Northern Laos is a great place for outdoor adventure. Many make a stop at Luang Namtha before heading off for their outdoor adventures at places like Nam Ha Protected Area or to the surrounding hilltribe villages.
Luang Namtha is a compact and pleasant town. It is distinctly divided into two sections: the old part of town near the airport and the new town where all the guesthouses and trek companies are located. Luang Namtha is small enough that both sections can be easily explored by foot. There are also bicycles and small scooters for rent if you would prefer to discover Luang Namtha on two wheels.
One of the most popular destinations for a memorable Laos adventure is at nearby Nam Ha, Laos’ largest protected area and an ASEAN Heritage Site. It is over 220,000 hectares and home to unspoiled nature ranging from flat low-lying plains to over 2,000 meter tall highlands. The flora includes ever-green and semi-green forests, upland broadleaf woodlands, montane forests as well as clear rivers and streams. The fauna is just as diverse with 37 species of mammals and 288 bird species.
A boat ride from Luang Namtha is a very interesting way to get to Nam Ha. The trip allows you to see many bird and reptile species in the surrounding jungle. There are endless possibilities to what you can do once at the protected site. Along with trekking, you can cool off in small waterfalls, or go wildlife spotting. Guides, many of whom are from the villages, are wildlife experts and will show how to collect and prepare herbs and vegetables for dinner. A homestay at one of the villages is another interesting experience as you can interact with the hilltribes and learn about their culture with traditional song and dance performances.
Another option for you is to stay at The Boat Landing Guest House in Luang Namtha. This eco-lodge provides a positive experience that benefits you and the locals. The bungalows are constructed in traditional Lao style and made of natural materials while professionally trained employees are hired from nearby villages. Modern amenities are also provided, ensuring a comfortable stay in Northern Laos.
Explore the best of community-based travel in Laos with the Akha Experience tour, an authentic ecotourism trek jointly developed by Exotissimo and eight Akha villages in the Muang Sing area in Northern Laos. This three day Laos package is designed for culturally curious travelers with a deep interest in sustainable tourism.
If you are looking for adventure in the serene Northern Laos countryside, why not try Exotissimo’s Splendors of North Laos Biking Tour? The region is home to a flawless combination of biking trail, natural terrain, hilltribe villages and cultural sites. Another recommendation is our Authentic Laos Soft Adventure tour. You will trek deep into the highlands while experiencing ethnic hilltribe culture amidst lush flora and scenic waterfalls.
Filed under: 
These days, the mark of a good hotel is not just to provide impeccable service and lavish comfort for guests but to also minimize its impact on the environment. Hotels should make a conscious effort to make positive contributions to environmental conservation, community development and cultural heritage preservation.
