabs and fish in the river, he explained us all best aspects of jungle life and culture. If you like deepening into nature and getting off the beaten track, take " trekking in the jungle ". But, if you prefer something different, the agency has a wide rang of different tour you can take! Best choice ever :) thanks a lot!!! See you again
ruggero doino — Google review
Know what you book here. We booked a 2 day homestay trek and stayed in the Khmu village. They added three other participants last-minute, of which a woman was pregnant. She was walking so slowly (timed it, average pace of 1,5 km/h) that we had to wait all the time. The waiting ruined our track.
When we finally reached our village, we got appointed a 'place to stay' which was an empty house with a cold tile floor and only 1 table and chair. The guide pointed us to the toilet outside and then left. No coffee, no rice whiskey, nothing. We had to ask several times for blankets and matrasses, which, when they finally came, were downright dirty. Check the picture. There was no mosquito net. Two hours later, we got tasteless food and that was it, the guide left again.
The day after, we had to hike several hours back again waiting every 5 minutes for 5 minutes for the others to keep up.
If the group had been fun, it could have been a bit better having a laugh. But paying 70 dollars for this is crazy. We got sick the day after which ruined the next two days in Luang Prabang.
Peter M — Google review
Did the full day kayaking tour with them and absolutely loved my experience. Our first stop was at the morning market, where we bought food for lunch and the guide showed us around. We then got about 15-20 minutes to walk around, buy some food and explore the market. We soon left and headed to the banks of the Nam Tha River. The guide gave us a quick briefing on what to expect, what to look out for and some safety instructions.
After an hour of kayaking through some beautiful forests we stopped at a village which was a mixture of the Akha and Lanten ethnic groups. There we witnessed a local ritual, in which a pig was sacrificed in order to help heal a sick person from the village. We then continued downstream towards the rapids. The first few rapids were relatively mild and then we got a couple rough ones. After this we decided to stop for a traditional lunch on the banks of the river, surrounded by the forest. Our guide got some banana leaves and spread out the lunch on them. We sat on the rocks and enjoyed the meal.
While eating our guide explained what the lunch was and how it had been made. We ate some mildly spicy greens that we steamed, sticky rice and the a dish made of young bamboo shoot, eggs and vegetables. The bamboo was very delicious and was one of the best things I've eaten in my time in Laos. After lunch we continued onto a few rougher and longer rapids, following the guide to avoid the rocks and plants along the way. We then finished the tour at a Khmu ethnic group village, and made our way back to the town along a very scenic route.
Overall it was a great experience and our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. He took us to a local bar for drinks after we were done!! I highly recommend this tour to anyone who is in Luang Namtha.
Ravindra Kaade Arvind — Google review
We spent two days with ethnic travel and it was awesome! We did one day kayaking along the Nam Ha river with an awesome guide who was doing a lot of Jokes and bamboo handcrafting. At night we slept in a homestay, we cooked a duck with the advices of our guides and we tried the local good. It was a lovely evening spent in the jungle village. The next day we hiked in a jungle of the national park and we admired the beautiful bamboos along the way.
Everything was fine during the tour, our guides were friendly guys and there were on time !
I recommend this agency it will remain a great memory and an awesome experience!
Forest Retreat Laos offers unique experiences that go beyond typical tourist visits. They support multiple villages and provide job opportunities for local youth in their cafe. While their trek prices may be higher, the quality of gear for activities like kayaking is excellent, and their English-speaking guides are knowledgeable and friendly. Visitors have praised the value they received compared to other companies in the area.
Had a great experience with Forest Retreat Laos. We had a lot of special requests and the tour was customized perfectly to our wishes, even though we were quite late to ask. The trip was organized great, beautiful views, delicious food, exciting adventures - we had so much fun and enjoyed our time a lot. Thank you very much!
Rosalie Wortmann — Google review
We really enjoyed our stay in Luang Namtha because of Thong‘s agency! We did 1 day of trekking and 1 day of cycling. Thong did adapt the tours very well to our wishes and we learnt a lot about the nature and Luang Namtha itself!
Thomas Moser — Google review
My partner and I booked a 3 day trek with Forest Retreat Laos and it was one of the best experiences of my entire trip.
On the first day of our trek, we started with rafting. It was beautiful and a great workout! :) On the way we stopped at a couple villages, both full of kids who wanted to play with our rafting paddles or play volleyball.
When we arrived at the village where we would spend the night, we were greeted with big smiles and curiosity. The next day we started the trek. Again - great exercise! Peang, our guide, was very thoughtful to stop whenever the group needed a break. Food was delicious and inspired by the jungle itself! We had delicious bamboo, lots of veggies and not once did we go hungry.
Night time was filled with telling riddles around a fire, playing cards and appreciating the quietness of the night at the top of the mountain.
Although it rained on our last day, and we slipped a little here and there, it made the jungle adventure trek even cooler in my opinion. I loved the difficulty level and recommend anyone who wants to disconnect from the computer screen and immerse themselves in the Laos jungle to book a tour with Forest Laos Retreat.
Enjoy!
Emie-Claude Lamoureux — Google review
We did a 4 day trek and it was great! Before booking we’ve checked out few other companies next door but they charged much more than Forest Retreat and offered similar treks. Very good value (we paid under 300 USD for 2 people, the whole group was 4, other companies charged this and more per person!). Guides were also great - we had Kong (really funny guy, very knowledgeable, friendly) and Jai (he is amazing! Really good English, caring, helpful and a great chef - best tomato soup we’ve ever had!!! If you do the trek ask for Jai, he the best guide we’ve had when travelling in Laos, you won’t regret it!).
We had a homestay and then 2 other camp stays, everything was comfortable, we had good vegetarian food cooked for us, camp was built too, water provided, enjoyed cosy evenings by the fire and night jungle noises.
