Remote Lands Opens Up New Far-Flung Tribal Region in Myanmar

  • July 29, 2014
Remote Lands Opens Up New Far-Flung Tribal Region in Myanmar
Located in central Myanmar not far from the border with Thailand, Loikaw has only been open to outsiders since 2006 but even then was classed as a “Black State” due to an almost 40-year conflict between the army and the local Karen people. With a peace treaty being signed in 2012, the region is now beginning to welcome intrepid travelers, with four new tribal areas opening to foreigners in recent weeks as well as the introduction of direct flights from Yangon.

The newly-opened regions allow visitors to encounter the Kayan, Kayah and Kayaw tribes, making this a fascinating destination for travelers interested in ethnography and authentic tribal cultures where people live simple traditional lives as their ancestors have for hundreds of years. One such traveler is Remote Lands' co-founder and COO Jay Tindall, who visited the region earlier this month and became the first foreign visitor to enter several of the newly accessible areas.

“This was one of the most rewarding trips I've ever undertaken” says the well-traveled Tindall. “Traveling in Loikaw still isn't easy – road conditions are difficult and accommodation is basic – but to meet villagers who are encountering a foreigner for the first time is a real thrill, and an increasingly rare one.”
For Tindall, the biggest draw of the region is the authenticity of its tribal villages. “These aren't show villages where the villagers only dress up when tourists arrive” he told us. “These are real communities where the way of life is unchanged for centuries and where traditional customs still hold sway.”

To help travelers get the most from their visit, Remote Lands has put together a special Longnecks of Loikaw itinerary.
Alternatively, travelers can work with Remote Lands to design their own bespoke Loikaw holiday, either as a standalone program or as part of a longer trip taking in other areas of Myanmar.

To find out more about visiting Loikaw with Remote Lands, visit the company's website, read Jay Tindall's blog post about his trip, or contact the company on info@remotelands.com