5-Day Akha Village Immersion with Minivan Transport

• JOIN-IN TOUR requires a minimum of 2 people.

• PRIVATE TOUR has no minimum—solo travelers are welcome!

The Akha Village PROJECT

The “Akha Village Experience Project” is a co-operation between Tiger Trail Outdoor Adventures, the UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime), the PADF (Phongsali Alternative Development Fund), and Lao PDR government and tourism offices. The project was established in December, 2009, with the goal of generating alternative income for former Opium-growing communities through sustainable volunteer-tourism. Through those activities the project is a pioneer idea/example for further initiatives to follow. Your support and contribution will make a difference!

The Akha Village PROGRAM

Your stay at the village will give you the rare opportunity to be a visitor with a purpose as you will partake in day-to-day activities and immerse yourself in ethnic Akha community life. During the day, you will be busy supporting villagers within their work on the fields and at home; the latter may include collecting forest products, carrying water, planting rice, harvesting rice and vegetables, feeding chicken, and completing housing chores like preparing daily food supplies, cooking or looking after kids, teaching English while learning Lao and Akha language.

You may also learn some traditional ethnic handicrafts like weaving or basket making. Every trip is unique and depends on the specific needs and circumstances.

A local, experienced guide/interpreter will be with you throughout your stay to facilitate communication and interaction and to provide support at any time.

Accommodation and Food

You will be sleeping at a Family Home or at the simple, but beautiful “Akha Nature Lodge” with amazing views over the lush surrounding mountains. At night you will be eating traditional Akha meals prepared in local fashion. A small personal bathroom was established to guarantee basic hygiene needs. The equipment, mattresses, blankets and others are 100% natural and hand made in another project target village helping to preserve the culture of weaving and embroidery.

Location of the project

The village is based near Muang Khua in Phongsali Province, the northernmost, remotest and poorest region in Laos. You will live in an Akha ethnic minority village, a quiet, peaceful hillside location, accessible only on foot on two to three hours following scenic walking trails through stunning landscapes.

Experience an authentic village stay and trekking adventure in Northern Laos. Travel from Luang Prabang to Muang Khua, then trek to Honglerk village, where you'll immerse yourself in local life—helping with farming, cooking, and handicrafts. Hike back to Muang Khua before returning to Luang Prabang. This all-inclusive itinerary covers meals, transport, guides, and community contributions, ensuring a meaningful and immersive experience.

This is a sample itinerary. Every trip is unique.

• Day 1 Transfer from Luang Prabang by local public bus to a guest house in Muang Khua.

• Day 2 Transfer to trekking point, then 3-4 hour trek to Honglerk village. Introduction to the village and your hosts.

• Day 3 Participate in daily life in the village (field work, cooking, handicraft ) depending on availability.

• Day 4 Hike to the road (3-4 hours), transfer to Muang Khua. Overnight in Muang Khua.

• Day 5 Transfer from Muang Khua to Luang Prabang by public (or private minivan).

This sample itinerary of 5 days includes all meals, public transfers, guides, local fees, taxes and community donations, local village guides and activity charges.

• Comfortable clothes and shoes

• Lightweight and breathable clothing: T-shirts, shorts, and summer wear for warm days.

• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers: For temple visits or protection from insects during treks.

• Outerwear: A lightweight jacket for cooler evenings in mountainous areas.

• Comfortable footwear: Hiking shoes for treks, trekking sandals, and flip-flops for casual use.

• Daypack: A small backpack (15-20L) for daily activities and treks.

• Rain gear: Poncho or waterproof jacket (especially if traveling during the rainy season).

• Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against strong sunlight.

• Mosquito repellent: Essential for village stays and outdoor activities.

• Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.).

• Quick-dry towel and swimsuit for bathing or waterfalls.

• Tissues and toilet paper (may not be readily available in remote areas).

• Chargers and a power bank (some villages may have limited electricity).

• Head torch or flashlight with extra batteries for nighttime activities.

• Please be in the hotel lobby at least 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. In case of any unforeseen delays along the pickup route, we appreciate your patience and understanding.

• Accessibility: Our trips are generally unsuitable for people with reduced mobility and other disabilities. Please contact us to discuss if this trip is suitable for your specific requirements.

• If your group has more than 10 people, please send us an inquiry through this WhatsApp number>> +856 20 59 533 720

• French-speaking tour guide, Spanish-speaking tour guide, German-speaking tour guide, and Italian-speaking tour guide are available upon request with additional costs.

Child Policy

• Children below 5 years old: Free of charge
• Children between 5 - 10 years old: 50% charge from adult price
• Children's rates are available upon request, as it depends on the number of adults.

Cancellation Policy

• 7 - 30 days prior to the arrival date: 50% Charge
• 1 - 6 days prior to the arrival date: 100% Charge
• No show, and cancellations on the arrival date: 100% Charge

Refund Policy

• Kindly be advised that only tour/activity fees are refundable; Bank fees cannot be refunded under any circumstances.

• If you have questions or encounter problems with the tour, please contact WhatsApp/Tel: +856 20 59 533 720