Treks were beautiful, quite tough to be honest (carrying your bag up the steep hill for many hours) but we enjoyed this challenge. Walked 5-6 hours a day, mostly up the steep hills. I’m sure they can tailor the trek for you but we wanted a good challenge and we got it :)
Last day we joined a local Lao village for a ‘new built house’ ceremony - that was a super fun party, experience we could never replicate again. We highly recommend the company and guides.
D J — Google review
I did the 3 day trekking (2 days walking, 1 kayaking) in the dry season (February) and I couldn't be happier. This trek will take you through different sceneries like tree forests, riverbanks, jungle, bamboo forests... You'll visit several villages and stay overnight in one of them getting to know their lives and sharing some lao lao. At some points the hike can be pretty hard, but it's all worth it when you get to the cabin next to the river, where the sky opens, there is nobody around and you finally feel in the middle of the jungle. The last day of kayaking it was easy and fun. Special mentions to our guide, which was very helpful explaining all kind of curiosities about the surrounding nature. To Lod, our official cook who prepared delicious meals every single time and even went fishing at night to let us taste some fresh fish, and to the villagers that accompanied us on every stage doing the heavy lifting. These guys really know how to survive in the jungle with little more than a knife and a bottle of lao lao!
Alex B. — Google review
Amazing experience! Highly recommandable! We did a 3 days/2 nights trekking tour with kayaking the last day and it was incredible.
The owner Thong explained the trip really well beforehand and there were a few options to customize our trip - I really liked that we could choose what to do.
A big thank you goes to our tour guide Pon, he really made the 3 days special. He speaks good english, knows a lot about the jungle/plants & the local villages, could answer all our questions, he is a great cook and always gave his best to make our time great.
At the first day we hiked to 2 viewpoints, had great local lunch at one of them and stayed in a local village for the night. Apparently the village can be pretty busy in high season but now we were the only tourist, the people were quite friendly, we had a littel tour around the village and it was an authentic experience. The next morning we got a littel insight in traditionell crossbow hunting and rice pounding (definitely made for tourists but still fun). Trekking on the second day was quite jungly, often we had to cut through the vegetation to continue the path. I really enjoyed that but it was challenging and definitely not for everyone - discuss that with Thong when you book. Spend the night in bamboo/ banana leaf huts we build ourselves (well mainly the tour guides xD) in the middel of the jungle (moskito nets & sleeping bags were provided) - great experience. Kayaking the last day was also good fun especially because there were quite some rapids.
Food was amazing throuhout the 3 days, particiularly the fresh cooked dinner & lunch in the jungle.
Count on rain around this time of year!!
Sten Faber — Google review
Local guides (Kong and Jai) taking you to jungle and leading in the villages are very knowledgeable about the plants used by tribes. They are also very good cook! Communicate each other very well (between office and the other guides). I did their two day hike with homestay. Highly recommend their adventures!
Bengül Kurtar — Google review
Would definitely recommend. Guide was very knowledgeable and spoke really good english. Had an amazing three day trek and learned so much about local culture and Laos in general!
Jesse Keijzer — Google review
Fantastic tour setup. I'd tell anyone to go with these guys. made sure all was correct as we plotted our options with them. Then Kong took us through he jungle to visit the villages and kayak down the river.
Phieng Ngam is a charming and enchanting destination, located in a picturesque setting. This captivating place offers a wide array of attractions and activities to indulge in. The area boasts breathtaking landscapes, including stunning mountains, lush forests, and tranquil rivers that create an idyllic atmosphere for exploration. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage by exploring historic sites and traditional villages.
We did a 3 day (2 night) jungle trekking and it was the highlight of our trip to Laos! We asked for an adventurous trekking (each trek can be customized according to your level of fitness) and boy did we get one! It was challenging but really worth it. We went deep in the jungle, saw beautiful scenery, crazy animals and learned how to make furniture with bamboo and banana leaves. The guides were also really kind and helpful.
We also learned a lot about medicinal plants and trees. During our hike Somhak and the other guides picked fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables which they used to cook delicious meals! I’m a vegetarian myself and it was no problem at all.
If you are looking for an authentic experience in Northern Laos with great guides, this is the place to be!
Paulien Jacobs — Google review
hai nguyenhuu — Google review
Somhak looked after our young family so well, he took us to places we absolutely wouldn’t have known about or learned about without his knowledge, including musical instruments, how to cook in the jungle, and traditional medicines.
We walked through jungle, rice paddies and over mountains, then stayed in an incredible village. The children in the village were just delightful and played with our boys. Lifelong memories for certain. Highly recommend the whole experience!
Please note that the two-day trek was very intrepid and more suitable for adults, however we really did teach our boys resilience those days, and the guides were very accommodating to travel at our pace! If you plan to travel with children, I’m sure you could arrange a shorter walk.
Josila Simmonds — Google review
?????? ?????? — Google review
We had the greatest day with our guide Somhak. We are traveling with our kids of 6 and 7 years old and this will be a day they will remember for a long time.
We have learned so much about the forest, medicinal plants, bush tucker, but also Somhak taught our kids how to make instruments, hats, spoons, games with plants and trees.
Somhak is an impressive person with deep knowledge of nature and history. It really has been our best day during our one month trip in Laos.
You can contact Somhak on WhatsApp to make it easy to organize your treck.
Lea Bloom — Google review
Unforgettable 3 day jungle trek with Somhak!
I had a pleasure of being guided by Somhak across the lush forests, waterfalls and rivers. First day we camped in the jungle, the second we were hosted at traditional house of Akha tribe. Even the massage after the long trek is included in the price :)
The best way to learn about the culture of different ethnic groups.
Somhak explained to me how to survive in the jungle, he has a vast knowledge on plants we found in the jungle.
The trek is only for people who are fit and ready for more than 5 hours of trekking with breaks for lunch and visits at tribal villages.
Robert B — Google review
Somhak is an amazing guide and an even more amazing person. We had the best time with him! He took care of everything with a smile and good spirit, shared with us knowledge about different plants and about the local culture, and was really a beautiful presence in those days with him.
Thank you so much for everything 🙏
To M — Google review
(Translated by Google) We did the one day trek.
