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Dong Hua Sao National Park
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Dong Hua Sao National Park is located in Champasak Province in southern Laos, encompassing the steep western slopes of the Bolaven Plateau. Covering an area of roughly 1,100 square kilometers, the park consists primarily of dense evergreen forests that drop dramatically towards the Mekong River plains. This sheer topography is responsible for some of Laos's most spectacular waterfalls, notably the iconic Tad Fane twin waterfalls, which plunge over 100 meters into a lush gorge. The protected area is a haven for biodiversity, attracting birdwatchers and botanists with its populations of hornbills and wild orchids. The park's cooler, higher-altitude edges are also intermingled with coffee plantations managed by local ethnic minorities.
- Location: Laos
- Nearby: Tad Fane (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 5 | 29 | 51 | 123 | 154 | 260 | 284 | 229 | 104 | 31 | 17 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Most visitors enter the park via guided tours starting from Pakse or villages on the Bolaven Plateau. The transition from the plateau to the lowlands involves navigating rural dirt roads.
Best season
The cooler months between November and February offer the best conditions for trekking and wildlife spotting. The rainy season transforms the landscape but makes paths extremely muddy and slippery.
Terrain & paths
The landscape transitions steeply from the cool, elevated plateau down into hot, dense lowland forests. Expect challenging ascents and descents along mostly natural, uneven forest paths.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are essential for the steep and uneven terrain. Pack a raincoat, plenty of hydration, and sun protection for the exposed lowland sections.
Parking
Vehicles are typically parked at nearby eco-lodges or designated village staging areas on the Bolaven Plateau. It is best to arrange safe parking through your tour operator.
Safety
The steep terrain requires careful footing, especially after recent rainfall. Trekking with a local guide is strongly recommended to navigate the trails safely and avoid getting lost.
Time needed
Most organized jungle treks and ziplining experiences in the area take a full day or overnight. Short visits to the plateau's edge can take around two to four hours.
Geography
Facts
- Located in the southern Champasak Province.
- Incorporates the steep edges of the Bolaven Plateau.
- Spans approximately 1,100 square kilometers.
- Features the breathtaking 100-meter Tad Fane waterfalls.
- Renowned for diverse birdlife and wild orchids.
- Bordered by highland coffee-growing communities.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference from the Dong Hua Sao Reserve?
The national park status emphasizes the protection level; the areas overlap geographically.
Are there coffee plantations in the park?
On the edges of the park on the Bolaven Plateau, world-famous Laotian coffee is grown.
Which waterfalls are most famous?
Tad Fane and Tad Yuang are among the most spectacular falls near the park.
Are there hiking trails?
Yes, there are paths through the jungle often leading to viewpoints over the falls.
What clothing is advisable?
Light, breathable clothing and sturdy footwear are good for trekking in the park.
Dong Hua Sao National Park: where is it located?
Dong Hua Sao National Park is located in Laos.
Dong Hua Sao National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Dong Hua Sao National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Dong Hua Sao National Park is located in Champasak Province in southern Laos, encompassing the steep western slopes of the Bolaven Plateau.
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Nearby cities
Pakse
Pakse is the capital of Champasak Province and a major commercial center.
Muang Khong
Muang Khong is the main town on the island of Don Khong in the 4000 Islands region.
Champasak
Champasak is a historic town in southern Laos.
Tad Fane
Spectacular twin waterfalls on the Bolaven Plateau, plunging over 100 meters into a jungle-clad gorge.
Tad Yuang
A picturesque and easily accessible waterfall on the Bolaven Plateau, perfect for picnicking and relaxing.
Don Det
A relaxed island popular with travelers, known for its spectacular sunsets and simple riverside wooden bungalows.
Don Khon
The quieter sister island of Don Det, known for historic French ruins and impressive waterfalls.
Si Phan Don (4000 Islands)
An idyllic archipelago in the Mekong River, famous for its thundering waterfalls and an extremely laid-back lifestyle.
History & landmarks
More places
Dong Hua Sao National Protected Area
A nature reserve in the south where steep cliffs and deep forests provide habitat for wild Asian elephants and hornbills.
Bolaven Plateau
A plateau in southern Laos, famous for its scenic waterfalls, lush landscapes, and coffee plantations.
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Xe Pian National Park
An extensive protected area in the far south, encompassing vast wetlands and dense forests, bordering Cambodia.
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Xe Pian National Protected Area
An extensive protected area with wetlands and forests, housing an immense diversity of bird species.
Vat Phou
An ancient Khmer temple complex at the base of Mount Phu Kao, older than Angkor Wat.
Oum Muong Temple
A remote and atmospheric Khmer ruin hidden in a forested area near the Mekong River in southern Laos.
Paksong Tea Plantations
Extensive tea plantations in the cool climate of the Bolaven Plateau, where some of the best teas in Southeast Asia grow.
Bolaven Coffee Estates
An extensive agricultural region on fertile volcanic soil, famous for the production of high-quality Laotian coffee.