Main Ethnic Groups: Chieng, Inthi, Kaseng, Katang, Kate, Katu, Kien Lavai, Laven, Nge,
Nyaheun, Oung, Salao, Suay, Tahang, Tahoy, and Lao
Ecotourism Attractions: Champassak Province has a variety of ecotourism attractions
and activities. The Xe Pian National Protected Area, considered the second the most
important area for biodiversity conservation in Laos, currently has half-day elephant
rides at Kiat Ngong village, which take you to an arachaeologic site, Pu Asa, perched
atop the mountain above the village. Kiat Ngong village guides also can be hired for
1/2-day walks through nearby forests for those interested in learning about medicinal
plants and forest products. You can stay overnight in Kiat Ngong at its community
operated bungalows, which overlook an expansive wetland that is excellent
for bird watching.
A new two-day trek is currently being developed in Xe Pian which is led by local guides through a variety of forests and landscapes with an overnight home stay in an ethnic Lave village. The trek includes a morning walk to an area with populations of Gibbons.
In the south of Champassak Province are the Four Thousand Islands, which is
considered by some the largest complex of waterfalls and rapids in the world. Rafting
and kayaking through this amazing stretch of Mekong waterfalls up to 14 km wide is
recommended for only those with intermediate to advanced skills. Also, not to be
missed,are the Irawaddy fresh water dolphins which can be seen from Don Kone island.
Vat Phou temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which predates Angkor Vat in
Cambodia, is one of Champassak’s main attractions. There is a new community-based
alternative for accommodation at the Vat Phou Consevation area: homestays can be
arragned on Don Daeng island located across the Mekong river from Vat Phou.
On Don Daeng, local guides can be hired for walks around the island, boat trips
and bird watching.
In northern Champassak Province is the Pu Xieng Thong National Protected Area,
which has a recently opened a one-day trek led by village guides. The trek covers some
of the major natural and cultural sites of Pu Khong Mountain (located inside the
protected area), which is best known for its diversity of orchid and mushrooms species.
Home stay is available in Mai Singsamphan Village, located at the base of the Pu Khong
Mountain. The Mekong river north of Pakse (capital of Champassak Province) has some
interestingcultural attractions, most notably silk weaving on Don Ko island, a former
French colonial administrative center. Home stay with local families is also
available on Don Ko Island.
In the northeastern part of Champassak Province is the Bolaven Plateu, rising over
1,500m above sea level and famous for producing some of the finest Arabica coffees
in the world. Beans can be purchased along the road from local villagers. The plateau
also has two very beautiful waterfalls, the Xe Katamtok and Tad Fane waterfalls.
The Tad Fane Resort, located at the edge of Dong Houa Sao National Protected Area,
has breathtaking views of the waterfall and can arrange one day treks around the
protected area and to nearby coffee plantations.
