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Vang Vieng Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Once a crazy party town dominated by wild backpackers, Vang Vieng has changed a lot in recent years. The center of town is now thriving, with boutique hotels and high-end restaurants replacing some of the party-laden backpacker bars that used to pack the waterfront.

If you’re backpacking Vang Vieng, know it’s no longer the hedonistic jungle town it once was – it’s now a calm oasis for enjoying nature, jungle hikes, and lazy days cooling off in the river. (That said, you can still party hard here. It’s just not like the old days, which I think is a good thing.)

If you’re seeking outdoor adventure, explore the area’s cave system (including by tubing in a water cave), kayak Nam Song’s rapids, climb Pha Poak Mountain at sunset, or drive an ATV on the backcountry roads. When it’s time to cool off, take a refreshing plunge in the Blue Lagoon. For a small town, there’s actually a lot to do here.

This Vang Vieng travel guide will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this popular backpacker spot!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money Saving Tips
• Where To Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Vang Vieng

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Vang Vieng

1. Go tubing on the river

Tubing is definitely a much safer and more enjoyable experience now that the drugs and excessive partying are gone (in the past, people would get wasted and then go tubing, leading to all kinds of injuries and fatalities). Rent a tube, get taken to the top of the river, and then float lazily back to town. Rentals cost around 55,000 LAK, which includes transportation to the starting point.

2. Go caving

One of the most popular and most accessible caves in Vang Vieng is the Golden Cave (Tham Phu Kham) at the Blue Lagoon. Inside, there’s an aquamarine lagoon where you can cool off with a swim. Bring a flashlight so you can explore further into the cave (you can rent one there if you don’t have one). The Tham Chan Cave is another option, reached via an orange suspension bridge and a steep staircase behind the Vang Vieng Resort.

3. Rent an ATV or go dirt biking

ATVs and dirt bikes are really popular here. There are plenty of well-marked trails for off-roading fun. Prices vary depending on what you rent and whether or not you are on a tour. Expect to pay around 1,000,000 LAK for a half-day tour and around 250,000 LAK for a full-day rental.

4. Check out the Blue Lagoon

While it does tend to get crowded, the lagoon is a quick trip via tuk-tuk, and you can explore the lagoon’s cave too. Plus, it’s fun to watch people conquer their nerves as they jump from the highest branch of the tree hanging over the lagoon. The entry fee is 10,000 LAK. There are multiple blue lagoons these days, though most people still go to the original. For smaller crowds check out lagoon 2 or 3 (they’re just a bit further from town).

5. Take a hot air balloon ride

Hot air balloon rides are offered during the dry season (November-March). Rides usually last about 45 minutes and are one of the best ways to take in the mountainous scenery around Vang Vieng. Expect to pay at least 1,500,000 LAK. You can book directly through Balloon Over Vang Vieng or through a third-party company like Wonderful Tours.

Other Things to See and Do in Vang Vieng

1. try rock climbing.

There are several options for rock climbing in Vang Vieng, whether you are a first-time climber or a professional. Adam’s Climbing School will show you the ropes (pun intended). For a half-day of lessons and climbing, expect to pay around 380,000 LAK.

2. Check out the Water Cave

The Water Cave is one of the main attractions in Vang Vieng. You’ll tube through the cave while holding onto a rope with only a flashlight to light the route ahead of you. A tube and flashlight rental is only 15,000 LAK, but many tours plan the tubing in the morning and follow it up with a BBQ picnic lunch. A full-day adventure with Wonderful Tours Laos includes the Water Cave, zip-lining, and kayaking for around 865,000 LAK.

3. Climb Pha Poak

If you want stunning views, head to Pha Poak mountain. It’s only a 30-minute climb to the top where you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the area’s limestone mountains. Keep in mind that climbing in the dark is incredibly difficult and even in daylight it’s not for the faint-hearted with few ropes and some steep drops. Wearing appropriate footwear is recommended.

4. Go biking

Rent a bike and take a self-guided tour along Route 13’s paved roads through farmland, rice paddy fields, and jungle-covered mountains. Regular bicycles are available for around 20,000 LAK per day, while mountain bikes are available for around 30,000 LAK per day. Alternatively, hopping on a guided half-day tour costs around 750,000 LAK.

  For more information on other destinations in Laos, check out these guides:

• Luang Prabang Travel Guide
• Vientiane Travel Guide

Vang Vieng Travel Costs

Keep in mind that almost none of the hostels have kitchens so you need to eat out for your meals or find a local guesthouse with a kitchen.

Budget hotel prices – Two-star hotels with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and free breakfast start around 93,000 LAK per night although properties on the river are more expensive. Guesthouses are more affordable at about 440,000 LAK per night.

In addition to hotels, there are lots of Airbnb options in Vang Vieng. Private rooms start from 200,000 LAK but average more like 425,000 LAK. There are very few full apartments or homes for rent, but if you find one, they start at 900,000 LAK.

Food – Food in Laos has many similarities to its neighbors and includes green papaya salad and laap (also known as larb), which is a minced-meat salad that is the national dish. Grilled meats, such as chicken, pork, and duck are also very popular, as is feu, the local version of pho.

Most street food and cheap meals of local cuisine cost less than 22,000 LAK, especially in the night market where you can find things like barbecued meats, spicy papaya salad, and noodle soup.

If you want to splash out on a fancy meal, expect to pay around 150,000 LAK for a three-course meal with a drink.

Beer is very cheap here, costing around 14,000 LAK. If you want a latte or cappuccino, expect to pay around 30,000 LAK. Bottled water is around 5,000 LAK.

If you have access to a kitchen, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 250,000-300,000 LAK for basic staples like rice, pasta, produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Vang Vieng Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to spend around 300,000 LAK per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, drinking a couple beers, renting a bicycle to get around, and enjoying mostly cheap activities like cycling and swimming. Add another 15,000-30,000 LAK to your daily budget if you plan on drinking more.

On a mid-range budget of 650,000 LAK per day, you can stay in a private hostel dorm or Airbnb, drink more, enjoy lots of street food, take some taxis or tuk-tuks, and do more activities like go rock climbing or ATV riding.

On a “luxury” budget of around 1,800,000 LAK per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat all your meals out anywhere you want, enjoy lots of drinks, hire tuk-tuks or rent a motorbike/scooter, and do whatever activities you want. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in LAK.

Vang Vieng Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Vang Vieng, like the rest of Laos, is very affordable. As a popular tourist destination, prices here are a little bit higher than elsewhere in the country, but they aren’t going to break the bank. If you drink a lot, you’ll spend a lot of money but, otherwise, it’s very cheap to visit. That said, here are some ways to save when you visit Vang Vieng:

• Stick to eating local food – Western food is always more expensive than the local cuisine. While the prices aren’t that high, they add up. To save money, stick to the local cuisine.
• Don’t party too hard – While Vang Vieng isn’t the crazy party place it once was, skipping out on a lot of drinking is one easy way to cut costs.
• Limit your activities – Between tubing and rock climbing, exploring caves, and riding hot air balloons, there is a lot to do in Vang Vieng. You’ll end up breaking the bank if you try to do everything, so consider picking your top activities and just doing them.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here isn’t safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with a filter. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng has lots of accommodation options. My suggested places to stay are the following:

• Nana Backpackers Hostel
• Vang Vieng Freedom Hostel
• Rock Backpackers Hostel

How to Get Around Vang Vieng

Bicycle – Bicycles are a great way to navigate Vang Vieng and the surrounding area. It’s possible to rent a bicycle at lots of different shops in town, and sometimes at your accommodations. Regular bicycles are available for around 20,000 LAK per day, while mountain bikes are for about 30,000 LAK per day.

Motorcycles – At many of the bicycle rental shops you’ll also find motorcycle or scooter rentals. Rentals cost around 150,000 LAK per day. Most hotels/hostels can help you rent one so you don’t get scammed.

When to Go to Vang Vieng

November-March is the best time to visit Vang Vieng. This is when the area’s weather is consistently warm and dry. If you’re here primarily to do adventure activities, this weather is perfect. In the city itself, the average daily temperature is 25°C (77°F). This is the busiest time of year as well, so you can expect higher prices and bigger crowds.

March to May tends to be the hottest time of year, with temperatures soaring as high as 40°C (104°F). Humidity is high as well. July and August are popular months to visit Vang Vieng for European and South American travelers making the most of their holidays.

The rainiest times of year is September through October. This isn’t great for adventure activities as the area may experience flooding and the thick mud makes it difficult to get around. Plus, if you want to get out into the mountains, there’s a higher risk for landslides.

How to Stay Safe in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is a very safe place to visist. Since the government shut down most of the party tubing scene, safety has drastically improved. The town also doesn’t have the same amount of tourist traffic anymore, so petty crimes like pickpocketing are also more rare (but by no means unlikely). Just keep an eye on your stuff, especially at night when out at the packed bars.

As with many places in Southeast Asia, people and businesses might try to rip you off by charging you tourist prices. When in doubt, always ask your hotel/hostel staff how much things should cost so you don’t get scammed.

Be wary of people planting drugs on you. The scam involves someone planting drugs on you and then a police officer arresting you unless you can pay a bribe.

For other scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When people get into trouble here, it’s mostly because they’re tangled up with drugs or the sex industry. Laos is strict about punishment when it comes to these offenses, so avoid them at all costs!

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that go into more detail.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 to contact the police.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Vang Vieng Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Vang Vieng Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Laos travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

The Secret Pool of Kuang Si Waterfall

The Cost of Traveling Laos

Vang Vieng: A Hedonistic Backpacker Town Reborn

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

9 Best Things To Do in Vang Vieng, Laos

Reformed and refreshed, is the oasis of Vang Vieng in Laos. What was once a party town, is now a remote sanctuary, sitting in the shadows of stunning green mountains and cliffs. Motorbike alongside rice fields, luscious green countryside, and blue lagoons. Better yet, hike up to one of the many breathtaking panoramic viewpoints! Vang Vieng is a great mix of adventure and relaxation, so get ready for 3 exciting days, enjoying all the things to do.

Day 1 – Vang Vieng Outskirts

Spend your first day in enchanting Vang Vieng, exploring its beautiful outskirts. Start the morning by hiring a motorbike and driving through the countryside, over charming bridges, to stunning viewpoints, and roaring waterfalls.

1. Motorbiking around the area

Vang Vieng is home to some of the most scenic motorbike routes in Asia! The best way to see all the sights is by driving on one of the many motorbike loops. Pass through beautiful tropical forests, local villages, and dreamy blue lagoons. Keep your eyes peeled for some amazing wildlife; one of the most fun things to do in Vang Vieng.

Must-read: stunning Luang Prabang in Laos

Expect to pay around 10 USD per day for a motorbike, which is worth it as it is one of the top things to do in Vang Vieng. Rent a motorbike through your hotel, or research your rental company thoroughly in order to avoid scams.

Here are all your hotel options in Vang Vieng.

2. Kaeng Nyui Waterfall 

Enjoy the thrilling experience of the Kaeng Nyui Waterfall! Because it is located only 30-minute drive from town, it is the perfect place to cool off from the hot sun. Another reason to visit is the scenic journey to get to the falls. Drive through unspoiled nature, traditional Laotian houses, and cute farms; beautiful!

Once there, follow a magical jungle trail through small pools, waterfalls, and charming wooden bridges. It is a 30-minute drive + 30-minute hike and costs 1.5 USD at the car park. This is the location of the falls. (photo below is not at the waterfall)

Tip: The waterfall is seasonal, best from May to October, so in the dry season it is likely the falls will be dried up and there will be no water. Take care as the path to the falls is not maintained, so it can be slippy in the wet season.

3. Pha Tang Bridge & temple

A short journey from Vang Vieng is the picture-perfect village of Ban Pha Tang! Because of its postcard-worthy views, it’s becoming more popular as a thing to do in Vang Vieng. Find the bridge crossing the river, and admire the incredible view of the dense greenery and limestone karsts ahead.

Get your train or bus tickets to Vang Vieng here

Additionally, close to the river, there is a small Buddhist temple named Wat Pho Karm Chai Mong Kol. Because of its breathtaking setting, this colorful temple is well worth a short drive to see.

Tip: If you don’t want to hire a motorbike, there are also songthaews (pick up truck taxis) that will take you out to main sights.

Day 2 – Lagoons & Viewpoints

Day 2 is an action-packed day of lagoons and viewpoints. Make sure to bring a swimsuit and a towel with you so you can enjoy a swim and some relaxation time at the lagoons.

Must-read:  Complete 10-day Laos Travel Itinerary

4. Blue lagoon 1 + Phu Kham Cave  

Swim in the dreamlike, turquoise waters of the Vang Vieng lagoons! Follow the signs on the road towards Blue Lagoon 1. This lagoon is easily one of the most popular things to do in Vang Vieng because it is located only a short ride (20 minutes) from town.

For this reason, it is best to go as early as possible in the morning. This way, you’ll have the lagoon to yourselves for a peaceful swim and to enjoy the rope swings.

Opening times/Entrance Fee: 8AM-6PM/20,000 KIP

Additionally, take the trail leading up towards the Phu Kham Cave. You will find the reclining Buddha, a shrine where locals bring incense and candles. Because it’s a religious site, make sure to be respectful of the area and stay on the path. It gets very dark in the cave, so wear good shoes and bring a flashlight if you can.

Tip: This is a great place to have a picnic lunch or enjoy a meal at the small restaurant on site. Using local businesses helps to sustain the future of travel. You can read more about sustainable travel here.

Book a tour visiting the blue lagoons and the Phu Kham Cave

5. Blue Lagoon 3 

Blue Lagoon 3 is about a half an hour drive from Blue Lagoon 1. It is much quieter because it is further away from town but much more scenic. Enjoy a relaxing dip in the water or relax on one of the bamboo rafts in the sun. The drive here is beautiful! However, be aware that the route is a dirt track, so take care when driving.

6. Nam Xay Viewpoint 

On your way back to Vang Vieng, stop for sunset at Nam Xay Viewpoint. Hike to the top of the limestone karst, where you’ll find a motorbike placed at the summit (by locals) and the Laos flag blowing in the wind. This is easily one of the top things to do in Vang Vieng and a perfect way to end the day.

Opening times/entrance fee: 6AM-5PM/20,000 KIP

Getting there: The viewpoint is about 20 minutes driving from Vang Vieng and close to Blue Lagoon 1. Once you have parked the bike, it is roughly a 30-minute medium-difficult hike to the top. However, the hike is one hundred percent worth it for the incredible panoramic views! Make sure to leave shortly after sunset so you’re not walking down when it’s very dark.

Good to know: There are lots of different viewpoints to see in Vang Vieng. If you have the energy to hike up and see more, you should also try Pha Ngern viewpoint and Pha Hon Kham cliff point.

Day 3 – Kayaking & Caves

Spend your last day in Vang Vieng relaxing, wandering around town, and seeing some amazing sights within walking distance. Because of Vang Vieng’s location on the Nam Song River, there are lots of water activities to enjoy!

7. Kayaking on the river 

Head down to the Nam Song river for some kayaking! Vang Vieng used to be the home of tubing: an activity where tourists would sit in rubber rings and drift down the river being pulled into bars. However, after many accidents, this activity now has tight restrictions and has become less popular as a thing to do in Vang Vieng. For this reason, there are still bars lined along the river, but it is much quieter.

Instead of tubing, kayak along the river and enjoy the surrounding nature from the water. Enjoy the morning paddling along the river, admiring the peaceful nature, and looking out for some small rapids.

8. Tham Chang cave 

During the middle part of the day, when the sun is hot, head to the cool temperatures of Tham Chang Cave. Either drive or walk to the cave, it is only a 20-minute walk from town.

Ascend the steep steps to the cave, making your way up for the worthy views of the impressively large space. There are lights inside the cave to help you to see the beautiful interior. Note: Unfortunately, the iconic orange bridge across the river no longer exists.

Opening times/entrance fee: 8AM-4PM/5,000 KIP to cross the bridge and 15,000 KIP to enter the cave.

9. Vieng Tara Villa Rice-fields

Vieng Tara is a hotel with beautiful lush rice fields at the back and a long boardwalk crossing the paddies. Walk through the serene paddy fields at dusk towards the many limestone karsts in the distance, a beautiful thing to do in Vang Vieng. Usually, it is only accessible for guests, but if you buy some food or drinks at the restaurant, it should be okay.

Tip: rice normally grows in the rainy season, so if visiting in the dry season it’s good to anticipate that there may be no rice here at this time.

Restaurants in Vang Vieng

Because of the popularity of Vang Vieng with backpackers, there is a wide variety of different cuisines to choose from. Whether it’s traditional Laotian dishes, Thai, or even western favorites, there is something tasty for everyone. Some of our favorites were:

• The Corner Hanoi Cafe (Vietnamese)
• Oasis Restaurant (Delicious smoothies)
• Happy Mango (Thai food)
• Naked Espresso (Good Breakfast)
• Il Tavolo (Italian)

Where to stay in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is a small walkable town with two main areas to stay, either in town or just across the bridge. Consider staying in the town center for easy access to restaurants and bars. Or choose the riverside accommodations to enjoy scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Hotels in Vang Vieng 😴

Getting There & Getting Around

Laos has two international airports. One in Luang Prabang and one in Vientiane. Vang Vieng lies somewhere in the middle of the two cities and can be reached by train, bus, or taxi. Most companies offer a minivan service which takes roughly around 5-6 hours from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng and 1-2 hours from Vientiane to Vang Vieng on the new highway.

Find the train or bus timetable and tickets here

Getting Around

Once in Vang Vieng, there are a few sights that are within walking distance. To reach the lagoons and waterfalls, it’s a good idea to hire a motorbike to give you more flexibility and to allow you to see the real beauty of the area.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Laos trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Ride safely on the dirt road, and always remember to wear a helmet and take out insurance. If you don’t feel confident on a motorbike, then visit places by using Songthaews (Laos taxis).

Here’s how to:   find the right travel insurance

Best Time to Visit Vang Vieng

The best month to visit Vang Vieng is October. From October to March the temperatures are cooler. However, at this time, it is likely the waterfalls may be dry, and rice won’t be growing.

March-October is the rainy season when rice paddies will be green and luscious, and it is the best time to see the waterfalls.

Tip: Keep in mind that in March/April farmers begin burning season, which may create smoke that can cause problems for allergy sufferers.

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• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Laos via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Laos Travel Guide: Complete 10-Day Itinerary

11 best things to do in luang prabang.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Pha Tang Bridges are broken during flood. As per locals, they are planning to make new bridges before 2024 April. But still we can go and enjoy the beautiful village.

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The Ultimate Guide to Vang Vieng, Laos

Travel Rating: 8.4

Nestled in the heart of Laos , Vang Vieng is a small town renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and adventurous spirit. Surrounded by towering limestone karsts, lush greenery, and the meandering Nam Song River, it’s a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers alike.  

Population: ~61,000 (2022)

Elevation : 243 m (797 ft)

Currency : Laos Kip (LAK)

Time Zone : Indochina Time (ICT), UTC+7

North of Known is reader-supported. We may be compensated if you purchase through any affiliate links on this site. Thank you for supporting us.

Length of Trip: 2-7 days.

Trip Type: adventure / nightlife / gastronomic.

Our Experience: We spent 8 days in Vientiane in January 2023. 

Disclaimer : Before planning your trip, it’s essential to check for any travel restrictions, visa requirements, and other relevant information, as these might change over time.

Vang Vieng is ideal for :

• Outdoor adventures & nightlife.

The town isn’t ideal for :

• Cultural enthusiasts & foodies.

Table of Contents

Vang vieng, laos, party town metamorphosis.

