Two-day Trek
Xe Pian National Protected Area
Champassak Province, Lao PDR
During this two-day trek you will explore Xe Pian National Protected Area’s diverse forests with knowledgeable village guides, who will teach you about its many medicinal plants and non-timber forest products and point out signs of wildlife (tracks, scat and habitat). Ride canoes (water levels permitting) on the first day up the Ta’ Euang River from Palai Bok village to Nong Ping village, viewing a variety of colorful birds, bamboo forests and—if you are lucky—monkeys, too. In the evening, stay overnight in an ethnic Lavae village, Ban Ta Ong, and enjoy traditional hospitality and local food in this remote and
natural setting. On the second day, rise early before sunrise and take a walk to a nearby forest with local guides to listen to sounds of birds, squirrels and possibly hear the song-like calls of the endangered yellow-cheeked crested gibbon (weather permitting). Return by foot through thick jungle, stopping along the way for a relaxing forest picnic.
| This trek is designed to support indigenous cultures and nature
conservation by generating income for both local communities
and the national protected area. |
This trek involves approximately three to five hours of moderate walking per day. Although the trail is mostly flat with only a few short climbs, it can be difficult as the jungle is thick and wild. It is recommended that trekkers be in good physical condition and be prepared for adventure. It is also advised that trekkers be prepared for walking through small streams and be extra careful on river crossings, which can be dangerous. This trek may not be possible during rainy months (June – September) due to poor access. Please check ahead for availability.
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Xe Pian National Protected Area is considered one of the most important protected areas in Laos due to its high biodiversity of globally significant wildlife and forest habitats. The area covers 2,400 square kilometers over Champasak and Attapeu Provinces and shares a border with Cambodia. Habitats include evergreen, mixed-evergreen, and deciduous forest types, as well as numerous seasonal wetlands which are fed by three main rivers – the Xe Pian, the Xe Khampho and the Xe Kong. Key species include: tiger, banteng, irrawaddy dolphin, Asian elephant, gaur, sun bear, Asiatic black bear, and yellow-checked crested gibbon. Xe Pian has the highest number of birds recorded for any protected area in Laos. Important species include the giant ibis, black ibis, sarus crane, white-winged duck and the white rumped, long billed and red headed vultures. Your village guides have a deep knowledge of the forest ecology and will interpret its amazing attractions for you.
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The Lavae ethnic group (also referred to as Brow) is part of the Mon-Khmer linguistic branch and is primarily located in the southern provinces of Laos and adjacent areas in northeastern Cambodia. The Lavae traditionally practice a religion of Animism and cult of spirits and ancestors, however Ban Ta Ong Village also incorporates Buddhism into their traditions. Traditional clothes of the Lavae are made from tree bark fiber (however, many now wear common cotton clothes). The Lavae are also great hunters, and Ban Ta Ong is well-known for its giant crossbow, which is said to shoot as far as 200 meters. According to village elders, Ban Ta Ong has been in its current location since the 1940’s, however the village has moved from location to location within the Xe Pian area for centuries.
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Please be prepared to walk through bushes and streams. It is recommended that you wear long pants and a shirt (dark colors preferable) that covers your shoulders. Carry your valuables in a plastic bag to protect them from water during the canoe ride. Bring one change of clothes, sandals for the village, good shoes for hiking, mosquito repellent, a flashlight (no electricity in the village), sunscreen and a hat (the sun is hot during the day). Women should bring a sarong for public bathing. Blankets, mosquito nets, food and boiled water are provided in the village.
In the afternoon on your way back from the trek, ask your guide to stop over in Ban Kiet Ngong for an elephant ride to Phou Asa Mountain (1.5 hrs). You can also extend your stay in Xe Pian NPA for an overnight at the Kiet Ngong village bungalows or at the more upscale privately owned eco-lodge.
This trek is very remote (approximately 80 km south of Pakse) and requires the assistance of a tour company or a certified guide. The trek can be booked through the Kingfisher Ecolodge or Green Discovery Laos. For more information visit the Visitor Information Centre in Pakse (+856-31-212 021) or the Visitor Information Centre in Champassak District (on the way to Vat Phou). To book a trip in advance contact a major tour company in Laos.
| This treks requires a certified guide and or an advance booking with a tour company. |
