Boat Landing, Luang Namtha

The Boat Landing is a simple eco-lodge built on sound principles regarding sustainable and community-based tourism. Simple wooden lodges are spread throughout carefully kept gardens on a small plot of riverside land outside Luang Namtha town. The  10 rooms are comfortable and cosy, with electricity and solar-powered hot water. The lodge has an open plan restaurant serving traditional Laos and, in particular, Luang Namtha cuisine.

Working with specialist local operators, The Boat Landing is a great base for exploring this fascinating and diverse region. The staff here will help plan your days based on your interests and the best options available at that particular time.

Luang Namtha province is one of Laos most remote and inaccessible areas. The province is home to tribes and peoples from 39 different ethnic groups. The province borders China to the north and Myanmar to the west, whose influences can be strongly felt. During the secret war with the United States of America, the CIA infiltrated the area, using it as a base to spread resistance ideology and training whilst exporting Opium. Formerly one of the Opium production centres of the world, the tribes are now adapting to different ways of life whilst protecting their ancient customs.

The journey can be taxing though beautiful, with windy roads traversing the spectacular mountainous landscape that cross throughout Laos. Intrepid travellers will be rewarded with stunning scenery and an insight into the most ethnically diverse region in Laos. The region faces many challenges and visitors will gain an insight into the people and issues they face.

Many trekking excursions are possible, from a day's hike to a more intense three days/two-night expedition camping out in tribal villages. Contact us for more information on available options. We can pre-book trekking tours for you or leave you free to plan your time on arrival. The Boat Landing works closely with local projects that ensure hill-tribe treks and village visits are organised in a responsible fashion, and ensure tangible, trickle-down benefits to the impoverished communities involved. Other activities include rafting, kayaking, cycling, walking and boat trips.

If pressed for time, or you have the morning or afternoon free, head into town where you can hire a bicycle or moped and explore the surrounding area including waterfalls and some secluded views over the rice paddies. In the evening, if you fancy getting out of the hotel for the evening, there is a fantastic night market in town serving some local treats amongst a great atmosphere - just ask the hotel to sort you out with a tuk-tuk.

Be sure to pack some bug repellent, as the hotel lies just beside a slow-moving river and the mosquitoes are hungry, however despite this a visit to Luang Namtha province will be an unforgettable and enlightening journey, giving you a glimpse of little-known cultures that have changed only slightly in hundreds of years.