Explore the best of community-based travel in Laos with Akha Experience, an authentic ecotourism trek jointly developed by Exotissimo and eight Akha villages in the Muang Sing area. Designed for culturally curious travelers with a deep interest in sustainable tourism, the Akha Experience offers unparalleled access to the Akha people and culture. In this 3-day Laos package tour, you are not only a spectator but a participant as you journey into remote parts of Laos.

Your Laos tour begins in Muang Sing near the Chinese borders in northwestern Laos. This picturesque town is known for its ethnic potpourri of Akha, Hmong, Thai Lü, Thai Neua and Yunnanese cultures as well as the abundance of trekking opportunities in the surrounding mountains. Under the expert guidance of your local guides, trek past marvelous scenery of pine forest and cascading waterfalls and be treated to panoramic valley views along the way. Discover the deep indigenous knowledge of the Akha as your guide shows you the incredible diversity of flora and fauna.

Spend your nights in community lodges belonging to Akha villages. These rustic homestays offer unmatched opportunities to experience the colorful traditions and warm hospitality of the Akha. Share a home-cooked meal with your host families, listen to Akha legends and folk songs, observe the youth in their courtship rituals and enjoy a traditional massage. To experience first-hand the Akha's rich traditions and customs, partake in daily village life such as buffalo riding, rice pounding or cotton spinning with your hosts.

Finally, your Laos tour ends in Muang Sing where you have a chance to explore the town's unique blend of Thai Lü, Thai Neua and Yunnanese architectural styles. We recommend a visit to the tribal museum that offers a wealth of detailed information about the region's history and diverse ethnic groups.

The Akha Experience is an enriching Laos tour that rewards you with rare insights into the Akha life and stunning landscapes of northwestern Laos. To further discover the spectacular beauty of Laos, extend with a tour to other parts of the country such as Luang Prabang or Vientiane.

This morning, the Akha Experience begins with a trek from That Xieng Tueng to Nam Keo Noi Waterfall where you will enjoy a traditional Akha lunch specially prepared by the villagers of Lao Khao. Continue trekking through the lush landscape and join your guide in activities such as birds watching, collecting bamboo shoots or medicinal plants. Today's trek ends in Ban Lao Khao Village where you can spend the evening listening to Akha music, observing the courting rituals of the Akha youth and enjoy a traditional massage after dinner. (Approximately 6 hours of trekking today)

Overnight in the Ban Lao Khao Lodge.

Spend today trekking to several Akha villages, including Ban Phou Yae, Ban Houeinagang and Ban Eu La. At these villages, enjoy cross-cultural interaction as you join the villagers in activities such as cotton spinning, buffalo riding, rice pounding and a local lunch with your host family. This evening, arrive in Ban Tamee for your homestay. Feast on a local dinner while enjoying the company of your friendly hosts and learning about their culture and traditions.(Approximately 5 hours of trekking today)

Overnight in Ban Tamee Lodge.

Head to Ban Nam Hou and learn about the preparation of rice then continue to Ban Mona to learn about Akha traditional cotton weaving. Depart to Ban Piyer where you will enjoy an Akha cooking class and be able to sample the dishes you prepared for lunch. Early this afternoon, visit the village handicraft shop in Ban Piyer and, if you wish, make a contribution to the village by purchasing some of the locally-made handicrafts. After that, transfer back to Muang Sing for a walk around the town. Located in a fertile valley in the mountainous north, Muang Sing is a charming place that served as a garrison during the French era.