- Date of foundation: 1999.
- Total area: 220 hectares
- Category: IUCN I (strict nature reserve)
- Working time: twice a week (depending on the season)
- The cost of entry: from $ 30 to 50
Every year, the number of environmental tourism centers around the world is increasing. Laos is no exception. On its territory, about two dozen such places are organized. One of the most interesting is the Namkh nature reserve. Every year, its visitors are about 25 thousand tourists from around the world.
Ecological center of Laos
Namha is located in the north-west of Laos. Today its area reaches 220 hectares, which includes mountain and forest trails, bamboo thickets, numerous caves and labyrinths. The inhabitants of such diverse ecosystems were gibbons, leopards, elephants. The reserve zone was designated by the state authorities in 1999. Nowadays Namha is under the protection of UNESCO.
Uniqueness of Namha
In addition to the richest flora and fauna, there are communities of Aborigines living in its territory in the Namkh Nature Reserve. Tribes still adhere to ancient traditions , their life directly depends on nature. Native people dress in national costumes, introduce tourists to their customs, culture, cuisine . If you want, you can stay overnight in the house of one of the families. When visiting the settlements should not be too intrusive. Photographing Aboriginal people can only with their permission.
The work of the Namkh reserve is of great importance. It was his successful experience that served as the impetus for establishing relations between settlers of other reserves and official authorities. The chiefs of the tribes concluded agreements with state tourist agencies and allowed the tourist to visit other reserves of Laos. In exchange, the authorities have taken up the construction of roads, improving the living conditions of the settlers. There are programs for the conservation of plants and animals of the reserve.
To tourists on a note
You can get to the Namkh reserve only twice a week and only as part of the excursion group. The number of participants is limited to 8 people. The cost of the tour is from 30 to 50 dollars. Part of this money ($ 135) is intended for community residents. At the central entrance to the reserve, visitors are given memos in which the basic rules of conduct for visiting the reserve are prescribed.
How to get to Namha Nature Reserve in Laos?
All worries about transporting tourists to the Namha nature reserve are based on travel agencies that organize excursions . Attempts to enter Namha territory themselves are severely punished by the laws of Laos.