The price is standard and the same as in Louang Namta (25euros/d/pp) but well regulated for ecotourism.
The route is well thought out and varied.
He takes the time to explain plants and their uses to us.
Manufacturer of many everyday objects based on plants found along the way.
Then pass through a pretty village.
Very good experience
(Original)
Nous avons fait le trek d'une journée.
Le prix est standard et le même qu à louang namta (25euros/j/pp) mais bien encadré pour l ecotourisme.
Le parcours est bien pensé et varié.
Il prend la peine de nous expliquer les plantes et leurs utilités.
Fabriquant de nombreux objets du quotidiens à base de végétaux trouver en chemin.
Puis passage dans un joli village.
Très bonne expérience
Well managed right from the booking, orientation at their office in Huay Xai, transportation to the site, providing ziplining gear, safety instructions, bedding, food and guide. Though we did not see or hear the gibbons, it was a wonderful 3 days spent with 6 other people. The ziplining was great and trekking in the forest was enjoyable.
Saji Abraham — Google review
Very cosy treehouse! Built around a single tree on 25m height. Three stories high, and there's a (cold) shower and toilet!
Dominic Wyss — Google review
Great experience! Careful with leeches and other insects!
Lifetime Travelmates — Google review
(Translated by Google) Magisterial stay in the Jungle. The drive and trek there are tough, but the view is more than worth it. Best bathroom ever at 40 m high and overlooking the jungle when you shower in your bare ass.
Good beds, duvets and mosquito net available and the food is more than excellent.
(Original)
Magistraal verblijf in de Jungle. De rit en trekking erheen zijn zwaar maar dat is het uitzicht meer dan waard. Beste badkamer ooit op 40 m hoog en uitkijkend over de jungle als je in je blote kont staat te douchen.
Goede bedden en dekbedden en klamboe aanwezig en het eten is meer dan prima verzorgd.
Ad Baelemans — Google review
(Translated by Google) Certainly a little expensive, but so unique, especially if you have the chance to see the gibbons.
(Original)
Certes un peu chère, mais tellement unique, surtout si vous la chance de voir les gibbons.
Quiet place you can see travel boat along Mekong river.
Wanirud Horcharoen — Google review
Used to be a beautiful place to stop over for camping, but recent improvements are already showing signs of neglect. For some bazaar reason the only restaurant cannot sell beer, so if your hoping to enjoy a few colds ones whilst enjoying the views, you will be disappointed
Bob Kelly — Google review
Road is good until the last 2km. Then it is beat up pavement. Lots of construction going on here.
Simon G — Google review
Good place to stop and enjoy the view of Thai boarder.
KK Admin — Google review
A pretty nice spot to relax and enjoy during the day considering that there are toiles over there. Pretty chill the place with a nice view of Laos and where you can walk along the river.
Nicolas Naveira — Google review
Kaeng Pha Dai is a small park run by the Muang Yai municipality. It marks the place where the border between Thailand and Laos changes from the Mekong River to a land border. There is a small restaurant on site offering mostly various kinds of fish dishes. Menus are only in Thai. The river here is constricted and there are lots of rocks jutting into the river which make it particularly scenic when the rive is low.
It is usually quiet. There are a few cabins for rent.
Unfortunately, at the time of writing, the road to get here is in terrible shape due to large trucks doing construction on the riverbank of the Mekong upstream.
Edd Russell — Google review
Very lovely place, I've had lunch there a few times, but don't go... I like it nice and quiet 😆
Peter Nobbs — Google review
Take a rest with Khong river
Kiroro Traveler — Google review
4.1
(165)
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4.5
(4)
บ้านห้วยลึก, Muang Yai, Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai 57310, Thailand
The splendid temple, radiating in the evening glow, holds a rich heritage of 115 years as mentioned by a Monk who converses in Chinese due to his visit to the renowned Shaolin Temple of China. This exquisite sanctuary, situated on an elevated terrain, offers a peaceful ambiance and affords breathtaking vistas of the flowing river.
Great view Sunset.
Gphuot — Google review
Excellent view on the river after climbing the stairs
Vincent J. — Google review
Great little temple with a serene atmosphere and a view over the river. A nice stop if you want to have a walk around Houayxai.
Pierre B. — Google review
beautiful wat on a hill, nice place to watch sunset on the Mekong.
Su Su — Google review
Very glamorous temple, shining in the sunset, the Monk said the temple has 115 years history, he speaks Chinese, because he visited Shaolin Temple (well known for Chinese Kingfu) of China once.
Clare Qiao — Google review
Really beautiful Temple
mica — Google review
Good view
ชินวัชร์ สริตชลานนท์ — Google review
Surprisingly nice little temple. Short walk up, great view towards Thailand!
Mekong Smile Cruise Office offers slow boat tours along the Mekong River in Laos, serving as both a mode of transport between towns and a unique tourist attraction. Travelers can easily reach the office by hiring a motorbike and driving south along the main road parallel to the river. Visitors have praised the pleasant journey and excellent service provided by Mr. Ken at the Huay Xai office.
Stunningly beautiful two-day Cruise, the highlight of our holiday by a country mile! However the pickup/border is confusing and disorganised - will explain.
Heads up: Get a description of what to do when entering Lao border.
After many emails, it was explaining to us and confirmed by Smile Cruise that we would be met on the other side of the border with no problems.
The border crossing is slow and tedious when you get there it's also very confusing about how to participate in Visa applications. We were not met for at least half hour / hour on arrival until someone from the cruise found us but only by luck. Pheww- That's a relief I think we muttered!!
With no directions whatsoever and not many people who speak English except other tourists in the same situation, it can make it quite a stressfully anxious entrance, so needs to be addressed with signs and guidance!
Winge over - now for the cruise itself!
We were transferred to the long boat with 6 other people. You are greeted by your tour guide guide and other members of staff and away you go on your two day cruise from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang via Pakbeng.
