Elephants Rehearse Ahead of Sayaboury Elephant Festival 2026, Visitors Invited to Attend
Elephants in Sayaboury Province have begun rehearsing for their performances scheduled on 1 February 2026, as part of the final preparations for the Sayaboury Elephant Festival 2026. The festival will take place from 9 to 16 February 2026 and is expected to feature a total of 50 elephants, making it one of the most anticipated cultural events in Laos next year.
Sayaboury Province, located in western Laos, can be reached by road from several major destinations. Travelers coming from Vientiane Capital can reach Sayaboury by bus, minivan, or private car, with the journey taking approximately seven to nine hours depending on road conditions. The route offers views of rural landscapes and is commonly used by both local travelers and foreign visitors. Those traveling from Luang Prabang can also reach Sayaboury by road, with a travel time of around five to six hours through mountainous scenery. Visitors entering from Thailand may cross at border checkpoints such as Huay Kon in Nan Province and continue onward to Sayaboury by road.
Photo credit: Teng
Once in Sayaboury town, getting around during the festival period is relatively easy. Many activities take place close to the town center, and local transport services such as tuk-tuks are widely available. Hotels and guesthouses often assist visitors with transportation and local information, especially during the busy festival days.
The Sayaboury Elephant Festival is not only a celebration but also an opportunity to learn about elephant conservation, traditional mahout culture, and local community life. Alongside elephant performances, visitors can experience local food, cultural displays, and a festive atmosphere that reflects the identity of the province.
Organizers are inviting both domestic and international visitors to attend the Sayaboury Elephant Festival 2026 and experience one of Laos’ most distinctive and meaningful cultural events. Travelers are advised to plan ahead, as accommodation in Sayaboury is expected to be in high demand during the festival period.