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Phou Khao Khouay: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Discover Laos' natural beauty at Phou Khao Khouay National Park: hiking, wildlife, and stunning waterfalls await just outside Vientiane.

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Escape the city bustle at Phou Khao Khouay National Park, a sprawling protected area northeast of Vientiane. Explore lush forests, dramatic mountains, and diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife, including rare orchids and various animal species.

A brief summary to Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

  • C279+4J3, Vientiane, LA

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best hiking conditions and fewer mosquitoes.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
  • Pack insect repellent and sunscreen to protect yourself from the elements.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Vientiane, head to the Eastern Bus Station (Talat Sao Bus Station). Take a bus heading to Pak Kading; the ride costs approximately 30,000 LAK (USD 3) and takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival in Pak Kading, hire a tuk-tuk to the park entrance, roughly 15 km away, for about 50,000 LAK (USD 5).

  • Shared Taxi

    Alternatively, take a shared taxi (songthaew) from Vientiane to Nam Leuk. Go to the main taxi stand in Vientiane and look for a taxi heading south; the fare is around 50,000 LAK (USD 5) per person. From Nam Leuk, a tuk-tuk to the park entrance costs about 30,000 LAK (USD 3).

  • Car

    If driving from Vientiane, take Route 13 south towards Pak Kading. Continue for about 60 km until you reach Nam Leuk. Look for the Phou Khao Khouay National Park sign. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours. Parking may be limited near the entrance.

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Discover more about Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

Phou Khao Khouay National Biodiversity Conservation Area, redesignated as a National Park in 2021, offers a refreshing escape into Laos' natural beauty. Located approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Vientiane, this pristine wilderness spans over 2,000 square kilometers across Vientiane and Bolikhamxay provinces. The park's name, meaning 'Buffalo Horn Mountain,' hints at its dramatic landscape, featuring a mix of dense jungles, cool pine forests, sandstone cliffs, and river gorges. The park is a haven for biodiversity, boasting evergreen and mixed deciduous forests, along with dry dipterocarp and pine forests. Keep an eye out for white-cheeked gibbons, various langurs, and over 200 bird species. While sightings are rare, the park is also home to elephants, tigers, and bears. The diverse flora includes a stunning array of orchids, with roughly 500 of the 800 species identified in Laos found within the park. Explore the park's natural wonders by hiking to Tad Leuk and Tad Xay waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the clear pools. Several trails wind through the park, offering scenic views of the Nam Ngum River and opportunities for wildlife spotting. For a more immersive experience, consider an overnight stay in Ban Hatkhai village, where you can learn about local culture and traditions. Remember to visit during the dry season (November to March) for the best hiking conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities.

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