Types of Tourism in Laos

EXCURSIONS.

The most popular places to visit in Laos are Vientiane, its capital; Luang Prabang, the ancient capital; Phonsavan with its Valley of Jars; temple of Pu Champassak near Pakse; Luang Namtha province, where mountains, tropical forests with rich flora and fauna and traditional settlements of local people are combined.

ECOTOURISM.

In Laos some of the most ancient ecosystems in Southeast Asia have been preserved that have not been affected by humans. It has been estimated that approximately half of all forests in the country are primary. In addition to the variety of forest vegetation, the country is home to a large number of animals. Leopard, tiger, Javanese mongoose, antelope, Malayan sun bear, Asian black bear, gibbon – this is not a complete list of representatives of the fauna of Laos. In the south of Laos, in the Mekong Delta, there is Don Khon Island, making an excursion to the southern part of which from December to May, you can admire freshwater dolphins. Laos is also home to many native and migratory birds. Check top-medical-schools.org for travel information in Laos.

In Luang Namtha province forests are protected by the state. Banteng, Asian wild dog, gibbon, spotted leopard are found here. In Bokeo Province, the most popular route is the Mekong boat trip to Laung Prabang. There are many villages and picturesque hills along the river where you can hike. There are several waterfalls in the province of Oudomsay. Also here you can see the hills covered with dense forests, visit the villages of mountain tribes, and go boating.

Luang Prabang is a province famous for river tours, waterfalls, caves, hill tribe villages. The provinces of Huaphanh and Khammouane are also known for caves. AT Xieng Khouang are the highest mountain peaks of Laos. The Nam Ngum Biodiversity Conservation Area has been established in the province of Vientiane. On its territory is the lake Nam Ngum Dam, formed as a result of the construction of a hydroelectric power station. Freshwater dolphins can be seen in Champassack province in the Mekong Delta. Waterfall tours and Mekong boat tours are also popular here.

The Phu Xieng Thong Conservation Area has been established in Salavan Province. It occupies an area of about 1000 km ² where a large number of wild animals are protected.

CAVES.

Midway between Vientiane and Vang Vieng is located in Luang Prabang – a paradise for speleologists and just lovers of wandering through the caves. Tham Chang Cave is located 2 km from the city center and is often reached by bicycle. The cave offers a view of the city and the surrounding rice fields. It is well lit and below it are several natural pools.

To the north of Vang Vieng is the Tham Phapouae cave. It is very long and very narrow in places.

South of the city, on the opposite bank of the river, is Tham Poukham Cave, which can be reached both by bike and on foot. Inside the cave is a statue of a sleeping Buddha.

Tham Xang Cave or Elephant Cave is located 12 km north of the city near the village of Tham Xang. It got its name from the stalactite in the shape of an elephant’s head. Inside there are many statues of the Buddha, the imprint of his foot, as well as a small natural pool in which you can swim.

RAFTING. There are many

places for rafting in Laos. One of the most popular routes runs along the Mekong. In the Vientiane area, you can also go rafting on the Nam Lik and Nam Ngum rivers.

To the north of the capital is the Nam Song River. It flows through a picturesque area with karst caves and vast rice fields.

In the Luang Namtha area is the Nam Na River, along the banks of which you can see small picturesque villages and the Nam Na natural area protected by the state.

The most spectacular is rafting on the Nam Fa River, where numerous rapids meet and you can also admire the impressive flora and fauna of the country. The journey starts in Vieng Phoukha and lasts 4 days.

TUBING.

Tubing or rafting on a rubber ring is common in many areas of Laos, but it is most impressive in Vang Vieng where you can admire the karst caves along the way. The ring is launched a few kilometers upstream and you sail on it to the city. The current of the river is not strong, but constant. Along the way, you can make stops for outdoor recreation or in a cafe. If you are going to visit bars along the way, then the trip should start as early as possible. It should be remembered that in summer the flow of the river is very weak and part of the path may have to be covered on foot.

Of the active types of recreation in Laos, trekking and mountain biking are common. Some of the best areas for trekking are the Bolaven Plateau and Luang Namtha Province. Bicycles can be rented almost everywhere.