Visit Paksé and Southern Laos: 10 Suggested Destinations

Discover all the cultural features and diverse nature of the south of Laos, a charismatic region of striking contrasts. From Pakse, the capital of southern Laos, embark on a journey to discover a fascinating territory, guided by our list of 10 sites to see and must-dos in south Laos.

This article aims to help you plan an unforgettable trip in Pakse and southern Laos by providing 10 captivating must-sees and must-dos in the region.

1. Visit Coffee Plantations

Southern Laos, especially the Bolaven Plateau, is home to some of the country’s finest coffee plantations. Coffee from this region benefits from unique geo-climatic conditions, including a temperate climate and highly fertile volcanic soil. Some small family-size coffee plantations are open for tour services to explore the process of producing the perfect coffee. Full-bodied and long on the palate, the coffee from this region reveals superb chocolate and roasted notes.  Be it Arabica or Robusta, let yourself be charmed by Laos' 'black gold'.

2. Discover Waterfalls in the Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau, situated at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level, is crisscrossed by numerous rivers that give rise to stunning waterfalls. When traveling across the region, you will be amazed by the beauty of some waterfalls, such as Tad Fane. This spectacular waterfall consists of two powerful waterfalls formed by the confluence of the Chamby and Pak Koot rivers, falling over a gorge over 120 meters high, making it the highest waterfall in Laos. Many waterfalls allow swimming, such as Tad Lo, which is nestled in a typical tropical jungle.

3. Travel by Bike in Champassak

It's a wonderful experience to explore the charming and serene Champasak, a former royal city where visitors can find historic colonial mansions, traditional Lao wooden stilt houses, and quaint Buddhist temples. Crossing the Mekong River to the small island called Dong Daeng, travelers can explore the traditional life of Laos people on the island and their friendliness. By the end of the day, don’t miss the magnificent sunset on the Mekong River.

4. Explore the Vat Phou Archaeological Site

Located near the tranquil Champasak city, the pre-Angkorian archaeological site of Vat Phou is a must-visit destination in southern Laos. Known as the “Temple of the Mountain”, a vestige of the Pre-Angkorian and Angkorian periods and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Vat Phou is a complex of Hindu architecture built by the Khmer people. The archaeological site of Vat Phou may be more modest than that of Angkor, but it is nonetheless admirable and essential for understanding the history of the Khmer Empire. Don't miss the Vat Phou festival, which attracts large numbers of Laotian worshippers every January or February, coinciding with the Makha Busa Buddhist festival.

5. Explore Kiet Ngong, the First Ecotourism Site in the region

The Kiet Ngong ecotourism area is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Here, travelers can enjoy the hospitality of the locals and encounter elephants. Kiet Ngong village is also a starting point for hikes through the Xe Pian National Protected Area, one of the country's most biologically important and diverse protected areas. Get ready to be amazed by the Phou Asa, one of the most bizarre stone structures, along with the mysterious Plain of Jars. The site, perched on a volcanic plateau, includes a temple ruin surrounded by flat, stacked stone columns. Travelers can also observe numerous bird species in the Kiet Ngong wetland, famous for its exceptional biodiversity.

6. Explore the 4000 Islands by Kayak and Bike

This archipelago is an amazing waypoint in southern Laos. Explore islands like Don Det and Don Khone by bike or kayak to discover their tropical beauty, green rice fields, small temples, remnants of French colonialism, and serene views. Laos' 4000 Islands archipelago is the epitome of an insular paradise, with a remarkably hospitable population.

7. Observe the Waterfalls of the 4000 Islands

This archipelago is home to some of the most outstanding waterfalls in Laos. Among the remarkable names is Li Phi Waterfall, where the mighty Mekong River drives its water fiercely over the steep rock faces. Wooden fishing nets are set directly amidst the chaos of this waterfall to support fishermen catching the Mekong’s famous giant catfish. Yet the most majestic is the impassable Khone Phapeng Waterfall. At 21 meters high and stretching for 10 kilometers, this waterfall has one of the highest flow rates in the world. A truly fascinating sight!

8. Meet the Dolphins of the Irrawaddy River

Meeting with the Irrawaddy dolphins is a must-do activity during your stay in the 4000 Islands. These freshwater dolphins, considered the most famous animals in the Mekong River, are unfortunately endangered due to dams and fishing. However, travelers can still observe these dolphins with their large, melon-colored eyes and blunt, round heads in the south of the 4000 Islands archipelago, right on the border between Laos and Cambodia. Meeting with the lovely dolphins promises to give any traveler an unforgettable experience in southern Laos.

9. Cruise on the Mekong River

Embark on a memorable cruise along the Mekong from Pakse to Champassak and on to the 4000 Islands to discover the charms of southern Laos. As the cruise takes you along the majestic Mekong River, you will encounter atypical river life on the banks and admire the languorous landscapes, including the Pasak Mountains, home to the famous UNESCO-listed Vat Phou archaeological site. Treat yourself to an enchanted interlude on a cruise on the Mekong River; this will be a unique travel experience in Laos.

10. Have an adventure in the jungle

Are you up for an adrenaline rush? Join the Tree Top Explorer for an exceptional adventure. Inside the lush, unspoiled jungle of the Bolaven Plateau, over two or three days, explorers will hike, zip-line through sumptuous natural scenery, do via ferrata, cross suspension bridges, and finally sleep in tree houses overlooking a breathtaking waterfall at the height of a 3-story house. Indeed, an unforgettable experience!

TOLUNHA.

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