The Bolaven Plateau, located in southern Laos between the Mekong River and Vietnam border, is a region of incredible beauty, boasting plunging waterfalls, lush greenery, coffee plantations, and a cooler climate. With an altitude of approximately 4,000 feet, this area of Champasak Province is well-known as Bolovens and Phu Phieng Bolaven, stretching into Salavan, Attapeu, and Sekong provinces.
In addition to its stunning scenery, the Bolaven Plateau also has the unfortunate distinction of being heavily bombed during the Second Indochina War. However, the fertile terrain, once discovered by French colonizers, is ideal for producing high-quality arabica and robusta strains of coffee.
How to get to Bolaven Plateau
Pakse serves as the gateway to the Bolaven Plateau, which is located just north and east of the town. The quickest way to reach Pakse is by air, as there is an international airport providing flights from Vientiane and other cities in Southeast Asia. For exploring the Plateau, the best option is to join a tour or rent a motorbike and explore independently.
Things to see and do in Bolaven Plateau
The Bolaven Plateau is an ideal destination for those looking for a walking adventure. Its numerous waterfalls, including the Tad Lo and Taat Fang, are highlights of the region. Visitors can also enjoy swimming and elephant trekking. The region is home to the Laven people, as well as the Alak, Katu, and Suay ethnic groups. Visiting their villages, learning about their culture and shopping at their markets are all excellent activities on Laos Private Tours.
Tat Fan Waterfall
Tat Fan is a stunning waterfall in Laos, admired by both foreign and local tourists. Its two cascades are an incredible sight, reaching heights of 100 to 120 metres. Unfortunately, you can only take in the majestic views from the Tat Fan Resort as the steep cliffs make it impossible to reach the natural pool at the bottom. Take in the breath-taking scenery while you hear birds chirping from the lush trees and green plants.
Tat Yuang Waterfall
Tat Yuang Waterfall is an awe-inspiring sight that attracts tourists from near and far, seeking respite from the bustle of the city. Take a plunge in the pool at its base – a refreshing experience on a sunny day! For the more adventurous, take a hike on the trail nearby and discover the beauty of this natural paradise.
Other waterfalls in Bolaven Plateau
The Bolaven Plateau is home to many stunning waterfalls, including the famous triple beauties of Tat Lo, Tat Hang, and Tat Soung. Some trekking is necessary to reach the falls, but it is an experience worth the effort. Tat Lo is a great spot to take a dip and cool off. Tad Champee, although small, is another beautiful waterfall where you can swim or go rafting. Tad E-Tu has a large viewing area with restaurants and Tayicseua is home to an incredible 15 waterfalls. A bit of walking and climbing is required to get to most of them. The largest waterfall of the Bolaven Plateau is Tat Katamtok – a must-see!
Tea and Coffee Plantation
At the Bolaven Plateau, visitors can explore tea and coffee farms, managed by locals, and sample a variety of teas and coffees. There’s even the opportunity to taste one of the world’s priciest coffees, Luwak, which is processed with the assistance of the civet cat. By allowing visitors to explore their plantations, the local farms can increase their sales and success.
Visit to Local Markets
The Bolaven Plateau offers an abundance of local markets, providing an opportunity for both locals and tourists to purchase a range of products. From fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and clothing, these markets are a great way to experience the culture of the region. Whether looking for a unique souvenir or stocking up on groceries, the markets are sure to provide an enjoyable experience.
Explore Traditional Ethnic Villages
The people of the Bolaven Plateau are renowned for their welcoming nature towards visitors; they are more than happy to introduce their culture and customs to all who come. Those seeking to gain insight into different cultures can explore the various ethnic villages throughout the area to get an authentic experience.
Enjoy a hike in the stunning scenery
Explore the stunning Bolaven Plateau in Laos with its many opportunities for hiking. While navigating the scenic surroundings, it is important to stay on clearly marked paths to avoid any risks of unexploded mines in some areas left over from the war. For a more guided experience, there are companies offering guide-led tours. Enjoy the unique atmosphere, natural beauty, and picturesque views while the local guide shares their knowledge of the area.
Travel to the Plateau withLaos Private Tour 18 Days
Experience ziplining tour
The Bolaven Plateau in Laos is a paradise for adventurers. With its lush jungles and stunning waterfalls, it’s no wonder that ziplining has become a popular activity for those seeking to explore the area.
Travelers to the Plateau will find a variety of ziplining experiences to choose from. With some locations featuring courses that are more than a mile long, there is sure to be something to fit every skill level. Some of the most popular places for ziplining at Bolaven Plateau is Tad Fan Waterfalls, Dong Hua Sao National Park…
For those looking for a more extreme experience, there are also courses featuring high-speed zip lines, complete with steep drops and tight turns. There are also ziplines that travel through the treetops, giving an entirely different perspective of the stunning views. Ziplines up to 400 meters – that’s like four football fields! – gave an incredible ride with breathtaking views of the jungle below. It will be an exhilarating and satisfying experience.
Spend a day visiting Wat Phu
The legacy of many ancient empires can still be seen in foreign lands, such as the temple of Wat Phu (or Vat Phu). Founded by the Khmer Empire, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on the border between Laos and Cambodia and is one of the oldest monuments in the region, pre-dating even the famous Angkor Wat. Visitors can explore the evocative ruins and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Discover the area on a motorcycle
Many travellers have a great time independently exploring the Bolaven Plateau by renting a scooter. Several towns in the area offer rentals at reasonable prices, and there are well-travelled roads between the major places of interest. Having your own transport makes it easier to access locations that may be difficult to get to without joining a tour. Experienced and confident riders can have a memorable experience by renting a scooter and spending a few days travelling around the plateau. Remember to always wear a helmet and suitable clothing, and have the necessary insurance before you ride.
The Bolaven Plateau in Laos is an incredible place to visit. From the stunning landscape to the fascinating culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for an adventure, a relaxing retreat, or a unique cultural experience, the Bolaven Plateau has something for everyone. With its lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant ethnic people, the Bolaven Plateau is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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