Vang Vieng, a once-infamous party town has undergone a surprising metamorphosis. Once synonymous with wild revelry and drunken tubing, the town has gracefully transformed itself into an outdoor adventure hub.

Gone are the days of raucous celebrations, as Vang Vieng’s new identity embodies the spirit of adventure and a deep appreciation for its stunning natural surroundings. Its metamorphosis is nothing short of extraordinary as the once noisy bars and thumping music have given way to the serene sounds of nature.

By embracing its rugged landscape and untamed charm, Vang Vieng now caters to adventure enthusiasts seeking nature’s finest offerings. 

Vang Vieng Day Trips

The best things to do.

Vang Vieng offers a wealth of natural wonders and exciting activities, ensuring a blend of adventure and relaxation during your stay. Whether you’re in search of adrenaline-pumping experiences, cultural immersion, or a peaceful escape, unforgettable memories are guaranteed.  

Paragliding: Experience the thrill of gliding over the mountains that surround the Nam Song River valley, offering unparalleled aerial views of the limestone cliffs and lush green landscape. Under the guidance of expert instructors, both novices and seasoned gliders can enjoy a secure and exhilarating flight.

Nam Xay Viewpoint : This is a must-see for travelers in search of a panoramic view. To reach the viewpoint, you’ll hike up a steep forested trail and climb over a limestone formation. As you ascend, the valley beneath gradually unveils itself, revealing vistas of the Nam Song River, emerald rice paddies, and the iconic karst mountains that characterize the region.  

Insider Tip : The optimal time to visit is at sunset, when the gentle tones of the sky perfectly enhance the natural beauty of the view.

Explore the Blue Lagoons : The Nam Song valley is home to several captivating lagoons, with the primary attractions being Blue Lagoon 1 and Blue Lagoon 3 . These freshwater pools are sourced from natural springs, providing a revitalizing escape from the tropical heat. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the pristine waters and unwind, or enjoy the iconic rope swings.  

Visit the Tham Chang Cave : Venture into the depths of this remarkable limestone cavern which harbors a reclining Buddha statue, serving as a revered place of worship. Inside the cave, intricate stalactites and stalagmites are illuminated by gentle lighting, crafting a surreal ambiance.

Insider Tip : Visit the cavern during the midday heat, as it maintains a consistently cool temperature throughout the day.

Trek to the Pha Ngern Viewpoint : Go on a day hike to Pha Ngern , which is renowned for its summit view. The trail guides you through a dense jungle before reaching the mountain’s peak. At the summit, you’ll be greeted by an uninterrupted vista of Vang Vieng’s expansive landscapes.

Insider Tip : For the best experience, tackle this demanding hike early in the morning, at sunrise.

Rock Climbing at Pha Daeng Cliff : For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the chance to climb a limestone cliff offers the thrill of conquering new heights. Climbers of all levels, from beginners to experts, can find suitable routes here. As you scramble up the cliff’s challenging terrain, you’ll get a unique vantage point of the rural valley below.

Hot Air Balloon Ride : Take to the skies in a hot air balloon over breathtaking karst formations, emerald rice fields, and the winding Nam Song River. This unforgettable adventure guarantees memories that will resonate long after your time in Laos concludes.

Insider Tip : Opt for an early morning ride to witness the sunrise over the horizon.

Kayaking on the River : A trip to Vang Vieng remains incomplete without kayaking on the calm waters of the Nam Song. Regardless of your fitness level, kayaking presents the best method to discover the distinctive terrain, observe local wildlife, and fully engage with nature’s tranquility.

Insider Tip : The ideal time for a cruise along the Nam Song River is during the golden hour.

Vang Vieng Culinary Guide

Food recommendations.

When exploring Vang Vieng, indulging in the local specialties is an absolute must. One of the standout dishes you should try is “ laap ,” a traditional Laotian minced meat salad. Prepared with either chicken, beef, or fish, laap features a blend of fresh herbs, lime juice, and ground toasted rice, creating a burst of flavors that will entice your taste buds. You can find laap at local eateries and street food vendors throughout the town, offering an authentic taste of Lao cuisine.

For breakfast, try a local rendition of donuts called “ pa thong ko .” The dough is deep-fried to golden perfection, creating a crispy outer layer while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside.

Served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sweet condensed milk or pandan syrup, these irresistible fried dough sticks offer a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. Whether enjoyed with a cup of local coffee or as a quick bite while exploring the town, pa thong ko is a delightful gastronomic treat that epitomizes Laotian street food culture.

Another dish that will leave you itching for more is “ or lam ,” a hearty stew infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Usually prepared with buffalo meat or pork, or lam boasts a delectable combination of textures and tastes, making it a true comfort food to savor after a day of exploration. For an authentic or lam stew, head to places like Oh La La , a popular local restaurant where you can try its rich and flavorful broth.

Last but not least, don’t miss the chance to devour a “ roti ,” which are available from street vendors all around Vang Vieng. These irresistible pancakes are filled with various options such as banana, chocolate, Nutella, and even cheese.

Insider Tip : Ensure that you buy one from the renowned Roti Lady, a welcoming vendor who is famed for offering some of the finest rotis in Laos.

For those looking to explore local life through food, a trip to Vang Vieng’s morning market (open from 5:00 to 7:00 am) is worth considering. This authentic market gives a glimpse into how locals go about their day, with vast displays of fresh produce, spices, and traditional ingredients used in Laotian cuisine. You’ll find everything from colorful fruits and aromatic herbs to live wild game, providing an unfiltered sensory experience.

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Vang Vieng Travel Guide

The best areas to stay.

Since Vang Vieng is relatively compact, most accommodations are conveniently located nearby the main attractions. Below are a few areas that we recommend considering for your stay:

Riverside Area : The Riverside area is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after locations in town. Staying along the Nam Song River provides a stunning view with towering karst mountains as your backdrop. This area is perfect for travelers who want to be within walking distance of tourist spots, such as restaurants, while still having a room that overlooks nature.

*The Best Luxury Hotel: Amari Vang Vieng

South Vang Vieng : If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, then South Vang Vieng might be your ideal choice. This area offers a more laid-back setting, with beautiful scenery and a slower pace of life. You’ll still find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and activities nearby, but without the noise and crowds often associated with the central part of town.

*The Best Mid-range Hotel: Confetti Garden

Nam Xay Village : Located a short distance from Vang Vieng’s center, Nam Xay Village offers a more rural and authentic experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture. The village itself, is surrounded by rice paddies and mountains, making it the top choice for travelers seeking tranquility within the countryside.

*The Best Budget Hotel: Laos Haven

Thavisouk Village : Another excellent option for those looking to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the main town is Thavisouk Village. This area offers a more relaxed ambiance while still providing easy access to tourist attractions. The village is known for its friendly locals and its traditional Laotian lifestyle.

Getting Around Vang Vieng

Navigating Vang Vieng is an adventure of its own. To help you, we put together a comprehensive breakdown of the different transportation options available:  

Motorbike Rental : Motorbikes are a common and practical means of independent exploration. Numerous rental shops are located around the town, providing a wide variety of availability. Prior to renting, it’s important to check the bike’s condition and to possess a valid driver’s license.

Insider Tip : Do not to leave your passport as collateral when renting a motorbike. If you can’t locate a shop that doesn’t require your passport for daily rentals, then try to find one where you can rent on an hourly basis (only your ID will be needed as collateral).

Dune Buggy Rental : For getting off-the-beaten-path, consider renting a dune buggy. These rugged vehicles are ideal for traversing dirt trails and rural terrains. Dune buggy rental services are available from shops near the riverside, and rental packages can include guided tours.

Bicycle Rental : Budget-conscious travelers and those desiring a leisurely pace will find bicycles to be an ideal mode of transportation, thanks to the town’s flat roads. Many guesthouses and shops provide bicycles at affordable rates, allowing you to pedal your way to freedom.

Walking : The town’s small size and pedestrian-friendly layout offer the opportunity to explore it by foot. Stroll along the lively streets, discover local markets, and stumble upon charming cafes and eateries during your zero-cost journey.

Tuk-Tuk : Motorized tuk-tuks that have been modified with tractor tires, are a fun and quirky ride. You’ll find these Frankenstein tuk-tuks stationed at various points around town, offering shared rides or private hires. They’re especially convenient for short trips to nearby attractions.

Insider Tip : Remember to negotiate the fare before hopping in, and be prepared for a bumpy ride. 

Vang Vieng Weather Guide

The best time to visit.

For a memorable trip to Vang Vieng, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, there are two distinct phases to consider:

November to February : This phase, known as the cool and dry season, presents the town at its finest. The temperatures are pleasantly mild, with daytime highs ranging between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), providing an environment ripe for exploration.

Additionally, the landscape transforms into a postcard-worthy masterpiece, with lush green rice paddies and imposing karst mountains, set against clear blue skies. This is an opportune time for day hikes to viewpoints and hot air balloon rides.

March to April : As March arrives, the town transitions into the hot and dry phase, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). This time of year offers sun-seekers a favorable window for kayaking along the river or swimming at the lagoons.  

However, it’s important to acknowledge that this phase also features pollution and haze resulting from agricultural slash and burn practices. Individuals with respiratory issues or sensitivities, might want to reconsider visiting during this time.

Good To Know

Vang vieng's evolution.

Vang Vieng has undergone significant changes over the years, shaped by political, social, and economic factors. Let’s take a deeper look into the town’s storied past:  

Ancient History &   Early Settlements: The region surrounding Vang Vieng has a long history of human habitation. Archaeological evidence suggests that various ethnic groups, including the Hmong and Khamu, have lived in the area for thousands of years.  

French Colonial Era (late 19th to mid-20th century): Laos became a French protectorate in the late 19th century. During this time, French influence led to the development of infrastructure, including roads and administrative buildings. This led to the town being officially established as a small trading post.

Post-Independence & Communist Rule (mid-20th century): Laos gained independence from France in 1954. Shortly afterward, the country experienced political turmoil due to the larger Cold War context. The Pathet Lao, a communist group, came to power in 1975 after the fall of the monarchy. Vang Vieng, like many other areas, underwent changes in its socioeconomic and political landscape as the country transitioned into a socialist regime.

Tourism Boom (1990s – 2000s): In the 1990s and early 2000s, the town experienced a surge in tourism, largely driven by backpackers seeking adventure and exploration. Its natural landscapes, particularly the Nam Song River attracted travelers, and the town quickly gained a reputation as a party destination with “tubing” as a popular activity. During this period, numerous guesthouses, bars, and entertainment establishments were established to cater to tourists.

Controversies (mid-2000s – 2010s): Rapid growth in tourism came with its share of challenges as reports of accidents related to tubing and excessive alcohol consumption raised international alarm. There were also environmental concerns due to litter and unregulated development. In response to these issues, the Laotian government took measures to regulate and control the tourism industry in Vang Vieng.

Shift Towards Sustainable Tourism (late 2010s – present): In the late 2010s, the Laotian government and local authorities began implementing measures to transition the town into a more sustainable and family-friendly destination. Efforts included closing down some of the rowdier bars along the river and promoting activities that focused on eco-tourism.

Vang Vieng Travel Tips

Where should i go next.

After enjoying the natural beauty of Vang Vieng, there are several great places to explore in Laos, each with its own special attractions and appeal:

Vientiane : Exploring Vientiane after Vang Vieng creates a well-rounded Laos experience, as the capital city will introduce cultural depth and urban dynamics to your trip. The shift from rural landscapes to Vientiane’s historical landmarks like Pha That Luang provides a transition from outdoor exploration to cultural immersion. This sequence allows you to appreciate both sides of Laos – its natural wonders and its urban heritage – making for a more comprehensive journey.

Luang Prabang : While Vang Vieng offers outdoor excitement, Luang Prabang invites you into a world of tranquil introspection through its UNESCO World Heritage sites, timeless temples, and the deeply rooted spiritual connection of the local community. This shift in scenery and atmosphere allows you to balance the vigor of exploration with a profound sense of peace, resulting in a balanced understanding of Laos’ cultural diversity.

Nong Khiaw : This hidden gem allows you to escape the crowds and discover a slower pace of life, where you can hike to viewpoints for breathtaking panoramas, interact with ethnic communities, and unwind in a serene natural setting. In Nong Khiaw, you can delve deeper into Laos’ lesser-explored regions, adding a layer of discovery and connection to your travel journey.

Actionable Insights

What is the motorbike scam in vang vieng.

Vang Vieng has a lingering reputation for instances of motorbike scams that target unsuspecting tourists. The most common scam involves rental shops deliberately charging exorbitant amounts for pre-existing damages that weren’t caused by the renter.

Here’s how the scam typically unfolds: You rent a motorbike to explore the countryside and surrounding areas. Upon returning the motorbike, the rental shop owner falsely claims that the bike has been damaged during the rental period and demands an inflated fee for repairs. Until the fee is paid, the shop owner will withhold your passport as a means of coercion to extract the money from you.

To safeguard yourself from this scam, you should take certain precautions. First, thoroughly inspect the motorbike before renting it, documenting any pre-existing damages with photographs or videos. Second, only rent from reputable and established shops, even if they charge higher rates. These establishments are more likely to operate transparently and professionally, making the premium worth it.

Third, it’s crucial to understand the terms of the rental agreement and inquire about insurance coverage to ensure that you are protected in case of genuine accidents or damages. Always read the contract carefully, and if any discrepancies arise when returning the motorbike, remain calm and assertive while discussing the situation.

While the occurrence of motorbike scams has reduced significantly in recent years due to increased awareness and stricter regulations, you should remain vigilant to have a smooth and hassle-free experience in Vang Vieng. 

What is Vang Vieng known for?

Once a bustling backpacker party hub, Vang Vieng has reinvented itself into a sustainable tourism gem that’s renowned for its natural beauty. Its most iconic attraction is the picturesque Nam Song River, where tubing and kayaking offer journeys through awe-inspiring terrain, and intricate cave systems.  

How good is Vang Vieng’s nightlife?

Vang Vieng’s nightlife has evolved over the years, transitioning from its previous reputation as a party hotspot to a more subdued and diverse scene. While the wild party culture that once dominated the area has diminished, there are still options for those interested in nightlife.

It’s worth noting that while some elements of the past party scene may persist, such as the availability of certain substances like mushroom shakes, the focus of Vang Vieng’s nightlife has shifted towards a broader range of experiences. Now, you can find a variety of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options that cater to different tastes, including those seeking a more relaxed and social evening.

How many days should I stay in Vang Vieng?

Generally, a stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended to fully appreciate the Vang Vieng’s attractions without feeling rushed. This timeframe allows you to explore the stunning karst landscapes, participate in activities like tubing, kayaking, and cave exploration, take leisurely bike rides through the countryside, and learn more about the local culture.

How do I get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng?

To get to Vang Vieng from Luang Prabang, you have several transportation options:

Bus: Buses are a common mode of transportation between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. The journey takes around 5 to 7 hours, depending on road conditions and the type of bus. There are both VIP buses and standard buses available, offering varying levels of comfort.

Minivan: Minivans are another option for traveling between the two towns. They are generally faster than buses due to their smaller size, but they can sometimes be less comfortable, especially for longer journeys.

Private Transfer: If you prefer a more personalized experience, you can arrange for a private car or van to take you from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. This option offers more flexibility in terms of departure time and stops along the way.

High-Speed Train: The fastest and most comfortable way to travel between the two towns is by taking the train – the total travel time is ~3 hours including transfers.

How do I get from Vientiane to Vang Vieng?

There are several transportation options to get you from Vientiane to Vang Vieng:

Private Transfer: One of the most comfortable and convenient options is hiring a private car or van for direct transportation between the two towns. This option allows you to travel at your own pace and make stops along the way to take in the scenic beauty of Laos. Private transfers can be arranged through travel agencies or hotels in Vientiane.  

Public Bus: Public buses are a popular and affordable means of transportation between Vientiane and Vang Vieng. Buses run regularly throughout the day, and you can catch them at the Northern Bus Terminal in Vientiane. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

Minivans: Minivans are another common option for traveling between the two towns. These vans offer a faster and more direct journey compared to public buses. Minivans can be found at various travel agencies and departure points in Vientiane, and the ride typically takes around 3 hours.

High-Speed Train: Via travel agencies or your hotel, you’re now able to book a 1.5 hour train ride to Vang Vieng from Vientiane. This is our recommended option as it’s the most straightforward option and the best value.

Is Vang Vieng worth visiting?

Certainly, Vang Vieng is indeed worth a visit. This destination offers a blend of distinctive natural landscapes, engaging outdoor activities, and glimpses into the local culture. The stunning surroundings, characterized by karst mountains, serene rivers, and lush countryside, create a picturesque backdrop that appeals to nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

The availability of outdoor activities such as kayaking, caving, and hiking provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in natural beauty and engage in thrilling experiences.

Is Vang Vieng safe?

Vang Vieng is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, like any travel destination, it’s essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Below are some safety tips to help you have an enjoyable experience:

Water Activities: While kayaking and tubing on the Nam Song River can be a lot of fun, be cautious during the rainy season when the river currents can be strong. Always wear life jackets and pay attention to safety briefings before any water-based activity.

Road Safety: If you’re renting a motorbike to explore the area, ensure that you have prior experience and wear a helmet. Be cautious on the roads, as traffic conditions may vary, and some roads may be in poor condition (expect many potholes).

Natural Hazards: When hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, be aware of any natural hazards such as slippery rocks and uneven terrain. We recommend that you go with a friend or guide for long-distance treks.

Scams: Be aware of common travel scams, such as overcharging or misrepresenting prices. Always negotiate prices beforehand and choose reputable tour operators as well as rental services.

Health Precautions: Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, as they can be prevalent in rural areas.

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Welcome to North of Known! We’re Alan and May, a married couple who have embraced digital nomadism while calling Bangkok, Thailand, our current home base. Over the past 7 years, our shared passion for exploration and adventure has fueled our journey across the globe. Join us as we continue to embark on our nomadic adventures, sharing our insights, discoveries, and travel tales along the way.

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Getty Images/Moment RF

Like a rural scene from an old Asian silk painting, Vang Vieng (ວັງວຽງ) crouches low over the Nam Song (Song River) with a backdrop of serene cliffs and a tapestry of vivid green paddy fields. Thanks to the Lao government closing the river rave bars in 2012, the former party scene has been driven to the fringes and the community is rebooting itself as an adrenaline-fuelled adventure destination.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tham Nam is the highlight of the cluster of caves north of Vang Vieng. The cave is about 500m long and a tributary of the Nam Song flows out of its low…

The most famous of the caves around Vang Vieng, Tham Jang was used as a bunker to defend against marauding jęen hór (Yunnanese Chinese) in the early 19th…

Located around 13km north of Vang Vieng, the entrance to Tham Hoi is guarded by a large Buddha figure; reportedly the cave continues about 3km into the…

Tham Loup, located a few kilometres north of Vang Vieng, is a large and delightfully untouched cavern with some impressive stalactites.

Tham Phu Kham & Blue Lagoon

Located west of Vang Vieng, the vast Tham Phu Kham is considered sacred by Lao. The main cave chamber contains a Thai bronze ­reclining Buddha, and from…

Tham Sang, located a few kilometres north of Vang Vieng, is a small cavern containing Buddha images and a Buddha footprint, plus the (vaguely) elephant…

Wat Si Vieng Song

Located at the northern end of town, Wat Si Vieng Song is an active Buddhist temple.

Wat Si Suman

One of a handful of Buddhist temples in Vang Vieng.

Latest stories from Vang Vieng

Jan 14, 2016 • 5 min read

Puttering down jungle rivers, scaling mist-laced mountain roads, ziplining across treetops, and sitting roadside with a steaming bowl of noodles: it’s all…

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13 Epic Things To Do In Vang Vieng Laos 2024

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Known for its party scene, in recent years Vang Vieng has reinvented itself as the outdoor capital of Laos.

