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Parks

Dong Hua Sao National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area

4.1 · 2,258 reviews
Wild, lush, and remote
Dong Hua Sao National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area, 12, หนองกา, ปากช่อง, Laos
Interesting facts
1

The park contains one of the highest waterfall drops in Southeast Asia.

2

The region is part of the extensive Bolaven Plateau, a major center for Laotian Arabica and Robusta coffee production.

3

The forest serves as a vital watershed for several rivers flowing into the Mekong.

4

The conservation area spans over 1,100 square kilometers of protected land.

5

It is a designated Important Bird Area (IBA) due to the presence of rare, range-restricted species.

Overview

Dong Hua Sao National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area is a vast protected forest region in the Bolaven Plateau of Champasak Province, Laos. The landscape is characterized by primary rainforest, high-altitude plateaus, and prominent cliff-side waterfalls. The area serves as a critical habitat for diverse avian species, primates, and wild elephants, though wildlife sightings are infrequent due to the terrain's density. The park’s topography shifts from lowland forests to elevated coffee-growing regions. It features significant hydrological features including the Tad Fane waterfall, which drops over 120 meters. Humidity levels remain high year-round due to the dense forest canopy. The elevation significantly influences local climate patterns compared to the Mekong Valley below. Visitors encounter varying levels of biodiversity ranging from indigenous flora to rare orchids.

Photo spot

The viewing platform overlooking the Tad Fane waterfall twin cascades.

Insider tips

Wear high-traction hiking boots, as trails become extremely slippery during the wet season.

Carry effective leech protection and insect repellent, as these are prevalent in damp, forested zones.

Hire a local guide if you intend to explore deep-forest trails to avoid disorientation.

What to avoid

Attempting to hike off-marked trails during the peak monsoon season due to extreme mud and flash flood risks.

Good to know

Access may be restricted or trails closed during the height of the rainy season due to severe erosion and safety concerns.

Etiquette

Maintain silence to avoid disturbing wildlife and pack out all waste, as there are no trash disposal facilities in the interior.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
November to February, when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is at its minimum.
Address
Dong Hua Sao National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area, 12, หนองกา, ปากช่อง, Laos
15.296, 106.109
Get directions
Details
Terrain featuresPrimary rainforest and 100m+ cliff-side cascades
Wildlife statusCritical habitat for primates and rare bird species

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is November to February, when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is at its minimum..

The viewing platform overlooking the Tad Fane waterfall twin cascades.

Close by you'll find Tad Gneuang Waterfall, チャンピーの滝 チケット売り場, Bolaven Plain Laos.