Bokeo Nature Reserve

Bokeo Nature Reserve, located in the mountainous regions of Bokeo Province in northern Laos, spans over 136,000 hectares of subtropical rainforest and limestone karst formations. Established in 1993, the reserve was initially created to protect the endangered black-cheeked gibbon, one of the rarest primates in the world only recently discovered in this area during the late 1990s. The reserve’s terrain varies from lowland forests to steep ridges and valleys, supporting a wide range of wildlife such as elephants, banteng, gaur, sun bears, and various bird species, making it a biodiversity hotspot with significant ecological value.

Visitors to the Bokeo Nature Reserve frequently come for guided treks along forest trails that offer chances to spot rare animals and to experience local ethnic minority cultures including the Akha and Lahu people. The reserve is internationally recognized for its community-based conservation efforts that combine eco-tourism with forest protection. One notable feature is the Gibbon Experience, a canopy-level adventure tourism program featuring treehouse accommodations and zipline systems that allow guests to observe gibbons in their natural habitat from above the forest floor. Aside from wildlife watching and trekking, visitors can explore waterfalls, caves, and the surrounding rural villages, creating a rich outdoor and cultural experience. The reserve’s relatively undeveloped infrastructure helps preserve its wild nature and attracts eco-conscious travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path exploration.