Bolaven Plateau Tour, What To Do In Champasak? - Laos Full Day Trip Review

The Bolaven Plateau in Champasak, Laos is a stunning place that stays vivid in my memory, even a month after the Bolaven Plateau tour. All I got on my trip to this plateau was freedom, a feeling of closeness to nature, and rare moments of peace. The Bolaven Plateau fulfilled my dreams of exploring Laos, offering everything I desired. So, I want to share this experience with you. If you're considering a journey to Laos and want to know what to do in Champasak for an amazing trip, this article might spark some inspiration!

Last month, my friend and I took a memorable trip to Laos, a country which is famous for its ancient temples and breathtaking waterfalls. Usually preferring solo travels, but this time, I decided to try a tour from a travel agency, Autour Asia, recommended by a friend. Their professionalism and thoughtful arrangements throughout the journey pleasantly surprised me, allowing us to explore without feeling rushed. 

Immersing myself in nature, I dedicated a day to exploring the Bolaven Plateau, located an hour's drive east of Pakse in southern Laos. The Bolaven Plateau has an altitude of 1000 m to 1300 m above sea level, offering a wealth of experiences. For this destination, what things to do and what things to see? Join me as I take you through the enchanting journey and discoveries I went through in a single day at the Bolaven Plateau, Champasak!

Our Bolaven Plateau tour started at 7 am, the weather that day was perfect for a day of exploring and conquering nature.  Here's a the places we visited, perfect for those planning their upcoming trips:

When exploring Laos, the unmissable gem is Champsak waterfall. Mother Nature has graced this southern highland region with clear, untamed, and captivating waterfalls that are unparalleled. Despite having seen numerous waterfalls, those in Champasak left me pleasantly surprised. In Laotian, 'tad' signifies waterfall, and in Southern Laos, the most picturesque 'tads' are mostly found in the Bolaven Plateau. The first waterfall we had the opportunity to admire was Tad Fane waterfall. This waterfall originates from two rivers Champi and Pak Koot, they meet at a 120 meter high cliff and fall into a single lake.  Standing before this natural wonder, I felt humbled by its sheer magnificence. For a truly memorable trip, engage in adventurous activities and unwind with a cup of coffee on suspended tables and chairs, all while admiring the breathtaking Tad Fane waterfall!

Our next destination on the Bolaven Plateau was Tad Yuang Waterfall. Surprisingly, despite its modest height of 40 meters, this waterfall left the most lasting impression on me! We had the chance to view the falls up close from observation decks positioned at various levels, accessed by following paths and descending steps. When visiting during the rainy season, the trails can get slippery, so wearing sturdy shoes is essential.  In the dry season, taking a dip in the refreshing waters is an excellent idea. Beyond the stunning scenery, Tad Yuang offers a glimpse into Lao culture through its cuisine and the traditional customs of the local ethnic communities. This waterfall will be a suggested place for the question "what to do in Champasak?" that I want to recommend to you!

After exploring Tad Fane Waterfall and Tad Yuang Waterfall, we visited a tea and coffee plantation in the Bolaven Plateau. This area is known for its perfect climate and rich soil, ideal for growing tea and coffee. During this tour of the plantation I had the privilege of witnessing the intricate process of coffee bean production right from the harvest. Moreover, I had the delight of savoring a cup of freshly brewed local coffee. A special thing about this tea/coffee plantation tour is that you will have the opportunity to try one of the most expensive types of coffee in the world - Kopi Luwak which is cultivated from coffee cherries consumed by civet cats and then passed through their digestive tract, eventually being excreted. Despite its hefty price tag, ranging between 35 to 100 USD per cup, Kopi Luwak remains a highly esteemed and sought-after delicacy.

To me, travel is more than just visiting famous spots; it's about understanding different cultures and  having the experiences that stay with us long after the trip ends. A perfect trip will be complete if you can admire the beautiful scenery, enjoy delicious food, meet warm people and learn about the culture of the place you visit.

Interestingly, "Bolaven" translates to the "land of Laven," the largest ethnic group in Southern Laos. Our Bolaven Plateau tour led us along roads flanked by ethnic villages.  This village gave me a peaceful feeling of a daily life with lovely children. Stopping at Alak village, we met local people and learned more about the culture of this village. The Alak people  hold strong faith in their deities. Annually, they commemorate guardian gods with buffalo sacrifices and vibrant festivals to show their respect for the spirits who protected their villages and helped their crops.

Our final stop on our exploration of the Bolaven Plateau in Champasak was Tad Lo Waterfall. As the afternoon settled in, the charm and enigmatic allure of Champasak Waterfall unfolded. We relished the serene waters, taking a refreshing swim to unwind after a day filled with exploration.

By around 5 pm, our Bolaven Plateau tour finished. Despite the slight fatigue from the day's journey, every moment proved its worth. The stunning waterfalls and the warm hospitality of the locals created memories to cherish. And that's all I want to share with you.  If you're also wondering "what to do in Champasak?", let's embrace the adventure, pack your backpack, and conquer the Bolaven Plateau!

Here are some essential tips I picked up during my exploration of the Bolaven Plateau:

• Be prepared for challenging terrains, especially on forest paths and around waterfalls. Knee pads can be handy.

• Always apply sunscreen to protect your skin.

• During the rainy season, pack a raincoat and insect repellent.

• Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for easier navigation.

• You should ask for permission before taking photos in ethnic villages.

• …

To end my sharing, I want to thank Autour Asia. You guys were really professional in organizing the Bolaven Plateau tour, the experiences on this trip made me feel really satisfied! This trip is like a medicine to heal my soul, it helps me connect with nature and people. If I have the chance, I will definitely come back here one day!