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Namtha Mountain Trail

Laos trek

Route: Chiang Rai - Luang Namtha - Luang Prabang

This exciting Laos trip 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 stay in an eco-guesthouse in Luang Namtha itself and wake up to the crowing cockerel early the next morning, feeling bright and refreshed.

Your Laos trip consists of 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 two, 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. Each of these treks take place in the Luang Namtha National Protected Area, an area with beautiful green countryside and pristine jungle. This Laos trip starts in Chiang Rai, Thailand and ends in Luang Prabang.

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Duration	4 days / 3 nights Starts Tuesdays and Fridays from Chiang Rai, Thailand - Finishes Luang Prabang	Accommodation	3 nights in a cosy guest house (see our photos). Comfort level 2/3 (see accommodation)
Price	£198 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

It's the first day of this Laos trip and this morning you'll 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 locally (around £1). 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 two passport sized photos with you for your visa.

Together with other adventure travellers, you’ll board the local bus for the drive to Luang Namtha. The 5-hour trip will fly by as you admire the breathtaking scenery. On arrival in Luang Namtha you’ll make your own way to your cosy guest house in town before this Laos trip really begins.

Day 2: Luang Namtha - Trekking

On day two of your Laos trip, you'll have some breakfast and then it's time to get ready for your trek through the Nam Ha P.A. (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 green rainforest just outside the village.

Halfway through this part of your Laos trip, you’ll stop off for a traditional Laotian lunch laid out on banana leaves. After this satisfying meal, your Laos trip continues as you trek 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. Your day will end back in Luang Namtha.

Day 3: Luang Namtha

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

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