Asia

Sabai dee and welcome to this guide to Travel in Laos. Laos is a small country in South-East Asia, somewhat overshadowed by its neighbours Thailand and Cambodia, which has managed to develop without becoming tourism-dependent. This doesn’t in any way mean that it’s not worth visiting! Picture a landscape of rice paddies as far as the eye can see, where it’s not unusual to see water buffalo working the land. It’s a country where the beauty of the stormy skies mingles perfectly with the waters of the rivers. The people are unbelievably kind. Buddhism is omnipresent and governs every stage of life. It’s a country where you can switch off from normal life, chill out, take your time and just listen to the rice grow. It’s a country that’s simply a delight to travel in. You’re not imagining it: a stay in Laos is an exquisite and timeless experience. You will be charmed by the sublime Luang Prabang. The former capital houses magnificent temples and monasteries, interspersed with a wonderful natural landscape of hills and the waters of the Mekong. The Mekong, or ‘mother of water’ is sure to be the common thread that runs through your trip to Laos, as you follow its winding course by bus, by car and above all by boat, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the ancient kingdom of a million elephants…

Laos

Xiengkhouang

Being on the other side of the Mekong than Pakse, it's a great departure point if you're heading to Wat Phou Champassak. The village itself is not void of interest, and you'll be enchanted by a short stay here.

Champassak

Khong

Muang Sing is a pretty village miles from anywhere, about 2 hours from Luang Nam Tha and lost in the countryside of northern Laos. 

Muang Sing

For travellers who want a little peace and quiet there is the region of 4,000 Islands in the south of Laos, an archipelago of islands strung out along the Mekong.

4000 îles (Si Phane Done)

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<a href="/laos/">Your trip to Laos</a> will almost certainly include a visit to the south of the country. The 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Done in Laotian) are a real haven of peace and in my opinion are an absolute must visit in the region. In my opinion, the relaxed atmosphere and magnificent scenery, make the 4,000 Islands the ideal place to have a break and rest for a few days during a peripatetic trip . A great moment of the stay is the opportunity to get on a little pirogue at the end of the day and try to see the Irrawaddy dolphins. And you also shouldn't miss the beautiful waterfalls of Phapeng, which form the border with Cambodia.

For travellers who want a little peace and quiet there is the region of 4,000 Islands in the south of Laos, an archipelago of islands strung out along the Mekong.

I found Don Khône the most interesting, mainly because that is where you'll find the Liphi waterfalls, whose volume is truly impressive. There is a road around the island which is ideal for a day's cycling. There is a French colonial bridge cnnecting it to the island of Don Det, which is where I decided to stay for a few days. In my opinion, these two islands are the least touristy and the nicest. Don Khong island is loved by backpackers and is really crowded in high season. I think this region is one of the most beautiful in Laos - you can enjoy the peace and quiet of Laotian life whilst being surrounded by sublime scenery. Don't miss it whatever you do!

The 4,000 Islands region is unique in the world. It's home to Laotians but also the ideal getaway for enjoying the water and the sun and perfect for those who love walking.  

I stayed on Don Det island for 5 days, in a little bungalow on the banks of the Mekong. The island's beach is tiny and often full of people. You can swim from island to island. There are lots, of all different sizes, where you can rest after swimming in the Mekong. The islands go for as far as the eye can see and the scenery is incredible! On the island you can take a bike to explore the rice paddies and the other side of the island which is less populated. There are also kayaking excursions where you might see dolphins.  This is just one of the enormous number of islands in the area...it's up to you to choose the one you want!

The 4,000 Islands are an absolute must see <a href="/laos/">during a trip to Laos</a> ! Surreally beautiful scenery and guaranteed relaxation.

4000 îles (Si Phane Done) Vacations

4000 îles (Si Phane Done): What to see nearby?