COFFEE, CAVES & JUNGLE SPIRITS Bolaven 2 Days 1 Night

COFFEE, CAVES & JUNGLE SPIRITS Bolaven 2 Days 1 Night

The Bolaven Plateau is a vast highland rising east of Pakse to an altitude of 1000-1350 meters above sea level. Created by a gigantic extinct volcano, its cooler climate, abundant rainfall and fertile soil inspired the French colonialists in the early 20th century to introduce large scale cash crop farming like coffee, tea, rubber and tobacco to the local tribes, namely the Laven (Bo-Laven =Home of the Laven), Alak, Katu, Ta-oy and Suay. Numerous rivers cutting deep into the hard volcanic bedrock have created a wide variety of waterfalls, some of them easily accessible by road. Being famous for the production of world class coffee, it has recently become a sought after tourist destination with spectacular options. Our experienced drivers and guides are all registered and certified our contract partners for accommodation are all 3 star rated and well established.

Itinerary

Day 1: Bolaven-Touch the sky Waterfalls, Tribal village

Stop At: Tad E Tu Waterfall, Km 35, Pakse 01000 Laos
Arriving at the height of the Bolaven the first waterfall en route is Tad E-tu. Situated in a small valley it falls about 35 meters into a rocky canyon. A narrow stairway leads to the bottom of it, where a large and easy to get to pool invites for a refreshing bath. To respect local custom, wearing of appropriate swim wear is mandatory.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Tad Fane, Route E16, Paksong Laos
After a short drive the twin falls of Tad Fane are reached. With a height of 120 meters they are the tallest in Laos. The spacious wooden platform at the edge of the cliff presents a clear, unobstructed view onto the falls, only during rainy season they are almost permanently obscured by mist. The most exciting perspectives of this natural wonder are seen from the daring zipline traversing the canyon. To avoid long waiting times it is recommended to make a reservation at least one day in advance. Zipline is optional , we will make the reservation for you.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Tad Yuang Waterfalls, Pakse Laos
Just a short drive away we arrive at Tad Yuang. There are great views of the 40 meter tall fall from the top, side and bottom. A Lao style lunch will be served at the restaurant overlooking the stream, near the thundering sound of water plummeting into the deep. For the fit and adventurous a steep and slippery stairway winds down to the pool at the foot of the waterfall, giving the opportunity to have an invigorating swim or a contemplative chill-out beneath the ever present spray.
12.45 – 13.20 hrs
Having concluded lunch at Tad Yuang the tour proceeds back to the main road a stop at the Lak 40 Café to enjoy homegrown organic coffee, tea, cocoa or fruit shakes. Amidst plants and trees indigenous to Bolaven this charming place holds a coffee and tea processing facility open for interested visitors. A lush garden welcomes you to walk around to learn about permaculture. A wide selection of organic products is also available there.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Paksong, Paksong, Champasak Province
Passing through the small town of Paksong we will reach within 30 min. Ban Kok Phung Tai , a village populated by members of the Katou people. This animistic tribe believes in the spiritual mind and soul as well as spirits adhering to or inhabiting all things and beings. Their lives are ruled by strictly followed customs and traditions, that have been handed down for many generations. The women are known for their colorful intricate cotton weavings, while the men are skillful wood carvers. They all share a passion of smoking homegrown tobacco mixed with herbs from large bamboo bongs. Admission fee is included with the price.
Duration: 45 minutes

Stop At: Tad Lo, Tad Lo, Salavan Province
We conclude the tour for this day and arrive at the cataracts of Tad Lo, another well preserved natural site with the possibility for a relaxing walk through dense indigenous forest . Below the fall is one more chance to have an energizing bath or watch local fishermen at work.
Check-in at Tad Lo lodge
Relax time
18.30 hrs
Dinner at Tad Lo lodge with view to the waterfall and mesmerizing jungle sounds.

Duration: 16 hours

Meals included:
• Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at 3 star rated Tad Lo lodge near the Tad Lo waterfall.

Day 2: Bolaven - Touch the sky Soft trek to tribal village, Cave and plantation trek and coffee presentation.

Stop At: Tad Lo, Tad Lo, Salavan Province
After breakfast you go on a guided one hour easy trek exploring the beautiful surroundings of Tad Lo. Walking past rice paddies , small streams and cash crop farmland, with an impressive jungle covered mountain as a backdrop, Ban Khiong Tadsonung is soon reached, a community of the Ngae, Soay and Ta-oy tribes. Animistic like the Katou they have a strict code of conduct. The price for the local guide is included.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Salavan, Salavan, Salavan Province
Scenic drive to Salavan province to visit the only recently opened Phouphasouk National park to explore the limestone wonders of the Phouphansouk cave. With good lighting and well maintained secure trails it is awaiting to reveal its hidden beauty to the curious tourist. Inside the cave is comparetively high humidity and the trail is often wet and at times slippery. Extra caution and suitable footwear are advised here. Afterwards you can enjoy a delicious picnic in a beautiful spot. Admission and picnic included.
Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: Bolaven Plateau, Laos
Returning to Champasak province our final stop of that tour is called Katou Coffee, a tribal village becoming famous for its organic coffee production and Katou style cotton weaving. Entrepreneur and local guide Mr. Vieng happily shares his profound knowledge about Bolaven coffee from seed to cup (30 minutes guided tour). This tribe is known for having carved their coffins before they actually die and keep them underneath their houses. There is a wide variety of excellent coffee products and textile handicrafts for sale.
Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
• Breakfast: Continental breakfast at Tad Lo lodge, Lao style lunch picnic at Phoupansouk cave included
No accommodation included on this day.