Now an adventure seekers paradise, the destination is all about hiking dramatic Vang Vieng mountains, kayaking through rapids, hot air ballooning through the natural scenery and practising yoga moves in the serene rice fields.

So if you’re like me and your partying days are behind you, check out this list of epic things to do in Vang Vieng, Laos (other than drinking) that should be added to your Vang Vieng itinerary.

This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to yourself. This helps towards the upkeep of this website for which I am grateful.

Things To Know Before You Visit Vang Vieng Laos

How to get a visa for laos.

Whilst it’s possible to get an e-visa before arriving in Laos, the Laos visa on arrival is the quickest and cheapest way to get a Laos tourist visa .

This can be obtained if you are arriving at either Luang Prabang airport, Vientiane airport or 25 other border checkpoints surrounding Laos.

The visa on arrival for Laos is available for most nationalities and only requires 1 passport photo  and US dollars for the application fee.

The Laos visa on arrival fee varies between 30 USD to 40 USD depending on your nationality (UK and US citizens are currently $35) plus 1 USD for the visa service fee. Tourist visas in Laos last for 30 days.

What Currency Does Laos Accept

The currency in Laos is the Lao Kip , and the exchange rate is approximately 9000 LAK to 1 USD .

There are plenty of places to exchange money in Vientiane,  Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng, however they offer different rates dependent on the bill, $100 bills will get a better rate than smaller bills.

To counteract this as much as possible, bring larger denomination USD bills with you and shop around for the best exchange rates.

It is also possible to exchange GBP, EUR and other major currencies into Laos Kip.

How to get to Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng can be reached from  Luang Prabang   or Vientiane .

The minivan from Vientiane to Vang Vieng costs 50,000 LAK and takes four hours to reach Vang Vieng.

The daily departure times are every hour from 7am – 4pm. The minivan from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng takes around 5 hours, costs 110,000 LAK, and runs 3 times a day.

When to Visit Vang Vieng in Laos

The best time to visit Vang Vieng is during dry season from October to April.

This is the most popular time to visit Laos, meaning increased prices but there are also more things to do in Vang Vieng during this time, including tubing, kayaking and hot air ballooning.

If you do decide to visit in the off-peak months of May to September , during rainy season, be prepared for heavy downpours, and a lack of water sports as the Nam Song river flows too strongly.

However, during this time the rice paddies in Vang Vieng are incredibly lush and beautiful, and you can still do activities like indoor yoga when it rains in Vang Vieng.

How Long to Spend in Vang Vieng

You can stay anywhere between three to five nights in Vang Vieng , depending on how much time you want to spend relaxing.

However, three nights allows enough time to see and do most of what this beautiful spot in the Karst Mountains has to offer.

What to Pack for a Trip to Vang Vieng

As well as the usual holiday packing list make sure you don’t skip the following packing essentials for Laos :

• Clothes that cover your shoulders and knees so you can visit the Buddhist temples in Vang Vieng.
• Trainers or hiking boots, so you can explore the Karst Mountains.
• Swimming costume to enjoy the beautiful waterfalls and rivers throughout Laos.
• Waterproof gear, to enjoy the water sports on offer without worry. (These can be purchased in Vang Vieng for some of the cheapest prices I’ve seen around the world e.g. 10L waterproof bag for 45,000 LAK ~ $5 USD, a waterproof phone case 10,000 LAK ~ $1 USD
• Bring a European plug adapter with two round pins for Laos
• The roads in Laos aren’t built for wheeling suitcases on, so bring a good quality duffel bag .
• Travel insurance that covers the adventurous things to do in Vang Vieng

13 Epic Things to do in Vang Vieng

1. hiking in vang vieng.

Nam Xay is the best viewpoint in Vang Vieng , and if you only have time for one hike this should be it.

The starting point of the hike is located close to Blue Lagoon 1 and takes only 15 minutes to reach by tuk tuk from Vang Vieng town centre.

It is possible to hire a tuk tuk to take you there, wait for you to complete the hike and then drive you back for 150,000 LAK (~16 USD) total, which can be split between all passengers making it very affordable.

The Nam Xay hike in Vang Vieng has an admission fee of 10,000 LAK per person which is just over $1, and is used to maintain the trail.

Nam Xay is open from 6am to 6pm daily , and involves an ascent of 350 metres.

The hike only takes an average of 25 – 30 minutes , so whilst it is taxing it doesn’t last long and is therefore suitable for most abilities.

Just ensure you wear trainers or hiking boots (not flip flops), and bring a bottle of water.

Nam Xay viewpoint has a bamboo platform at the top where you can enjoy the views as well as two motorbikes that have been placed in the perfect spot for photos.

The Vang Vieng viewpoint is usually very misty in the morning so I would suggest visiting just before sunset between 3.30 – 5pm when the weather is cooler and there is a golden glow across the Karst mountains.

Just make sure you leave enough time to get down before the trail closes at 6pm.

Note: If you visit during dry season from October – April, expect to get very dusty whilst hiking in Vang Vieng – just scroll down to see how messy we got (luckily laundry is super cheap in Vang Vieng!).

2. Hot Air Balloon Vang Vieng Laos

One of the cheapest places in the world to take a hot air balloon ride is Vang Vieng in Laos.

Balloon flights are a fraction compared to the hefty price tag for a hot air balloon ride in Bagan, Myanmar .

Balloon flights in Vang Vieng take place at sunrise and sunset and fly over the serene Nam Song river, dramatic Karst mountains, and lush Vang Vieng rice fields.

3. Visit the Rice Fields in Vang Vieng

One of the best Vang Vieng attractions is the rice fields located at Vieng Tara , on the opposite side of the Nam Song River.

The best way to reach the rice fields is by crossing the free bamboo bridge which is located close to Amari Vieng Vang .

The walk to Vieng Tara takes around 20 minutes from the town centre but check which bridge you are crossing as many of them are NOT free.

4. Blue Lagoon Vang Vieng

There are currently 4 Blue Lagoons in Vang Vieng, that have been numbered in order of when they were discovered.

However as another two secret lagoons have recently been found there will soon be a total of six Blue Lagoons in Vang Vieng.

The latest additions, Blue Lagoon 3 and Blue Lagoon 4 are the least visited, but are highly recommended instead of the popular Blue Lagoon 1.

Each of the lagoons have an entry price of 10,000 LAK per person , and tuk tuks from Vang Vieng centre will happily take you on a lagoon hopping day trip .

Just remember to bring a towel and your waterproof dry packs.

5. Paramotoring in Vang Vieng

One of the best ways to explore Vang Vieng is from the sky. There are affordable hot air balloons in Vang Vieng but if you’d prefer an adrenaline kick, take to the skies in a paramotor.

Paramotoring is a unique experience in Vang Vieng, that lasts around 20 minutes . The price is similar to hot air ballooning, but the experience is priceless.

6. Tubing in Vang Vieng

One of the most popular things to do in Vang Vieng is tubing.

This usually takes place along the Nam Song river but there are opportunities to skip the drink fuelled activity and try tubing in Vang Vieng in a quieter setting.

We joined a day tour in Tham Nam that encompassed tubing, zip lining , kayaking and a visit to Blue Lagoon 4 (four of the most epic things to do in Vang Vieng!).

The action packed day tour was located only 20 minutes away from the town centre, and included pick up and drop off, making it the more efficient and affordable choice compared to doing each activity separately.

The tubing took place in the Tham Nam water cave , where we were given headlamps and helmets so we could explore the inside of the cave whilst floating through the tunnels.

A far cry from the alcohol fueled tubing experience that Vang Vieng has been known for in the past.

7. Ziplining in Vang Vieng

The lush green countryside of Vang Vieng in Southeast Asia is perfect for zip lining.

Tham Nam has nine ziplines of varying lengths including a Superman zipline all the way down to the water cave and is easily one of the most exciting things to do in Vang Vieng.

8. Kayaking in Vang Vieng

If you’re wondering what to do in Vang Vieng, kayaking is an absolute must.

We did a 5 km route along the Nam Song river through some light rapids all the way to the banks of our hotel, Amari Vang Vieng .

Along the way we witnessed local fisherman catching seafood and paddled past the rural areas of Vang Vieng.

9. Try Outdoor Yoga at Sunset in Vang Vieng

During the dry season, a daily outdoor yoga session takes place on a wooden platform in the rice fields in Vang Vieng.

Booking isn’t required, just head to the Silver Naga Hotel before 4pm to walk with the rest of the group to the rice paddies across the river.

The outdoor sunset yoga session lasts for a 90 minutes and costs 80,000 LAK , for this unique experience.

10. Visit the Buddhist Temples in Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang in Laos is known for its spirituality but Vang Vieng also has plenty of ornate Buddhist temples dotted around the town and along the roadsides.

It is one of the top things to do in Vang Vieng for free and I can personally recommend visiting Wat That , Wat Kang , Wat Si Sou Mang and Wat Simixay Yaram , all within walking distance from Vang Vieng town centre.

11. Try the Mango Sticky Rice in Vang Vieng

After become a little obsessed with Mango Sticky rice in Luang Prabang , I hunted down the best place in Vang Vieng for the desert.

Happy Mango Thai restaurant is centrally located and serves amazingly fresh Thai food at incredibly cheap prices.

I can recommend the Chicken Pad Thai with a double helping of their famous mango sticky rice. You won’t be disappointed!

12. Sample the French Pastries in Vang Vieng

Situated close to the Post Office, Restaurant Luang Prabang Bakery is the perfect place to tuck into a variety of freshly made French pastries.

As well as serving coffee, there are tropical fruit shakes and a hot menu for lunch and dinner.

13. Get a Laos Massage in Vang Vieng

During my eight days in Laos, I had four massages (they were just so cheap compared to home! ).

However my favourite experience was at Smile Massage and Spa , just around the corner from our hotel, Amari Vang Vieng .

I chose the 90 minute Laos massage which was on offer for 81,000 LAK (approximately $9 USD) and if I had another night in Vang Vieng I would have happily booked in again!

Smile Massage and Spa is open daily until 10.30pm, and I suggest booking ahead of time.

Where to Stay in Vang Vieng

We spent three nights staying at Amari Vang Vieng . A riverfront hotel, located in the centre of town and within short walking distance of all the shops and restaurants.

It has all the amenities you would expect and acts as a great base for exploring the town and making the most of all the adventurous things to do in Vang Vieng.

Amari Vang Vieng has one of the best pool views in Laos (especially for sunset) and the hotel offers buffet breakfast, afternoon tea and an extensive dinner menu, as well as a gym to burn off all those extra calories!

Want to visit more of Laos?

• Luang Prabang is the most visited city in Laos and only five hours away from Vang Vieng. There is plenty to do in Luang Prabang including visiting elephants at Mandalao .
• Don Det is one of the 4000 islands located in the Mekong River and is one of the most beautiful islands in Asia .
• DiscoverLaos.Today , is a new travel portal supported by the Laos Tourism Board, that includes tours and activities from all over the country.
• Check out these other amazing unheard of vacation spots in Asia

Disclaimer: We were kindly gifted our tubing, zip-lining and kayaking day trip so we could experience DiscoverLaos.Today for ourselves. (As always opinions are my own).

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Vang Vieng Travel Guide

Once being known as a party destination for years, Vang Vieng has been reborn itself into an eco-adventure destination, attracting not just the usual backpackers but the adventurers and thrill seekers alike. Located halfway between capital Vientiane and UNESCO World Heritage site Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng town is now a calm oasis for enjoying nature, jungle hikes, and lazy days cooling off in the river, as a fun destination for a few days.

This quick Vang Vieng Travel Guide covers all of the town’s main areas of interest, things to do, when to go, where to stay and other necessary information for your good trip. Check it out with Laos Travel!

1. Quick facts of Vang Vieng

2. when to visit vang vieng, 3.1. get in vang vieng, 3.2. around vang vieng, 4.1. visit caves, 4.2. experience waterfall, 4.3. enjoy adventurous activities, 4.4. amazing balloon over vang vieng, 5.1. luang prabang bakery, 5.2. restaurant du crabe d’or, 5.3. the corner hanoi cafe & restaurant, 5.4. happy mango thai restaurant, 5.5. gary’s irish bar, 6. where to stay in vang vieng, 7. travel advisory.

Having a long-lasting history since 1353, Vang Vieng was first settled as a staging post between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. This town was originally named Mouang Song, then renamed Vang Vieng under French colonial rule in the 1890s. During the 1964-1973 Vietnam War, the significant expansion of the town and its infrastructure occurred when the US constructed an air force base and runway that was used by Air America. Recently, the town has substantially grown due to the influx of backpacker tourism due to the opportunities for adventure tourism in a limestone karst landscape.

Geographical location & Topography: lies on the Nam Song River, about 130km north Vientiane, and the most notable feature of the area is the karst topography surrounding the town. Population of the town: 25,000 people Telephone Code: 23 Time Zone: UTC+7 (ICT) Region: Buddhism Name variant: Vang Viang

According to the Köppen climate classification, Vang Vieng has a tropical monsoon climate, with a distinct dry season (November to March) and a lengthy and rainy wet season for 7 months (April to October). The dry season features the cooler temperatures with coolest months in December and January at an average low of 13.5 °C. The wet season is characterized by high amounts of rainfall, which peaks in July with an average of 840mm. The hottest months come from March to May with an average high of 34 °C.

Best time to visit Vang Vieng can be from November to February when the area’s weather is consistently warm and dry which is perfect for adventure activities. The average daily temperature is 25°C (77°F), however, they are quite cool if you are in the mountains. This is also the busiest time of year so you should expect higher prices and more crowds

3. How to Get to Vang Vieng?

To get in Vang Vieng, you can take flight to Vientiane or Luang Prabang, then continue the land access to Vang Vieng which is located between these cities by Highway No. 13. It takes about 4-6 hours from Luang Prabang and about 3-4 hours from Vientiane. Due to the road condition, the journey from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng is not quite comfortable, however, the road between Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang is mountainous and local village life that boasts amazing scenery along the way. The flatter condition for the road between Vang Vieng and Vientiane makes easier and shorter driving.

From Vientiane , there are several options of transport for your choice: buses, minivans, VIP buses, taxi. The costs range from 50,000LAK/ticket depending on the types of vehicles. The tickets can be purchased at almost every accommodation where you are staying, and should include transport to the bus station which normally locates Northern Bus Station.

VIP Bus is one of the popular choices for the transfer because of its good quality.

It is same from Luang Prabang where you can take buses, VIP buses or minivans to get in Vang Vieng. There are 2 way options for the access by old road and new road. The old road is simply main route 13, taking longer time – about 6 hours or more by buses while the new road is widened and better paved to save the driving time much shorter (~ 4 hours instead) for private cars and minivans only. You can read more about how to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng here .

All of above, private car/van is always the best choice of the comfort and flexibility. Of course, its price is higher at around US$150-200/way but you will get the best care with pick-up and drop-off service right at the door and stop on the way whenever you want (where possible and safety for traffic).

Vang Vieng is small town that everything is easily reachable by foot. To venture outside of the town, you can choose among bicycles, motorcycles, tuk-tuks or even ATV for some off-roading.

Bicycles are widely available and can be rented from your accommodations or a lot of different shops in the town at average price of 20,000 LAK per day for regular ones. For mountain bikes, the cost is slightly more, from about 30,000 LAK ($3.45 USD) per day. However, be aware that, the road condition to some attractions is not the greatest and it will be very muddy on rainy days so make sure that your rent bike can handle it.

Vang Vieng is small town that everything is easily reachable. To explore around the town, you can choose among bicycles, motorcycles, tuk-tuks or even ATV for some off-roading.

Motorcycles are another popular choice to explore Vang Vieng and its surrounding areas. The rentals are from 50,000-70,000 LAK per day while petrol may not be included in the fee. So, remember to check the vehicle condition and the rental contract before signing. Also take extra precautions against the poor road conditions and busy traffic of buses, minivans and trucks.

Tuk-Tuks are also scattered around the town, but at less quantity. Paying 10,000LAK per person is enough to get you anywhere within Vang Vieng. If you would like to go further, a full-day hire will cost about 130,000 – 150,000 LAK per trip.

ATV is one of the best ways to see the stunning countryside around Vang Vieng. Cost will vary depending on what you rent, but for hourly rentals expect to pay around 70,000 LAK. For adventure activities, it is better to book through travel agency for the best service and safety.

4. What to See and Do in Vang Vieng?

As home to dozens of caves, there are some favourite names of caves to explore in Vang Vieng.

Firstly, Tham Chang Cave (or Tham Jang) is considered as the most famous one around the town which includes both nature value and history value. You need to walk across the long bridge built across the Nam Song River, then climb steep stairways up to reach the cave which is cool inside. A bonus thing here for you is a blue lagoon is swim in. The best time to visit will be in the morning to beat the crowds, especially during peak season.

Secondly, the spot that should not be missed is Tham Phu Kham Cave & Blue Lagoon . About 20 minutes west from Tham Chang, Tham Phu Kham is also a favorite cave in Vang Vieng with cave interest (flashlight is necessary to explore the cave with steep climbs) and some fun activities at nearby blue lagoon such as swimming, jumping off from the tree into the water. However, when the rainy season comes (June-August), the water color will be not blue. You can also find another blue lagoon named blue lagoon 3 with less touristy but further at around 1 hour from town.

Vang Vieng is home to dozens of caves which are worth a visit.

The next two places on the list are Tham Nam (Water Cave) – Tham Xang (Elephant Cave) . Called as Water Cave, Tham Nam is an approximately 500m long underground cave including some streams running through the mountainside which takes about 30 minutes to reach the end before turning back. In dry season, you can walk into the cave as the water level is low, while you will get inside the cave with a tube and a rope in rainy season due to high water level and strong flow which can be more difficult when the darkness covers everything. For those who love adventure, it is worth changeling one time.

With the special feature of the cave is an elephant-form stalactite, Tham Xang is called Elephant cave. This is small in size and not far from Tham Nam so taking combined tour with other should be more worthy than visiting itself only.

Enjoy relaxing time at waterfall, bringing you closer feel to the nature.

Kaeng Nuyi Waterfall is the one that you can spend time when visiting Vang Vieng. Around 25-minute drive away from the center of town on the east side, this 30-m tall waterfall which is located in a park maintained by the villagers of Ban Naduang. Rainy season is the best time to visit the waterfall while the flow dramatically differs in the dry season. There are several smaller waterfalls that you can swim in.

Known as adventure paradise, Vang Vieng is great place for those who love active. There are many activities that you can much enjoy here. One of them is to Hike up to mountain viewpoints where offer you an amazing viewpoint of Vang Vieng. Some viewpoints in the list can be Phangern Mountain or Nam Xay. For the smooth hiking, you will need to wear proper shoes & bring enough water with you. Also be careful when towards the end the path can be muddy and slippery.

As an adventure paradise of Laos, Vang Vieng offers many interesting activities, including kayaking along Nam Song River.

Another attractive activities include Tube & Kayak on Nam Song River . Settled on the banks of the river, your trip would not be completed without the experience the river first hand. Tubing can be arranged around the town while kayaking can be arranged as a part of day tour including lagoons and caves.

Taking balloon over Vang Vieng in dry season for best view of the town from above.

Enjoy amazing view by taking a hot air balloon flight over Vang Vieng will definitely be a relaxing way before your day of activities start or finish. There are 2 flight times per day for your choice, including sunrise flight (5:30am-6:10am) and sunset flight (5:30pm-6:10pm). Operated in dry season, you should check the availability, condition and policy in advance before service.

