In short
- Cave entry costs 20,000 to 30,000 LAK ($1-2 USD).
- Shared boats cost $10 to $15 USD.
- Pay in cash using small Lao Kip (LAK) notes.
In this article
Visiting the Pak Ou Caves requires planning for two main costs: the cave entrance fee and the transportation from Luang Prabang. You pay the entrance fee directly at the dock upon arrival. Bring small cash denominations in Lao Kip, as cards are not accepted.
How much is the Pak Ou Caves entrance fee?
The entrance fee is 20,000 to 30,000 LAK per person (approximately $1 to $2 USD).
You pay this fee in cash at the ticket booth located at the Ban Pak Ou Pier when you arrive. This single ticket covers entry to both Tham Ting (the lower cave) and Tham Theung (the upper cave).
How much does a boat to Pak Ou Caves cost?
A seat on a shared slow boat costs $10 to $15 USD. A private boat costs $30 to $40 USD.
The scenic boat ride from Luang Prabang takes 1.5 to 2 hours upstream. You can negotiate prices for private longtail boats at the central Mekong pier. Shared boats run on a set schedule and are a budget-friendly option.
What currency should I use at the caves?
Use Lao Kip (LAK) for all transactions at the caves and nearby villages.
Carry small LAK bills for the entrance fee, as ticket sellers often struggle to make change for large notes. You will also need cash if you plan to buy drinks or souvenirs at the nearby Whisky Village.
Are guided tours a better value?
Guided tours cost between $25 and $60 USD and offer convenience by bundling transport, entry fees, and lunch.
Many guided tours include additional stops, such as the Kuang Si Falls or Ban Xang Hai (Whisky Village). If you want to see multiple sites in one day without arranging your own transport, a combo tour is practical.
How much does it cost to go by tuk-tuk?
Hiring a tuk-tuk costs around 200,000 LAK, plus a 10,000 LAK ferry fee.
The drive to Ban Pak Ou takes 45 minutes, followed by a 5-minute ferry crossing. This is faster than the boat but misses the scenic river experience. Prices can vary depending on your negotiation skills.
Do I need extra cash for anything else?
Bring extra cash for village purchases, bottled water, and toilet fees.
Drinks and snacks are sold near the pier and at the Whisky Village. If you need to use restroom facilities, locals may charge a small fee of a few thousand Kip.
Questions travellers ask
Can I pay the entrance fee with a credit card?
No, the ticket booth at the Pak Ou Caves only accepts cash. Always carry small Lao Kip notes.
Is the boat ride included in the entrance fee?
No, the entrance fee and the boat transport are separate costs. You pay the boat operator in Luang Prabang and the entrance fee at the caves.
Are there discounts for children?
There is usually no official discount listed for children, but young kids often enter for free or a reduced rate at the discretion of the ticket seller.