To expect nice scenery is a massive understatement, the Mekong and it's surrounding verdant hilltops is absolutely spectacular 🤩 that combined with a cool breeze whilst the boat cruises down the river at around 10 knots. The boat is comfy where you can sit on some makeshift seats remove from I believe a car or minibus, they also have a couple of area's where you can lay down and just relax to your hearts content.
With the money you pay for the cruise, you can expect: Water, brilliant eastern food (including vegetarian), complimentary coffee + tea, local fruit and snacks along the way. For a fee you can purchase bottles of beer / soft drinks and they have a toilet so it all goes together nicely!
The cruise contains some drop-off points where you get a chance to stretch your legs. There's a variety of different places you go to and won't go into to much depth, however be mindful that you don't get drawn in by the poverty-stricken local people after money, once you are kind enough to donate to one.. the rest will beg.
Half way down you get dropped off at a place called Pakbeng which isn't up to much and will struggle to get luxurious accommodation, but is a cool backpackers hotspot and gives you a chance to eat and rest. (Hint: accommodation ISN'T provided on the Smile cruise package, need to organise separately).
Overall very beautiful cruise and well worth the money, considering the cost of an internal flight will be around the same it's much more of a relaxing way to travel Lao.
Plus:
- Beautiful scenery
- Amazing food
- Time to relax and reflect
- Cheap (relatively)
- Adventurous
- Free water and fruit
Improvements:
- Boarder crossing complicated
- Poverty-stricken villages begging for money
- Pakbeng one-horse town
- Bed a great idea but invest in new mattress for extra comfort 😉
Thank you smile Cruise!
William Jones — Google review
Views are very nice. Chairs are soft. They are from cars. Not boring.
Кирилл Шумилов — Google review
People were quite unfriendly. Locals near the pier were more helpful and friendly then the staff. Mekong Smile Cruise raised the price from 700 to 1000 baht the past year without adding any additional value (or 210000 Kip to Luang Prabang if you pay in local currency).
Due to low season the boat is quite uncomfortable (not with tables like shown on the pictures) and only one boat a day is driving. The prices for food or drinks are overpriced, hence buy your snacks before your trip.
Don't have too high expectations after you see the pictures.
Benjamin Sturzenegger — Google review
The Mekong Smile 2 days cruise down the Mekong was absolutely worth the extra money. Seeing the public slow boats crammed full of people rushing straight past all the exceptional sights, sounds and smells made us know that we made the right decision.
The booking teams was very flexible and helped us organise exactly what we wanted and the onboard team and service was nothing but smiles (and tasty food).
I think a lot of the reviews here are for the public slow boat not offered by Mekong Smiles.
Nico K — Google review
Achtung bei der Slowboat Tour. Genügend früh bei dem Booten sein, denn die Boote werden vollgepackt mit Leuten. Wenn man nur noch hinten im Motorraum Platz findet, sollte man protestieren, sich mit vielen anderen Gästen zusammen tun und auf ein zweites Schiff pochen, denn die Fahrt zieht sich lange hin. Wären es nur 1-2 Stunden ok. es sind jedoch am erste Tag 6 und am zweiten 8 Stunden. Am ersten Tag waren wir mit zwei Booten unterwegs und wir hatten gut Platz und es war gut möglich herumzulaufen und auch mal den Platz zu wechseln. Am zweiten wollten sie alle in ein Boot pferchen, wir waren früh da und hatten Platz. Einige mussten die gesamten 8 Stunden aber im Motorraum, bei sehr lärmenden und stinkenden Bedingungen verbringen. Ca. 20 Personen wollten sich das nicht gefallen lassen und stiegen sogleich wieder aus unter Protesten. Ich weiss nicht, wie sie es hingekriegt haben, doch unser Boot legte ab und ca. 30 min später folgte ein weiteres Boot mit eben den 20 Gästen... Bei uns war jeder Platz dicht belegt wir waren sicher überfüllt und das andere Boot war quasi leer!
Die Fahrt ist landschaftlich super schön und sehr zu empfehlen, doch diese Gesellschaft sollte sich einen besseren Kundendienst auf die Fahne schreiben. Wie anderer Kommentare bereits erwähnten, sind die Leute sehr unfreundlich. Laotisch sollte man können, dann wäre dies vielleicht anders.
Ebenfalls könnten Massagen angeboten werden auf dem Schiff in liegesesseln, ich denke viele Gäste würden die lange Fahrt nutzen und dafür gerne spontan ein paar KIP ausgeben.
Die Fahrt kann ich jedoch sehr empfehlen und wünsche viel Platz im Boot, möglichst vorne sitzen, da hinterm der Motorenlärm sehr hoch ist.
(Translated by Google)
Be careful on the slowboat tour. Be sure to get to the boat early because the boats will be packed with people. If you can only find space in the back of the engine compartment, you should protest, get together with many other guests and insist on a second ship, because the journey is taking a long time. If only 1-2 hours were ok. However, it is 6 hours on the first day and 8 hours on the second. On the first day we were on two boats and we had plenty of space and it was easy to walk around and change places. On the second day they wanted to cram everyone into one boat, we got there early and had space. However, some had to spend the entire 8 hours in the engine compartment in very noisy and smelly conditions. Around 20 people didn't want to put up with this and immediately got out amidst protests. I don't know how they managed it, but our boat left and about 30 minutes later another boat followed with the same 20 guests... Every seat in ours was full, we were definitely overcrowded and the other boat was basically full empty!
The ride is very scenic and highly recommended, but this company should make it a point to provide better customer service. As other comments have already mentioned, the people are very unfriendly. You should know Laotian, then perhaps things would be different.
Massages could also be offered on the ship in lounge chairs. I think many guests would take advantage of the long journey and would be happy to spontaneously spend a few KIP on it.
However, I can highly recommend the trip and would like to have plenty of space in the boat, if possible sitting at the front as the engine noise behind is very loud.
