Bokeo Nature Reserve

Bokeo Nature Reserve is a protected area in Bokeo Province, northwestern Laos, covering approximately 345 km² of evergreen and mixed deciduous forest. It was established in the 1990s and is best known as the home of the Gibbon Experience, a world-renowned conservation-based ecotourism project that combines canopy ziplining with treehouse accommodation. The reserve protects habitat for the endangered black-crested gibbon, Asian wild dog, clouded leopard, and Asian elephant. The reserve's forest canopy, reaching heights of 40 metres, is crisscrossed by an extensive zipline network.

The climate is tropical monsoon. The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit. The Gibbon Experience operates year-round, but some trails may close during heavy rain in June-September.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Chiang Rai International (CEI) in Thailand, about 70 km west. Cross the border at Houayxay or the Friendship Bridge.

By Car / Road

The reserve is accessed from Houayxay, approximately 30-40 km east on Route 3 then a short unpaved road. The Gibbon Experience office in Houayxay arranges all transport. Self-drive with a 4WD vehicle is possible.

Within the reserve, travel is entirely on foot (trekking) and by zipline. All trips are guided. The zipline network spans several kilometres of forest canopy.

• Forest canopy — Towering dipterocarps and tropical hardwoods with rich epiphyte growth.

• Black-crested gibbons — The reserve's flagship species. Dawn calls are a highlight.

• Biodiversity — Rich birdlife including hornbills, barbets, and broadbills.

• Gibbon Experience — The primary activity. Multi-day packages include ziplining, treehouse accommodation, and guided forest treks (from US$200 for 2 days).

• Canopy ziplining — The longest zipline course in Asia with spans up to 500 metres.

• Treehouse overnight — Sleep in spacious treehouses built around massive trees at canopy height.

• Guided wildlife walks — Morning and night walks to spot wildlife with expert guides.

All meals are included with Gibbon Experience packages — Lao-style dishes prepared at the base camp and served in treehouses.

Filtered water is provided. Beerlao is available at the base camp.

Gibbon Experience treehouses — unique multi-room structures built around giant trees, with basic bedding, mosquito nets, and composting toilets. This is the only accommodation within the reserve.

No shopping within the reserve. The Gibbon Experience office in Houayxay sells handicrafts supporting local communities.

• Houayxay (30 km west) — Border crossing, slow boats to Luang Prabang, and tourism services.
• Luang Namtha (100 km northeast) — Nam Ha NPA and ethnic village trekking.
• Chiang Khong, Thailand (across river from Houayxay) — Thai markets and connections to Chiang Mai.