5. What and Where to Eat in Vang Vieng?

Besides some excellent adventure activities which will get you close to nature, Vang Vieng also have some excellent foodie options and some great restaurants for your trip here. Although there is not too much of a foodie scene in this relatively small town, you still find a selection of choices for your own taste from homely western eats, delicious local favorites to other Asian inspiring food such as Thai and Vietnamese.

A large selection of tasty cakes, pastries, drinks and more at Luang Prabang Bakery in Vang Vieng.

This is an extremely popular place at breakfast or quick bite for afternoon tea with a large selection of cakes, cheesecakes, pastries, sandwiches, excellent coffee and more. The environment is quite relaxing and centrally located on the road which leads down to the river. The only problem is its price due to not much options for breakfast in town.

Add: Sisavangvong Rd, 17/01 Choumkong Village, Vang Vieng Opening hours: 7.00am – 10.00pm

A healthy meal at Restaurant du Crabe d’Or which is part of Riverside Boutique Resort and is known as one of the best restaurants in the town.

As a part of the Riverside Boutique Resort, the restaurant is known as one of the best restaurants in Vang Vieng which is certainly worth a visit if you are looking for a dining experience. It serves great tasting food which fuse the French cooking techniques with local favorites. You won’t regret having an evening drink and meal here while watching the beautiful sunset, but remember to book a table in advance to avoid any fully booked capacity for hotel’s guests.

Add: Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng Opening hours: 7.00am – 10.00am; 12.00pm – 2.00pm; 6.30pm – 9.30pm

The Corner Hanoi Cafe & Restaurant brings Vietnamese taste in Laos.

This is good choice for those who love Vietnamese food as well as vegetarian friendly and vegan options. Some of the most popular choices on the menu include “pho”, spring rolls, and Vietnamese coffee in a relaxed setting and nice staffs.

Add: 018 Vieng Keo Village, Vang Vieng Opening hours: 8.00am – 10.00pm

For those who love Thai food, don’t miss your try at Happy Mango Thai Restaurant in Vang Vieng.

Located in the heart of downtown Vang Vieng, Happy Mango Thai Restaurant is a favorite of travelers visiting Vang Vieng, especially for Thai food eaters. Popular Thai dishes can be found in this restaurant, including pad thai, pineapple fried rice and mango sticky rice. Just one side note, that is an extremely busy restaurant due to its central location, delicious taste and affordable price. There are also many vegetarian options for your choice as well.

Add: Middle Street Town Center, Vang Vieng Opening hours: 12.30pm – 10.30pm

Gary’s Irish Bar is favourite place in Vang Vieng for travelers because of its amazing food, drinks and good services.

This is a popular spot for young Western travelers from a day time restaurant to a full-on bar vibe. The bar serves both amazing food and drinks, and best of all are great service and friendly staffs. How could you say no to an Irish Pub in the middle of Laos, right?

Add: Ban Savang, Vang Vieng Opening hours: 9.15am – 11.30pm

Discover Vang Vieng in Style with charming Riverside Boutique Resort on the bank of the Nam Song river which offers stunning views of the surrounding forest-clad limestone mountains.

Although being a small town, Vang Vieng still has lots of accommodation options, and some hostels even come with pools or epic views of the mountains. Here are some good suggestions for your convenient stay while in Vang Vieng.

3* Silver Naga Hotel Add: Ban Savang, Vang Vieng Tel: +856 23 511 822 3* Villa Vang Vieng Riverside Add: Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng Tel: +856 23 511 460 3*+ Villa Nam Song Vang Vieng Add: Ban Viengkeo Vang Vieng Tel: +856 23 511 637 4* Riverside Boutique Vang Vieng Add: Ban Viengkeo, PO 360, Vang Vieng Tel: +856 23 511 726-8 4* Inthira Vang Vieng hotel Add: Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng Tel: +856 23 511 088

– Gear and packing list:

Prepare suitable packing list according to your travel month. + Clothes and personal items: shorts, swimsuit (modest), T-shirts, flip-flops, sneakers, socks, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent, toiletries… Some warm clothes should be packed if you travel in December and January when the weather can be cooler, especially in early morning and late afternoon; + Small medical kit: band aid, earplugs, hand sanitizer, antibacterial cream… + Miscellaneous: plastic bags (great for laundry), universal charger / adopter (the standard electrical current used in Laos is 220 volts), water bottle with a purifier…

– Dos & Don’ts:

+ dress neatly when vising any religious places; + remove shoes, hats, and sunglasses before entering any Buddhist temples ; + don’t touch the monks, monk’s robe or someone’s head; + don’t raise the voice when you are at public sites; + don’t show public displays of affection or wear swimsuit/bikini to walk around as this is the impolite gestures to the community of Laos; + keep your eyes on valued personal items; + bring the copies of your personal documents along with you while outside; + don’t give money to child peddlers; + don’t contribute to the negative side of tourism (drugs or the sex industry) as Laos is strict about punishment for these things. + Reserve services as earliest as you can when planning the trip in peak season to avoid any fully-booked status or lower quality than you expect.

Hopefully this travel guide is helpful for your knowledge about the beautiful town of Vang Vieng. Whenever you plan a trip to Laos , please feel absolutely free to contact Laos Travel team and we will be more than happy to assist and bring you a memorable experience of Laos!

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• Pha Ngern View Point
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• Perfect Journey

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By train
• 3.1 From the bus station
• 3.2 Around town
• 8.1 Tubing area
• 8.2 In town
• 8.3 The Island
• 10.1 Watersports and alcohol
• 10.3 Medical issues
• 10.4 Taxiboat

Vang Vieng (ວັງວຽງ), sometimes spelled Vang Viang , is a riverside town in Central Laos . It is the adventure capital of Laos, with a river flowing through the spectacularly wild karst formations, laid-back countryside and many caves. Many outdoor tours are available.

Understand [ edit ]

Once little more than a bus stop on the long haul between Vientiane at the Thai border and the World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang , Vang Vieng has managed to become a destination in its own right and a popular stop on the unofficial Banana Pancake Trail .

Anyone who has travelled in Southeast Asia will have heard about tubing, an activity that dominates this town and its visitors. It was opened up by hedonistic backpackers, and the atmosphere of the town is one of lethargy by day and debauchery by night. Tourists sprawl out in the pillow-filled restaurants, termed "TV bars", watching re-runs of US sitcoms, Friends and Family Guy episodes, until the sun goes down, and then party heavily until the early hours.

A couple of kilometres upstream, the pulsating music, drinking games and drug-fuelled debauchery of the increasingly lively riverside "tubing" bars starts at lunchtime. The majority of the bars from the start of tubing back into town have been closed in an attempt to improve safety; 27 tourists died in 2011 while partying on the river. In 2014 the government closed down many of the riverside bars to reduce the dangerously excessive partying. By February 2016 just two bars were open.

Vang Vieng may have established itself as the exception to the rule that Laos doesn't have nightlife. It does have potential as a base for adventure tourism which attracts a few more sedate foreign sightseers. However, it can be considered a noisy "backpacker hell", and so those wishing to avoid noisy, selfish teenagers away from their parents for the first time and instead seek something Laotian would do well to either use Vang Vieng only as a base to explore the surrounding countryside or avoid it all together.

Since the 2014, the city has developed into a popular base for outdoor activities. Tour companies are everywhere in the city and offer tubing, cave visits, kayaking, ziplines, swimming in waterfalls, dirt buggies, and combinations thereof.

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

Five high-speed, standard-gauge trains run daily from Vientiane via Phonhong to Vang Vieng (1 hour), then north to Muang Kasi and Luang Prabang (another hour). One train each morning continues to Boten on the border with China, with four hours for border formalities, then onward to Kunming (ten hours in all) which has high-speed connections across China. This is by far the fastest, most comfortable way to reach Vang Vieng, the problem has been short booking horizons and sold-out trains. This may ease as more trains are put onto the route - see Laos#By train for the latest.

18.953 102.456 1 Vang Vieng railway station is 3 km north of the main town. The minivan service (30,000 kip) can drop you at your hostel / guesthouse.

By bus [ edit ]

Vang Vieng is on Hwy 13 between Vientiane and Luang Prabang . By bus (road and bus conditions permitting) about 6–8 hr from Luang Prabang, around 3–4 hr from Vientiane.

Tickets for tourist buses and minivans can be purchased at almost every guesthouse and should include pick-up at the hotel.

VIP buses from Vientiane cost about 50,000 kip. Minivans leave Vientiane all day and cost 35,000–50,000 kip. The express bus to Vientiane costs 60,000 kip. Slower local buses to Vientiane without air conditioning run in the early morning (05:30–10:00) and cost about 40,000 kip for a 5-hour journey. You can board them either at the northern bus station or the bus stop south of the airstrip.

From Luang Prabang, VIP buses cost 150,000 kip and minivans cost between 80,000-120,000 kip. If you're susceptible to motion sickness you'll be much better off on the slower bus than the minivan (or bring appropriate medication).

Bus schedule from Vang Vieng

By car [ edit ]

Hwy 13 is a sealed, two-lane road that is slowly deteriorating. The road between Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang is mountainous and boasts amazing scenery. The road between Vang Vieng and Vientiane is flatter and less interesting.

Get around [ edit ]

From the bus station [ edit ]

From Vientiane, buses will drop you off either at the old airstrip (from the Vietnam war, it's now just a giant gravel pad), and the tourist buses will drop you in front of a hotel on the main street in the town. The airstrip is directly behind the main street, so in either case there is no need to take a tuk-tuk or cyclo if you plan to stay in the main area of the town. The island and bungalows along the river are about a 10-min walk away.

Buses from the north Laos arrive at the new bus terminal 2 km north of the town. When leaving Vang Vieng, transport to the bus station is usually included in the price of your ticket.

Around town [ edit ]

Vang Vieng is so small that everything is easily reachable on foot.

If you want to venture out of town, bicycles are widely available and can be rented from hotels or local businesses. You should not have to pay more than 15,000 kip for a day's rental.

Motorbike rentals are also available. You can rent a small semi-automatic scooter starting from 40,000 kip (from morning till evening, 60,000 kip for 24 hr) or a dirt bike from 100,000 kip (125cc for a day) to 200,000 kip (150cc for 24 hr). There is a good selection of scooters for instance at M/c Rental (across the street and about 50 m east from Whopping Burger). Always check the condition of the bike and details of the contract before signing anything. At some places you will have to sign a contract which makes you completely responsible if something breaks or fails to function, even if it's normal wear and tear. Also you are not allowed to go out of Vang Vieng District, so don't count on renting a bike here to go on a longer tour of the district.

Several tuk-tuks are also scattered around town. 10,000 kip per person will be plenty to get to anywhere within Vang Vieng. It's also the price you'll pay to get to the tubing bars irrespective of how many other people are on board. It's better to sort out exact change with fellow passengers as tuk-tuk drivers are notorious for giving incorrect change.

To rent a tuk-tuk for the whole day costs about 130,000–150,000 kip.

The Hobo Map for Vang Vieng is excellent and shows the dirt roads and sites worth seeing. It can be purchased in few places in the town (Elephant Crossing Hotel, Maylyn Guest House, Pan's Place, Riverside Tours, Silver Naga Hotel, VLT Tour).

See [ edit ]

• 18.9256 102.4347 1 Padeng Cave and Ring Cave ( cross a footbridge over the river, follow the signs and white flags (garbage bags) on sticks through the field ). Across the river a 1.5-km path marked by white flags cuts through the fields towards the limestone mountains. The smallest hill has very rickety ladders, and somewhat dangerous, to aid in climbing to the top. Halfway up the mountain is a cave. Another 1 km along the path past the mountain goes through a small forest and arrives at a cave. A few sleepy Laotians guard the cave's entrance and will only charge 10,000 kip. However, on exit, they'll ask for 50,000 kip for the guide and 50,000 kip per lamp. A couple of men carving reeds with machetes are nearby so negotiation may be difficult. 10,000 kip for the hill, 10,000 kip for the cave, 50,000 kip for a guide and 50,000 kip to rent a torch .  
• 18.9271 102.3956 2 Tham Poukham (Blue Lagoon) ( 7 km W of town, maps provided where you can rent bicycles, accessible by bicycle or motorbike ). 08:00-18:00 . A spring-fed lagoon at the bottom of "Golden Cave". Nice place to relax, swim and play on the rope swing. The waters are inhabited by a few hundred carp that will eat locally sold fish food out of your hand. The cave above requires a modest 100-m hike up a makeshift bamboo ladder. Once inside, there is a short walk to the Sleeping Golden Buddha and glimmering stalactites about 300 m further inside. 10,000 kip entry and 10,000 kip to rent a head-torch, recommended if you go deeper into the cave than the Buddha. Guides for the cave are advertised at 50,000 kip. A number of imposters claim to be the Blue Lagoon — keep to the main road and you should be OK.  
• 18.91398 102.4169 3 Bicycle drink stop towards Blue Lagoon . A couple of small shops on scenic hill, selling drinks and simple meals en route to Blue Lagoon and several caves. Also mechanic shop providing bike tire air and possible repairs. Also, this is the starting point for hiking up to Pha Ngeun Peak.  
• 18.916158 102.416812 4 Sunset Hill / Pha Ngeun ( cross the river and take the westward dirt road to the Blue Lagoon; after around 3 km, in the village of Phone Ngeun, turn right at the "Sunset Hill" sign; the entrance is some 200 m further on the left side ). An extremely steep half-hour hike that offers a fantastic 360° view over the surrounding valley and karst mountains. The trail is in excellent condition, with steps, banisters, fences and cables on the more dangerous parts. Bring adequate footwear. Try to be at the entrance at around 16:00-16:30, so you reach the summit on time for the breathtaking sunset. 10,000 kip .  
• Xang Cave ( on the S end of the main road. Turn right at the sign to Jam Mee Guesthouse ). Decent cave but not worth the 15,000 kip entrance fee plus 2,000 kip per person/3,000 kip per motorbike bridge crossing fee. The cave is well lit and has stairs running throughout that makes it an easy self-guided tour. One part has a really nice view of the farms surrounding the city. If you've been to other caves it's really not worth the money as it's similar but more expensive.  
• 18.898801 102.352586 5 Nang Oua Kham Cave ( On the way to 'Blue Lagoon' turn left after Phone Ngeun village. There is a sign to 'Nang Oua Kham Cave, 8 km'. After around 4 km you come to an intersection where you turn right. The sign tells there is 1 km left but actually it's around another 4 km. After about 3 km you see third sign where you turn left. The last part is a small dirt road with one easy shallow water river crossing. After the river keep right and go straight across the field and you will see a fence and a sign written in Lao. ). Very nice cave and superior to the one at Blue Lagoon. You might feel the entrance a bit tight at first time but when you get past that most parts are easy to walk. There is mud and water so be prepared if you wish to explore all the cave. Price includes head lamp. 10,000 kip . ( updated May 2015 )

Do [ edit ]

• Kayaking . This covers the same part of the river as tubing (and a more untouched part further upriver). Kayaking includes lunch and different caves. Some of the caves takes more than an hour to walk through, with bats and other creatures.  
• 18.96129 102.44481 1 Teach English to local children with SAE Lao ( 3 km N of Vang Vieng, close to where the main tubing run commences ), [email protected] . Equal Education For All (EEFA) runs afterschool English classes for local children in Northern and Western villages of Vang Vieng. They are always looking for volunteers who can ideally stay for a month at least, but if you've only got a couple of days then it's better than nothing. Anyone is welcome to observe the classes, participate and contribute in any way you can. Look for Alex at Vang Vieng Organic Farm or message Equal Education For All on Facebook.  
• 18.96129 102.44481 2 Organic Farm ( 3 km N of Vang Vieng, close to where the main tubing run commences ). There's an organic farm that offers volunteering opportunities. It is noise-free until about 11:00 and again when the last revelers go back to town at about 18:00 as its location beside the river is also used as the starting point for tubing and the first tubing bars are nearby. If going tubing this is an option for a healthy lunch prior to commencing your tubing adventure. The organic farm has dormitory (30,000 kip), budget and more luxurious rooms for rent. They teach the village children, build mud brick buildings, learn/teach farming, eat organic food and go to sleep at 22:00. The farm has also a kitchen and sells organic food.  
• River Swings . Playing on the very high swings over the river and sliding on a slide. Be careful. Perforated eardrums, broken ribs and permanent hearing damage are common injuries resulting from going the wrong way. Also foot injuries from hitting rocks, and sometimes death when going head first or falling off platforms when drunk. The local hospital is not equipped to diagnose or treat these serious injuries. Vientiane has the closest (if Spartan) EMT facility but no English-speaking specialists, so you may have to travel to Udon Thani (Thailand) for treatment. All the rope swings and slides have now been removed for safely reasons. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 18.92626 102.4474 3 Tubing . 12:00-14:00 is a reasonable time to go because earlier everyone else would be still asleep . Look at the magnificent view of the mountains rising directly beside the river. Tubes have to be back by 18:00 or you lose 20,000 kip from your deposit. In winter it gets a bit cold from 16:00, so start early. The Organic Farm is a nice place for lunch before commencing tubing). Beware of tubes getting stolen while stopping at bars, you may lose your deposit and the ride down. Tubes get stacked up at each bar so keep an eye on how many are left, especially at the first few bars where lots of people arrive without their own tube. If you're not used to drinking liquor, stick with beer and for reasons of safety and common sense consider avoiding alcohol completely if entering the water. As of 2016, only 2 bars remain open, and both are fairly close to the beginning of the tubing. Consequently, many people stop at the last bar and drink until night-time, then take a tuk-tuk back into town. During rainy season there is more water in the river and eye infections are common. You can hire dry bags (hire for 15,000 kip or buy own nearby for 50,000 kip), but they may not be of the best quality. Cameras can get ruined by faulty bags, so if in doubt, don't bring your camera. 55,000 kip for the tube + 60,000 kip deposit .  
• 18.9224 102.39563 4 Sae Lao Organic Garden & Restaurant ( 200 m before Blue Lagoon ). You can visit this organic garden and restaurant just before or after your visit to the Blue Lagoon. They also undertake eco projects to try and protect the natural environment in the Vang Vieng region, and you can volunteer.  
• 19.022063 102.255097 5 Tham Nam Cave (the Water Cave) ( 15 km north of Vang Vieng is the village of Nadao where you will see a yellow "Natural tourism source" sign (which will mention Elephant cave and Water cave as well), with a rural road going to the left. Follow this road, after 1 km there will be a bridge. After crossing it go through the village, then turn left at the T-junction, then turn right at the small stream. It is just 200 m from there ). The main attraction is to go tubing into the cave. It is really huge, taking 15-30 minutes to get to the end, and then the same time to get back. There are two ropes inside the cave, be sure to follow both. Water is rather cold, but bearable. There is also a zipline at the cave entrance. 10,000 kip for tube and head torch, 10,000 kip to cross the bridge (although you can swim across the river), 3,000 kip for parking a motorbike or a bicycle . ( updated Jan 2016 )

Buy [ edit ]

The small shops scattered throughout Vang Vieng sell the standard assortment of snacks, trinkets, sunglasses and bathing suits. The majority of tourists seem to leave with at least one T-shirt, vest, or dress with "In the Tubing - Vang Vieng" emblazoned on it.

Prices for tourist packages are quoted in both kip and US dollars. Restaurants, hotels, and pretty much everything else is priced in kip. Most places will accept kip, Thai baht and US dollars for larger purchases.

There are several ATMs that now take all major credit cards, but are known for running out of cash. Some tourists have reported only being able to use cards on the Maestro (MasterCard) network.

The Lao Development Bank changes money at good rates and processes cash advances. BCEL will also do cash advances on credit cards.

