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Eco-Tourism
Laos has one of the most pristine ecological system in south east Asia. An estimated half of its woodland consist of primary forests particularly the tropical rain forests.
In addition to these forests Laos is a host to the diverse animal kingdom. Several mammals such as leopard, cat, javan mongoose, goat-antelope, rare species of gibbon, Malayan sun bear, Asiatic black bear, guar and others. In the south of Laos, Irrawaddy Dolphins inhabit the Mekong river near Khong island in Champassack province. Laos is also rich in resident and migrant birds. One notable one if rare Green Peafowl.
Laos intends to position itself a unique travel destination for Eco-Tourism. Laos wants to avoid the negative impact on its environment by careless promotion of tourism into its forests.
Most of the forests which are good for promoting sustainable soft adventure travel are still under the study. Below are a brief information about off the beaten tracks travel in Lao provinces.
Phongsaly : There have so far been no proper study made on its forests and rivers for Eco-travel. Travel by boat and on foot from village to village can be arranged to see its hill tribe people lives and landscape.
Luang Namtha : Namtha protected forest area contains dense forested land rich with wildlife such as guar, banteng, Asian wild dog, bear, gibbon and clouded leopard.
Bokeo : So far the most popular soft adventure trip is boating to Luang Prabang along Mekong river. Along the Mekong river there are villages and hills offering walking tours.
Oudomsay : Near Muang Say district there are fine waterfalls. Oudomsay offers hiking to hill tribe villages, forest covered hills, river boating, etc.
Sayabouri : This is the land of agriculture and timer extraction. In the north and west Sayabouri has un-discovered hills higher than 1000 meters with thick forests.
Luang Prabang : Already famous for boating, excursion to waterfalls, caves and hill tribe villages, Luang Prbang still have forested hills which need to be studied.
Huaphanh : Famous for the limestone mountains and caves which were homes to the Lao people's revolution. Huaphanh offers travel to such historical places, hiking into its dense forests and visiting villages.
Xieng Khouang : Home to the three highest peaks in Laos, Xieng Khouang offer a great opportunity of outdoor travelling. It needs careful study and development for sustainable Eco-traveling such as camping, hiking, climbing, wildlife watching.
Vientiane province : Nam Ngum bio-diversity protected area surrounding the Nam Ngum Dam Lake has significant amount of flora and fauna. High mountain peaks and rich rain forest offer good hiking and camping.
Borikhamsay : Nam Thuen protected forest area to the south of Lak Xao district contains rich forests and wildlife. A very good place for jungle hiking.
Khammouane : Famous for its fine caves. Some are very deep and never been explored. Boating into the caves is one wonderful activity.
Champassack : Dong Hua Sao forest reserve areas is under survey for its development. This areas offer dense forest and animal life. There are remains of ancient Khmer stone temples there. Irrawaddy dolphins can be viewed in Mekong river near Khong island. River boating, excursion to waterfalls, etc. are popular.
Saravane : Tad Lo area offers trekking, river rafting and boating, elephant riding, etc. There are a few good guesthouses there. There are waterfalls, jungles to explore, etc. Other areas in the province are being developed.
Sekong and Attapeu provinces have rich rain forests which are mostly untouched. Careful development is necessary.
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