Alessandro Camisani — Google review
Very pleasant journey with Smile Mekong Cruise! Good service at their Huay Xai office to reserve with Mr. Ken. The trip was lovely! Our Lao guide named Touy was happy to share his knowledge and culture while being helpful, dedicated and friendly. The captain did a great job making the trip smooth. His wife, the cook made nice dishes with great care. Very positive experience! So grateful for the stops in the villages and cave, which felt authentic. Very special experience. Gorgeous landscape! I feel it was really worth taking this cruise package. Korp Jai! (Thank you in Lao)
Note: Having read other comments, it seems like some writers might be confusing with the public slow boat...
Naturopathy & World Indigenous Wellness — Google review
I travelled on the overnight sleeper bus from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang, it was one of the worst travel experiences I've had.
The service is billed as 'VIP' with drinks and snacks. We received the world's smallest bottle of water upon boarding and a bag to place our shoes. Nothing else.
The beds were very small, anyone that would be considered above average height in Asia will struggle. Those travelling on their own be warned that you will be sharing a very narrow bed, with nothing to separate you, with possibly anyone. I'd say this is a bigger issue for women, but if you're lucky to be beside anyone broad you're going to be getting to know each other very well.
The journey is very windy so while lying on the bed expect to toss and turn, with no barrier to keep you from falling out if you're on the top.
All of the above would have been enough to make this a fairly miserable journey. Now we add in the driver.
I don't even know where to begin with this. The driver decided to put on his music after the only rest room/food stop. This was at about 8-8.30pm. I thought maybe he just likes a bit of music for a half hour and we're only back on the bus so everyone's awake anyway. 'It'll probably stop soon'.
It didn't stop. The entire bus was fortunate enough to be audience to a 7-8 hour non-stop Laotian musical performance. Not one single person asked for this. Actually, a number of people after a couple of hours of this went up and asked the driver to lower the music/turn it off given we all purchased the same SLEEPER bus. The reply from him? "No. I like the music." He even obnoxiously turned it up.
At one point it seemed to me the music was only coming from the back of the bus, I. E. Where those who had asked for it to be lowered/turned off were sitting. Why did he turn it off at the front? Well to watch Lao/Muay Thai on his phone of course! How do I know this? I was in the first sleeper bed on the right so I could see and hear it all.
It's rough to give the company such a poor rating due to one individual but it was without a doubt the most horrendous bus experience I've ever had. If I could go back and do it over again, I would 100% not be doing the overnight bus. Instead of meaning I got to my destination somewhat rested, I spent the next day or so recovering, effectively wasted a day catching up on sleep.
John — Google review
Die 2-tägige Slowboatfahrt auf dem Mekong von Huay Xai nach Luang Prabang war ein tolles Erlebnis. Die Buchung, Bezahlung, der Abholservice in Chiang Rai und Transfer in Luang Prabang, alles hat reibungslos funktioniert! Unser Reiseleiter Mr. La war sehr nett und informativ.
Die Eindrücke von Land, Leuten und vor allem der wunderschönen Natur waren ein unvergessliches Erlebnis, welches wir gerne wiederholen würden. Die entspannte Atmosphäre auf dem Slowboat hat uns sehr gut gefallen.
(Translated by Google)
The 2-day slowboat trip on the Mekong from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang was a great experience. The booking, payment, pick-up service in Chiang Rai and transfer in Luang Prabang, everything went smoothly! Our tour guide Mr. La was very nice and informative.
The impressions of the country, the people and, above all, the beautiful nature were an unforgettable experience that we would like to repeat. We really liked the relaxed atmosphere on the slowboat.
Sebastian — Google review
If you are willing to take the slow boat to Luang Prabang, don't buy the ticket here. They will charge you 240000 kips. Try to buy it at the Pier, which is about 1 km away from town and it costs 210000.
Guacimara García — Google review
The company was 30 minutes late to pick us up and we eventually had our hotel call them, upon which we discovered they had completely forgotten us. We boarded the tuk tuk and then he waited around for another 10 minutes before actually bringing us. When we arrived and got our tickets, to our dismay we were placed in the worst seats on the boat, in the back next to the bar and toilets. This is precisely the reason we bought the tickets the day before, so we could have a better seat near the front. When we asked the ticket office, we couldn't change our seats and they told us the company hadn't called in our reservation so effectively it was as if we had showed up at 10am to buy our ticket, meaning we got the worst seats on the boat. If I were you I wouldn't go with this irresponsible company and just arrive early to buy your ticket directly from the pier. Complete waste of money.
Embark on the "New Challenge Discovery" to explore the stunning Bokeo Province in Laos. This adventure offers various day trips for outdoor enthusiasts, including cycling, rock climbing, and kayaking amidst lush landscapes. Moreover, the tours contribute to supporting local children's education. A two-day hiking tour provides an immersive experience deep in the jungle while encountering warm hospitality from locals. The organization of the tour allows flexibility for individual preferences.
We went on the two-day hiking tour and experienced a singularly dedicated tour guide. He led us deep into the jungle, where we not only saw the gorgeous landscape, but also got to know the incredible hospitality of the local people. The atmosphere was always friendly. We were welcomed warm-heartedly and felt like part of the family. Never before had we experienced such an affectionate and selfless contact with foreigners.
The tour was organized brilliantly and left enough open space for individual wishes. In addition, we could learn a lot about the life of people, animals and plants.
We would always do the tour again, but then for three days.
A great thank you to the whole team for these unforgettable days.
Résumé:
Those who want to get to know the authentic Laos in its marvellous magnificence and the incredible hospitality of the local people apart from the flow of tourists, those who want to experience something absolutely unique – with “New Challenge Discovery” you will be in good hands.
If you are flexible timewise and open for variety you can experience a wonderful adventure. If, on the other hand, you need a warm shower and a well-planned mass tourism schedule this tour isn't suitable for you.
Florian Keßler — Google review
We tried New challenge discovery because of the recommendation of the Stephan Lose guide on Laos.