• 18.9261 102.44869 1 BCEL bank . Biggest bank building in town. Therefore safe bet for ATM withdrawals, especially during bank opening hours. Also offer good rates for money exchange on 2nd floor.  

Eat [ edit ]

The numerous TV restaurants are interchangeable and all have a similar theme. When it comes to Wi-Fi some offer it free, others sell access. Others offer access only at certain times only. They all have similar menus. A selection of Lao, American, Italian, Chinese and Thai food is normally fresh but often of indifferent quality and poorly executed. Small servings average 20,000-45,000 kip.

For quick eats and late night snacks, numerous pancake and sandwich stalls dot the streets. But be careful, food hygiene may have been compromised by being in the heat all day and your gastrointestinal system may react accordingly. The street running next to the river just to the west of the tube rental office has a few vendors selling large chicken and pork kebab skewers for 5,000 kip each.

Many restaurants used to offer "happy" shakes and pizzas, although this practice is slowly disappearing. While this may be obvious to many, any food or drink with the words "happy", "special" or "ecstatic" will contain an undetermined amount of marijuana or magic mushrooms. There may also be plain-clothes police men around in the city watching out for tourists smoking weed and giving them hefty fines.

• Pan's Place Guesthouse ( Pan's Place Restaurant ) ( on the main street 300 m S of the centre ), ☏ +856 23 511 484 . 07:00-23:00 . Western-style menu. All-day English breakfast, spaghetti Bolognese, beef goulash, cottage pie, fresh fruit shakes, snacks and drinks. Helpful, friendly staff with Lao/Thai management and English reception.  
• Peeping Som's Restaurant ( Main Rd just past Wat Kang, next to Chillao Guesthouse ). Korean and Lao (Sindaad) barbecue. Very popular.  
• DK3 - Milan Pizza . Pizza for 50,000 kip.  
• 18.9281 102.4475 1 The Green Restaurant ( next to the bamboo bridge toward the island, in front of Aussie Bar ). 06:30 - 23:00 . Large menu with Western and Lao food for decent price. Great for breakfast. Serving can be a bit slow when busy. Great view. 15-50,000 kip (2017) .  
• 18.92522 102.44865 2 Gary's Irish Bar ( The Irish Bar ), ☏ +856 20 792 8266 . Pub food with homemade pies and burgers for 40,000 kip.  

Drink [ edit ]

Beerlao is available everywhere in Vang Vieng, but the drink of choice is a cheap plastic bucket filled with liquor and soft drinks. A bottle of Tiger Whisky costs the bar 10,000 kip, so around a third of a bottle goes into your bucket, normally with a choice of 7-Up or Pepsi, lime and Red Bull.

Tubing area [ edit ]

There are eight bars within the first kilometre of the tubing route. Alternately, four of them open daily, two on each side of the river.

In town [ edit ]

Beerlao and buckets are available all around Vang Vieng in bars covered with Christmas lights (including all the "TV restaurants") and the buckets are usually very strong because Lao whisky is cheaper than soft drinks. There's no shortage of choice but a distinct lack of diversity, especially if you're looking for live music.

• 18.925228 102.448773 1 Sakura Bar ( In the village centre ), ☏ +856 20 78008555 , [email protected] . Popular backpacker party bar jointly managed by a Lao-Filipino couple. The bar is famous for its 'drink triple, see double, act single' singlets sported by backpackers across Southeast Asia which you can get for free for every purchase of two vodka drinks. It is the busiest nightspot in town with beer pong, dance floor and happy hour promos every night.  
• Fat Monkey's . Popular backpacker party bar. Gets drunk and wild every night. Free beer pong, cheap drinks, very lively. Closes at midnight, as most bars in town.  
• 18.927471 102.447355 2 Jaydee's Bar . Free pool, table football, dartboard and wifi. The beer is a bit more expensive than elsewhere around town (15,000 kip), but this is compensated by the great atmosphere and friendly service. Bartenders Macky and Jaydee have a couple of funny serving tricks. Lao-Lao shots are usually served for free with each purchase, and even without them. Closes at midnight.  
• 18.92522 102.44865 3 Gary's Irish Bar - The Rising Sun , ☏ +856 20 792 8266 . The only Irish pub in Vang Vieng. Regular live music, 2 free pool tables and 3 TVs showing live sport. Cold beers and homemade pies. They play music extremely loudly at night; bring earplugs.  

The Island [ edit ]

For serious drinking, the bars referred to collectively as The Island , reached via some ramshackle bamboo and wood bridges, are where most of the tubers end up after a day on the river, particularly after the bars in town start to close. The Sandwich Pancake pushers hover in a long line as people stumble over the bridge, waiting to prey on drunken Western tourists. But be aware of trying to buy eye drops for sudden onset conjunctivitis around this area. Stories abound of people being drunkenly extorted as much as 5x the normal price for treatment for their conjunctivitis.

As of 2015, there are only two bars open on the former party island. One, River View Guest house, has a stretch of low wooden tables along the river next to the restaurant. Smile Beach Bar is another bar at the north end of the island that is mainly a sunset place which closes early.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are now a couple of halfway-decent mid-range hotels and attempts at boutique-style residences.

Generally though, double rooms go for US$6-15, make sure you see the room (and bath) before paying. More local, low-key (which is pretty low-key in Vang Vieng to start with) places are by the market and more shiny set ups are on the main road. The party crowd tend to advocate choosing a bungalow on the island, but expect it to be quite noisy if you want to sleep during the night.

Most guesthouses have large TV-viewing areas, practically coated in the Southeast Asia signature triangular cushions, where they serve food. But be forewarned - you'll be hard pressed to find a place screening something other than the US sitcoms Friends and Family Guy .

Due to problems with ownership and corruption, backpackers are advised to stay away from Spicy Laos VV and LPB Hostels. (Spicy Thai is still successful.)

• 18.9253 102.44951 1 Central Backpackers ( on the main road between Q-Bar and the VIP bus stop ), ☏ +856 23 511 593 , +856 20 5570 0005 , [email protected] . In the centre of Vang Vieng and a 2-min walk away from the tubing starting point. It has clean, cheap and safe rooms (doubles, twins, triples & dorms) with safety lockers. Good food available, friendly English speaking staff and big chill out area with table football, dartboard, drinking-related activities, water pipes (shisha, hookahs, nargila) and regular screening of TV shows & live sports. Free Wi-Fi. From 40,000 kip .  
• Champa Lao Bungalow . Cheap huts on the island downstairs with river view. Friendly local family and traditional-style rooms. Mountain view from the wooden porch with hammock upstairs priced at between 40,000-70,000 kip. Breakfast included, tasty food and free Wi-Fi. 100,000 kip .  
• Champa Lao Villa . Nice garden, tasty food, nice rooms. Breakfast included and free Wi-Fi. first price at USD24; family rooms 200,000-250,000 kip .  
• Chanhthala Guest House . Check-out: 11:30 . Free Wi-Fi, towel and soap. 25,000-50,000 kip .  
• Chillao ( on the main road N of Q Bar ), ☏ +856 23 511 328 , [email protected] . Check-out: 12:00 . Centrally located, social hostel offering dorms and some of the cheapest single rooms in Vang Vieng. Adequately clean despite the rather unorthodox plumbing, dorm rooms have broken lockers, free Wi-Fi. 20,000-70,000 kip .  
• The Elephant Crossing Hotel . Small hotel. All the rooms have a view of the river, with a restaurant right on the river. Good selection of food and beer. Free Wi-Fi. USD30-50 .  
• Greenview Bungalows and Restaurant ( across the road from the Phoudindeng Organic Farm ), ☏ +856 20 212 8086 , +856 20 501 1679 . Khamsone and his wife, Some, offer comfortable, clean bungalows with hot showers, great Lao food, and occasional campfires and singalongs. A great place to escape the noise of the centre. Bicycle and motorbike rentals available. Bungalows with double beds, 70,000 kip; double rooms, 40,000 kip .  
• Jammee Guesthouse , Ban Meung Song , ☏ +856 20 5589 8945 , [email protected] . On the quiet end of Vang Vieng village, but still within walking distance of the town centre with all the party activities. The surrounding views are stunning, the place is quiet and offers comfortable, large rooms, all with private bathroom, hot shower, and either king or queen size beds or twin singles all with innerspring mattresses. All the rooms have a veranda or a secured balcony with mountain views. Also a dormitory is available with free mosquito nets provided. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and throughout the guesthouse. Water, coffee, tea and bananas, pickup service are all inclusive.  
• Le Jardin Organique . Away from the party in a nice location with lovely rooms. Hot water doesn't get hot and some find the owners are difficult to deal with. USD18 for bungalows with hot water .  
• Laos Haven , 047 Ban Vieng Kaew ( end of the main street, 3 blocks from city centre ), ☏ +856 23511900 . Looks gorgeous from the outside. No dorm booking available. The family running the hotel are very helpful. Booking kayaking and other adventures through the manager may be cheaper than some other hotels/agents. 190,000 kip/triple .  
• 18.9284 102.44747 2 Nam Song Garden . Lao-born Malay's and Norwegian Arne's place. Great view over the mountains from the shaded garden. Free 24-hour Wi-Fi, towel, water refill, in-room safes. Book exchange. Fan rooms and bungalows from 80,000 kip (May 2017) .  
• Nana Guesthouse ( S end of main street ). 3-storey, simple guest house. Friendly family-run staff, hot showers, a fourth-storey balcony and laundry. Good for sleeping away from the raucousness further north.  
• Pans Place Guesthouse ( on the main street ). Clean rooms in a quiet location, 300 km from the centre of town and 200 m from the river. Restaurant open from 07:00 till late, snacks and meals, internet cafe, with discount rates for guests. TV room with cable TV and DVDs, Communal balcony with views of the mountains and sunsets, Laundry service, free drinking water. All rooms have fans, comfortable beds and are mosquito-proofed.  
• Phoudingdeang Organic Farm ( 3 km N of Vang Vieng ). Peaceful and serene, an employer of orphans, mountain views. Simple short-term rooms, long-term residences in adobe houses.  
• Sengdeuan Guest House ( just past the Kangaroo Sunset bar ), ☏ +856 23 511138 . Check-out: 12:00 . All rooms come with towels, soap, bottled water & toilet paper. The private pool in the garden has water in it from Feb-Nov. A great place to learn about the history of the area and the Hmong people. Fan rooms with own bathroom, 40,000/50,000 kip; air-con, 90,000 kip .  
• Villa Vang Vieng Riverside ( Near the Kangaroo Sunset bar and the toll bridge ), ☏ +856 23 511460 , [email protected] . On the river, with a great view. Buildings and rooms in Lao-style. Fast free Wi-Fi. USD30-50, with breakfast .  
• 18.92503 102.44928 3 Malany Villa & bus stop , main street . This is where the mini buses stop. Therefore this is likely to be the first place to stay you will see.  
• Molina Bungalows , main street. Small, clean bungalows in a local families backyard. air-con and free wifi. Approx. 80,000 kip.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Thousands of tourists pass through Vang Vieng without incident every year, but the combination of outdoor activities, drink and drugs still makes it one of South East Asia's most dangerous destinations for travellers.

Even the town's main street can injure the unwary traveller: you'll need to watch out for the large holes in the pavement through to the drainage ditch below as they are not fenced off.

The medical care available in the town's hospital is rudimentary at best - for serious injuries you'll want to go to Vientiane, or better still, Thailand.

Watersports and alcohol [ edit ]

Floating downstream at a sedate pace in an inflated rubber tube shouldn't be a dangerous activity, provided you leave enough time to get back before darkness falls.

What raises the danger level is the bars offering a combination of hard liquor and high platforms to jump from.

Whilst you may find that risk reduced somewhat by the dismantling of some of Vang Vieng's infamous ziplines, swings and slides following deaths, you're still going to have use your common sense. If you want to jump into the river, be very careful about where you do so - the Nam Song isn't very deep except where the bar staff have cleared rocks from the river bed. Don't even think of pushing others in: at least one person has died that way.

If the alcohol or drugs you've consumed may impair your ability to swim or climb out, don't enter the water , even on a rubber tube. Remember whisky buckets can be deceptively strong and their effects can kick in very quickly.

The river current is strong in many places - even the stone-cold sober should avoid sapping their strength by swimming against it. It should be easy enough to swim across to shallower water instead.

Drugs [ edit ]

Historically accepted drugs, such as marijuana, mushrooms and opium are freely available in many bars and restaurants around town. The majority of bars have "magic menus" offering most of these drugs. Consuming them on the premises is fairly safe, although drugs are illegal in Laos and nothing is totally safe.

Yaa-​baa (ยาบ้า), the Thai/Lao name for a narcotic made of methamphetamine and caffeine, is available in pill and smokeable forms. It used to be legal in Thailand as a way for long-haul truckers to stay awake. Yaa-baa is highly addictive. Manufactured locally, the drug can be cut with any number of substances.

Aside from the drugs already mentioned it is inadvisable to attempt to purchase any other substances not freely available on the magic menus around town. The dangers of most drugs should be well known to travellers, and additionally there is also a police presence. Plain-clothed policemen frequently take unsuspecting tourists to the local police station for smoking a joint. The usual outcome of this involves having your passport seized until you cough up a hefty "fine", typically between 3-5 million kip. Once the fine is paid, however, the matter is generally taken no further and the passport returned. But the punishment will depend on the officer you are dealing with. Several local policemen are best friends and drinking buddies with restauranteurs who sell opium, mushrooms, cannabis and yaa-baa. Customers are not harassed at these establishments. The police wait until they leave. Some of these same cops own guesthouses near the island. Never surrender your passport if you can help it, and often the best way out of the situation is simply to pay.

Medical issues [ edit ]

A minor annoyance around Vang Vieng (referred to by locals and long-time residents as the "Vang Vieng plague") is conjunctivitis, or pink eye. This is a viral, and sometimes bacterial, infection which can be caught from the river or other tubers. The onset of conjunctivitis is often felt as fatigue, and inability to fully open your eyes. If you sense this, or have been sharing buckets with people with conjunctivitis or wearing sunglasses at night, the best thing to do is shell out for eye drops as soon as possible to prevent the onset. If this should happen late at night, be aware that eye drops alone should cost a maximum of 20,000 kip. Some of the late night pharmacies attempt to extort tourists, charging up to 5 times the normal price for eye drops.

As well as eye drops, general antibiotics are available from any pharmacy. In some cases eye drops will cause an intense stinging sensation, this can be soothed with an eye bath formula also available at pharmacies. Of course the sensible solution would be to rest your eyes and ease the drinking, but Vang Vieng's non-stop party atmosphere makes this a hard option for most. Should your conjunctivitis last longer than a week you should probably seek proper medical advice, and stop drinking all that Tiger Whisky to give your body time to heal.

Taxiboat [ edit ]

When tubing home late and its getting cold and dark, there are taxi boats who offer to take you home for a price of around 10,000 kip each. These boats will just take you to some place and stop there, refusing to continue. They tie up the boat, take away the engine and go away, waiting for you to get out and grab a waiting tuk-tuk for a high price back home, because they know that you are freezing and want to take back your tube. If you don't want to pay the tuk-tuk, the only way to get home is to walk.

Scams [ edit ]

It's common for places offering laundry service (priced per kg) to 'rig' their weighing scales so that your bag of dirty clothes suddenly weighs (and costs) twice as much or more!

Connect [ edit ]

Internet speed and reliability is variable but not bad by Laos standards. There are a few Internet cafes around town. Most guesthouses and restaurants now offer free Wi-Fi for their customers.

• Pan's place , has good quality Internet
• Sakura , has qood quality Wi-Fi (20,000 kip minimum spend)

Go next [ edit ]

• Luang Prabang and Vientiane are normally the next stop, depending on the direction you're heading.
• Rent out a motorbike and venture into Xaisomboun Province
• The adventurous can make their way Vientiane down the river by kayak. The trip should leave in the early morning, placing you in the capital by 18:00. For your belongings, dry bags are available or you can opt to place them in the accompanying van which will take them along and carry you at least part of the way. Expect to pay 170,000-220,000 kip
• You can book trips all the way to Bangkok (via Vientiane) but since you'll change mode of transport (there are excellent sleeper trains running from the Thai border town of Nong Khai) at least once anyway it's just as easy to arrange this trip at your own pace.
• Travel agents will be willing to book you to anywhere in Thailand, but expect some very long bus journeys and probably several bus changes.
• Buses to Vietnam are notorious for taking even longer than expected and being a really unpleasant experience.

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What to Do in Vang Vieng, Laos- A Complete Guide With Map

April 9, 2020 · In: Asia , Destinations , Laos , Travel Guides

In the heart of Northern Laos lies the small and stunningly beautiful town of Vang Vieng. With numerous hiking viewpoints, an abundance of relaxing blue lagoons and unique caves to explore it’s easy to see why visitors flock to this region in Laos. This complete guide will help you figure out what to do in Vang Vieng so that you can make the most of your time here and not miss out on the adventures!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you use these links to purchase a product or service I will receive a small compensation at no additional cost to you. Everything I recommend are products or services that I personally use and have been essential for me as a travel blogger.

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What to Do in Vang Vieng, Laos

Vang Vieng is an adventure lovers paradise. With so many outdoor activities you’ll be sure to stay busy during your time in this small town. I recommend at least 3-4 days in Vang Vieng and longer if you have the time. In this Vang Vieng guide you’ll discover the top things to do in in the town and surrounding areas.

To reach the Nam Xay Viewpoint, Vieng Tara Villa, the Blue Lagoons and the Pha Ngern Viewpoint you will need to cross the Nam Song River. You can do this via a sketchy looking bamboo bridge called the Namsong Bridge. There are varying fees associated with what vehicle you are crossing with and for a motorbike it costs 10,000 LAK ($1.12 USD) round-trip. The bridge is meant for two-way traffic but you might have to wait to cross if a car or truck is on it.

1. Nam Xay Viewpoint

The TOP thing to do when visiting Vang Vieng, Laos is hiking up to the Nam Xay Viewpoint . Located only 15 minutes outside of town, the Nam Xay Viewpoint offers one of the best views in Laos!

At the top of the climb you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of towering limestones cliffs and a sprawling valley below. While the hike up only takes about 25-30 minutes the trail is very steep and difficult at times. There are sections where the trail is only stacked rocks and boulders so you’ll need to hold on to the bamboo railings for support.

Once you’ve reached the top of the viewpoint you will see multiple wooden viewing platforms and photo spots. Please stay on these and do not take any risks for a photo. There are also two motorbikes at the top which you can use for photos and honestly I am still wondering how they got those up there!

The best time to visit is either just after the sun rises or right as it starts to set. However, for safety reasons it is important to stay off the trail unless there is light as it can be quite dangerous.

The fee to hike is 10,000 LAK ($1.12 USD)  and you will pay in cash before entering the trailhead.

2. Relax & Swim at Blue Lagoon 3

Located about an hour outside of town is a small oasis known as Blue Lagoon 3. In fact there are actually many small lagoons all over Vang Vieng but 5 that are equipped for visitors. They are known as Blue Lagoon 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 and can be easily located on your map.

Blue Lagoon 1 is the most crowded due to it’s convenient location to town so we skipped it and headed straight for Blue Lagoon 3. The rocky, dirt road leading to Blue Lagoon 3 is long but easy to navigate with signs along the way. There is an entrance fee of 10,000 LAK ($1.12 USD)  per person including motorbike parking.

At the Vang Vieng Blue Lagoon 3 you’ll find a small cafe, bathroom and some picnic benches to hang out on. There are also some fun rope swings, bamboo rafts and inflatable tubes that you can use at no extra cost! The water is crystal clear, refreshing and the perfect spot to cool off during the mid-day heat!

