Huay Xai Tours & Excursions

Huay Xai Laos, also known as Houayxay, is the capital of Bokeo Province in northern Laos, serving as a significant gateway between Laos and Thailand. Most travelers who visit Huay Xai often pass through on their way to other destinations such as boat Huay Xai to Luang Prabang, but this town offers a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and cycling. The relaxed riverside setting is ideal for those looking to chill with a cold local beer while enjoying the views of the Mekong River. 

Laos Travel Packages invites you to explore this border town and discover the charm of Huay Xai, the perfect blend of nature and cultural Huay Xai Tours & Excursions.

1. Where is Huay Xai?

Huay Xai (also spelled Houei Sai or Houay Xay) is the northern gateway to Laos, serving as northern Thailand's most popular entry point. Positioned on the banks of the Mekong River, it sits directly opposite the Thai town of Chiang Khong, making it an essential Huay Xai river cruise crossing point between the two countries.

The town is well-equipped to accommodate travelers with Huay Xai guesthouses and restaurants that serve a delightful mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese cuisines, along with fresh seafood from the Mekong. Moreover, Huay Xai is a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of Bokeo Province, including many Huay Xai things to do the renowned Gibbon Experience, is a unique eco-tourism adventure that lets you explore the jungle canopy and stay in treehouses. Huay Xai provides the perfect starting point, whether you're planning to catch the slow boat to Luang Prabang from Huay Xai or embark on a jungle trek.

2. Best Time to Visit Huay Xai

The best time to visit Huay Xai is during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers cool, comfortable weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, ideal for outdoor things to do in Huay Xai like trekking and cycling. The dry season is also when the Mekong River is calm, tourists can spend time taking the slow boat journey to Luang Prabang or engaging in water-based activities like swimming.

November to February is the peak travel season due to the pleasant climate, while March to April sees warmer temperatures but is still a great time for exploring Huay Xai town and nearby attractions. Visiting during the rainy season (May to October) offers lush scenery but can bring travel disruptions due to heavy rainfall.

3. Recommended Huay Xai Itinerary

How long should tourists hang out in Huay Xai? If it's just a stopover, you can check it out during long-day Laos tours. Typically, 1 day is enough to start a Mekong cruise tour from Huay Xai to explore Pakbeng, Luang Prabang, and Nong Khiaw,... If you want to kick it in Huay Xai for a bit longer from 2-3 days, then you should definitely spend time at The Gibbon Experience Huay Xai.

3.1. 1-Day Boat Tour from Huay Xai

• Once you've finished with the border formalities, our guide will pick you up and take you by tuk-tuk to the boat pier. 
• You'll hop on a traditional boat that's all set to travel down the Mekong River. The views along this stretch of the Mekong are probably the prettiest. 
• Along the way, we'll make stops at some tribal minority villages like the Hmong, Yao, and Khmu. 
• When we get to Pakbeng, we'll check out the Huay Xai attractions such as the local market, and experience the daily life of the colorful hill tribe traders as they trade their goods. 
• You'll be spending the night in Pakbeng.

3.2. Explore 2-3 Days Gibbon Experience

• You and your group (up to 12 people) will leave the Huay Xai office around 8 am for a 2-day, 1-night stay in awesome treehouses at Nam Kan National Park. You'll return between 3 and 4 pm on the last day.
• After a one-hour drive, the tour kicks off with a steep walk for over an hour. It's recommended for folks aged 10 to 60 who are in good shape. 
• You'll zip from mountain to mountain via some super long ziplines, heading to the heart of Nam Kan National Park. 
• Your final is the Tree King. It's the largest tree in Laos and your treehouse is right next to it.
• There's a slim chance of spotting gibbons, but if you love ziplining through the canopies with breathtaking views and stunning trees, you're in for an awesome time!

4. How to Get to Huay Xai

Looking for the best way to get to Huay Xai from other attractions in Laos? Check it out here!

4.1. Chiang Rai to Huay Xai

Getting to Huay Xai from Chiang Rai, Thailand, is straightforward. The most common route involves taking a bus from Chiang Rai to the border town of Chiang Khong, which takes about 2 hours. From Chiang Khong, you can cross the Mekong River into Huay Xai via the Fourth Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. The entire journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on border crossing times.

4.2. Luang Prabang to Huay Xai

Traveling from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai is an iconic journey, usually done by taking a two-day slow boat along the Mekong River. The boat departs from Luang Prabang and makes an overnight stop in Pakbeng before arriving in Huay Xai. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus, which takes about 12-14 hours, or a domestic flight, which is the quickest option, taking approximately 1 hour.

4.3. Luang Namtha to Huay Xai

The journey from Luang Namtha to Huay Xai can be completed by bus or minivan. The drive takes around 4 to 6 hours, offering scenic views of northern Laos' mountainous terrain. For those who prefer a more comfortable and flexible option, hiring a private car is also possible, allowing for stops along the way.

Huay Xai may often be seen as a mere stopover, but it provides an authentic taste of northern Laos. If you're planning your next Laos trip, don't miss the opportunity to discover the charm of this border town. Contact Laos Travel Packages to craft a personalized itinerary that ensures you make the most of your time in Huay Xai.