Explore
Getting to the Pak Ou Caves is a primary part of the experience. The 25-kilometer (15.5-mile) upstream boat ride shows daily river life.
Most visitors reach the caves using a traditional slow boat from Luang Prabang. The journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours upstream. Along the way, tour boats typically stop at a local riverside village before docking directly under the limestone cliffs at the caves.
If you take a 45-minute tuk-tuk ride instead, you bypass the long cruise but still take a 5-minute ferry crossing. Sunscreen and sunglasses are highly recommended for the open riverboat journey.
5 minFloating dock
This floating docking area sits right where boats arrive under the tall limestone karsts. It serves as the direct entry point to the lower cave. Watch your step and hold onto the rails when disembarking. The wake from passing boats frequently makes the docks rock.
30 minVillage stop
Guided boat tours normally stop at this traditional riverside village on the way to the caves. The village is famous for distilling Lao-Lao rice whisky. You can sample the local spirits while you are there. Be prepared to see large glass jars containing snakes and scorpions.
