Outdoor Adventures: Laos

Laos might not be as popular as other crowd-pulling Southeast Asia countries, but it’s becoming more and more popular among travelers who crave nature, quiet corners, and relaxed laid-back atmosphere. Besides its diverse ethnic, history, culture, and food, it is safe to say that the country is heaven for nature enthusiasts. With its lush paddy fields, tea leaves that cover the mountains, turquoise waterfalls, river caves, and dark jungles, it is indeed an outstanding location for outdoor activities and ecotourism.

Take a Dip in Natural Pools

When you visit the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls is a must-visit. Surrounded by flourishing jungles is a large cascade of milky turquoise blue water that spills from a series of limestone tiers into a beautiful natural pool. It’s perfect for cooling off from the humid and hot air. You can take a dip or even swim in some of the pools, especially those in the main area. Taking a dip in the beautiful pools will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale. There are also rope swings and a tree where you can jump into the pools from! Don’t forget to hike to the top of the falls when you’re done swimming. It offers a spectacular view. Just be careful since the path is very steep.

Take note that there are some areas with a ‘no swimming’ sign, be respectful since some pools are considered sacred by the locals. Laos has a pretty conservative culture, so make sure to wear appropriate clothing. You can also visit the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Center nearby after you’ve had your fill of the waterfalls.

Zip-Line in Jungles

Photo Credit: wanderant.com

Overcome your fear of height by hiking and zip-lining through the Dong Hua Sao National Park. You will get a full aerial view of the charming Bolaven Plateau. In addition to the beautiful lush jungle are waterfalls and swinging between treetops on a 400m zip-line will give you a new interesting perspective of the national park. If flying over the trees is not enough, you can sleep in one of the treehouses equipped with comfortable en suite bedrooms.

Trek National Parks             

Photo Credit: namet.org

Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park Protected Area (NPA) is one of the national parks in Laos that offers ecotourism attractions called the wildlife conservation trekking tours. It is an exclusive opportunity to witness and learn about important wildlife habitats. Tourists can join in tracking wild species like wild cats, wild dog (dhole), and bears. You can also experience an exciting night safari, where you can join former village hunters in looking for wild and endangered animals and identify medicinal plants. While you’re in the national park, challenge yourself to hike the Phou Louey Mountain.

If you have extra time, be sure to take the 2 – 5 days’ tour. You will sleep in a unique ‘Nest’ homestay where you will feel one with nature. It’s a spherical basket suspended in the tree. …