Highlights

• Deep Nature: Hike through dense, primary rainforest and protected areas.
• Cultural History: Discover the ruins and stories of the abandoned Mock Mhoo village.
• Authentic Villages: Visit remote communities where Hmong and Khmu live side-by-side.
• Physical Reward: A demanding route with 1100m of elevation change and rewarding views.

Day 1: Trekking the Mock Mhoo Trail (L)

Prepare for a demanding yet deeply rewarding journey into the wild heart of Luang Prabang’s mountains. This full-day expedition is designed for the adventurous hiker, combining steep terrain, history, and the raw beauty of the protected rain forest.

Our day begins with a short 15-minute transfer to the base of Tad Thong waterfall. Here, we step onto a lifeline of the jungle—a well-trodden path used daily by local villagers carrying fresh produce to the markets below. We follow this trail upward, tracing the water’s edge until we reach its source at Ban Houay Thong.

Nestled at the edge of a plateau, Ban Houay Thong is a unique community where Hmong and Khmu families live side-by-side. From here, we traverse the mountainside toward Mock Mhoo, a "ghost village" abandoned over 40 years ago. Although the residents moved down to the valleys decades ago, the land tells their story to everyone who is willing to listen.

After lunch, the true challenge begins. We leave the familiar behind and enter a long-forgotten trail cutting through dense protected rain forest. This leg of the journey takes us over a rugged mountain range where the canopy is thick and the biodiversity is rich. As we navigate the climb, the trees occasionally part to reveal hard-earned, breathtaking views of the valleys far below.

Finally, we descend toward our destination, Ban Houy Thao. Before reaching the village, we emerge onto a small plateau of lush, vibrant farmland—a welcoming sight after the deep jungle. We end the day in this traditional Khmu village before relaxing on a scenic one-hour drive back to Luang Prabang along the winding Nam Khan River.

Total distance is 12 km (7.5 mi) medium to difficult trekking usually taking 5-8 hours, depending on conditions.

Services

Included Travel Services

• All transfers
• English speaking guides with license
• Picnic lunch and drinking water
• Entrance fees and permissions
• FairTrek Project village fund payments

Not Included Travel Services

• Specialty drinks
• Gratuities