The Akha Village PROJECT

The “Akha Village Experience Project” is a co-operation between Tiger Trail Outdoor Adventures, the UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime), the PADF (Phongsali Alternative Development Fund), and Lao PDR government and tourism offices. The project was established in December, 2009, with the goal of generating alternative income for former Opium-growing communities through sustainable volunteer-tourism. Through those activities the project is a pioneer idea/example for further initiatives to follow. Your support and contribution will make a difference!

The Akha Village PROGRAM

Your stay at the village will give you the rare opportunity to be a visitor with a purpose as you will partake in day-to-day activities and immerse yourself in ethnic Akha community life. During the day, you will be busy supporting villagers within their work on the fields and at home; the latter may include collecting forest products, carrying water, planting rice, harvesting rice and vegetables, feeding chicken, and completing housing chores like preparing daily food supplies, cooking or looking after kids, teaching English while learning Lao and Akha language.

You may also learn some traditional ethnic handicrafts like weaving or basket making. Every trip is unique and depends on the specific needs and circumstances.

A local, experienced guide/interpreter will be with you throughout your stay to facilitate communication and interaction and to provide support at any time.

Accommodation and Food

You will be sleeping at a Family Home or at the simple, but beautiful “Akha Nature Lodge” with amazing views over the lush surrounding mountains. At night you will be eating traditional Akha meals prepared in local fashion. A small personal bathroom was established to guarantee basic hygiene needs. The equipment, mattresses, blankets and others are 100% natural and hand made in another project target village helping to preserve the culture of weaving and embroidery.

Location of the project

The village is based near Muang Khua in Phongsali Province, the northernmost, remotest and poorest region in Laos. You will live in an Akha ethnic minority village, a quiet, peaceful hillside location, accessible only on foot on two to three hours following scenic walking trails through stunning landscapes.

Itinerary

5 day description

This is a sample itinerary. Every trip is unique.

• Day 1 Transfer from Luang Prabang by local public bus to a guest house in Muang Khua.

• Day 2 Transfer to trekking point, then 3-4 hour trek to Honglerk village. Introduction to the village and your hosts.

• Day 3 Participate in daily life in the village (field work, cooking, handicraft ) depending on availability.

• Day 4 Hike to the road (3-4 hours), transfer to Muang Khua. Overnight in Muang Khua.

• Day 5 Transfer from Muang Khua to Luang Prabang by public (or private minivan).

INCLUDED IN TRAVEL SERVICES

This sample itinerary of 5 days includes all meals, public transfers, guides, local fees, taxes and community donations, local village guides and activity charges.

- Tiger Trail tours are available every day -