Sam Yawt 4-Day JOURNEY
3 nights - 3 ethnic groups
Operated by: Luang Namtha Guide Service Luang Namtha District, Luang Namtha Province
Supported by the LNTA-ADB Mekong Tourism Development Project
Description
This four-day trek passes through the rich natural and cultural landscape of Sam Yawt Mountain (3 Peak Mountain). Visit three different ethnic groups along the way, staying with Hmong, Khamu and Lanten people in traditional remote villages. Enjoy local foods and hospitality. Explore forests, learn about local uses of forest products, enjoy fantastic views of Luang Namtha valley and surrounding mountain, and learn about traditional agricultural systems with the help of trained local guides. Partake in daily activities with villagers and learn about traditional handicraft production. This trek can also be shortened to a 3-day/2-night trek for those with less time.
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Luang Namtha by tuk-tuk with provincial, English-speaking guide(s). Arrive at the multi-ethnic village of Ban Kok Mee (Sila, Pu Noi, Hmong, Khamu & other ethnic groups) where we meet out village-based guide. Hike through rubber tree plantations, mountain fields and community forests to the tops of Sam Yawt Mountain (Three Peaked Mountain) taking in fantastic views along the way. Stay overnight in Old Sam Yawt Village (Hmong Ethnic Group) and enjoy the tranquility of this secluded spot.
Day 2
Journey deep into the thick jungle and dense forests of Sam Yawt Mountain . Enjoy a picnic in the woods hosted by our Hmong village guides. Descend into the fertile valley and rice fields of Nam Talan Village (Khamu and Lanten ethnic groups). Stay overnight in traditional Khamu accommodation and savor the flavors of Khamu cooking and earthen jar rice wine.
Day 3
Follow the mountain trail under cool, shaded forest canopy. Picnic with Khamu & Lantaen villagers. Arrive at Nam Khon village (Lanten ethnic group) in the early afternoon, where we make our final overnight stay. Learn about one of Luang Namtha's most unique and little known ethnic groups, the Lanten.
Day 4
Start the day by partaking in daily chores of the village (collecting forest products, feeding livestock, pounding rice). After sharing our final meal with the village, we return to Luang Namtha at the southern base of Sam Yawt Mountain .
Booking
Accommodation & Food
- Lodges with one common room.
- Common bathroom facilities available. Public bathing (women need a sarong)
- Local Lao cuisine. Typical meal includes chicken, soup, sticky rice, vegetables and chili.
- Vegetarian food is available upon request.
Level of Difficulty & Safety
Difficult: Uphill climbs and the length of the trek make this trail challenging. Trekkers must be in good physical shape and should be able to hike five hours per day.
What to Bring
2-3 changes of clothes, sandals for village, good shoes for hiking, sandals and sarong for bathing (required for women), mosquito repellent, flashlight, sunscreen/hat, camera, money to purchase handicrafts. Please wear long pants and shirt with sleeves during the trek.
Includes
Local meals, water, accommodation, transport to/from Luang Namtha, local guide(s) & English speaking guides and permit fees.
Group size
Group size is a minimum of four guests and a maximum of eight guests. For groups smaller than four, please contact the Guide Service Unit.
