Responsible Travel in Laos: Muang Ngoi Culture Trek

This morning, we depart from Luang Prabang and drive to Nong Khiaw - a beautiful rustic little town on the bank of the Ou River. Along the way, there are lush forests and beautiful mountains. You could see some villages which are located near the road. We will arrive Nong Khiaw around 11:00 in the morning. Have your lunch in Nong Khiaw.

Then we will board a local longtail boat to Muang Ngoi where we spend the first night in a local guesthouse. It takes nearly an hour, cruising slowly between the white limestone rocks of the mountains that border the river right and left. On the way, you could see lush green subtropical forests, water buffaloes and pigs lazing and grazing on the sandy riverbanks. Villagers, children and fishermen are waving at you.

After the breakfast, we leave Muang Ngoi and begin 2 hour trek through the rice field and beautiful landscapes to Ban Houay Sens village. On the way, we will stop to explore Tham Kang, Tham Gang and Tham Pha Keo Caves, which are located about 30 minutes from Muang Ngoi. These caves were used as bomb shelters during Vietnam - America war. They are several kilometers in length with waterfalls and rock formations. After that, we continues for 1.5 hours of trekking through fields and towering limestone cliffs before arriving at Ban Houay Sens.

Have your local picnic lunch and take a short break at rest house in Ban Houay Sens village. We will then begin trekking uphill to Ban Kew Khan village on a two-hour climb through primary forest with great mountain views. Ban Kew Khan is the village of Khmu ethnic people. Here, you can watch baskets being made, take photos of the traditional Khmu homes, and bathe in the natural spring. Dinner will be provided by local people. Taste best dishes of Khmu cuisine.

This morning, we will take three to four hours of trekking to Ban Hadsapeuy which is located on the bank of Ou River. From Ban Kew Khan, we will trek through the forest and fields, mostly uphill, and leads to a panoramic landscape surrounded by karst mountains and valleys. Our guide will give you information about plants and animals of the area. We head to a stream and spent a hour of walking along the river before emerging to hike a small group of hills to Ban Hadsapeuy.

On arrival Ban Hadsapeuy, take a break with refreshments including fresh coconut, have lunch whilst enjoying the limestone karst scenery. Free at leisure. Stroll through village, watch the daily life of villagers, chat with them.

After breakfast, we will board a local longtail boat for a stunning 30-minute trip down the river to Muang Ngoy. On arrival Muang Ngoy, take a short break before taking another boat to Nong Khiaw and van back to Luang Prabang. On arrival Luang Prabang, you could join our other Laos Tours or be transferred to Luang Prabang International Airport for your onward flight.

*** Note: Kayaking back to town can also be arranged.