We visited the the office and in an easy going and talkative atmosphere discussed the options we had for a one day activity. We we're provided with a good insight into each option (kayaking or trekking with varying amounts of intensity) and finally decided to do a long trek which requires a good level of fitness.
The following day we started the trek with two guides. From the office we went to a village and started our trek from there into the dschungle and hiked up a hill with a spectacular view.
The guides have a profound knowledge of the
area and gave us intriguing information about the plants and wildlife we were able to see. Later we had an authentic lunch all together which was delicious and also communicative due to the fact that we shared the food (as opposed to the practice of other tour providers).
Generally the guides are respectful, attentive and keen to get to know their clients as well as always happy to provide and share insights into their culture.
In contrast to other treks we did in Laos this experience was the most authentic one.
Martin Oe — Google review
The nicest people we've met in Asia. They were super helpful and thoughtful, even came with us to an internet company for our phones. Sat down and talked to us for a long time. Amazing people!
Shira Zecharia — Google review
I give the Challenge Discovery 5* for a few reasons... One: they're offering an experience no one else is offering - aside from the Gibbon Experience there aren't many cool active things to do in Houay Xie and there could be; Two: MJ was there always with a ready smile, trying to make the experience more, and Three: the day long kayak journey down the Mekong was really quite cool. The Mekong is interesting, alive in some places and so very quiet in others. Floating along the border between Thailand and Laos is just neat. Anyway, awesome experience, i'd tour with them again. Note this is not a budget tour. But like I said they offer service no one else in Houay Xie has. And there's always the charity angle with them if that helps you justify the spend. Cheers and good touring!
Edwin Mallette — Google review
Good:
MJ and SiPoon was our private tour guide. Had there were other guests, then we would have to share them.
The whole experience was great. Nice cold water on a hot sunny day, full filling local Laos lunch packed with flavors, calm, quiet, a few areas with whirlpool (but manageable for us kayak newbies), swimming, lodging, drinking half a can of beerlao with my hubbie, while floating on the Mekong River.
It was full day of discovery about Lao and other Southeast Asia countries from MJ.
SiPoon speaks enough English to have a pleasant conversation. MJ, on the other hand, he pack filled with history, current events, and culture. He is passionate about his community coming together to help his city, Huoey Xai, to flourish. For that alone, is my reason to go back to him and his place of work when I come back.
Not good:
Napkins during lunch would have been nice. If we had to share our tour guide.
Lea Chea — Google review
Great people and a great cause. I did a one day kayaking trip on the mekong river. Trip was great, the view is very nice and we got to swim in the river. The guide is awesome and is really involved with the Lao community and children. With the raised money they help educate poor children in the community.
Piet Hanegraaf — Google review
They are very nice , and kind people, perfect trekking.
We Will come back to them again for sure !
If you are in hauy xai don't need to rush, do some tours with them, they do good things for their country, and their villages. ( supports those young people by get some tour with them)
The baked rice pineapple with tofu was just sooooo good! I am vegetarian, but my two friends aren't and they got the same dish and they loved it soooo much! Very nice local food! And when we arrived we got free tequila shots! It is an amazing place with very friendly people! :)
Camila Baptista — Google review
We stayed opposite and whilst this one was shut on the Monday we wanted to go (after reading the reviews), we went on a Tuesday, it was lively, the pool table was good and the staff were absolutely lovely. There’s not much to do in this area that we are in so we were happy to find such a venue with lovely lovely staff that I couldn’t recommend enough. PS thank you for the free shot!!:)
Lauren Kite — Google review
This place has seen better days and looks like it won't see many more. I sat down on a wooden bench and the leg broke. Ordered a Chicken Sandwich and got two, yes two tripledecker sandwiches. I got through nearly most of the first ordinary tasting sandwich but had to leave the last. What a waste of food. Was not even worth taking home. Limited choice of beers and very little atmosphere. Wont be back.
David Dock — Google review
A bar with a lot of atmosphere from the decor, darts area, pool table, table-football, graffiti and many other memorabilia on display. Good food menu and seating indoors or outside to watch the passing traffic. A very social vibe and easy to make new friends there. Do visit!
Vincent Oliver — Google review
Spent the night in Chiang Khong and went to Rin Bar expecting a bite to eat and a couple of quiet beers. After a delicious meal we ended up singing karaoke and drinking tequila with Rin and her awesome team until past midnight. Make the effort to chat to the staff and have yourself a brilliant time.
Dan Traylen — Google review
We had a free dinner there from our hostel, and it was delicious. Amazing red curry and fried chicken. We saw the menu and it was cheap too so great value restaurant/bar. Cool games (pool, darts, etc)
Antonella Abele — Google review
Very generous portions at very reasonable prices. A bit loud on the road, but you’re close to everything.
David Little — Google review
just arrived today in town and came across this place the owner is very friendly I needed a Samsung new model charger and she had one on hand and a table with a plug so I could charge my phone 2 pool tables karaoke and good overall atmosphere I didn't try the food so I can come and then. But the beer is cold and the atmosphere is quality
MarK O'BrieN — Google review
Lovely bar with great food, believe it or not i also i had the best ginger tea here!
M. P. — Google review
4.4
(128)
•
4.0
(53)
1020, Wiang, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai 57140, Thailand
This is the oldest temple in Chiang Khong, located right to the bank of Mekong River, offering a very nice view of the river and Houay Xai, Laos on the other bank, especially at the sunset, very peaceful . Don't miss the ceremony / ritual to wash Buddha's hair at the chedi.
Thuy Vu — Google review
Another stunning temple, this with lovely Mekong river views. This is the oldest temple in the district. The is also a legend of a sacred stream joining this temple with Wat Luang. Colorful lanterns are seen from the main road side.
Vincent Oliver — Google review
The temple is located in the city center. Entrance gate is on walking street side. Inside has river view. Emerald buddha is beautiful.
PAM NIMPOOLSWARD — Google review
Nice place with a view of the Mekong river and Myanmar.
Göran Jeppsson — Google review
Very nice temple with beautiful views of Mekong River.
