Highlights:
Itinerary:
Depart your hotel at 7:30 am, and travel 1.5 hours in a southwest direction on ‘Route 13 South’. Leave behind bustling Vientiane city and be in the Lao countryside. On arrival at Ban Hatkhai village, disembark from your vehicle, stretch your legs, and be introduced to your friendly village guide. From this pretty rural setting, then, transfer by local vehicle to the start point of today’s trek at Phou Khao Khuay National Protected Area. Encompassing over 2000 sq km, this forested area is home to a diverse range of fauna, including elephants, gibbons, black bears and clouded leopard. Phou Khao Khuay is also home to a number of orchid varieties – you may be lucky enough to see some today. Disembark from your boat and commence a walk of 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on your level of fitness). Following a narrow track, your village guide will point out native flora used by local people for food and medicine. Finish your hike at Tad Xai waterfalls – 30 metres in height and a wonderful venue for a refreshing swim. Relax for a while, then picnic on the traditional Lao food prepared by local guide. After lunch, meet your vehicle and head the two hours back to Vientiane. To break the drive, stop at Wat Pha Baht Phonsan, and old temple famous as the site of a foot imprint left by Lord Buddha. Arrive back in Vientiane around 5:30 pm. Lunch is included.
