Bolaven Plateau - Discovering Laos

Travelling to Bolaven Plateau

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bolaven Plateau, a pretty good destination in Laos (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bolaven Plateau and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bolaven Plateau, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Laos, here's everything to know about Bolaven Plateau for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau is a volcanic plateau located in the southern region of Laos. It is characterized by its cooler climate, lush forests, and numerous waterfalls. The plateau is home to several minority ethnic groups who practice traditional farming methods and produce coffee, tea, and other crops. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the area by hiking, visiting waterfalls and villages, and sampling locally grown coffee and tea. The most popular time to visit is from November to February when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is low.

What to visit in Bolaven Plateau

Here are some of the tourist attractions at Bolaven Plateau in Laos: 1. Tad Fane Waterfall: This is a double waterfall located within Dong Hua Sao National Park. The waterfall drops 120 meters and is a popular place for trekking and photography.
2. Tad Yuang Waterfall: Another beautiful waterfall at Bolaven Plateau, Tad Yuang is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a refreshing swimming experience.
3. Paksong Tea Plantation: This is one of the largest tea plantations in Laos, covering an area of over 300 hectares. Visitors can tour the plantation, learn about tea production and enjoy some freshly brewed tea.
4. Coffee Plantations: Bolaven Plateau is also famous for its coffee plantations, particularly Arabica coffee. Visitors can learn about the coffee-making process and try some of the delicious coffee blends.
5. Ethnic Villages: The plateau is home to a number of ethnic minority villages, including the Alak, Katu, and Ta Oi. Visitors can meet the locals, learn about their traditional customs and try the local food.
6. Pha Suam Waterfall: This breathtaking waterfall drops from a height of over 200 meters and is located near the border with Vietnam.
7. Dong Hua Sao Forest Reserve: This is one of the largest and most biodiverse forests in Laos, covering an area of over 1,200 square kilometers. Visitors can explore the forest, see a variety of wildlife and enjoy trekking.
8. Tad Lo Waterfall: This is a series of three waterfalls located in a picturesque valley. Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural scenery, swim in the pools and go on a guided trek.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions at Bolaven Plateau. Visitors can also explore the numerous temples, caves and historic sites scattered throughout the area. The plateau is a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking a glimpse into the traditional culture of Laos.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Laos, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bolaven Plateau.

When to go on holiday to Bolaven Plateau

The best time to visit Bolaven Plateau in Laos is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is mild and comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the plateau. The wet season, which runs from May to October, can bring heavy rain and make trekking difficult. However, if you are interested in seeing the waterfalls in full flow, then the wet season would be the best time to visit.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bolaven Plateau

Getting to Bolaven Plateau in Laos can be done by either renting a motorbike or hiring a car with a driver. The journey from Pakse to the Bolaven Plateau takes approximately 1 to 2 hours by road depending on traffic. Here are the options you can choose from: 1. Renting a Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike from Pakse and drive yourself up to the Bolaven Plateau. This will let you enjoy the beautiful scenery on your way up and allow you to stop at any scenic spots along the way. The cost of renting a motorbike ranges from $10 to $15 per day.
2. Hiring a Car with a Driver: Hiring a car with a driver is another option. The cost of hiring a car with a driver ranges from $50 to $70 per day depending on the type of car you choose. The driver will take you to all the popular tourist destinations on the Bolaven Plateau and you can spend as much time as you want at each location.
It is best to book your transportation in advance to avoid any hassles and to ensure that you find a good deal.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bolaven Plateau, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bolaven Plateau

Sure, here are some typical foods of Bolaven Plateau in Laos: 1. Khao Jee - A popular breakfast food which is a crispy and golden bread usually stuffed with eggs, pork, and vegetables.
2. Khao Soi - This is a savory noodle soup that is popular all over Laos. It uses a homemade chili paste mixed with coconut milk to create a rich and flavorful broth.
3. Laap - This is a traditional Laotian dish made with minced meat (usually chicken or beef), herbs, and spices. It's often served with sticky rice and eaten with your fingers.
4. Tam Mak Houng - Made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, chilies, garlic, and peanuts, this dish is a popular Laotian salad.
5. Sai Oua - A spicy pork sausage made with lemongrass, galangal, and other herbs. It's often grilled and served with sticky rice and chili sauce.
6. Ping Kai - A grilled chicken dish marinated in a mixture of spices, herbs, and fish sauce. It's often served with sticky rice and dipping sauce. 7. Nam Khao - This is a popular Laotian dish made from crispy rice balls mixed with minced pork, lime juice, chili, fish sauce, and other ingredients. Hope this helps! Let me know if you need any more information.
You can find general info about typical foods in Laos here.

