Tha Kaek Trekking
One of the best places in Tha Kaek is Phou Hin Poun NPA -- a protected area that boasts of blue lagoons, breathtaking limestone peaks, interesting animals, and caves -- and it is best explored by joining the Tha Kaek Trek.
Although first-time travelers can access some caves along Route 12 independently, some would require tourists to join treks — this makes the journey more guided, and it allows tourists to slow down and enjoy the scenery more. Those who want to witness Tha Kaek’s beauty by foot can join a 2-day guided trek called “Discover Phou Hin Poun” — a trek that involves walking through limestone forests and rice paddies, exploring a cave, and swimming in pause-for-a-while pools while enjoying a sumptuous serving of Lao barbecue prepared by your guide. If you want to see the most idyllic sights, you have to get through some challenging roads and unsteady log bridges, but Phou Hin Poun’s panoramic beauty is worth all of that.
Location
Tha Kaek Trekking is a tour around Phou Hin Poun, Tha Kaek, Laos.
Opening Days and Hours
To join the treks, you can register at the Khammouane Tourism Centre which opens from 8:00 to 16:00 on weekdays. Centre is open daily during peak season.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Khammouane Tourism Centre offers tours at rates starting from LAK 1,700,000 (USD 204). This can be greatly reduced if you come in groups.
How to Get There
- From Vientiane, board a bus to Tha Kaek.
- From the bus station, hire a tuk-tuk to take you to the city centre.
- Proceed to Khammoune Tourism Center to avail of the transportation service included in the tour fee.
Suggested For
- Backpackers/solo travelers
- Couples
- Group of friends
- Families
Time to Spend
Allot two days for this tour.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
If you’re joining the trek during peak season, please know that it could be difficult to find accommodations. Best time to visit is during the months of May and August.
Activities
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Cave hopping
Food
Meals and drinks during the trek are already included in the tour package.
Nearby Attractions
- Route 12 caves
- Khun Kong Leng Lake
Stay
Tha Kaek Trekking includes an overnight stop in a nearby village where tourists get to stay inside modest homestays. Fees are already included in the trek’s package.