Background

Phou Khao Khouay National Biodiversity Conservation Area: A Lao Wilderness Escape

Discover Laos' natural beauty: Trekking, waterfalls, and wildlife await in Phou Khao Khouay National Park, a serene escape near Vientiane.

4.2

Escape the bustle of Vientiane at Phou Khao Khouay National Biodiversity Conservation Area, a sprawling protected area northeast of the capital. Explore lush jungles, misty pine forests, and cascading waterfalls, home to diverse wildlife and offering a tranquil retreat into nature's embrace.

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 March) for the most comfortable hiking weather and reduced risk of muddy trails.
  • Hire a local guide for treks to increase your chances of spotting wildlife and to avoid getting lost on the trails.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty of Tad Leuk Waterfall.
  • Consider a guided tour from Vientiane for convenient transportation and organized activities.
  • Entrance fee is 5,000 LAK (approximately $0.60 USD).
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Vientiane, a taxi is a direct but more expensive option. Expect a 3-hour 17-minute journey. Taxis can be found throughout the city or booked through apps like LOCA. A one-way trip will cost approximately $70-90 USD.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach Phou Khao Khouay via public transport from Vientiane, head to the Eastern Bus Station (Talat Sao Bus Station). Take a bus to Pak Kading; the ride costs around 30,000 LAK (approximately $3 USD) and takes 1.5 to 2 hours. From Pak Kading, hire a tuk-tuk to the park entrance (about 15 km); the fare should be around 50,000 LAK (approximately $5 USD).

Unlock the Best of Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

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

Phou Khao Khouay National Biodiversity Conservation Area, meaning 'Buffalo Horn Mountain', is a sprawling wilderness located approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Vientiane. Established in 1993, the park covers over 2,000 square kilometers across Vientiane and Bolikhamxay provinces. It's a landscape of lush jungles, cool misty pine forests, rivers, waterfalls, and sandstone mountains, offering a refreshing escape from the city. The park's diverse ecosystems host a variety of wildlife, including threatened species like tigers, elephants, and gibbons, though sightings can be rare. Trekking or overnight stays with licensed guides may increase your chances of spotting wildlife. Birdwatchers will find paradise here, with hundreds of species recorded. Key attractions include the Tad Leuk and Tad Xay waterfalls, best visited during or after the monsoon season. Tad Leuk is a popular spot for swimming and picnics, while both offer scenic beauty. The Nam Ngum River and Ang Nam Leuk reservoir offer opportunities for kayaking and boat trips. While some infrastructure is in disrepair, the park's wild beauty remains, offering hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and a chance to experience the tranquility of nature.

Popular Experiences near Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

Popular Hotels near Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

Select Currency