The Thakhek Motorbike Loop: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re up for breathtaking scenery, hidden caves, and a bit of adventure, the Thakhek Loop is a must when travelling Laos. This multi-day motorbike trip isn’t always smooth sailing - expect bumpy roads and wrong turns - but that’s all part of the fun. Whether you’re an experienced or a first-time rider, it’s a great way to explore Laos and was definitely a highlight of my time there.

Visiting Thakhek? Read: A Backpacker’s Guide to Thakhek

Backpacking Laos? Read: A Backpacking Guide to Laos

Read the full Thakhek Motorbike Loop Itinerary here.

Chapters

What is the best route to drive?

When is the best time to drive the Thakhek loop?

How many days does the Thakhek loop take?

What should I pack for the Thakhek loop?

Things to Consider When Riding the Thakhek Loop

What is the best route to drive?

360 Route and Long Stretch

The main route people take is the full 360° loop starting and ending in Thakhek. You can do this in 3-4 days depending on how much time you have. This route includes a very long and boring stretch down the main road towards Thakhek. There aren’t many sights along this section and often there can be lots of big vehicles on the road making is a slightly more tedious part of the journey. This is the main reason we chose not to ride this route.

Double Back Route

To avoid doing the long stretch of main road on the last day, most people choose to double back on themselves and ride the same route all the way back to Thakhek. This could be a good way of splitting up activities so you do some things on the way and other things on the way back. You would however need at least 4 days for this option, unless you wanted to cram a lot of driving into 3 days! We chose not to do this option as driving the route back in the opposite direction felt repetitive and kind of a waste of time.

Kong Lor Cave Route

This is the route we chose to do despite being warned of potentially getting stuck halfway without a bike. This is because this route involves taking your bike on a small boat through Kong Lor Cave, risking it getting damaged or even falling into the water. To begin with we were a little hesitant about how this was all going to pan out, but as soon as we arrived at the cave, the staff there were incredible. They took care of everything from carrying the bike on and off the boat to keeping it safe on the rapids inside the cave. This route allowed us to do something new each day without having to double back on ourselves. It also meant we could see more rural areas of Laos on the track from the cave to the main road. We did this in 3 days, however I would recommend allowing 4 days to reduce the driving time.

When is the best time to drive the Thakhek loop?

The best time to plan your Thakhek Motorbike Loop is between November to mid-April.

The dry season (Nov-April) is when the roads are in better condition, and you won’t have to deal with heavy rain or muddy paths. The cooler months (November to February) are ideal, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making the ride more enjoyable. From March to April, it gets much hotter, so be prepared for intense sun and heat.

We rode the loop at the end of April and it was definitely the hottest time to do it! Being on the bike for long periods during the hotter months can be uncomfortable for some - you’ll need to watch out for sunburn, stay hydrated, and make sure to wear sunglasses when driving.

The wet season (May to October) can make some roads slippery and difficult, especially for beginners, with the risk of accidents being much higher. The heavy rains can make for poor visibility and the ride is generally less enjoyable when you’re soaked through. If you don’t mind the challenge, it’s still possible to ride it but just make sure to take extra caution.

How many days does the Thakhek loop take?

If you’re short on time, the Thakhek Loop can be done in 3 days, but you should expect much longer riding hours and fewer stops. You’ll still be able to see the main highlights like Kong Lor Cave, but you may have to skip smaller attractions. A 4-day trip, however, is a much better option for a more relaxed experience, with shorter riding days and more time to explore caves, waterfalls, and villages at your own pace. If you can spare the extra day, it’s worth it to fully enjoy the journey without feeling rushed. If you have plenty of time to play with, adding a fifth day would make the trip even more enjoyable with less driving stints and more activities and relaxation!

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What should I pack for the Thakhek loop?

If you’re travelling Laos with a big backpack, it’s a good idea to leave this at a secure hostel in Thakhek like Bike & Bed for the period of the loop. Pack a smaller and more manageable bag (35L) to carry on your back whilst riding the loop.

Here’s what you’re likely to need:

Essentials: Passport, driver’s license (and international permit if needed), cash (ATMs are scarce), and phone with offline maps.

Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothes, a rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable), and a warm layer for cooler evenings.

Riding Gear: Sunglasses, a scarf or mask (to block dust), and sturdy shoes (flip-flops aren’t great for riding).

Safety & Repair: Basic first-aid kit, suncream, insect repellent and sunglasses.

Suncream: We learnt the hard way that buying suncream is a challenge in Laos. We stopped at several small stalls and shops but no where along the loop sold a reliable and protective suncream! So yes…we burnt a lot. Pack a good suncream if you’re travelling during the hotter months.

Extras: Swimsuit for lagoons and waterfalls, dry bag for valuables, power bank and snacks for long stretches between stops.

Water: Water can be easily bought along the main route at various stalls, shops and cafes. However, the 3 hour dirt track from Kong Lor Cave to the main road is very rural and we didn’t see a single shop the whole way. We had to stop and ask a family if we could buy some water from them as we had none left. So if you plan on riding this route make sure to stock up at the food stalls before leaving the cave!

Things to Consider When Riding the Thakhek Loop

Deciding to tackle the Thakhek Loop is an exciting choice, but it’s important to weigh several factors before setting off on this adventure.

Motorbike Experience

First and foremost, consider your riding experience and comfort level with long days on a motorcycle. The loop features a mix of smooth stretches and rough, uneven roads, so if you’re a novice or uneasy about bumpy terrain, extra preparation or even partnering with a more experienced rider might be a good idea. Equally important is the reliability of your motorcycle and having the right gear in place - not just a helmet, but also basic repair tools and safety equipment in case you run into mechanical issues along remote roads.

Weather

Weather plays a major role in your overall experience. The best time to ride is during the dry season (from November to April), when roads are generally in better condition and the risk of sudden downpours is low. Riding during the wet season might offer a lush, green backdrop, but you’ll face slippery roads and increased chances of delays. This seasonal factor can also affect visibility in certain cave systems and water features, so plan accordingly if you have a particular itinerary in mind.

Time Constraints

Time management is another key consideration. While we completed the loop in three days, I would recommend a four-day schedule to allow for a more relaxed pace. This extra day can make a big difference, giving you ample time to explore hidden stops, enjoy local cuisine, and soak up the scenery without feeling rushed. Factor in your travel schedule and how much time you’re willing to dedicate to each leg of the journey.

Self - Sufficiency

Self-sufficiency is also critical on the Thakhek Loop. Along the route, amenities such as shops, fuel stations, and repair services can be few and far between. This means you’ll need to plan for fuel stops, carry extra cash, and possibly even have backup food and water supplies. Familiarise yourself with local customs and emergency contacts, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for advice along the way - they can be invaluable in pointing you to the best stops or helping out when unexpected challenges arise.