On site reports from Logistics Director Faruk Abdul Rahman of the situation in Chiang Khong had not been very encouraging. It had rained from 3am the previous night, and has not let up since. The Mekong River, the natural border between the two countries has swelled, doubling the time it would take to cross the river.

Half past eight, and the first batch of 7 cars are already on the ferry heading for the third country of the expedition, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The first 30km is already off-road, but generally flat. The inexperienced drivers quickly learned about which gear to use and how momentum can help the car get up any hill.

The multi-terrain KUMHO tyres also helped a great deal. Under extreme wet and slippery conditions, they performed to everyone’s expectations. Their gripping power also gave new drivers renewed confidence.

Recently cleared landslides, of which many were still active and therefore potentially dangerous, slowed down the team, moving at an average of only 33km/h. At one landslide, the team had to wait for an hour for the tractors to remove the obstruction. Knowing they would arrive in Luang Namtha after dinnertime, most took the opportunity to make a hot snack.

Although no car needed to be winched out, the team nevertheless enjoyed the muddy trails of Laos. River crossings were looked upon as a challenge as well as a free car wash. The team arrived in Luang Namtha about 9pm. Tomorrow more rough conditions awaits the team as they move onto another border crossing, this time into China!