Laos is nature’s ultimate playground. Whether you are seeking hard core adventure or are just a ‘weekend warrior’, there is something for you.
Ecotourism is quickly growing in Laos. In the far north, the Akha Experience is a fantastic trek from Luang Nam Tha in to the heart of the Akha Village. Along the way, you get to learn more about their culture, interact with the locals, partake in daily agricultural activities, and support their tourism initiative. In the southern provinces, Xe Pian is an area filled with wetlands and pristine forests and stretches down to the Cambodian border. Ecotourism experts have worked with the local villagers of Xe Pian to develop sustainable tourism activities such as trekking, bird watching, and elephant riding.
For cyclists, bikes are readily available in the main cities for an eco-friendly way to site see or for day trips out to remote destinations. A spectacular journey is to bike from Laos in to Cambodia along the Mekong River. This route is filled with great wildlife, ancient temples, rural villages, and great scenery. For a serious challenge, cycle the remote north east, across the Ho Chi Minh Trail and in to Vietnam. Steep climbs and breezy descents are rewarded with fascinating scenery and unique hill tribe villages.
Although Laos is a landlocked country, several rivers meander through the country providing ample opportunity for kayaking and rafting. Paddle from Vang Vieng to Vientiane in a great day trip or turn it in to an overnight journey. Or, take a more relaxing journey with a boat trip from Thailand to Luang Prabang. A popular trip amongst travelers, this 2 day / 1 night journey is a great opportunity to view the natural scenery of Laos from the vantage point of the Mekong River.
