Thakkek or Pakse: Which loop to do on a motorbike in Laos?
25 July 2024
THE winding roads of Laos surprises at every turn. Whether you are a seasoned biker or an intrepid novice, you will have immense pleasure in discovering the hidden wonders of this wild country. Among the treasures of this Southeast Asian country, two motorcycle tours particularly stand out: the Thakhek loop and the one at Pakse. These two journeys offer breathtaking landscapes and an authentic dive into Laotian culture. So, come in Thakhek And Pakse, which loop to choose for your trip on two wheels? This is what we are going to discover together.
The Thakhek loop: an adventure off the beaten track
The Thakhek Loop is a popular route among adventurous travelers. It stretches for around 450 kilometers and offers stunning views of karst mountains, lush green rice fields and mystical caves.
A dive into the wild
From the start of Thakhek, you will be struck by the raw beauty of the landscapes. Limestone cliffs rise dramatically beside the road, while rice fields stretch as far as the eye can see. One of the essential stops is the Konglor cave, a natural wonder that leaves all travelers speechless. This 7 kilometer long cave is crossed by a river, offering a memorable canoe ride.
An immersion in local life
In addition to the landscapes, the Thakhek loop offers a real immersion in local life. Stops in the small villages of Lak Sao And Tha Lang will allow you to meet the locals and immerse yourself in their authentic culture. In addition, the route has many guesthouses where you can spend the night. THE Thakhek Travel Lodge is particularly renowned for its warm welcome.
The Pakse Loop: a journey through Laotian history and culture
If the Thakhek loop immerses you in wild nature, the Pakse loop takes you on a journey through the history and culture of Laos. This loop of approximately 600 kilometers takes you to discover the Bolaven plateaus, of the majestic waterfalls and coffee plantations.
A journey through history
The Pakse loop takes you to discover the history of Laos. One of the highlight stops is the ancient royal city of Luang Prabang, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit the famous Kong Lor cave, which is home to thousand-year-old stalactites and stalagmites.
A taste of Laotian culture
As you travel the Pakse loop, you will have the opportunity to taste locally grown coffee from the plantations of the Bolaven Plateaus. You can also stop at local villages, such as that of Lak Sao, to discover the traditional way of life of the Laotians.
Thakhek or Pakse: The Verdict
SO, Thakhek Or Pakse ? The two loops each offer a unique and memorable experience. If you are a wilderness lover and want to immerse yourself in local life, the Thakhek Loop is for you. If you are more of a history and culture lover, the Pakse loop will satisfy you. Either way, these two motorcycle tours in Laos will leave you with lasting memories.
Conclusion: Laos by Motorcycle, an unforgettable experience
Hit the road on a motorbike in Laos, is to treat yourself to an authentic and unforgettable adventure. Whether you opt for the loop Thakhek or that of Pakse, you will discover breathtaking landscapes, meet friendly locals and experience unique moments. The warmth of the Laotian welcome, the beauty of the natural landscapes, the abundance of culture and history make these two loops experiences that will remain engraved in your memory. So, don’t hesitate any longer, get on your motorbike and let Laos reveal its hidden treasures to you.
