Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best period to go on our tour?

You can join us any time. However, we advise you to go on tour from November to April, during the dry season while the weather is not too hot!

How long in advance do we need to book?

We advice you to book at least two months before the departure date.

Are the departures guaranteed?

We propose you a tailor-made programme according to your dates and the number of participants. Our departures are thus guaranteed as soon as we get the booking confirmation.

Can everyone take part in the tour?

The trek can be a demanding experience but doesn’t present any particular difficulties (5-6 hours elephant trekking per day). However, participants need to be healthy to take part in tours.  Please note that during the trek, the living conditions will be basic: no sanitary, local food, 2 places tent, river bathing…

Can children participate to our trek?

Children over 10 years old can participated.

However, children aged from 10 to 12 years will have to share an elephant with one parent.

What is the price for children?

Children 10-12 years old are offered a 50% discount on the adult price.

What vaccinations are recommended for Laos?

There is no compulsory vaccination for travel in Laos. However, we strongly recommend the Tetanus/Polio vaccine, the typhoid vaccination (Typhim VI) and Hepatitis A and B vaccines.  Vaccination against rabies and Japanese encephalitis are also recommended. Please contact your general practitioner to discuss any vaccination issues.

To view a list of suggested personal belongings to bring, click here.

What about transport?

To keep things interesting, our suggested itinerary has varied modes of transportation. It includes a private journey by 4 Wheel Drive from Luang Prabang to Hongsa, and a one day cruise on the Mekong to go back to Luang Pranbang (public or private boat according to the number of travellers. See tariffs). The outward journey lasts between 4 to 5 hours driving through small forest roads. The cruise to Luang Prabang lasts between 7 and 8 hours.

Why travel with us?

• You have the opportunity to meet elephants and their mahouts in their native land in Sayaboury province and hence contribute to the protection of the elephant and its ecosystem,

• You will enjoy a unique experience over several days with your elephant and its mahout.

• You will experience complete immersion in the Lao rural lifestyle.

• You will contribute to local development by supporting various intermediates we are working with (Transportation workers, hotel staff, restaurant staff, chefs, market sellers,  villagers…)

• 5% of the trek benefits go towards the Mobile Veterinary Clinic which provides care to the Sayaboury province’s'elephants (www.elefantasia.org)