Radovan Jansa — Google review
Beautiful and ancient temple.
Rattaya Rattayasakun — Google review
Beautiful temple next to the riverfront boardwalk.
Goran BMW Overlander — Google review
Stunning temple with attached stupa. Great place to sit and self-meditate.
Alexander Abramovich — Google review
4.6
(316)
•
4.0
(33)
192 1020, Sathan, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai 57140, Thailand
Quality accommodation for unbeatable prices. Very friendly staff and superior quality homemade western food cooked to order here. Vegetarian options also available. I also participated in excellent guided hike through the jungle to spectacular waterfall. The guide was very knowledgeable about the local area and the local Hmong village that we passed through on our hike. The hike included lunch and took about 4hrs round trip. The hostel also offers free bikes to guests which is awesome for any small trips into town. A perfect stop off for anyone passing through to Laos or coming from Laos to Thailand. I would definitely return.
Keirita's Yoga Koh Lipe (Keira Coleman) — Google review
Great hostel!
After not knowing where to stay after crossing the Laos border, this place seemed pretty good. The room prices are cheap and the owners are very friendly.
The private room had the most comfortable bed I've ever slept on. I'm sure the dorm bunk beds would be the same!
The bar area was a great place to calm down after the long boat ride. Easy to make small talk with other tourists, if not there is two adorable dogs you can get along with.
It's funky and cozy at the same time. I would definitely stay here longer if I could.
thomas skinner — Google review
Best place in Chiang Khong!
Amazing place to stay, the owners are so friendly and helpful.
Lovely bar inside, relax zone, pool table, great food also! Free bikes for the guests.
Try the hiking they offer, amazing day in the jungle with some beautiful waterfalls.
Frederic Defauw — Google review
An amazing atmosphere. Rustic and authentic. Private rooms, or dorm, The Hub can accommodate you. Need a western cuisine fix? Burgers, bolognaise, stew and toasties will sort you out.
Pull up a seat at the bar and enjoy an evening beverage with great conversation.
One night is not enough, you will book for one and stay for three, it is like magic. The Hub is working hard to introduce people to Chiang KHONG, hiking, hill tribes, bike riding or fishing, it is all here and only newly discovered.
CHAOSHUMOUR (CHAOSHUMOUR) — Google review
Very cool place to stay connected to a bar, incredibly nice & cordial new owners. Great food too! Solid sanctuary on the way to Laos from Thailand or vice versa. Would come back again for sure! ✌️👍
Alex Keel — Google review
$3 a bunk, best beer selection in NoThai and a friendly (hilarious) couple running the place... you need to stay here. Bed was softer than most in SEA. The vibe was funky and it was a peaceful stop in this sleepy town. Perfect entry point into Thailand after the boat trip up river. Thanks guys!
Joe Dueck — Google review
We stayed one night at the dorm for 100Baht per person. We could leave our bulky bicycles inside which is always a relief. We found the place was though a bit unattended and I doubt they had even changed the sheets. A bit disappointing.
Pablo Ros — Google review
Such a great hostel, orginally only booked for one night but ended up staying for 3 as it was so lovely. The dorm is spacious and is cleaned daily and the shared showers and toilets are spotless.
The owners are very friendly and make you feel welcome. They both have great knowledge about travelling across the border to Laos and you are able to book the slow boat directly with them. I also went on a jungle hike to a beautiful waterfall hidden away away from the tourist trail with one of the owners. There are also two friendly dogs (belonging to the hostel owners) which like to follow you to town.
A lovely hostel and one that you should definitely stay for more than one night, Chiang Khong has so much to offer.
(Translated by Google) A la carte food shop There are special meals every day.
Affordable price.
(Original)
ร้านขายอาหารตามสั่ง มีอาหารพิเศษทุกวัน
ราคาย่อมเยาครับ
piroon Setvolakul — Google review
(Translated by Google) Moderately worth a visit.
(Original)
สถานที่น่าเยี่ยมชมพอประมาณ
ประทีป เกียรติกิจเจริญ — Google review
(Translated by Google) Classic, home style
(Original)
คลาสสิก แบบบ้านๆ
preecha kaewkhampa — Google review
(Translated by Google) So
(Original)
สย
ไอ่ลิง ไฮเปอร์ — Google review
4.5
(16)
•
4.0
(5)
ถนนสายกลาง บ้านสบสม-หาดไคร้, Wiang, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai 57140, Thailand
Air travelling is no longer a luxury in the modern era but travelling by boat in the remotely third world countries is the only affordable means of transportation yet this economical freightage turns out to be an adventure close to nature and plenty of scenic views. The journey could be long and tiring but its worth every penny of the ride. On board this wooden ferry were tourists and locals sharing a trip that could only happen once in their life time. Experiencing how local live their life travelling around is one experience you comes across daily for folks living in big cities. Along the mighty Mekong river one will witness the extravagant of beauty of an acquaint uncircularizsed landscape. The untouched surrounding still frozen in time and modern days development gives you an opportunity to understand the intimacy of older generation's encounter in life. The life along the muddy water of Mekong cannot be by choice and having perceived this sight really makes me want to enjoy more of life, live to the fullest and to complain less this very minute onwards. Words cannot disclose the clarity of what I m feeling now, only my inward fullfilment feelings have been complete. Take a ride, see the sights and enjoy the fresh breeze of Mekong.
Maddoc — Google review
Great experience. Must visit place in Lao. Going on the boat was a thrilling experience
Ravi Kanagasabey — Google review
Before I made my visit to Vietnam, I had a wish list of things that I should see and enjoy. One in the top of the list was Mekong River & Basa Fish. Traveling through 6 countries and providing everything to the people Mekong has influenced the life of the people. Though it’s considered as one of the most polluted rivers in the world, it’s worth seeing the river. I was in Vietnam and I could see the last part of the Mekong River. The delta is fertile and rich in crops. The floating houses of Mekong are very famous. The delta is rich in fruits and the restaurants in the delta provide excellent food.
