Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife: Regenerative Stays

In the heart of Laos, a journey is unfolding that moves beyond the typical tourist trail and into the front lines of conservation. Working with the Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife (LCTW), this experience is a masterclass in regenerative travel, where your presence doesn’t just minimize harm, but actively fuels the restoration of the local ecosystem.

LCTW isn’t just a sanctuary; it’s a powerhouse for change. Since transitioning from a family zoo to a full-scale rescue center in 2018, they’ve rescued over 400 animals, ranging from pangolins to king cobras. They operate the country’s only 24/7 wildlife crime hotline and manage one of the world’s largest captive populations of purebred Siamese crocodiles (a species once thought to be nearly extinct in the wild).

Your day begins with a quiet immersion into this mission. As you stroll past the habitats of binturongs and crocodiles, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the Wildlife Hospital and Nutrition Center. You’ll contribute directly to the animals’ well-being by crafting specialized enrichment puzzles for rescued bears, providing them with the mental stimulation they need to thrive. After a peaceful 2 km walk to spot sambar deer, you’ll enjoy a scenic vegetarian lunch before the energy of the day shifts.

The day culminates in a raw, high-intensity trek through Phou Khao Khouay National Park. Led by a wildlife professional, you will navigate a demanding 3 km route across steep, uneven forest terrain. This last leg of the hike is more demanding, but the reward is found in the canopy: the chance to see elusive langurs and gibbons in their natural home. It is a powerful, unpolished way to connect with the very wilderness that LCTW works tirelessly to protect.

Please Note: The final trek is physically demanding and involves steep, uneven terrain. It is designed for fit adventurers and is not recommended for small children, the elderly, or those with limited mobility.