Phongsaly

Farthest north in Laos Phongsaly

Overview:

Farthest north in Laos is Phongsaly, which shares borders with Yunnan (China) and Dien Bien (Vietnam). Phongsali is a visual feast and is home to some of the nation’s most traditional hill tribes. Most of Phongsaly Province lies at a high altitude , resulting in a climate that is pleasant and refreshing. The capital, Phongsaly Town, is the highest city in Laos PDR at 1,400 meters above sea level.

The population includes 28 different ethnic groups, of which the majority are Khmu, Phounoy, different Akha, Tai Lue and Hor; each with their own culture, traditions, costumes, and language.

The forests contain an abundance of animal, bird, insect and plant life, and there are certainly many undiscovered species, new to science. Several trekking tours have been established by the Provincial Tourism Office Phongsaly.

Access:

Luang Prabang: Private minivan or public bus (11 hours) . Alternative, high speed train from Luang Prabang to Oudom Xay (Muang Xai) and from there a private minivan or public bus to Phongsaly (7 hours) 
Oudom Xay (or Muang Xai): private minivan or public bus to Phongsaly (7 hours)
Luang Namtha, Na Teuy: 8 hours Private minivan or public bus to Phongsaly. From Na Teuy to Yunnan Province (China) via Boten. From Luang Namtha to Pak Beng, Overnight in Pak Beng, then take a Mekong river boat from Pak Beng to Huay Xai Thai border or directly from Luang Namtha to Huay Xai Thai border
Muang Khua: Get off the bus to Dien Bien Phu. Public Nam Ou river boats available from Muang Khua to Nong Khiaw and Muang Ngoy once every few days (there is a dam on the way, so you need to change boats) private boat available everyday.
Dien Bien Phu (Vietnam): 5 hours public bus to Phongsaly. Bus available from Dien Bien Phu to Sapa or Hanoi