Bolaven Plateau & The Loop, Southern Laos

The Bolaven Plateau, just east of Pakse, is one of the most beautiful regions in southern Laos — a land of waterfalls, coffee plantations, and cool highland air. It’s perfect for travelers who love nature, local life, and scenic road trips. The famous Bolaven Loop connects small villages, hidden cascades, and family-run coffee farms — easy to explore by motorbike, car, or local driver. With DCS Travel, take the slow road — connect with people, taste fresh coffee, and discover Laos at its calmest.

Why go there

The Bolaven Plateau rises between 800 and 1,200 meters above sea level, offering cooler weather and spectacular landscapes. It’s home to several ethnic groups, including the Laven, Alak, and Ta Oy peoples, known for their handicrafts and hospitality. Highlights include dramatic waterfalls, mountain coffee estates, and rural villages surrounded by green forests. It’s one of the best regions in Laos for slow, independent travel and authentic encounters.

How to get there

From Pakse: The loop begins and ends in Pakse — it’s the main base for organizing motorbike or car rentals.
By air: Fly to Pakse International Airport (PKZ) from Vientiane, Luang Prabang, or Bangkok.
By road: Regular buses and minivans connect Pakse with Champasak (45 min), Savannakhet (4–5 h), or Ubon Ratchathani in Thailand (3 h).
If you don’t want to drive, DCS companions or local guides can arrange a car with driver for a safe, flexible itinerary.

Where to stay

Many travelers stop overnight in small towns along the loop — each offers a different mood and landscape.

In Pakse (before or after the loop)

High: Le Jardin Hotel — Quiet boutique, pool & gardens.
High: Champasak Grand Hotel — Large riverside hotel, city views, central.
Medium: Nakhone Champa Hotel — Modern comfort, central location.
Medium: Pakse Hotel & Restaurant — Classic address with rooftop views.
Budget: Nicolas Homestay — The best place for information and maps of Pakse and the Bolaven Loop.

Tad Lo Village (north loop)

Medium: Fandee Island — Laid-back eco spot on the river, great vibe.
Budget: Mama Pap’s Guesthouse — Simple, warm, and welcoming.

Paksong (coffee region)

High: Sabaidee Valley (pool) — 10 min drive from Tad Fane Waterfall, beautiful spacious villas with balconies and views of nature.
High: Tad Fane Resort — Iconic viewpoint over twin waterfalls.
Medium: Hug Bolaven Homestay & Camping — Beautiful natural environment.
Budget: Simple guesthouses in Paksong town — No-frills, convenient for riders.

💡 Budget homestays and eco-lodges are also available in Laven villages for a cultural overnight stay.

Where to eat & drink

Jhai Coffee House: Ethical coffee project supporting village communities.
Tad Gneuang Green View Restaurant: Great stop for lunch with a waterfall view.
Tad Lo Village Cafés: Simple Lao dishes and banana pancakes by the river.
Dok Mai Lao Trattoria: Western food option near Pakse.

☕ Try a local Lao coffee with condensed milk — strong, sweet, and full of flavor.

What to do

Waterfalls

Tad Fane: Two twin cascades plunging over 100 m into a deep gorge — iconic view of the plateau.
Tad Yuang: Easier to access, with swimming area and viewpoint.
Tad Lo: Charming series of smaller falls surrounded by homestays and local life.
Tad Champe & Tad Katamtok: Quieter and ideal for nature lovers.

Coffee & Villages

Visit family-run coffee farms in Paksong and learn about the roasting process.
Buy organic Arabica directly from local cooperatives.
Stop in ethnic minority villages to see weaving and traditional houses.

The Bolaven Loop

Small loop: 1–2 days — Tad Fane, Tad Yuang, Tad Lo.
Big loop: 3–4 days — includes Paksong, Sekong, and Salavan — more remote and authentic.

Roads are mostly paved; avoid night driving. Ideal for travelers who enjoy freedom, nature, and slow exploration.

Practical tips

Weather: Cooler than the lowlands; bring a jacket, especially at night.
Cash: Bring enough from Pakse — ATMs are rare outside towns.
Driving: Check motorbike condition, lights, and brakes; always wear a helmet.
Respect: Ask before photographing people or homes in villages.
Safety: Avoid swimming near strong waterfall currents.

Travel with DCS

Travel solo, never alone. DCS Travel helps you plan your Bolaven Loop safely — with local contacts, ethical lodges, and real experiences in Laos’ coffee country.