Itinerary:
Day 1: Thakhek – Tham Nang Aen – Cool Springs – Thalang
Distance: ~140 km | Ride time: 5 hours | Offroad: 40%
The roar of engines cuts through the morning calm as we roll out from Thakhek, the old colonial town perched on the Mekong’s edge. The karst landscape begins to rise like dragon spines across the horizon—this is limestone country, and it’s breathtaking.
Our dirt bikes wind through narrow country roads and then hit the open dirt tracks toward Tham Nang Aen Cave, one of the region’s most captivating caves with its eerie underground rivers and dramatic lighting. The cool air underground offers a welcome contrast to the tropical sun.
Midday brings a splash at the Cool Springs, a hidden gem of electric-blue waters that spring from deep limestone layers—perfect for a mid-ride dip.
We then tackle the rugged dirt roads toward Thalang, a route peppered with wooden bridges and water buffalo crossings. As the sun sets behind jagged peaks, we check into a peaceful guesthouse on the Nakai Plateau. Over a hearty dinner of sticky rice, grilled fish, and fiery jeow bong chili dip, riders exchange wide-eyed tales of their first day on Laos’ untamed loop.
🗓️ Day 2: Thalang – Flooded Forest – Kong Lor Village
Distance: ~180 km | Ride time: 6.5 hours | Offroad: 55% (approximate)
Today’s journey is a bold dive into Laos’ remote highlands. Leaving Thalang, we ride through the surreal flooded forest—a haunting landscape of drowned trees rising from still waters, remnants of a hydroelectric project that reshaped the region.
The road transforms into muddy trails and gravel single tracks, lined with elephant grass and banana trees. Dusty villages emerge where kids wave from doorways and locals sell sticky rice balls wrapped in banana leaves.
As we approach Kong Lor village, the mountains cradle the landscape like a protective mother. We arrive at one of Southeast Asia’s hidden treasures: Kong Lor Cave—a 7.5km boat ride through pitch darkness and cathedral-sized chambers, lit only by headlamps and wonder.
Tonight, we overnight in a rustic homestay. Beneath a blanket of stars, we share meals with our hosts—bamboo shoot soup, grilled pork, and tales of old Lao legends.
🗓️ Day 3: Kong Lor – Remote Villages – Laksao
Distance: ~160 km | Ride time: 6 hours | Offroad: 65% (approximate)
Today we take the road less traveled, quite literally. Our route hugs the edge of mountains, descending into lush valleys rarely touched by tourism. It’s a day of pure dirt biking—single trails zigzag through remote jungle passes and bamboo bridges challenge our balance.
Midday, we cross a shallow river on a bamboo raft—a traditional form of transport for locals that adds authenticity and thrill to our journey.
We stop in a remote village where traditional wooden stilt houses dot the landscape and time seems to slow. Here, riders may witness cotton weaving, join a local for a bowl of khao piak (noodle soup), or play a quick game of pétanque with the elders.
By evening, we reach Laksao, a frontier town tucked against the Annamite Mountains. We settle into a cozy guesthouse for rest, reflection, and perhaps a cold Beerlao or two.
🗓️ Day 4: Laksao – Nam Sanam Waterfall – Nahin
Distance: ~150 km | Ride time: 5.5 hours | Offroad: 50% (approximate)
This morning, the trail beckons with red clay tracks that snake through dense forests, past tea plantations, and over countless rolling hills. Muddy terrain challenges our pace, but each obstacle rewards us with untouched views and cool misty air.
We pause at Nam Sanam Waterfall, a local secret where clear waters cascade down ancient rock. A short trek brings us to the base—ideal for a swim and jungle lunch.
In the afternoon, we arrive at Nahin, a quiet village surrounded by limestone cliffs and traditional rice fields. Riders can visit a handicraft village nearby or unwind at the local hot springs.
Dinner is with a local family—Laap, sticky rice, and maybe even a taste of Lao Lao rice whiskey. This is Laos in its purest form.
🗓️ Day 5: Nahin – Tham Pha Fa – Thakhek
Distance: ~120 km | Ride time: 4 hours | Offroad: 35% (approximate)
The final day is no less spectacular. We ride westward, taking in the sights one last time—terraced fields, waving schoolchildren, and old French colonial outposts.
Before returning to Thakhek, we detour to Tham Pha Fa (Buddha Cave), a sacred site hidden inside limestone cliffs with over 200 ancient bronze Buddhas discovered in secret during the war.
The final stretch offers fast curves and open views of the Mekong. We roll back into Thakhek by early afternoon, hearts full and tires well-worn. Farewell beers at the Mekong riverside are bittersweet—we came for the ride, but we’re leaving with much more.
* 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