Is Bolaven Plateau an expensive destination for tourists?

Overall, Bolaven Plateau in Laos is not considered an expensive destination for tourists. Accommodations, food, and activities in the area are relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations. However, keep in mind that transportation costs and entrance fees to some of the attractions may add up, especially if you are traveling independently. Also, prices may vary depending on the season and availability of services, so it's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to get the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau in Laos is best accessed from three main towns: Pakse, Tad Lo, and Paksong. Pakse, located at the base of the plateau, is the most convenient and common place to stay with a variety of accommodation options available. Tad Lo is a smaller town located in the middle of the plateau surrounded by waterfalls and coffee plantations, making it a popular spot to stay for travelers wanting to explore the natural beauty of the area. Paksong is located at the top of the plateau and has limited accommodation options, but it is a good place to stay if you want to explore the northern part of the plateau.
You can check hotel prices at Bolaven Plateau here:
Booking.com

Is Bolaven Plateau a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Bolaven Plateau in Laos is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, there may be some risks, such as petty theft or scams targeting tourists. It is always advisable to take the necessary precautions as you would while traveling to any other destination. As a general advice, it is always a good idea to keep your valuables safe, avoid walking alone in secluded areas, and be aware of your surroundings. Also, it is a good practice to travel with a reputable tour operator or a knowledgeable local guide.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Laos here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bolaven Plateau.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bolaven Plateau the most?

Bolaven Plateau in Laos is a great place for nature lovers, who enjoy trekking and exploring the outdoors. It is suitable for people of all ages, but particularly for those who appreciate hiking, scenic drives, and adventure activities such as ziplining and tubing. Families with older children who enjoy the outdoors and cultural experiences may also enjoy a trip to Bolaven Plateau. Couples and young people looking for nightlife and parties may not find much of that in this area, as it is more of a natural and cultural site than a party destination.

How to get around Bolaven Plateau

To move around the Bolaven Plateau in Laos, you can use various modes of transportation such as a motorcycle, bicycle, or car. Most tourists prefer to rent a motorcycle or car to explore the area as it provides more flexibility and the ability to stop at multiple locations. However, if you're an experienced cyclist, you can also rent a bicycle to explore the area. Keep in mind that the roads in the Bolaven Plateau can be narrow and winding, so it's essential to be cautious while driving or cycling.

What to see around Bolaven Plateau

Here are some suggestions for day trips from Bolaven Plateau in Laos: 1. Tad Fane Waterfall: This is a stunning two-tiered waterfall located about 12 kilometers from the Bolaven Plateau. The waterfall drops 120 meters into a deep gorge, making it a beautiful sight. Visitors can hike down to the bottom of the waterfall and enjoy the view.
2. Phou Asa Temple: This ancient Khmer temple is located about 40 kilometers from Bolaven Plateau. The temple is situated on top of a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests. Visitors can climb to the top of the temple and see the sunset.
3. Tad Lo Waterfall: This waterfall is located about 50 kilometers from Bolaven Plateau. The waterfall is smaller than Tad Fane, but the surrounding area is much more developed. There are several restaurants and guesthouses in the area, making it a great place to spend the day.
4. Paksong Tea Plantations: This area is located about 20 kilometers from Bolaven Plateau. It is famous for its tea plantations and visitors can see the tea leaves being harvested and processed. The surrounding area is also very beautiful, making it a great place for a day trip.
5. Kingfisher Ecolodge: This ecolodge is located about 25 kilometers from Bolaven Plateau. The lodge is situated on the banks of the Xe Pian River and offers visitors a chance to relax in a beautiful setting. There are also several hiking and biking trails in the area.
For every travel information about Laos you can click here.

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