The Bolaven Plateau was formed by an ancient volcano in Southern Laos and is one of the most scenic spots in the region, full of beautiful landscapes made up of forests, rivers and waterfalls. 

At an altitude of over 1,000 metres the scenery is very different than that experienced through the bulk of the country and even in the hottest time of the year, March and April, rarely rise above 27°Celsius.

Superb trekking trails

One of the prime draws is Tad Fan Waterfall whose twin streams dramatically cascades into a 200 metre deep gorge.

Beyond the waterfalls stretches the extensive jungle of Dong Hua Sao, one of the Laos’ National Biodiversity Conservation Areas and home to some superb and accessible trekking trails. Although you’re very unlikely to spot any tigers, you’re more likely to see monkeys, gigantic butterflies and birds such as the great hornbills.

Visit the Mon-Khmer ethnic groups

You will also have chance to visit a number of the Mon-Khmer ethnic groups who still call these hills their home. The most prominent are the Laven (Bolaven means ‘home of the Laven’) and others include the Alak and Katu who arrange their palm-and-thatch houses in a circle to create distinctive villages.

Sample the best coffee

Also popular is a visit to one the numerous coffee plantations that were introduced by the French and now produce the country’s best coffee.

The Bolaven Plateau is a great inclusion on any tour of Southern Laos, offering visitors a beautifully contrasting view of the country.

Easily accessed from Pakse it’s a good starting point before continuing south to Champasak and Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands) on the Mekong River.