Bolaven Plateau: Wandering Off the Beaten Path

In southern Laos, the Bolaven Plateau is a captivating region known for its coffee plantations and stunning waterfalls. Each part of this enigmatic plateau holds ancient tales, showcasing the wonders of nature.

Exploring this loop is a genuine adventure. Every turn reveals a new facet of this pristine land, where local culture intertwines with natural beauty. Follow our exploration in this article to uncover this hidden corner of Laos.
 

Written by Oliver PHUNG (Local expert)Updated on 05-08-2024

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1. Where is the Bolaven Plateau Laos?

The Bolaven Plateau, located at the foot of the ancient Champassak volcano near the borders of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, sits between 1,000 and 1,300 meters above sea level. This elevation provides a cool climate, and numerous streams in the area have formed around ten impressive waterfalls.

Renowned for its Robusta coffee, tea, teak, and rubber plantations, the Bolaven Plateau is the agricultural heart of Laos. Its spectacular waterfalls cascade down dramatic cliffs, offering a breathtaking sight. Beyond its natural beauty, the plateau is rich in local traditions and warm hospitality, providing an authentic cultural experience.

Away from the tourist crowds, the Bolaven Plateau is ideal for nature lovers and adventurers. Its blend of tranquility and local charm makes it a must-visit destination in Laos for 2024.

2. Best Time To Visit Bolaven Plateau

To make the most of this natural paradise, choosing the right time to visit the Bolaven Plateau is crucial. November to February offers ideal conditions with dry weather and pleasant temperatures. Here are three seasons to consider:

• Rainy Season (May - October)

During the rainy season in the Bolaven Plateau, Laos, everything flourishes. The rice terraces glow a dazzling green, the waterfalls gain momentum, and the vegetation becomes even denser. However, regular rains can make the roads slippery and sometimes difficult to access for certain excursions. It is advisable to check conditions before traveling to the area.

• Cool Season/Winter (November - February)

The Bolaven Plateau in Laos presents golden landscapes and pleasant temperatures. This is an excellent time to explore coffee plantations and enjoy ideal conditions for outdoor activities, with generally clear and sunny skies.

• Warm Season/Spring (March - April)

The Plateau des Bolovens is adorned with colorful flowers, creating a fresh and lively atmosphere. With pleasant temperatures, it is the perfect time to explore nature and enjoy the flourishing beauty of the plateau.

3. How To Get There?

Your trip to the Bolaven Plateau will be hassle-free with these diverse and convenient transportation options:

• By Plane

Flying is the fastest way to reach the Bolaven Plateau. Pakse International Airport is just 3 km from Pakse city center. A one-hour flight from Vientiane costs around 2 million kips (about 120 USD), though domestic flights in Laos can be expensive.

• Private Car with Driver or Taxi

The drive from Pakse to the Bolaven Plateau is approximately 40 to 50 kilometers and typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.

• Intercity Buses

Buses connect Pakse to various destinations in Laos. The journey from Vientiane to Pakse takes 10 to 12 hours, with an additional 1 to 2 hours to reach the Bolaven Plateau. Overnight buses depart around 8 p.m. and arrive in Pakse by 8 a.m., costing about 400,000 kips (around 20 USD).

• Local Transportation

On the Bolaven Plateau, you can get around using local transport options like tuk-tuks, motorbikes (scooter), or bicycles for short trips between points of interest, villages, and coffee plantations.

>>> Read More: Everything You Need to Know About Laos Train

4. What To Do & What To See In The Region?

4.1 The largest coffee region in Laos

The Bolaven Plateau, an ancient volcanic area, has fertile soil formed by basalt flows and pyroclastic debris. With its altitude of over 1,000 to 1,3500 meters and its abundance of water, it provides a perfect setting for coffee growing. Started in the 1920s by French colonists, coffee production has expanded to occupy nearly half of the plateau's surface, becoming a major agricultural activity and the main source of income for many Laotians.

Current operations focus mainly on Robusta, while also including Arabica and the Catimor variety. Nevertheless, there is even a chance to sample one of the world’s most expensive coffees, Kopi Luwak, which is made from coffee beans eaten, digested, and defecated by the luwak, the Asian palm civet. The coffee beans are washed and processed from the luwak’s feces. Westerners often refer to it as “Asian Civet Cat Poop Coffee”. At around $35 to $100 a cup, Kopi Luwak is considered the most expensive coffee on the planet.

In addition to coffee, this key agricultural region of the country is home to tea, rubber, and teak plantations.

4.2 Impressive waterfalls

The Bolovens Plateau boasts some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Laos:

• Tad Fane: Located in the north of Dong Hua Sao National Park, Tad Fane consists of two rivers plunging from a height of 120 meters, making it the highest waterfall in Laos. It's accessible by a half-day hike, and an observation point opposite the falls enhances the visit.
• Tad Yuang: A series of multi-level waterfalls situated 3 km from Tad Fane Falls.
• Tadlo: Comprising three waterfalls—Tad Hang, Tad Lo, and Tad Suong—located in Tad Lo village. You can explore these falls on foot, by bike, or even on the back of an elephant, with the added opportunity to visit ethnic villages.
• Pha Suam: This horseshoe-shaped waterfall remains active even during the dry season.
• Tad Tayi Csua: Less frequented by tourists due to its more challenging access

>>>GOOD TO KNOW: Tad Fan owes its name to a doe which threw itself from the top of the precipice in order to escape the hunters.

