This trek is entirely within the Nam Ha National Protected Area, an ASEAN Heritage Site. The 3 day trek is entirely in the forest. This is a trip for those who want a true forest experience. The villagers of a Khmu village will host you at our first forest camp deep in the forest. At the second camp Akha villagers will be your hosts. The camps, built out of bamboo and wood by the villagers themselves, are places to immerse oneself in the beauty of the jungle. Along the way, local Khmu and Akha guides will explain the forest products used by villagers for food, medicine, materials and religious ceremonies. Rise early on the third day for the sunrise and go with an Akha bird caller to learn how the Akha can call the birds in.

Day 01: Khmu Camp

Depart Luang Namtha by songtaew driving north into the Nam Ha Protected Area. Meet our village hosts at Don Sai village. Hike along a forested stream into the mountains of Nam Ha National Protected Area, taking time to learn about plants and animals. The guides and villagers will show you how to collect wild herbs and vegetables for dinner. Cook over an open fire with Khmu hosts, then fall asleep to the sounds of the forest. If you want to go wildlife spotting at night this is the place to do it. Make sure you take along a good flashlight or head lamp to look for wildlife.

Day 02: Akha Camp

Wake up early to watch the sunrise from atop the mountains above camp and to see the jungle bird life. Explore nearby forests or help village cooks prepare a traditional Khmu breakfast. Depart on a moderate walk through the Nam Ha forest. The village guides will go ahead to prepare a picnic lunch for you in the forest. Arrive at Nammat Mai village (Akha ethnic group). Tour the village or just relax and enjoy the simplicity of Akha village life. Share a meal of fresh food with village hosts. Here you will have a chance to see how the jungle is reclaiming an old village site. This night will also have another opportunity to spot wildlife.

Day 03: Return to Luang Prabang

Get up early before breakfast to go to the hunting grounds. Your Akha guide will call birds and may be able to call them in. If you really want to see the birds, you’ll have to act like a hunter. If he can’t find wildlife for you to see, he’ll show you signs. Return to camp to enjoy an Akha breakfast prepared by your hosts. After breakfast start the journey back to town. Stop in upland fields along the way to learn about this ancient form of agriculture. Enjoy a homemade lunch in an upland field of one of the villagers. Before finishing the trek, stop in the new village of your Akha hosts. If time allows ask your guide to take you to the provincial market. See how many forest products are in the market and how many of them you saw on your trek.