Challenge
Huay Xai (Ban Houayxay)
Laos
About this hike
Huay Xai, also written Houay Xay or Ban Houayxay, is the Lao overnight base before the downstream boat. Arrive via Chiang Khong and Friendship Bridge IV, then confirm your departure time, ticket, pickup or actual pier and Pakbeng accommodation. The official Lao eVisa FAQ lists this bridge as an accepted port; nationality-specific eligibility still needs checking.Huay Xai is in Bokeo. Read the current regional warning before committing, not only after buying a ticket. The town marker is not a border checkpoint or pier. Ask the operator for the exact meeting place.Next: the first of two downstream boat days, ending in Pakbeng. Our older transport labels may show “Independent”; here that means an independently arranged boat connection, not a walk.Photograph: Huay Xai viewed from the Mekong, 21 November 2013, Tango7174, CC BY-SA 4.0, resized/cropped to fit; not current conditions.