4.3 Ethnic minority villages

The Bolaven Plateau is a Laotian region renowned for its cultural diversity. It is home to several Mon-Khmer ethnic groups, including the Ta Oi, K-Lac, Ngai, Katu, and Alak. These communities proudly preserve their traditions, wearing traditional clothing and honoring animist beliefs.

The best way to experience their culture is to stay in their stilt houses or take a walk through the villages to meet them. Villages to visit include Tadlo (inhabited by the Katu people), Houayhe (specialized in blacksmithing, populated by the Alak), Ban Laongam (Alak weavers), Kokphoung and Pông-Tai (home to the Ta Oi and K-Lac), as well as Nyon Khet and Niay (occupied by the Suay).

>>>GOOD TO KNOW: As you travel through the region, you'll encounter small villages where the locals are generally very friendly and welcoming, not yet accustomed to seeing many tourists. A smile and a "sabaide" (hello) are always appreciated. The villagers, especially the children, are as curious about you as you are about them. However, avoid giving money to children who beg, as this can encourage more begging. Instead, playing with them is much more rewarding and fun for everyone.

4.4 Hiking

This green plateau, set at a high altitude, is perfect for hiking amidst lush nature and offers exceptional encounters with various ethnic groups. Its spectacular waterfalls and stunning landscapes, featuring diverse plantations stretching as far as the eye can see, make it a unique destination.

5. Bolaven Plateau Loop (Bolaven Loop)

The "Bolovens Plateau Loop" is a popular motorbike route that passes by the main waterfalls and features well-maintained roads. At over 1,000 meters above sea level, the plateau offers pleasantly cool temperatures and lush, green landscapes, making for an unforgettable ride.

• Where can you rent a motorbike?

Miss Noy's Motorbike Shop is a trustworthy choice, offering semi-automatic rentals for around 100,000 kips per day. Daily briefings at 6 p.m. provide essential information for the Bolavens Plateau loop.

Another great option is Sabaidee 2 Guesthouse, which provides free maps and route binders. The manager is very knowledgeable about less-traveled paths. 

For a quick trip, you can complete the "Small Loop" in 1 to 2 days. However, to truly discover the plateau, plan at least four days for the "Grande Boucle." Here's a detailed 4-day itinerary to explore this amazing destination.

>>>Practical advice: Driving the Bolaven Loop

• Minimum Duration: 2 days for the small loop or 3-4 days for the big loop.
• Costs: About 70,000 kip ($6) per day for scooter rental. Basic accommodation ranges from 100,000 kip to 250,000 kip per night.
• Distance: 320 km (198 miles) for the big loop, 199 km for the small loop.
• Difficulty: Easy, as most roads are paved and flat.

>>> ✈️ Experience our 3-week itinerary Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand now!! ✈️

• 4-Day Bolavens Plateau loop itinerary

Day 1: PAKSÉ - TAD CHAMPEE - TAD LO

• Route 16 to Tad Champee (38 km): Explore the jungle and a traditional village.
• Tad Lo (17 km): Taste Laotian coffee at Mr. Vieng Coffee + Homestay and visit Wat Pa temple.

Day 2: TAD LO - SEKONG - ATTAPEU

• Ban Tateng: Learn about local agricultural methods and crafts.
• Sekong: Stroll around the big market.
• Attapeu: Enjoy a sunset with a Lao beer by the river.

Day 3: ATTAPEU - PAKSONG

• Ban Lak 51 village: Explore and take a detour to Tad Katamtok (km 18) for scenic views.
• Tad Tayiksua: Take photos and hike to other viewpoints.
• Paksong (50 km): Arrive and relax.

Day 4: PAKSONG - TAD FANE - PAKSÉ

• Paksong Market: Have breakfast and interact with the locals.
• Tad Fane Waterfall (10 km): Visit the waterfall.
• Return to Paksé (30 km): Conclude your journey.

>>>Practical advice: 

• Opt for a semi-automatic scooter to better control the tracks leading to the stunts, rather than a new and expensive model.
• Confirm your motorcycle reservation 1 or 2 days before departure and test it the day before.
• Get an international license to drive safely on the Bolovens Plateau.
• Stock up on cash in Pakse as there are no other ATMs for four days.

6. What Nearby Places Can Enrich Your Visit?

• Region of the 4000 islands

Just a few hours from the Bolaven Plateau lies Si Phan Don, nicknamed the region of 4,000 islands, a captivating archipelago on the Mekong River. Relaxing by the river, exploring authentic local life, and admiring the landscapes of this unspoiled island paradise will make your trip a pleasant one.

>>>>>To better understand this place, we invite you to consult this article: Crossing the 4000 Islands

• Wat Phou

Step back into the past at Wat Phou, a sacred UNESCO World Heritage Site apart from 31 km away. Explore ancient temples and mysterious sculptures, and immerse yourself in the history of this fascinating civilization.

>>>>Also read: The most extraordinary temples in Laos in 2024

• Paksé

Pakse, often the gateway to the Bolaven Plateau, is also worth a visit. This city blends modernity with Laotian tradition, offering lively markets and a glimpse into its French colonial heritage.

>>> For more information, we invite you to consult this article: How Much Does a Trip to Laos Cost?

Our last words.

The Bolaven Plateau is more than just a destination; it's an invitation to explore, where the extraordinary becomes the norm. Every moment here turns into a cherished memory. Join us on an unforgettable expedition to the Bolaven Plateau, Laos, where adventure and authenticity converge amidst natural wonders.

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