Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Mekong Elephant Camp
Rides from $47, treks from $55 ∙ 020 5557 0577,
mekongelephantcamp.com
Stretching up the jungle-clad hillside on the opposite shore of the river, the
Mekong
Elephant Camp
attempts to lure travellers into staying beyond the obligatory single night -
in the morning you can usually see (and hear) one or two of the camp's eight elephants graz-
ing along the bank. Run by
Pakbeng Lodge
,
the camp offers various day packages, ranging
from straightforward elephant rides (combined with a bathing session) to a challenging three-
hour uphill trek on foot through primary forest, descending on your pachyderm's shoulders
and concluding the day with a swim.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE: PAKBENG
Byslowboat
Slow boats stop at the landing at the bottom of the port road, a short walk from
the guesthouses. You may find that young boys offer to help you lug your bag uphill - ne-
gotiate a fee for this beforehand. Moving on, boats usually depart around 9.30am to Luang
Prabang, and about 8.30am to Houayxai - it's best to check times locally the night before.
Arrive at least 30min early to ensure a seat, particularly heading downriver. Tickets are sold
on board. Some captains stop briefly at the caves at
Pak Ou
before Luang Prabang, charging
each passenger who disembarks for a look a few thousand kip extra. This works out cheaper
than chartering a boat from Luang Prabang, but leaves little time for exploring.
Destinations
Houayxai (daily; 8hr); Luang Prabang (daily; 7hr).
By speedboat
Speedboats pull up to the floating speedboat landing, close to the slow boat
landing. Boats heading both up- and downriver normally depart around 9am, though will only
leave when full; buy tickets from the booth at the top of the speedboat landing.
Destinations
Houayxai (daily; 3hr); Luang Prabang (daily; 3hr).
