Just imagine it: you are standing under a dense canopy of leaves in Laos , the sun is just starting to break through the leaves and you feel the warm rays on your face. Your heart beats faster and you breathe deeply. You take a run, lift your feet off the ground and suddenly you are free. You are soaring high through the air, lightning fast above and over the treetops, the world below is a sea of green. The wind howls past your ears as the sun greets you from the horizon.
In the evening you can relax after a day full of adventure. While you chat with like-minded people, a delicious dinner is served and your bed is made. You don't have to do anything yourself, just enjoy. The sun slowly sets behind the horizon and the jungle colors in different shades, from warm orange to deep purple. Above you, an endless starry sky shines. Although your body is tired, you stay awake for a while, determined not to miss anything of this magical night.
This is not just an adventure; this is The Gibbon Experience in Laos, an adventure deep in nature. Many world travelers call it one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Laos. Curious why? Read on and discover what makes this adventure so special.
Do you want Want a quick impression of The Gibbon Experience? Watch the video below.
Ziplining over the treetops
For those who like to be active in the mountains or the jungle, ziplining literally adds a new dimension to your adventure. Not only is it physically challenging, but it also stimulates your brain: you (probably) learn a new skill. You attach yourself to the line with your zip line equipment and then comes the moment when you push off and zoom through the air.
Dangerous?
It may feel like it, but it’s not. You get safe equipment, detailed instructions, and the guide won’t let you go until he’s checked everything thoroughly. On the other end of the line, another guide is ready to catch you—not literally, of course. Trust me, after a few times, most of the tension is gone, and all that’s left is that delicious, healthy tension, so you can enjoy it to the fullest!
Tough hike
In between ziplining you also take a brisk walk, enough to work up a sweat. With an average level of fitness you can easily do these walks. The first part often goes uphill, which requires some perseverance. If it is dry and the temperature is pleasant, you have the most favourable conditions.
Stay in the highest tree houses
The proverbial icing on the cake comes at the end of the afternoon, when your body starts to get tired and you suddenly see a beautiful tree house looming between the trees. You made it and it's time to relax!
Fully catered
Although The Gibbon Experience speaks of a simple stay, I experience it differently. Do you get what you want at home? Here, you certainly do! Coffee, tea and treats are ready for you upon arrival. While you enjoy this, as well as the spectacular view and the facilities in the tree house, they are working hard in a nearby tree house to prepare dinner.
Ambiance
As evening falls, it is time for some more fun. Travel stories are shared, and games are challenged. The guests may become louder, but not as loud as the others present in the jungle. Every now and then, the conversation falls silent as everyone listens to the rustling and sounds around them, curious about what lurks in the dark.
To bed
Tired but satisfied, you finally crawl into bed. You probably want to sleep, since tomorrow is another day of exertion, but you feel the urge to stay awake to take in the sounds of the jungle. Whether you eventually fall asleep or not, one thing is certain: when the sun rises again, the sounds of the jungle become louder, like a natural alarm clock announcing the new day.
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Afraid of basic?
Maybe I am easily satisfied due to my adventure travel experiences, but I would not describe this stay as 'basic'. Okay, you don't have a king size bed or walls, but the rest is there and that is all you need. So there is no need to worry about that.
The bathroom and toilet are located downstairs in the tree house. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy the view without others being able to see you. For sleeping, a bit of privacy is provided by mosquito nets made of fabric, creating a kind of tent.
Ethical considerations
If you are wondering whether it is good for nature to organize tourist activities like this, it is reassuring to know that The Gibbon Experience is a tourism-based conservation project. This means that the organization is not only focused on serving tourists, but also actively contributes to the conservation of nature.
Visitors, residents and forest in balance
They take you to places that would otherwise be inaccessible in a unique way, allowing you to experience the extraordinary ecosystem up close, while at the same time protecting the forest and its wildlife. It’s all about balancing the benefits for visitors, the forest and its inhabitants. For example, a fifth of the proceeds goes to reforestation, aid projects and ranger programs that protect the area.
Local guide with passion
During your experience, you will quickly notice that your guide shares the vision and passion of the organization. They will enthusiastically show you the wonders of the jungle and proudly explain the environment where they were born. With a bit of luck, you will even get a peek behind the scenes, where the guide will take you to a piece of land where food is grown (such as vegetables, meat and eggs) that is used for the guests in the tree houses.
In short
If you have any doubts about The Gibbon Experience, there is really little reason not to do it. Ziplining may seem exciting, but safety always comes first with professional guidance and proper equipment. Don't expect primitive conditions in terms of accommodation, but rather comfort in the middle of nature, where everything is taken care of.
Furthermore, by participating you contribute to a project that supports the jungle and the local community. So it is not just about adventure, but about connecting with nature in a meaningful way. One thing is for sure; this is going to be an adventure you will never forget!
Instead of overloading you with practical information – which is already extensively available on The Gibbon Experience website – I have chosen to share my personal experience and impressions with you. Be sure to visit the website of The Gibbon Experience for all practical information and details. You can also book via the website!
Ready-made or adapt them yourself: 'a day longer here, a day shorter there'. With flexible Laos tours, all the puzzle work has been taken care of and the best travel routes have already been mapped out for you.
Is your ideal tour not listed? Then you can of course put together your individual tour to Laos using building blocks.
- Experience the real Asia
- Beautiful landscapes
- Undiscovered pearl
- Very affordable
