Anyone with experience doing border runs via Laos?

[csaba81]

Before covid I used to do Chiang Mai - Mae Sai to extend my stay. I've been told that for the time being only Thais can use this crossing.

 

If you've used public transport to get up to Laos to do the same thing please let me know how you did it. I heard somewhere that you need to book a tour to cross into Laos.

[ozfarang]

This thread has good info on visas from Savannakhet

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1259361-savannakhet-visa-based-on-marriage/

 

[brotherother]

I'm not sure whether the Mae Sot crossing is currently an option but apparently Chiang Khong is.

 

Unlike entering Myanmar at Mae Sai, you'd need a Laos visa, which you also have the option of obtaining in advance online (make sure to use the official government website).

 

Breaking the journey up with a night in Chiang Rai would be an option too.

 

Green Bus may be the best public transport option when coming from Chiang Mai: http://www.greenbusthailand.com/website/services/bus/time-table#c9

 

Here's a recent thread with some info on the Chiang Khong crossing: https://aseannow.com/topic/1265668-anyone-done-a-visa-run-from-chiang-rai-recently/

 

Good luck.

 

[KhunBENQ]

18 hours ago, csaba81 said:

I heard somewhere that you need to book a tour to cross into Laos.

Long outdated.

Crossed from Nong Khai over the bridge yesterday and back in the afternoon.

Few Baht for shabby bus over the bridge and back.

(I am visa exempt so no visa on arrival cost)

I only did a border run. No visit to consulate.

[Andrew65]

To save a bit of money on a Laos visa-on-arrival make sure you have US$ for the visa fee. If you pay in Baht it costs more.

[earlinclaifornia]

I have the details I used in pdf form two years back. My one problem was when I was within 2 hours of the boarder The depot directed me to a wrong bus on the last leg. So that delay I  had to wait at Mukahan till morning. Be sure to ask for help with a good English speaker. 

Instructions.pdf