Itinerary:
Day 1: Thakhek – Buddha Cave – Tham Nang Aen – Thalang Village (140 km)
Theme: Sacred Sites & Hidden Paths
We kick off the journey from Thakhek and quickly veer off the main highway onto dusty village backroads. The limestone karst landscape rises dramatically as we ride toward Tham Pha Fa – the Buddha Cave, home to over 200 sacred Buddha statues hidden for centuries and only rediscovered in 2004.
After a spiritual pause, we continue to Tham Nang Aen, one of the largest illuminated caves in Laos. This spectacular cave system features a mix of walkways and underground rivers.
In the afternoon, we cruise through local villages and scenic farmlands, occasionally tackling gravel paths and muddy curves that offer a true offroad experience. Arrive at Thalang Village, nestled beside a manmade lake with submerged ghost trees—remnants of the old forest flooded by the Nam Theun Dam.
Cultural highlight: Chat with villagers about relocation stories due to the hydroelectric project and enjoy traditional fish cooked over charcoal fires.
🛌 Accommodation: Lakeside bungalow in Thalang
🍽️ Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Thalang – Lak Sao – Ban Nahin – Kong Lor Village (160 km)
Theme: Rural Life & Jungle Trails
Today is a mix of rough riding and cultural immersion. We continue deeper into Laos’ heartland via lesser-used dirt roads that pass through quiet ethnic villages and forested hills. The terrain becomes more adventurous: rocky patches, winding tracks, and occasional river crossings.
Our route takes us to Lak Sao, a small border town with a market full of goods from Vietnam and a melting pot of cultures. After a local lunch, we steer toward Ban Nahin, a friendly village where rice fields stretch to the horizon.
By late afternoon, we reach Kong Lor Village, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. This is our base for exploring the famous cave tomorrow.
Cultural highlight: Participate in a Baci ceremony (if available), or join a local dinner and rice wine tasting.
🛌 Accommodation: Homestay or guesthouse in Kong Lor
🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Explore Kong Lor Cave – Ride Back to Thakhek (180 km)
Theme: Underground Wonder & The Return Ride
After breakfast, we hop on a long-tail boat to Kong Lor Cave, a stunning 7.5-kilometer underground river passage through the mountain. Guided by headlamps and local boatmen, you’ll glide through vast caverns, cathedral-like chambers, and eerie echoes.
Back on land, we begin the return ride to Thakhek. The journey features a mix of paved roads and back routes, offering glimpses of buffalo herders, schoolchildren waving from bamboo houses, and lush jungle on both sides.
We roll into Thakhek by late afternoon, completing the full loop — filled with cultural memories, adrenaline-packed rides, and Laotian hospitality.
🛌 Accommodation: Not included
🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
* Inclusions:
– Professional English Speaking Guide
– Dirt Bike – Honda CRF250
– Basic riding gears of helmets, elbow + knee pads & gloves
– Accommodation as described in the itinerary
– Meal (s) as described in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
– Gasoline
– Entrance fee as described in the itinerary
– Tax, service charge and permits
– Boat trips if any
– Bottled water & snacks
– Instant Coffee or Soft drinks at stopovers
– Government’s taxes