The blue lagoons are best visited during the dry season when the water is clean and clear. During the rainy season the lagoons can become very muddy with uninviting brown water.

3. Hike Up the Pha Ngern Viewpoint

Another amazing viewpoint is at the top of the Pha Ngern mountain located about 10 minutes from the center of town. Just like the Nam Xay hike there is a 10,000 LAK ($1.12 USD) entrance fee and a very steep climb up.

It will take an exhausting 45 minutes to climb up so be sure to bring some water with you. This hike is more challenging than the Nam Xay hike with the trail consisting mostly of large rocks. Once you reach the top you will find two small huts and beautiful panoramic views.

The Pha Ngern viewpoint is not as crowded as Nam Xay and it is very peaceful if you head there first thing in the morning! We had the whole place to ourselves for about an hour when we arrived at 8:30 am.

The entrance is a bit more difficult to find but if you put Silver cliff (start point/parking) into your GPS you will head in the right direction. You can also put these GPS coordinates into your map: 18.914545,102.416731 which will be the turn off of the main road.  At this turn off you will see a sign for a primary school so use that as your guide.

4. Relax at the Bamboo Bridge in the Pha Tang Village

One of the most picturesque places in this area is just a short 30 minutes drive north of Vang Vieng. The short bridge at the entrance to the small village of Pha Tang provides an incredible viewpoint of the river, town and rising limestone cliffs.

Once you’ve crossed the river, drive into town and make your way to the small pedestrian bamboo bridge. The bamboo bridge can be found at these GPS Coordinates: 19.0751571, 102.4285291 . Plan to spend some time here sitting on the bridge, dipping your toes into the river and watching the locals take their afternoon swim.

» Photo Tip : Have your photographer stay up on the bridge while you go down by the water’s edge to get the perfect shot!

5. Visit the Rice Terraces at Vieng Tara Villa

One of the most instagrammable spots in Vang Vieng is the rice fields at the famous Vieng Tara Villa hotel. During the right season the rice fields will be lush and green! Unfortunately for us we didn’t have the dramatic effect of the flourishing fields but the boardwalk and surrounding mountains still make this place beautiful!

You are typically not allowed to take photos here unless you are staying at the property or purchase something from their restaurant. However, they allowed us to enter and take some photos without a problem since they were experiencing a low amount of bookings.

The cost to stay at Vieng Tara Villa starts around $75 USD per night.

6. Take a Yoga Class in Vang Vieng

Whenever I travel I am always searching for yoga classes within the area. Fortunately I found a Yoga Studio in Vang Vieng which offers 3 daily classes. They have an indoor yoga studio at the Silver Naga Hotel, as well as an outdoor yoga shala on the other side of the river about a 20 minute walk from the hotel.

They have mats and props that you can use and their instructors come from all over the world.

Yoga Class Schedule:

• Silver Naga Hotel Studio: 7:30 am and 5:00 pm
• Outdoor yoga shala: 4:00 pm for a sunset flow

Yoga Class Prices:

• 1 Class: 80,000 LAK ($10 USD)
• 2 Classes: 120,000 LAK ($15 USD)
• 5 Classes: 280,000 LAK ($35 USD)
• 10 Classes: 480,000 LAK ($60 USD)

7. Take a Hot Air Ballon Ride Over Vang Vieng

While the views of Vang Vieng are incredible from the ground, I’m certain they are even more amazing from the sky! There are a few companies in Vang Vieng that offer hot air balloon rides over the small town. Laos still remains one of the cheapest places in the world to take flight in a hot air balloon.

There are two hot air balloon companies in Vang Vieng: Above Laos and Vang Vieng Tours . The price ranges from $95-120 USD depending on if you book online or in town once you arrive. You can probably get a better deal in town but know that they could possibly be booked up.

Also note that the hot air balloons do not fly during the rainy season so if you want to do this activity you’ll need to visit when they are flying.

We did not do the hot air balloon ride in Vang Vieng. However, I have taken flight in a hot air balloon in Tanzania over the Serengeti and it was an incredible experience!

» A Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Serengeti in Tanzania

8. Walk Across the Orange Pedestrian Bridge

The iconic orange bridge is actually a pedestrian only bridge and is how you access the Tham Chang Cave. There is a small parking area just before the entrance to the bridge where you can leave your bicycle or motorbike. The fee is 10,000 LAK ($1.12 USD) to cross and you will pay at the ticket counter.

The bridge and cave are just a few minutes drive by motorbike from the center of town!

Photo tip: If you have a zoom lens, have the photographer stand farther back and zoom in on the subject. This is called image compression and will make the mountains appear larger in the background!

9. Explore the Tham Chang Cave

Vang Vieng, Laos is known for having many cave systems which you can explore throughout the area. One of the more popular spots is the Tham Chang Cave located on the other side of the Nam Song River, just opposite the main town.

To reach the cave you will pay the 15,000 LAK ($1.68 USD) fee and proceed to the stairs leading to the caves entrance. Inside the cave you are free to walk around wherever you’d like as long as you stick to the designated path.

Be sure to check out the small, secret blue lagoon that is located just behind the ticket counter! It seems like not many people know about this so it would be a fun place to take a refreshing dip!

10. Tubing Down the Nam Song River

Vang Vieng tubing is a very popular activity in town but we did not do it. Essentially you rent an inflatable, circular tube and let the current of the Nam Song River carry you along while stopping at bars along the way. If you decide to go tubing then make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen since you will be exposed to the sun for many hours.

Where is Vang Vieng, Laos on a Map

Vang Vieng is a small town located in Northern Laos between Luang Prabang and Vientiane. Due to this location, Vang Vieng is a perfect place to spend a few days when driving from the two mentioned cities above.

You can click on the Google Maps below to see all of my saved spots for what to do in Vang Vieng!

How to Get to Vang Vieng, Laos

Vang Vieng is located almost equal distance between Luang Prabang and Vientiane. Since there is not an airport close to Vang Vieng you will need to take a bus from either one of the two towns mentioned above.

There are two bus options, the mini van or VIP bus, both of which leave on a frequent schedule from either Luang Prabang or Vientiane. After asking around it seemed like they were very similar in price and comfort so we just chose the one with a departure time that worked best for us. The mini van is smaller and the VIP bus is the larger bus.

The buses stop a few times during the journey at various rest stops along the way. Here you’ll find some snacks to purchase and pay toilets.

• From Vientiene the journey takes about 4-5 hours and costs 70,000 LAK ($7.90 USD)
• From Luang Prabang the journey takes around 5-6 hours and costs 100,000 LAK ($11.20 USD) 

These prices were for the mini van which can hold 10-12 passengers and luggage.

Of course there is always the option to hire a private car but that would be a bigger expense.

How to Get Around Vang Vieng

The best way to get around Vang Vieng is either by motorbike or bicycle. You can rent a motorbike at one of the many rental shops in town or through your hotel.

We chose to rent through the hotel because everywhere was requiring you to leave your passport. I felt more comfortable leaving my passport at the hotel during the day and paying a little bit extra. It is cheaper at one of the rental shops but you’ll have to make that decision for yourself.

Most motorbike rental shops only allow you to have the bike from 8am to 6pm which isn’t ideal for those early morning adventures. For a higher price of 90,000 LAK ($10.15 USD) we were able to get the bike delivered to the hotel at 6:30am.

If you only want to rent during the scheduled hours the cost is around 50,000-70,000 LAK ($5.65-$7.82 USD).

Renting a bicycle is the cheapest option and you can easily get around Vang Vieng that way. However, some of the distances are far and during the middle of the day it can be very hot. So if you do decide to rent a bike bring lots of water with you.

There is also the option of renting an ATV or dune buggy for the day. The prices seemed to vary between 500,000-800,000 LAK ($55-90 USD). The ATV’s would probably be more useful during the rainy season and didn’t seem necessary during our time there.

Is Vang Vieng Safe?

Yes, the town of Vang Vieng is relatively safe to tourists. In fact, the biggest threats to your safety relies heavily on your own decisions.

1. Safety Concerns With Alcohol and Drugs

In the past, Vang Vieng was known for being a huge party town. A deadly mix of drugs, alcohol and water activities led to an untimely death for too many tourists and therefore the government cracked down.

For quite a few years now, Vang Vieng has returned to its peaceful state and focuses more on the outdoor activities instead of the partying. However, that doesn’t mean that the drugs have completely gone away. If you are approached by anyone trying to sell drugs just walk away and DO NOT engage or even think about purchasing. I didn’t experience this personally but I’ve heard it still happens from time to time.

Most of the deaths that occur in Vang Vieng were due to drugs, alcohol, a combination of both and stupidity. When you are visiting and participating in activities such as tubing down the river or hiking up to viewpoints be sure to make smart decisions and don’t be dumb.

2. Safety Concerns When Hiking to the Viewpoints

When we were at the Nam Xay Viewpoint two locals arrived at the top and appeared to be looking over the edge for something they’d lost. We asked what they were looking for and they said a person. My heart sank as they said that a man had arrived the previous evening for sunset and his motorbike was still parked down below this morning.

They stated that they didn’t see the man come down but weren’t entirely sure either. His motorbike may have been broken and he got another ride or something horrible may have happened.

Either way it was a huge reminder that safety should always come first. There are many amazing photo opportunities at the Nam Xay Viewpoint, as well as the other viewpoints, but please stick to the designated areas.

Where to Stay in Vang Vieng

• Budget: Vang Vieng Galaxy Guesthouse- clean, a/c, good wifi and breakfast included.
• Mid-Budget: Silver Naga Hotel
• Luxury: Vieng Tara Villa and Riverside Boutique Resort

» Click here for my favorite stays in Vang Vieng on Airbnb

Where to Eat in Vang Vieng

• Luang Prabang Bakery- A delicious French bakery with many sweet treats
• Sanaxay Restaurant- Serves local food and western food at a decent price with large portions
• Il Tavalo Vang Vieng- Delicious wood fire pizza. A little pricy but worth it!

Best Time to Go to Vang Vieng

Since you’ll likely be heading to Vang Vieng for outdoor activities you’ll want to travel here during the best time of the year. From the end of October through March the weather is typically dry and warm but not too hot.

Between March and May the temperatures will start to rise and the humidity will increase. We were there in the beginning of March and the temperature was around 100°F (38°C) during the middle of the day.

September and the beginning of October are the rainiest months in Vang Vieng. Try to avoid these months if you are looking to do a lot of hiking and relaxing at the blue lagoons.

Important Things to Know Before Visiting Vang Vieng

1. visa on arrival in laos.

Currently there is only the option of a visa on arrival when entering Laos. On the airplane you will be given a disembarkation card to fill out. However, once you arrive at the airport there will be an additional form to fill out. After you’ve done that you’ll need to go to the line to purchase your visa on arrival. First you will hand in your passport and all documentation.

Next you will go to a second counter to make the payment. The fees vary between $30-45 USD depending on the country you are from. THEY ACCEPT ONLY CASH, NO CREDIT CARDS.  They will not accept torn, ripped or folded bills so make sure they are crisp and new. There is also not an ATM inside the immigration area of the airport so you will need to have cash already on you. They also want only USD but will except Euro so be sure to have the correct currency as well.

In addition to having cash you will also need to provide a passport sized photo . If you do not have one with you they will take one there for an additional fee. Honestly, I recommend always carrying a few passport sized photos with you while traveling because you never know when you’ll need them.

Note: This is the procedure at the airport. I do not know if it is the same for those entering by land.

2. Cash & ATM’s

There are many ATM’s located around Vang Vieng so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting cash to pay for things. Most places take cash only so you’ll need to make sure you have enough on you. Our hotel allowed us to pay by credit card but that may not be the case everywhere.

3. Where to Get Gas or Petrol in Vang Vieng

The main gas station is called Plus Gas Station and is located on Highway 13. The petrol or gas is about 10,000 LAK ($1.12 USD) per liter. You can also find small stands around Vang Vieng where locals are selling petrol out of the glass bottles.

like this post about vang vieng, laos? pin it for later!

WHAT CAMERA GEAR DO I USE?

» Click HERE for the Full Travel Photography Gear Guide to see what’s in my camera bag!

• Main Camera: Sony A7III
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You’ll Also Love

April 11, 2020 at 7:28 am

This one is such complete Guide to Van Vvieng. Saving this for my visit to Laos someday.

June 4, 2020 at 3:16 am

Thank you so much! Hope you can make it there soon!

April 11, 2020 at 8:52 am

Wow! Such a detailed post. Pinning for later when I can get here.

June 4, 2020 at 3:15 am

Thank you Bliss! There really are so many amazing things to do and see here that you’ll be sure to have a wonderful time!

April 11, 2020 at 8:58 am

This is such a great guide 🙂 I love your pictures too! I am saving your post for the future. I would love to visit Laos.

June 4, 2020 at 3:17 am

Thank you Cristina! Laos is such a beautiful country with so many friendly people, you will have an amazing time when you do go!

April 11, 2020 at 10:02 am

Wow, I visited Vang Vieng back in 2007 and lovee it for its laid back atmosphere. Your pictures are wonderful, they bring back memories but I also see some new things I didn´t know about. Would love to go back to Laos one day 🙂

June 4, 2020 at 3:19 am

How incredible that you have already visited! I am sure there are so many changes in Vang Vieng from when you were there but the stunning views still remain the same! I’m sure it would be so much fun to go back agin one day!

April 11, 2020 at 12:29 pm

this post is so so helpful!! I am traveling to SE Asia in 2021 for around 4 months and Vang Vieng is super high on my list of places to visit!

June 4, 2020 at 3:20 am

Thank you Erin! You’ll have an amazing time traveling around SE Asia! I just spent the last year doing it and it was life changing! Make sure to visit Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng! They ended up being two of our favorite places and we wish we had more time there!

April 11, 2020 at 2:09 pm

I love this in-depth guide to Van Vvieng! Hopefully, this travel ban will be over soon so I can go, your pictures are stunning! Thanks for sharing!

June 4, 2020 at 3:25 am

Thank you Meghan! I really hope that we will all be able to travel again by the end of the year or at least 2021!

April 11, 2020 at 2:42 pm

I can’t believe how many amazing views there are. This reminds me of a place in China, Yangshuo, with similar looking mountains and a small town surrounded by countryside. I’d love to visit Laos. Hopefully I’ll get there soon.

Oh wow! I imagine that Yangshuo would be a place I’d like to visit as well then! Sounds beautiful! Hope you make it to Laos one day!

April 11, 2020 at 2:49 pm

Ohh I think I could use a yoga class or go tubing down the river haha! Sounds so relaxing. I have yet to make it to Asia so I think I need to change that 🙂

June 4, 2020 at 3:14 am

The yoga was so wonderful and the view for the class was incredible! There really are so many amazing places to visit in Laos and Asia in general that you will have a fantastic time wherever you decide to go!

April 11, 2020 at 2:57 pm

I had no idea a single blog post will make me want to visit Laos but it just seems like a dream! Thanks for the detailed post – I’ll definitely be referring to it in the future 🙂

June 4, 2020 at 3:26 am

Thank you so much for the kind words! It really was such a beautiful place with friendly people! I highly recommend visiting if you get the chance!

April 11, 2020 at 3:33 pm

Love this blog post! Definitely will look at this again when i go to Laos one day!

Thank you Tyra! Hopefully you get to make it there one day soon!

April 11, 2020 at 4:02 pm

This is such a detailed blog post with so much useful information! Your photos capture the essence of Laos beautifully.

June 4, 2020 at 3:34 am

Thank you so much Carla! We honestly couldn’t put the camera down because Laos is just such a stunning country!

April 11, 2020 at 4:22 pm

These views are breathtaking! I regret not visiting Laos when I was in Thailand. Would love to take a hot air balloon ride here!

June 4, 2020 at 3:35 am

Well hopefully you will be able to make it back here one day! We didn’t take a hot air balloon ride but kind of regret it now!

April 11, 2020 at 4:43 pm

This is amazing Marisa! I am hoping to make it to Laos during my next Southeast Asia trip. I love how there are so many things to do in Vang Vieng!

June 4, 2020 at 3:13 am

Thank you Taylor! You will love Vang Vieng! We wish that we had more time in Laos as well so hopefully we can return again one day to explore even more!

April 11, 2020 at 5:35 pm

Thank you for this comprehensive guide and all the lovely photos!! Laos is actually very high up on my list (one of the few Southeast Asian countries I haven’t hit yet)….I was planning to visit this year, but due to travel restrictions it may now be 2021. But I’ll have to revisit this when I’m booked & going!

June 4, 2020 at 3:36 am

Thanks Lauren! We fell in love with the country and were so sad that our trip there got cut short due to the virus. Hopefully we can make it back there again one day as well!

April 12, 2020 at 4:02 am

I’m actually hoping to travel here sometime this year, I’ll definitely save this post for when I do 😁 love your photos, amazing!

April 13, 2020 at 6:57 am

Thank you so much Jen! Vang Vieng definitely surprised me with how beautiful it is and how much there is to do!

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10 Best Things to do in Vang Vieng Laos + Itinerary

I recently visited Vang Vieng as part of my 10 day Laos itinerary as I was looking for something more action-packed after exploring the beaches of Thailand and the Philippines it didn’t disappoint!

Gone are the days of the tipsy tubing madness that Vang Vieng was once known for. Nowadays this small Lao town attracts more than just backpackers looking to party.

From swimming in turquoise lagoons to mountain or cave trekking, zip lining, kayaking, or even hot air ballooning or paragliding, there’s so much to see and do in Vang Vieng.

In this guide, I’ll share the 10 best things to do in Vang Vieng, including tips on how to get there, where to stay, how to get around, and a suggested 3-day itinerary.

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support 🙂

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Vang Vieng

• Nam Xay Viewpoint

No visit to Vang Vieng would be complete without hiking to Nam Xay Viewpoint .

From the top, you’ll be able to enjoy a 360-degree view overlooking craggy limestone peaks surrounded by rice paddies. But that’s not all as you’ll also find not one but two motorbikes perched on top!

There are several of these motorbike viewpoints all over Vang Vieng, including one with an airplane (which I’ll talk about later)!

Like whose idea was it to drag two motorbikes up a mountain!? It did pay off in the end though as photos of this unique attraction have helped to put Laos on the tourist radar.

Today, hundreds of tourists make the trek to Nam Xay Viewpoint to snap their own Insta-worthy photos. For this reason, I highly recommend starting your hike early when there are fewer people.

I arrived at the trailhead at around 8:30 a.m and after a short but intense 25-minute hike, I finally made it to the top.

At that time, there were only around 10 people there so I was able to get some pretty cool photos. However, more and more people kept arriving afterward.

Keep in mind that this isn’t the easiest hike in Vang Vieng as the trail goes straight uphill and requires some rock scrambling. Luckily, there are handrails and ropes in some parts to help you along the way.

If you’re looking for the absolute best thing to do in Vang Vieng, then you should definitely check out Nam Xay Viewpoint.

It’s open daily from 6 a.m to 6 p.m and the entrance fee is 20k Kip.

• Pha Ngern Silver Cliff Viewpoint

A less popular alternative to Nam Xay is Pha Ngern Silver Cliff Viewpoint. It’s situated closer to town and can be reached in just 5-10 minutes by motorbike.

However, there are several viewpoints with the same or similar name but the one I visited is located here .

Finding the entrance can be a bit tricky, but look out for the sign that says “Pha Ngern Silvercliff View Point Mountain 400 meter to the parking” and you’ll know you’re in the right spot.

Follow the signs from there and soon enough you’ll arrive at the parking lot, where you’ll find a woman selling tickets for 20k Kip.

