Top 7 Most Beautiful National Parks in Laos

Laos possesses an exceptional natural wealth that has been carefully protected by unwavering efforts made by the local authorities through the establishment of national parks. From northern to southern Laos, you will be able to find these natural sanctuaries, where fauna, flora, and majestic landscapes abound, and make your trip to Laos a wonderful immersion in nature.

This article will show you the 7 most beautiful Laotian national parks worth discovering on your trip to Laos.

1. Nam Ha National Park 

Nam Ha National Protected Area is located in a province of north-western Laos called Luang Namtha, close to Yunnan Province of China. Classified as an ASEAN Heritage Site, this vast protected area is a veritable playground for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This Laotian national park is characterized by its mountains whose altitudes range from around 500 meters to 2094 meters, and by its series of rivers, including Nam Tha River, the first major tributary of the Mekong River after entering Laos. An extraordinary setting of primary forests and dense jungles can be explored on foot, by bike, or by kayak. A multi-day trekking journey with overnight stays in remote villages such as Lanten, Hmong, Khmu, and Akkha promises to give travelers unforgettable travel experiences. 

2. Nam Xam National Park

Located in north-eastern Laos, Nam Xan National Biodiversity Conservation Area is known as home to a large number of Asian elephants living in their natural habitat. Nam Xam National Park is a wilderness of dense forests, limestone terraces, deep valleys, and winding rivers. Moreover, the area is renowned for its karst landscapes, featuring numerous caves that once served as a refuge for Laotian soldiers from American bombardments. Additionally, this sublime natural setting is home to exceptional wildlife species, many of which are rare or endemic.

3. Nam Et Phou Louey National Park

Nam Et Phou Louey National Park is situated between Nam Xam and Nam Ha National Parks and consists of mountains and hills at altitudes ranging from 336 to 2257 meters. Owing to its high level of biodiversity, Nam Et Phou Louey National Park is appreciated by many natural lovers. This natural sanctuary is a habitat of numerous endangered species, such as tiger, leopard, Asian golden cat, marbled cat, Sambar deer, gibbon, black bear, Asian elephant, and more. Night safaris by pirogue down a river allow you to observe this incredible wildlife.

4. Phou Khao Khouay National Park 

40 kilometers from the Laotian capital Vientiane, Phou Khao Khouay National Park boasts an ecosystem that shelters an incredible diversity of endangered animal species, including panthers, peacocks, and, above all, a herd of wild elephants. The park offers hiking opportunities for travelers who wish to unearth beautiful waterfalls and admire an impressive variety of wild orchids. A community-based ecotourism program will allow you to stay with local people and experience legendary Laotian hospitality.

5. Phou Hin Boun National Park 

With its spectacular karst landscapes, Phou Hin Boun National Biodiversity Conservation Area is one of the most striking attractions in Laos. This Laos national park is home to some rare and newly discovered species. Phou Hin Boun National Park is also known for its many caves, including the famous Kong Lor Cave, set in a sumptuous region and is regarded as a natural jewel of Laos. All the natural wonders of this incredible national park can be discovered on foot, by bike, or by kayak. A magnificent 2 to 3-day loop from Thakhek allows you to discover this fantastic area.

>> Read more: Top 10 must-visit destinations when travelling to Laos

6. Hin Namno National Park

Neighboring Phou Hin Boun National Park, Hin Namno National Park also boasts awe-inspiring karst landscapes. This untamed, remote territory was crossed by the famous Ho Chi Minh Trail during the Vietnam War. Hin Namno has been recognized as a site of global importance for biodiversity conservation due to the variety of habitats and forest types provided by the landscape’s geomorphology, which supports a diverse range of animals and plants, including many globally threatened species. The park is also known for housing the most beautiful cave in Laos: the Tham Khoun Xe Cave.

7. Xe Pian National Park

Situated in southern Laos, the Xe Pian National Protected Area straddles Attapeu Province and Champassak Province. This magnificent wooded and hilly park is home to important wetlands and a wide variety of animal, bird, and fish species.  Xe Pian National Park shelters an abundance of rare fauna, including elephants, gaurs, sun bears, Asiatic black bears, and yellow-cheeked gibbons. Owing to its vast wetlands, the park offers unique bird-watching opportunities for giant ibis, cranes, turkey vultures, woolly-necked storks, and green peacocks.

TOLUNHA

Related articles:

>> When to go to Laos? Climate, seasons, and weather in Laos

>> 10 tips and advice for a successful trip to Laos