Bolikhamxay Province, located just south of Vientiane in central Laos, is a centre for ecotourism activities with its two national protected areas and extensive system of wetlands. The journey from Ban Khoun Kham to Lak Sao on Route 8 offers spectacular scenery of karst mountain landscapes and is considered to be one of the most impressive passages in the country.

Vat Phabath, located on the road between Vientiane and Paksan is an important pilgrimage site and sacred temple that houses a shrine containing a giant footprint of the Lord Buddha (phabath). It is believed that all travelers passing by the temple should stop and pay their respects to the spirits for a safe journey and strong health. 

Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area (NPA), which covers an area of 2,000 square kilometers in Bolikhamxay and Vientiane Province, has excellent evergreen, mixed deciduous and coniferous forests in addition to extensive fire-clima grasslands which support key species that include wild elephants, white-cheeked gibbons and green peafowl. A community managed elephant watching tower in Ban Na provides one of the best opportunities to view large wildlife in Laos. One can take nature walks with village guides through the park’s old growth forests and well-known waterfalls: Tad Leu, Tad Xay and Tad Xang. Self-guided walks are also available from the visitor center at Tad Leuk which has camping facilities and tents for rent.

Nam Kading NPA is abundant with wildlife due to a low population density and biologically diverse forest ecology. Elephant, gaur, giant muntjac, gibbon, the sooty babbler, rufous-throated fulvetta, river lapwing, wreathed and great hornbills and large otters are just some of the many species that inhabit the area. One of the country’s most extensive wetland systems is located southwest of Pakxan town and is known to have a very unique and abundant population of migratory birds. The wetlands can be reached by motorbike or truck via a number of dirt trails leaving town. Also of interest is the natural cool springs along the Nam Mang River, a pleasant site for swimming and enjoying a picnic.