For more detailed directions, read my guide to hiking Pha Ngern Silver Cliff Viewpoint .

It took me approximately 30 minutes to reach the top. The terrain is very uneven and steep with sharp rocks, especially near the summit so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.

Similar to Nam Xay Viewpoint, you’ll find a covered viewing platform and a motorbike at the top where you can take photos.

Swim in the Blue Lagoons

Vang Vieng is a great spot for swimming despite not being even remotely close to the ocean.

There are six blue lagoons scattered around the countryside. Just don’t expect to see clear blue water year-round as the pools can become muddy during the rainy season (June to October).

The lagoons are well set up for tourists with rope swings, zip lines, floating rings, bamboo rafts, etc.

Most of them also have little wooden huts or benches with umbrellas where you can relax. There’s also a restaurant, however, prices are somewhat inflated and the food quality not the best.

Blue Lagoon 1 is the most popular and crowded since it’s easily accessible from town.

For this reason, I decided to skip it and visit Blue Lagoons 2 and 3 instead. Personally, I enjoyed Blue Lagoon 2 more as it’s bigger and has more pools for swimming.

Blue Lagoon 3 is smaller and has only one pool, but there’s also a cave and viewpoint that visitors can explore.

Keep in mind that you need a headlamp to visit the cave as it’s pitch black inside. Trust me you’ll need it as you have to use both your hands inside the cave. You can rent a headlamp from the restaurant for a small fee.

Note : I don’t recommend going inside the cave alone, especially if you’re claustrophobic. I went in with a group of people I previously met in Luang Prabang and was so glad I wasn’t alone as it’s easy to get lost inside.

Entrance to the blue lagoons costs 20k Kip each.

Phapoungkham Viewpoint & Caves

If you’re looking for an underrated attraction in Vang Vieng, I highly recommend Phapoungkham Viewpoint & Caves (also known as Horkham Viewpoint).

It’s located only 1 km from Nam Xay Viewpoint, so you can visit both on the same day.

There are two viewpoints here, one with an airplane and another with a unicorn. You’ll also find two small caves here, although I didn’t visit them.

I personally hiked to the airplane viewpoint, which took only about 20 minutes.

Although short, the trail requires a moderate level of fitness as it’s steep in some places. Also, be careful of the loose rocks which can make the path slippery.

From the top, you get an incredible 360-degree view of the surrounding rice fields and mountains, including Nam Xay in the distance.

Ride a Hot Air Balloon

Another fun activity to do in Vang Vieng is to ride a hot air balloon, especially since Laos is one of the cheapest places in the world to do so.

You can book a hot air balloon ride from any hotel or tour operator in town, but from what I’ve heard, Above Laos is the best company out there.

A 30-minute flight starts at USD 135, and you can choose to fly in the morning or evening.

Since I recently did a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia , I opted to just watch the balloons from the ground.

I stayed at Domon Riverside Hotel , which had a small patio overlooking Nam Song River so I spent most of my mornings and evenings just gazing at the hot air balloons.

If you’re not staying at this hotel, there are many restaurants and bars along the river where you can watch the balloons.

Kayaking, Tubing, and Zip Lining

Vang Vieng isn’t called the adventure capital of Laos for nothing. With lush forests, mountains, and rivers, there’s no shortage of adventurous things to do, from kayaking, tubing, or zip lining.

This kayaking and tubing tour includes hotel transfers, lunch, a tour guide, and all the necessary equipment.

The trip begins with kayaking along the Nam Song River, where you’ll glide across small rapids. You’ll then go tubing at Tham Nam, a 500-meter-long cave submerged in water. If you’d like you can also go zip lining in the afternoon

For those who prefer something more peaceful, you can instead take a boat ride along the Nam Song River.

• Tham Chang Cave

Located at the end of a long flight of stairs (about 200 steps), Tham Chang Cave is another must-visit place. It’s easily accessible from town and can be reached on foot in under 20 minutes.

This small but impressive cave features sparkly stalagmites and stalactites, Buddhist shrines, and viewpoints.

The cave is well-lit, so there’s no need to bring a flashlight. The chambers are spacious with a nice cool breeze blowing through, making it a pleasant place to explore.

After visiting the cave, you can check out the small blue lagoon or simply relax at one of the small wooden huts by the river.

To get there, you first need to go through a checkpoint where you’ll need to pay 5k Kip. The security guard will then point you toward the parking lot.

From there, walk across the small wooden bridge, turn left, and continue along the concrete path lined with tall trees until you see the ticket office.

Tham Chang Cave is open daily from 8 a.m to 4 p.m (closed between 11 a.m and 1 p.m from Monday to Friday) and the entrance fee is 15k Kip.

Check out Vang Vieng Night Market

One of the best things to do in Vang Vieng at night is to visit the night market , located in the middle of town.

It’s open daily from 5/6 p.m until late and is a great place to visit if you’re looking to stock up on some souvenirs.

However, there are not many food stalls available, so if you’re looking for more options, you can find more street food stalls near Domon Riverside Hotel .

Paragliding above Vang Vieng

If you’re seeking something more adventurous than hot air ballooning, try paragliding (paramotoring) instead.

The great thing about paragliding is that you don’t have to share the experience with others as it’s just you and the pilot.

You’ll also get to see more of Vang Vieng’s landscape as the pilot can control the direction, unlike the hot air balloon which can only go up and down.

Paragliding costs around the same as hot air ballooning and can be booked from any hotel or tour operator in Vang Vieng.

Visit the Temples

Vang Vieng has several Buddhist temples scattered all over town that you can visit for free. A few of them include Wat Kang , Wat That , and Wat Si Sou Mang .

Where to Stay in Vang Vieng?

I stayed at Domon Riverside Hotel , which is located in the middle of Vang Vieng near a wide selection of restaurants and street food stalls.

The hotel has a patio that overlooks the river and mountains, where you can watch the hot air balloons.

The room is a bit dated but it’s reasonably priced and breakfast is included in the room rate. The only downside is that there were lots of mosquitoes due to the hotel’s proximity to the river.

For budget travelers, there are other options such as Lily Backpacker Hostel , Sokxay Guesthouse , and Bountang Mountain View Riverside Hotel .

If you want to splurge a bit more, you can choose to stay at ViengTara Resort , Amari Resort , or Riverside Boutique Resort .

FIND MORE HOTELS IN VANG VIENG HERE

How to get to Vang Vieng?

Since there’s no airport in Vang Vieng, your only options are the Laos China high-speed train or bus.

I recommend traveling by train as it’s quicker, taking only around 50 minutes from both Luang Prabang and Vientiane. The bus, on the other hand, takes around 6 hours from Luang Prabang or 4 hours from Vientiane.

You can book your train ticket through the LCR Ticket app and pay by credit card.

Keep in mind that you can only download the LCR Ticket app while in Laos and that you can only register with a Lao sim card and a Gmail account that you created in Laos.

An easier option is to book the train ticket through your hotel but the cost will be higher.

The train station is located about 4 km outside of Vang Vieng, and from there you can take a tuk tuk to town for 30k Kip per person.

Getting Around Vang Vieng

The most popular way to get around Vang Vieng is by buggy , which is perfect for navigating the gravel roads. It’s pricey though, starting at 500k Kip for a 2-seater or 600k Kip for a 4-seater for a 2-hour rental.

The second most popular option is to rent a motorbike , which costs around 150k Kip per day.

Additionally, electric cars and scooters are also available for rent. Those cost around 1.1m Kip and 250k Kip respectively.

In my case, I hired a tuk tuk for the whole day to visit the main viewpoints and blue lagoons and paid 600k Kip.

On another day, I rented a bicycle for 50k Kip. I recommend renting from this shop as they accept cash deposits so you don’t have to leave your passport with them. They also have motorbikes for rent.

How many days to spend in Vang Vieng?

I recommend staying a minimum of 2 full days but if you have more time, you can stay up to 3 days in Vang Vieng. Below is a suggested 3 day Vang Vieng itinerary:

• Phapoungkham Viewpoint and Cave
• Blue Lagoon 2 and 3
• Vang Vieng Night Market
• Hot air balloon ride or paragliding in the morning
• Visit the temples
• Kayaking, tubing, and zipline trip

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Vang Vieng and Laos in general is from November to February. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

During March and April, the burning season takes place, resulting in unbearably hot and smoky weather. You can use this website to check the current air quality.

Although you can also travel to Vang Vieng during the rainy season (June to October), the hiking trails can be muddy and slippery so pack some good hiking shoes and rain gear.

I hope this guide to the best things to do in Vang Vieng, Laos was helpful. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below.

Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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14 Things to Do in Vang Vieng, the Adventure Capital of Laos

Vang Vieng is one of the best places to visit in Laos and a hidden gem in Southeast Asia. Read on for what to do in Vang Vieng and what you might want to skip!

A few years ago, I hopped on a 6-hour bus ride from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng to teach Yoga for a month. I didn’t expect to be back in Vang Vieng so soon, but apparently its grip on me was stronger than I had realized.

This small town mid-way between Luang Prabang and Vientiane was once an alcohol-fueled backpackers’ haven, but has quickly outgrown its reputation and turned its focus toward promoting the natural beauty and incredible caves, waterfalls and lagoons in the area.

It is also a haven in Laos for adventure lovers and offers tons of exciting activities and excursions. Read on for some of the most important things to know before you visit, what to do in Vang Vieng, where to stay in Vang Vieng and the best places to visit!

Heading to Vang Vieng for the first time? Make sure you also read this article: 5 must-visit places in Vang Vieng (that aren’t the Blue Lagoon!)

What you need to know before traveling to Vang Vieng

✈️ You can get to Vang Vieng from Luang Prabang or Vientiane . It is possible to apply for a visa on arrival in Laos at both airports for most nationalities – bring 1 passport photo and US dollars for the application fee. The Laos visa-on-arrival fee is 40 USD, and in general the Laos tourist visa is good for 30 days. You can also apply for your Laos e-Visa ahead of time here , however the fee varies according to nationality and takes several days to process.

📱 You can get a local Laos SIM card at the airport for very cheap, and internet connectivity is surprisingly strong.

🗺️ Before you travel to Vang Vieng, make sure you download these maps to your phone from Hobo Maps: Vang Vieng town map , Vang Vieng area map & Vang Vieng north map . Most places in town will sell hard copies of the map but you can access them for free online.

💱 The currency is the Lao Kip , and the exchange rate varies from approximately 18,000-20,000 LAK: 1 USD these days (when we visited a few years ago it was 8,000 LAK: 1 USD). There are plenty of places to exchange money in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng itself, and there are also ATMs where you can withdraw money.

Looking for more Southeast Asia travel tips? Click here for 10 things you should know before you visit Southeast Asia!

The best time of year to visit Vang Vieng

The best time to visit Vang Vieng is from around October to March (you can even go hot air ballooning over Vang Vieng during this season) when there is less rain but the weather is still warm; during this time, the blue lagoons are nice and actually blue (rather than brown and murky). The summer months can be miserable with torrential downpour, but the rain means that the rice paddies are lush and the waterfall is stunning from June to August!

If you are hoping to go tubing or kayaking you will want to avoid visiting during the thick of rainy season as the Nam Song River becomes very rough and unsafe. I have been to Vang Vieng in both the peak season and the off-peak season, and while the off-peak season was nice and quiet, Laos is still relatively uncrowded compared to places in Thailand or Cambodia , and it is easy to get off-the-beaten-track so don’t let the fear of crowds stop you from visiting Vang Vieng in the peak season from October to March.

The best places to stay in Vang Vieng

Riverside Boutique Resort is the crème de la crème when it comes to boutique hotels in Vang Vieng. This stunning property features traditional Lao-inspired artwork and furnishing, in an incredibly classy and laid-back setting. The pool with mountain views is to die for, and the on-site restaurant serves up some of the best food I had in Laos. Click here to check availability and rates at Riverside Boutique Resort.

I also recommend checking out Inthira Vang Vieng , a boutique hotel in town that offers beautiful rooms with a view overlooking the Nam Song River. The rooms are spacious and elegant, the bathrooms are massive with wonderful water pressure, and the staff are extremely professional. If you are looking for a more upscale and modern hotel in Vang Vieng, click here to see current rates at Inthira Vang Vieng .

If you are on somewhat of a budget and don’t want to sacrifice the view: I recommend checking out The Silver Naga Hotel , which also sits right on the Nam Song River and has a variety of room options. The hotel also has an infinity pool and is home to Yoga in Vang Vang . Though the rooms are slightly more dated, I recommend the pool view rooms with a balcony so you can watch the sun go down every afternoon. Click here to book your stay at the Silver Naga Hotel!

How to get to Vang Vieng

🚅 As of 2023, the quickest and most efficient way to get to Vang Vieng from Luang Prabang or Vientiane is to take the new Laos-China high speed rail . There are several daily trains which will take you to Vang Vieng from Vientiane or Luang Prabang in approximately 1 hour. The trains and stations are brand new and very punctual, however you won’t be able to bring any aerosols, e-cigarettes and other prohibited items on board . Tickets can be purchased 3 days in advance from the LCR Ticket app, the official app of the railway company ( more details here ) but you need a Laos SIM card. I had a great experience with Discover Laos Today which has an office in town right next to the Silver Naga Hotel – you can Whatsapp them at +856 20 93 445 358 and ask them for updated train schedules (the timings can change) and purchase your ticket on your behalf. They will need a copy of your passport, and then they will send you a QR code to board the train – easy peasy. You can also arrange for them to send an e-shuttle to take you to/from the train station for 50,000 Kip. Alternatively, you can also purchase your Laos train tickets online via 12go.asia , however you will need to pick up your tickets from a restaurant near the train station. Read more about taking the high speed train in Laos here.

🚌 You can also take a large bus (AKA “VIP bus”) or minivan from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, or you can take a bus or minivan from Vientiane to Vang Vieng. Buses run from Vientiane (drive takes ~4 hours) and Luang Prabang (drive takes ~5-7 hours) every day. Get your hotel to book your bus ticket for you, or simply walk into any travel agent in Luang Prabang or Vientiane to purchase your ticket – prices are fairly standard across the board. Here is the Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng bus schedule and Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang and Vientiane bus schedule (times and prices may vary slightly, make sure you double check once you are in town).

🚗 You can also hire a private van for approximately US$75 from Vientiane or US$150-200+ from Luang Prabang. Enquire directly with your hotel or Discover Laos Today.

Visiting Luang Prabang before or after Vang Vieng? Head on over here for 9 of the best things to do in Luang Prabang (and what you might want to skip!)

How to get around Vang Vieng

You can easily get around Vang Vieng town on foot , but if you’re hoping to get over to the rice paddies, blue lagoons and waterfall then you’ll want to rent a bicycle or scooter . Alternatively, you can also rent a UTV , which looks like a desert buggy.

You can expect to pay approximately 180-200,000 Kip (~US/Euro 9-10) to rent an e-scooter for the day, a little less if you are hiring a petrol scooter.

I recommend popping into Discover Laos Today to enquire about renting an e-scooter, or this shop to rent a regular scooter/motorbike.

There are also lots of tuk tuks that are available for hire – just make sure you agree on a price before you hop in or ask your hotel to book on your behalf. You can expect to pay approximately 30 USD to rent a tuk tuk for 6 hours, including waiting time.

Is Vang Vieng safe to visit?

In my opinion, yes – Vang Vieng is safe to visit for solo female travelers, couples or even families with young children. I recommend booking yourself into a reputable hotel like Riverside Boutique Resort , Inthira Vang Vieng or The Silver Naga Hotel .

Vang Vieng is fairly laid back and people are friendly, though English comprehension can sometimes be slightly lower than in bigger cities like Luang Prabang or Vientiane.

There are no major scams in Vang Vieng, but you should always count your money after you get it exchanged (the large denominations can be confusing), and ensure that you agree on a price with tuk tuk drivers before you get in. One commonly reported scam in Vang Vieng is that gas stations may not always reset the counter before filling your tank, and you end up paying more. Make sure you watch the attendant hit the reset button.

As more visitors travel to Vang Vieng and the town is heavily reliant on tourism, it is not surprising that prices have gone up over the years – but honestly, not by much, and you have to wonder if it’s worth your time (and theirs) to haggle with a shopkeeper or tuk tuk driver over a few bucks.

Is it worth visiting Vang Vieng?

Vang Vieng has transformed over the past few decades. While there is still a part of Vang Vieng that caters to the party-loving crowd, there are lots of incredible higher-end boutique hotels and resorts that offer the killer views that Vang Vieng is also known for.

These days, there’s little reason to skip Vang Vieng – especially seeing as the new high speed trains can take you there comfortably in an hour or so from Vientiane or Luang Prabang. If you only have 1 week in Laos you can easily embark on the Vientiane-Vang Vieng-Luang Prabang route (or in reverse) and experience some of the top nature, culture and heritage highlights of the country.

Ready to book your Vang Vieng trip? The Riverside Boutique Resort is my top pick for a luxury hotel in Vang Vieng. Click here to check rates and availability at Riverside Boutique Resort. Stay at Inthira Vang Vieng for modern rooms (select one that has a balcony) and a pool overlooking the Nam Song river and karst mountains. Click here to see current rates at Inthira Vang Vieng . Alternatively, you might also look into availability down the road at The Silver Naga Hotel . It is one of the original hotels in Vang Vieng and also boasts a riverside location, but rooms are slightly more dated. Click here to book your stay at The Silver Naga.

Unmissable things to do in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng may be tiny, but it packs a real punch when it comes to the variety of activities it has to offer. Wondering how many days to stay in Vang Vieng? I would recommend no less than 3 to 4 days if you want to make the most of your time in this little town.

I have previously written about 5 of the must-visit places in Vang Vieng , but have decided to expand on the best things to do in Vang Vieng and what you might want to reconsider during your time there – read on!

1. Climb a mountain

If you love hiking, then you’re going to love Vang Vieng. Heck, even if you don’t enjoy hiking (like me), you’re still going to love Vang Vieng.

Three of the best mountains to climb in Vang Vieng are Phangern (sometimes referred to as the Pha Ngern Silver Cliff viewpoint), Nam Xay and Pha Honekham – these viewpoints in Vang Vieng offer spectacular panoramic views and are relatively beginner-friendly hikes. You can read more about how to get to these mountains and what to expect on the hikes here.

The best time to go hiking in Vang Vieng is during the dry season as the trails can get extremely muddy and slippery, but I hiked Phangern in the wet season (on a non-rainy day) and still managed.

In fact, this photo is so popular that I discovered on my most recent trip to Vang Vieng that 3 different tour companies had stolen it and used it on their billboards – ack!

2. Chase a waterfall

Kaeng Nyui is a 20-25 minute drive away from the center of town on the east side of Vang Vieng. The road to Kaeng Nyui is mostly unpaved and can be extremely rough. While Kuang Si was roaring during rainy season , Kaeng Nyui was at its best (it tends to be a trickle during the dry season) with the heavy rain flow in July and August. The best time to visit Kaeng Nyui waterfall in Vang Vieng is from June to August/September.

Ready to book your Vang Vieng trip? For a luxury Vang Vieng stay with spectacular views, Riverside Boutique Resort is my top pick. You can also stay at Inthira Vang Vieng for modern rooms and a pool overlooking the Nam Song river and karst mountains. You might also look into availability at The Silver Naga Hotel just next door, also located directly by the river.

3. Go spelunking

There are so many caves in Vang Vieng, it would take weeks to see them all. If you only have time to visit one or two, check out the Tham Jang/Chang cave or Tham Nangfa/Angel Cave as they more accessible from town and well maintained. More on how to get to Tham Jang and Tham Nangfa here.

Tour companies around town also offer half-day or full-day caving tours if you are a hardcore spelunker.

