Namtha Mountain Trail - Laos treks

This exciting Laos trekking module is probably one of the best ways to experience rural life in small villages of northern Laos first-hand. You will go on a Laos trek through the dense jungle, a pretty strenuous but rewarding hike. You’ll be staying in an eco-guesthouse in Luang Namtha itself. You’ll wake up to the crowing cockerel early the next morning, feeling bright and refreshed.

The 1 day Laos trek is quite a tough trek and is best suited for people who are reasonably fit and comfortable with trekking. You’ll walk for about 6 hours on Day 2, including a couple of steep climbs. The next day is up to you; go on another walk through the countryside or just relax and have a rest. All these Laos treks take place in the Luang Namtha National Protected Area, an area with beautiful green countryside and pristine jungle. This module starts in Chiang Rai, Thailand and ends in Luang Prabang.

Duration	4 days / 3 nights Starts Tuesdays and Fridays from Chiang Rai, Thailand - Finishes Luang Prabang	Accommodation	3 nights in a cosy guest house. Comfort level 2/3 (see accommodation)
Price	£246 per person - based on 2 people Minimum 2 people travelling	Includes	Transport, accommodation with breakfast, guide
Transport	Private car and public bus	Excludes	Other meals, visa costs

Day 1: Chiang Rai - Luang Namtha

This morning you will be picked up at your hotel in Chiang Rai and transferred to the border by private car. This is where your driver will drop you off and you'll make your own way across the border into Laos. The Mekong river forms the border between Thailand and Laos here, so you’ll step onto the ferry which will take you to Laos in just a couple of minutes. You'll pay for the ferry ticket (around £1) locally. At the border post on the other side of the river you’ll arrange your 30-day Laos visa (around $30) and with your freshly stamped passport, simply walk into Laos where you'll be greeted by our local representative. Remember to bring 2 passport sized photos with you for your visa.

Together with a couple of other adventure travellers you’ll board the local bus for the drive to Luang Namtha. The 5-hour trip will just fly by as you admire the breathtaking scenery; the lush green hilly countryside already giving you a taste of what’s in store on your Laos trek. On arrival in Luang Namtha you’ll make your own way to your cosy guest house in town.

Laos treks - The dirt road to the villages

Day 2: Luang Namtha - Trekking

After breakfast it’s time to get ready for your Laos trek through the Nam Ha PA (Protected Area), a nature reserve near Luang Namtha. UNESCO has been supporting the development of the Nam Ha Ecotourism Project for a number of years here. After a 40-minute transfer by săwngthăew (converted pickup truck taxi) you’ll arrive at an Akha village, home to the like-named traditional hill tribe with its own characteristic culture and appearance. The Akha are known for their colourful dress and great hospitality. You'll then begin your trek through the lush green rainforest just outside the village.

Halfway through your Laos trek you’ll stop off for a traditional Laotian lunch laid out on banana leaves. We thought the food was delicious! After this satisfying meal and a few more photos, the Laos treks continue through the dense jungle, over surging waterfalls, back to the Akha village. Just outside the village you’ll reach the highest point of the trek, where you can catch your breath gazing out across the beautiful green valley. You'll then be invited to have a refreshing drink with the head of the village. This will give you the opportunity to find out more about the daily lives of the people living in this remote area. Your day will end back in Luang Namtha.

Day 3: Luang Namtha

Today is a free day for you to do with as you please. There are several ways in which to explore the surrounding area of Luang Namtha; go on another walk in the Nam Ha PA or rent a mountain bike to cycle through the rice paddies. If you prefer heading out onto the water you can go on a boat trip or if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, go kayaking.

There are lots of interesting treks and trails in this area. It's also a great place to simply stroll along the main street until you start to leave civilisation behind! The local people have a lower grasp of English than those in the cities, but they're always friendly and willing to help as best they can.

Day 4: Luang Namtha - Luang Prabang

Today it’s an early start (around 7am) for your trip onwards to Luang Prabang. After breakfast you’ll be picked up for the transfer by local bus to the friendly town of Luang Prabang. This trip will take all day and the road is pretty bumpy, but the beautiful scenery and views across the hilly countryside more than make up for it.

This Laos treks module ends on arrival in Luang Prabang where you'll make your own way to your accommodation. You could continue your trip here with the module Experience Luang Prabang and explore the city’s colourful temples with its orange-robed monks and enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Laos Treks - Accommodation Pictures

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