Lao Voices

Laos has one of the most pristine Ecologies in South East Asia. An estimated half of its woodlands consist of primary forest, in particular the topical rain forest. Unlike the vegetation in the bored climate of northern Europe and United States, tropical rain forest is composed of three vegetative layers.

The top layer is dominated by single-trucked, high reaching trees, so-called dipterocarps. The middle canopy consists of hardwood such as teak. Beneath, small trees, grasses and some time bamboo can be found.

In addition to fascinating vegetation, Laos plays host to a diverse animal kingdom. Several exotic mammals are endemic such as leopard cats, Javan mongoose, goat antelopes, rare species of gibbons and langue, Malayan sun bear, Asiatic black bear, gaur and others. The discovery of the Saola Ox, a breed of deer-antelope, in Vietnam a few years ago caused a sensation. This extremely rare animal inhabits the eastern border regions of Laos, too. And these remote areas probably still hide other unknown species. In the south of Laos, near Khong Island, in Champassack Province, Irrawaddy dolphins inhabit the Mekong River.

While many species of wildlife are shy and can rarely be seen, spectators will generally be able to the Mekong is lowest. Laos is also rich in resident migrating birds. One of the more notable ones is the rare Green Peafowl.

Tropical forests, home to many rare species of flora and fauna are found in comparative abundance throughout Laos. As a consequence, Laos offers great attractions to a growing number of eco-tourists. By establishing necessary facilities, Laos intends to position itself as a unique travel destination. It wants to avoid the negative impact on its environment which are a feature of traditional forms of tourism. In particular, Laos intends to preserve its typical culture and natural habitats. These measures shall help avert the imminent threats to nature in Laos such as shifting cultivation, chasing of rare animals, and widespread logging of primary forest.

A model for a resort operated in an ecologically friendly way is Tat Lo. Located in Saravane province on the banks of the Se Set river, it is constructed almost entirely from native materials using local techniques. Trekking and river rafting can be arranged in the area. Other regions such as Dong Hua Sao area in Champassack province are currently being surveyed with regard to their suitability for eco-tourism.

Most of the forests which are good for promoting sustainable soft adventure travel are still under the study. Below are a brief information about off the beaten tracks travel in Lao provinces.

Phongsaly: There have so far been no proper study made on its forests and rivers for Eco-travel. Travel by boat and on foot from village to village can be arranged to see its hill tribe people lives and landscape.

Luang Namtha: Namtha protected forest area contains dense forested land rich with wildlife such as guar, banteng, Asian wild dog, bear, gibbon and clouded leopard.

Bokeo: So far the most popular soft adventure trip is boating to Luang Prabang along Mekong river. Along the Mekong river there are villages and hills offering walking tours.

Oudomsay: Near Muang Say district there are fine waterfalls. Oudomsay offers hiking to hill tribe villages, forest covered hills, river boating, etc.

Sayabouri: This is the land of agriculture and timer extraction. In the north and west Sayabouri has un-discovered hills higher than 1000 meters with thick forests.

Luang Prabang: Already famous for boating, excursion to waterfalls, caves and hill tribe villages, Luang Prabang still have forested hills which need to be studied.

Huaphanh: Famous for the limestone mountains and caves which were homes to the Lao people’s revolution. Huaphanh offers travel to such historical places, hiking into its dense forests and visiting villages.

Xieng Khouang: Home to the three highest peaks in Laos, Xieng Khouang offer a great opportunity of outdoor travelling. It needs careful study and development for sustainable Eco-traveling such as camping, hiking, climbing, wildlife watching.

Vientiane province: Nam Ngum bio-diversity protected area surrounding the Nam Ngum Dam Lake has significant amount of flora and fauna. High mountain peaks and rich rain forest offer good hiking and camping.

Borikhamsay: Nam Thuen protected forest area to the south of Lak Xao district contains rich forests and wildlife. A very good place for jungle hiking.

Khammouane: Famous for its fine caves. Some are very deep and never been explored. Boating into the caves is one wonderful activity.

Champassack: Dong Hua Sao forest reserve areas is under survey for its development. This areas offer dense forest and animal life. There are remains of ancient Khmer stone temples there. Irrawaddy dolphins can be viewed in Mekong river near Khong island. River boating, excursion to waterfalls, etc. are popular.

Saravane: Tad Lo area offers trekking, river rafting and boating, elephant riding, etc. There are a few good guesthouses there. There are waterfalls, jungles to explore, etc. Other areas in the province are being developed.

Sekong and Attapeu provinces have rich rain forests which are mostly untouched. Careful development is necessary.