This province in the northwest of Laos shares its entire western border with Thailand. It has a beautiful national protected area called Nam Phui where visitors who trek into the wilds may be fortunate enough to see wild elephants, gibbons, and gaur and many other species of large mammals. It is a nature lover’s paradise with its rugged landscape and heavily forested terrain. Natural teak forests cover much of the province.

Another highlight that captures the attention of locals and visitors is the annual elephant festival which is held each February. It is always a popular draw. Elephant rides are available and if you have never ridden an elephant, it really is something you should try. They are so big and so strong and yet move with the delicate grace of a ballerina.

There are several ethnic groups in the province, notably the Khmu, Tai Lue, Tai Dam, Htin, Phai Kri, Akha, Malabri and Lao. The Malabri live in the forests on the western edge of the province and are one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer groups in all of South East Asia.

Xayaboury is not among the top tourist attractions in Laos and many people visiting here choose to bypass it. Those who do so are missing out on something special. This quiet, rugged province shows itself to be a slice of essential Laos. A real trekker’s delight, those with an adventurous spirit are guaranteed an intimate and unique experience.