Joy Kurian — Google review
I've never been to this place, but the food was delicious. 🧟♂️🤡
Oliver Keenan Málek — Google review
(Translated by Google) Amazing....
Exciting experience, cycling from Vientiane, Laos - Luang Prabang - Muang Xay - Pak BEng - Chiang Kong - Chiang Mai - Bangkok
(Original)
Amazing....
Pengalaman seru, bersepeda dari Vientiane, Laos - Luang Prabang - Muang Xay - Pak BEng - Chiang Kong - Chiang Mai - Bangkok
Paimo van jawa — Google review
(Translated by Google) So beautiful.
(Original)
สวยหนา้ชม
Tongkhum Panh — Google review
4.9
(9)
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4.5
(253)
Laos
20
Doi Pha Tang
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Mountaintop lookout point on the Thai-Laos border offering sweeping views of the surrounding area.
The view along the way is beautiful. Let's come to see it once.
Sataporn Liangthanasarn — Google review
Perfekt viewpoint to Lao's. Just amazing.
Easy access to viewpoint, have parking place.
Jürgen Hügli — Google review
Magnificent view from 103 mountain ! There are two mountains as 105 and 103. Can camping near the parking area.
Sampath Subasinghe — Google review
Spectacular. This place is a must visit. Stunning vistas across the Mekong River into Laos on side and beautiful mountain scape of Chiang Rai on the other. Sunset and sunrise here is sublime.
sugarhigh — Google review
It's a beautiful place in Chiang Rai. Sometimes I would like to go back again.
Sintumath.N — Google review
It's a peak with a lot of untouched natural beauty and a viewpoint that doesn't require too much hiking to reach.
Punnavich Khowrurk — Google review
We were staying at Meihua Phatang bout 5mins drive to Doi Phatang ...since so near we drove up for Sunset n the next day Sunrise...Superb views
Mah King Wah — Google review
Interesting pha tang mountain with a rich history.
Climb to the top isn't hard. But there are horses that can be rented to ride to the top
Can be quite chilly
Definitely worth the visit!
HW K — Google review
It is a great place to see sunrise and sea clouds in Pha Tang. Make sure you come at around 6 am. After an easy hike up to the summits, there are several food stalls selling local food, drinks, grilled pork, sweet potatoes, snacks, and fruits. There is free camping ground and a few public toilets available.
Lee Ying Ying — Google review
Much less crowded than other similar places up there. Amazing view, and do look for other spots than just the obvious. Really nice food stalls at the foot of the climb. No need to bring breakfast..
Henrik Møller — Google review
You can drive your car up here and walk on slope around 10-15 min to the highest. This mountain has located on the border btw Thailand and Laos. You can view MeKong river from the mountain.
Kunlasead “Nic” Sritanyarat — Google review
Beautiful even during midday in late October.
K Px — Google review
Caught the most beautiful sunset at Doi Pha Tang and unblocked view of Lao-Thai border, Phu Chi Fa peak and Mekong river. Undisturbed by massive tourists; this is a hidden gem. The locals did say the sunrise is as good too. Unfortunately, we need to leave for the day. A must come if you are in Chiang Rai.
Elise Lee — Google review
4.6
(1492)
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4.5
(22)
17, Po, Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai 57310, Thailand
I'll never travel to Huay Xai without this trip planner again
Protected park with dramatic valley & peak vistas from clifftop trails, plus camping & guest houses.
We arrived about 6am. It was still dark. The sunrise was about 6.50am. It was an amazing experience to watch the sun rise above the clouds. Well worth doing once. It was really cold. Wear many layers of warm clothes.
David Vandervelden — Google review
Great view for sunrise here. It’s a short steep drive up to the carpark and from there, it’s a 760m walk to the viewpoint. The walk up is no too difficult, but the road could be slippery on a wet day. I took about 12 mins to reach the viewpoint. It was a bit hazy on the morning we were there, but the view is still beautiful as the sun appear on the horizon. Worth the trip here
Jon Ng — Google review
Such a nice place! Very peaceful, we were alone when we visited! So nice to escape the crowd for a little while.
We came here as a day trip from Chiang Rai, the ride is pretty smooth, just be careful during the slopes.
There is public toilet before you reach the parking lot.
From the parking it’s 750m to the top, but it’s kinda steep.
The view is very nice, and it’s funny to know that the highest point is actually in Laos!
Marie — Google review
It's actually very beautiful when you see with your own eyes but when taking pictures it doesn't reflect the real beauty of it. You need to get up there very early to see the floating mists or when sun rises. There's a camping ground if you want to see that early. The road up to it is very steep and curvy along the way up so it's very dangerous to drive up especially if you drive motorcycle. ( If you follow GPS which always guide you to shortest route) . I was really scared to drive up and keep squeezing the breaks as it was just so steep. Accident can surely happen easily especially during raining season. however there's s safer route up from Toung District but it's much longer so make sure to do your own research with the safer route.
Bud Gillespie — Google review
It was very cloudy, and we cannot catch the sun rise. But it it is quite an easy climb up from the base camp (about 780m). Never wear sports shoes, as my climb buddy kept sliding and landing on his bottom. Near the peak, the climb can be a little bit hard. In July, it is cloudy, best time to visit according to local was in December. At the peak, Thailand and Laos are bordering one another! You do not need passport to cross over either side of the country (Joke).
Luke Chua — Google review
Sadly the haze actually was such a huge disappointment for us but the view at the mountain top was truly amazing. A bit of a tough climb for us due to the smoke that we have to inhale but luckily it wasn't that high.
Alan Tham — Google review
One of the best view - a beautiful sunrise👍
It was quite dark while trekking up.
Sonia Narang — Google review
We drove up from Chiang mai to see the sunrise on the summit the next day. Absolutely breath taking, highly recommended
Koos Geleijnse — Google review
4.6
(515)
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4.5
(278)
VC2W+2C2, Unnamed Road, Tap Tao, Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai 57310, Thailand