Nestled in the midst Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and China, the tiny nation of Laos is still managing to hold its own when it comes to tempting travellers.

For wildlife enthusiasts in particular it is a haven, home to more than 100 species of large mammal and innumerable types of plant and tree.

Asian animals that are commonly found in many of the continent's countries also call Laos home, including the tiger and Asian elephant.

Monkeys are also a familiar site for adventurers who jet into this fascinating location with Laos playing host to five species of gibbon, five species of macaque and fours species of leaf monkey.

Despite Laos being a relatively poor nation compared to some of its neighbours, huge efforts are still being made to protect some of the country's endangered species.

This week, officials in Laos agreed to improve protection at one of its major tiger reserves - with tougher penalties for poaching and increased efforts to curb other threats to animals.

Arlyne Johnson, of the Wildlife Conservation Society, said: "This is quite a landmark for Laos.

"I think it demonstrates political will on behalf of the Lao government to take tiger conservation seriously."

Travellers who visit countries such as Laos can also do their bit to help endangered species with numerous projects set up to encourage eco-tourism.

These include allowing visitors into some of Laos' protected areas where they can experience the country's natural delights first hand, as well as take up outdoor activities such as trekking, kayaking and bird watching.

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