Ban Na Elephant Watch Tower and Homestay

An exciting opportunity

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Operated under the same scheme as that in Ban Hatkai, villagers of Ban Na have established an exciting opportunity to view wild elephants. About 4km from Ban Na is a 9m high elephant viewing tower which is the focal part of the initiative. The tower is located next to a stream and a salt-lick, both of which are frequented in the evenings by wild elephants. Best times to go are moonlit nights between November and April when thirsty elephants extend their range to wetter lowland areas. There is no guarantee that the pachyderms will show up, but the villagers are keen and the guided treks deeper into elephant territory may result in an encounter. The elephants are both shy and dangerous, so no vehicles are permitted and all excursions must be accompanied. Simple accommodation is available at the tower or at houses in the village, but with the night elephant vigil at the tower, don't expect much sleep there. Clean bedding is provided at both places and traditional Lao food can be prepared, accompanied by a drop or two of lao lao. The guides speak little English. Be sure to arrive before 11:00, when the trek to the tower begins. The Elephant Watch Tower costs US$22 to US$43 per person depending on group size.

Contact details:
Ban Na Elephant Watch Tower and Homestay
Ban Phabath, Thaphabat District, Bolikhamsai Province
T: (020) 220 8286  Visit website

What we were quoted*

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Added to Travelfish on: 20th February, 2007
Last visited or updated on: 26th July, 2008

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