4. Do some kayaking

The best time of year to go kayaking is during the peak season, as the river can get too rough from June to September. However, when the river is rough you can actually shift gears and try white water rafting instead!

Kayaking is a great way to see Vang Vieng from another perspective, make sure you bring a wet bag for your phone and camera!

5. Try your hand at zip-lining

Vang Vieng has many zip-lining courses you can go on, most of them are across the river. Many of them traverse through jungles and offer an exhilarating experience.

While you can absolutely try zip-lining without joining a group tour, here is a tour that you can book that combines kayaking, zip-lining and a visit to the waterfall in Vang Vieng.

6. Get tubular

Vang Vieng is famous (infamous?) for tubing – you get given a big tire-like pool float, and make your way down the river stopping at riverside bar after riverside bar, progressively getting more and more intoxicated.

Alternatively, you can also try “Cave Tubing” which usually doesn’t involve any booze. Angel Cave is one such place to give it a go! If tubing is something you’d like to try, then Vang Vieng is the place to do it. The best time to go tubing in Vang Vieng is from November to March.

Ready to book your Vang Vieng stay? The Riverside Boutique Resort is my top pick for a luxury hotel in Vang Vieng. The stunning and perfectly clean rooms offer a balcony or terrace, and the restaurant serves up amazing food. Click here to check rates and availability at Riverside Boutique Resort. I have also stayed at and recommend Inthira Vang Vieng for modern rooms (choose one that has a balcony) and a pool overlooking the Nam Song river and karst mountains. Click here to see current rates at Inthira Vang Vieng . Alternatively, you might also look into availability down the road at The Silver Naga Hotel . It is one of the original hotels in Vang Vieng and also boasts a riverside location. While the rooms are a little more dated, it also has a small infinity pool and outdoor terrace with a view, as well as daily Yoga classes. Click here to book your stay at The Silver Naga.

7. Soar the skies paramotoring

I wasn’t even aware that paraglides could be motorized, but Vang Vieng offers the opportunity to take to the skies and see Vang Vieng from above. As far as I’m aware, paramotoring is available year-round.

8. Go on a hot air balloon ride

Vang Vieng is known for being one of the cheapest places in the world to go on a hot air balloon. It costs only US$100-150 USD per person for a 30-minute to hour-long ride, and hot air balloons usually only operate during the dry season from November to March.

When I visited Vang Vieng in November 2018, there was only one company offering hot air balloon rides at the time, and my booking was unceremoniously cancelled without any notice even though we were already in the lobby waiting to be picked up. The good news is, since my last trip to Vang Vieng, a new professional hot air balloon company has set up shop in Vang Vieng – Above Laos .

While their prices are higher than other Vang Vieng hot air balloon companies at US$135 per person, I have nothing but good things to say about their professionalism, safety and quality of equipment. They offer sunrise and sunset hot air balloon rides in Vang Vieng and passenger numbers are kept small so that you aren’t crammed into the baskets like sardines. We were even offered prosecco at the end of the ride! Read more about flying over Vang Vieng in a hot air balloon here.

Ready to book your Vang Vieng trip? The Riverside Boutique Resort is my top pick for a luxury hotel in Vang Vieng. I loved everything from the comfortable rooms and stunning pool, to the fantastic on-site restaurant. Click here to check rates and availability at Riverside Boutique Resort. Stay at Inthira Vang Vieng for modern rooms and a pool overlooking the Nam Song river and karst mountains. Click here to see current rates at Inthira Vang Vieng . You might also look into availability at The Silver Naga Hotel just next door. It is one of the original hotels in Vang Vieng and also boasts a riverside location. Click here to book your stay at The Silver Naga.

9. Swim in lagoons

The most well known hot spot in Vang Vieng is the Blue Lagoon, a swimming spot famous for its aquamarine water…except much like the Kuang Si Waterfall in Luang Prabang , it is not so blue during rainy season from June to August. Just look at the difference!

It also tends to be extremely crowded and is frequented by large tour groups. But guess what? It isn’t even the only blue-coloured lagoon in the area – there are about 8 or 9 that are all named “The Blue Lagoon”!

Instead of visiting the often-crowded Blue Lagoon 1, head to Blue Lagoon 2 or my favorites – the Blue Lagoon 3 and 4. Tuk tuk drivers know the directions to the different lagoons.

The entrance fee for all the lagoons are between 10,000-20,000 Kip per person, and the best time to visit the blue lagoons in Vang Vieng is from September/October to March.

Read more about the different blue lagoons in Vang Vieng here , including the differences between them and why I love Blue Lagoon 3 and 4!

10. Practice Yoga

Get your fill of Yoga at Yoga in Vang Vieng , a small studio located within the Silver Naga Hotel offering daily classes throughout the year.

The class schedule is posted in advance on their website , and your class pass also includes access to the hotel’s infinity pool!

11. Drink sunset cocktails

This is one of my favorite things to do in Vang Vieng. The view of towering karst mountains and the flowing river are unparalleled, and the cocktails in Vang Vieng are delicious. The Riverside Boutique Resort , Inthira Vang Vieng and The Silver Naga Hotel just next door all have lovely outdoor terraces and serve up drinks and cocktails at sunset.

More of a beer person? Beerlao is the drink of choice in Laos.

Ready to book your adventure in Vang Vieng? The Riverside Boutique Resort is my top pick for a luxury hotel in Vang Vieng. Check into Inthira Vang Vieng for modern rooms and a pool overlooking the Nam Song river and karst mountains. You might also look into availability at The Silver Naga Hotel just next door – it also boasts a riverside location as well as daily Yoga classes.

12. Visit the temples

There are a handful of small Buddhist temples around Vang Vieng, including Wat That which is one of the bigger temple complexes in town.

Remember to dress appropriately at Buddhist temple complexes – your shoulders and knees should be covered, and you may need to take your shoes off if you’re entering the temples.

13. Get a massage

Get one every day because massages in Vang Vieng are dirt cheap! Expect to pay approximately US$8-10 for a 1 hour massage, but more often than not you will not get a private room. Your masseuse will also appreciate a small tip, even if it’s 1 or 2 dollars.

14. Wander around the Vang Vieng night market

The night market is a relatively new addition to Vang Vieng, it definitely wasn’t around a few years ago when I visited! The night market runs through town and you can start at either end – one entrance is located across the street from the Silver Naga Hotel.

The shops sell much of what you’d expect at a night market in Southeast Asia including elephant print pants, casual summer dresses, snacks, key chains, pouches and bags and more. There are also small hawker stands if you feel like grabbing a bite to eat or a Beerlao.

Ready to book your Vang Vieng adventure? I recommend checking out Riverside Boutique Resort for a luxury Vang Vieng stay. You can also check into Inthira Vang Vieng for modern rooms and a pool overlooking the Nam Song river and karst mountains. You might also consider The Silver Naga Hotel next door – it boasts a riverside location as well as daily Yoga classes.

Parting thoughts on the “Elephant Sanctuary” in Vang Vieng

Update: it appears that the Vang Vieng Elephant Sanctuary may no longer be operational.

Visiting the Vang Vieng Elephant Sanctuary is one of the newest things to do in town – I’ve left this last/off the list as I have some ~thoughts~ about the legitimacy of this attraction and whether it can be called a true elephant sanctuary. This elephant park had only been open for about 8 months when I visited in 2018, and did not exist when I visited Vang Vieng a few years prior to that. In fact, it is currently the only elephant interaction attraction in Vang Vieng (unlike places in Chiang Mai that have dozens).

After the privilege of interacting with and observing elephants at a few elephant sanctuaries and orphanages around the world , the elephant sanctuary in Vang Vieng left me feeling skeptical. A few basics first:

• It is located about an hour and a half away from Vang Vieng by car
• It opened in March 2018 and is locally-run by Go and his family
• It claims to have approximately 12 elephants that have been rented from their owners so they can live at the Vang Vieng Elephant Sanctuary (approximately 400 elephants of the 800 remaining elephants in Laos are owned by private owners). We saw 3 elephants during our time there
• The park offers half day or full day experiences – it will cost you approximately US$55 per person for a half-day tour
• The park states that it does not use bull hooks to train their elephants, and the tours do not offer elephant riding

When we arrived at the park, we were introduced to Go, a Lao gentleman who started the park out of his love for elephants. He gave us an overview of the park and what to expect, before we were led to meet the elephants in the jungle. 3 elephants emerged from the dense jungle and we fed them bananas, up extremely close and personal. A few times we had to walk around the elephants to get out of their way – that gives you a sense of exactly how comfortable they are with humans, which is not necessarily a good thing.

One of the key things that concerned me about this attraction is that there was a lack of safety briefing – the elephants will get close to you, and while many other elephant interaction places will tell you to avoid standing behind the elephants or touch their ears and bellies, there were no such warnings given here.

Next, we were taken to a small river area to slap mud on the elephants – something that elephants can happily do themselves, and is designed to cater to the tourist more than the elephants. Though we were given life jackets for the next part, swimming in the lake with the elephants, not much more direction was given beyond telling us to say “boon” so that the elephants squirt water on demand before we feed them bananas in the river.

To top it all off, the visitors could sit with bananas in their laps between the elephants and let the elephants eat out of their laps.

Some food for thought: according to the World Animal Protection organization, “a true elephant-friendly venue is purely observational for visitors, where the safety of visitors and wellbeing of elephants is not affected by the need to constantly control the animals. The elephants would be managed in humane ways through the mahout who allows a maximum of freedom or through advanced ‘protected contact’ techniques.”

I would love to give Vang Vieng Elephant Sanctuary the benefit of the doubt – the intentions may be pure and the care for the animals may be from the heart, but make no doubt about it, this is a tourist attraction and the elephants are trained to respond to verbal commands (beyond the standard forward, stop, back, go etc.) and pose for photo opps. Because it is privately run and has no affiliation with any reputable animal welfare groups, there is limited oversight into how the park is actually run when the visitors are gone, and my gut feeling is that it feels more like a petting zoo rather than a true sanctuary, at least for the time-being.

While it is true that there is no riding offered here and the elephants appear well-fed, I would love to see the park transition away from making the elephants perform “tricks” for tourist photo opps, provide more safety information and encourage less intimate physical interaction with the elephants, just to name a few. I encourage you to make up your own mind and do your own due diligence when you are deciding whether or not to visit the Vang Vieng Elephant Sanctuary.

Interested in reading more about ethical elephant experiences around the world? Click here for more sanctuaries, orphanages and parks that you can visit!

If you want to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary in Laos, I would recommend Mandalao Elephant Conservation in Luang Prabang , a wonderful sanctuary that is run by an experienced and professional organization.

There are many hotel and accommodation options in Vang Vieng to suit every type of traveler. For a perfect, unobstructed view of the Nam Song River and karst mountains then stay at Riverside Boutique Resort , Inthira Vang Vieng or the Silver Naga Hotel . These hotels are all located in the heart of Vang Vieng town, right on the bank of the Nam Song River.

Headed to Laos? You might also find these guides helpful :

• This guide to the top places to visit in Vang Vieng is a must-read
• Read more about the different blue lagoons in Vang Vieng here
• Vang Vieng is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to go hot air ballooning. Here is what you need to know about booking a hot air balloon ride in Laos
• Visiting Luang Prabang before or after Vang Vieng? Head on over here for the best things to do in Luang Prabang (and what you might want to skip)
• If you are planning to spend a few days in Vientiane during your time in Laos, check out my guide on what to see and do in Vientiane here
• Looking for more Southeast Asia travel tips? Click here for 10 things you should know before you visit Southeast Asia

Have you visited Vang Vieng? Tell me all about your stay in the comments section below!

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My stay at Inthira Vang Vieng was hosted; however, no compensation was received for the review, and as always, the opinions on Yogawinetravel.com are (and always will be) my own!

This article contains affiliate links. If you choose to book using these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Thank you for supporting my website by using these links!

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Update : there is a new hot air ballon company called above Laos. They are very very professional and super friendly. A bit more expensive but you also pay for the security! Highly recommend!

Thanks for sharing, Solene! Would love to try them out next time.

Hi. Thanks for the informations about Vang Vieng. I was in Vang vieng 20 years ago and i”ll go back to this place beginning of September 2019. I think many things have change since 20 years ago!!!! For your stolen photos you can make something. The same thing happened to me with a German website that sells trips to China. They used 6 of my Xingping photos. I contacted them by email asking them to remove my photos from their site within 48 hours before a lawsuit. They removed my photos immediately. This may work for your photos from these agencies in Vang Vieng. Eric from France

Hi Eric, thanks for your comment! I’ll consider it but at the moment there are so many billboards with the photo, including some placed by the local government. It’s all a bit overwhelming!

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Welcome to Vang Vieng. This is a hidden mountain town hemmed in by dramatic karsts and cut through by babbling rivers that ebb and flow with the coming and going of the monsoon. Dank cave systems, soaring peaks, primeval jungles inhabited by monkeys – it’s all here. But is Vang Vieng worth visiting?

That’s what this guide will aim to answer. It will run through seven reasons why you might want to consider adding good old VV to your Laotian travel itinerary this year. We’ll try to reveal the top draws and the alluring vibe of the river town in the rainforest, so you can start getting excited for all it has to offer.

It really is one of the bucket-list spots of Loas , too. A big change came in 2012 when the Laotian government cracked down on the party bars. Now, it’s all about outdoors adventure and adrenaline pursuits, not to mention a few cultural treats and top-quality riverside hotels. So, is Vang Vieng worth visiting?

Table of Contents

The adventure pursuits

Vang Vieng has been making a name for itself as an adventure town for the last 10 years now, ever since the nightlife was stopped. It’s well-suited for that, being plonked amid jagged karstic mountain ranges and dashes of wild jungle. There’s really no end to the adrenaline-pumping pulls that are on offer.

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The rock climbing is of particular note. The jagged spires of stone you see on the horizon host walls and bouldering faces for all levels of climber, from complete beginner to expert a la Jimmy Chin. If you prefer to stay out of the harness, then consider swapping the rocks for a hiking path – there are a couple in the region that can be done in a day, but also multi-day hikes that involve stays in rural Laotian villages.

Water babies might prefer to hit the water in a kayak or a tube (see below). The main Nam Song River and its narrower tributaries are a great ticket to unexplored parts of the jungle. You’ve also got Ziplines and MTB trails. There’s loads.

Tubing and Vang Vieng have always gone hand in hand. The town was first put on the map thanks to this activity, which was combined with pub crawling and quirky river bars to create one of the undisputed nightlife musts of Southeast Asia. When the infamous river bars were shut down in 2012, everyone thought it might be the death knell for tubing here too. Not so.

Tubing still goes on along the Nam Song River. It’s much less of a hedonistic pursuit now; more of a chilled romp through the jungles, perhaps one or two cold beers at hand if you fancy them. The views are wonderful, too, taking in dramatic karst peaks and wild forests over the course of a couple of clicks.

You can rent the tube (basically a big rubber ring) from an outfitter in the town center. It costs around 110,000 LAK (about $8) in all, which includes a tube deposit that you get back so long as you return the gear by 6pm. Packages also involve a tuk-tuk ride to the designated tubing starting point to the north of town.

The nightlife

There was a time when Vang Vieng was the nightlife hub of Laos . In fact, it was considered one of the nightlife hubs of all Southeast Asia, mentioned in the same breath as Koh Phangan and Gili T for its sleepless bars and – most of all – it’s tubing. That all changed in 2012 when the Laotian government decided that enough was enough. Consistent injuries and complaints of drunken behavior had pushed things too far and the river bars were closed for good.

But Vang Vieng’s nightlife didn’t completely disappear with the end of the tubing pub crawls. It’s just become a shadow of its former self, though still kind of fun. The main street is where you want to be. That hosts the likes of Sakura, a boho backpacker joint with dance floors under a thatched palm roof. The beer there is very cheap during happy hour, which lasts until 10pm. You also have Viva, which is the late-night option.

The old tubing on the river is now all but gone. There are still one or two bars there, which, rumor has it, are connected to the local police chief (we wonder why they didn’t close?). However, don’t come expecting the boozy river cruises that once existed. For better or for worse, it now looks as though they are gone forever.

You’re sure to be wowed by the sheer vision that is Vang Vieng the first time you swing around the bend in the mountain road to behold the town. It’s sat in a truly breathtaking place, with views that are up there with the very best in the country.

On the horizon, the great karst peaks around Ban Nampè rise and fall like needles of stone topped with tufts of jungle. They descent into lush forests where macaques and slithering snakes dominate the boughs and the undergrowth. Now and then, the whole lot is bisected by a murky river of tea-brown water, which cuts through occasional pockets of emerald rice paddy. Basically, this is a stunning place!

We’d say try to score a hotel that’s close to the riverside. Those places are the ones with the top views going west, which is the most dramatic side of Vang Vieng to look at, especially at sunset.

There are now plenty of pretty fantastic hotels in Vang Vieng. The town has budget-friendly backpacker dives and elegant boutique resorts. Some of them really do stand out from the crowd, offering deluxe swimming pools next to the gurgling Nam Song River, and fantastic views of the rugged karst peaks from their suites.

Here’s a look at just a few of the most tempting hotels in Vang Vieng that we think you should consider:

• Vang Vieng Savanh Sunset View Resort ($$) – This midrange hotel has comfy rooms and a garden pool, along with suites that have massage Jacuzzi baths. That could come in handy after long hiking sessions in the mountains!
• Riverside Boutique Resort ($$$) – Give yourself some luxury in this four-star hotel with charming bungalow rooms. Some look over a garden which has a lovely green pool. Others are right by the river’s edge.
• Vangvieng Rock Backpacker Hostel ($) – This is a top choice if you’re on a tighter budget, especially if you like social hostels where it’s easy to meet other travelers.

Back in early noughties when Vang Vieng was a hub for partiers and tubers, the town channeled the vibe of a Euro 18-30s resort. It was filled to bursting with gaudy bars, cocktail lounges, and places that pumped with tacky chart and pop tunes until the early hours.

That’s no longer the case. Now, there’s a cool, off-beat backpacker vibe to it all that’s at once chilled and endearing. It’s the sort of place where you can meet and mingle with other globetrotters in a ramshackle hostel bar, telling tales of your tubing on the river and climbing in the karst ranges.

One curious feature of VV is the replays of Friends that happen every night in the bamboo-built restaurants along the main road. Everyone seems to gather, devour noodles and cold beers, and watch episodes over and over again.  

It’s a convenient stopover

Loas isn’t like Thailand or Vietnam. The country is WAY less developed and built up than its frenetic compadres to the east and west. In fact, there’s only one real road crossing the country, and even that’s just a one-lane highway that weaves and winds as it navigates the rugged highland regions. To put it another way: It can be hard to get around here. Journeys that might take one or two hours in the Land of Smiles can take upwards of three or four this side of the border.

That’s where Vang Vieng comes in. The town is conveniently plonked right on the main road that runs between two of the must-see destinations in Laos – the UNESCO-tagged temple town of Luang Prabang to the north and the French-styled capital of Vientiane on the Mekong River to the south.

Is Vang Vieng worth visiting just because it’s conveniently located midway between those? Probably not. However, it is nice to know that you can add in this pitstop to break up your travels through this wild corner of Southeast Asia and get all the adrenaline pursuits and stunning views on the side!

Is Vang Vieng worth visiting? Our conclusion

Is Vang Vieng worth visiting? It sure is. Even after the town has relinquished its claim to being one of the nightlife hubs of Southeast Asia, this one’s worth checking out. Though the hardcore tubing is now a thing of the past, there’s still fun activities like kayaking to be done on the Nam Song River. On top of that, the whole area is a playground for adventure travelers, what with climbing and caving and more on the menu. You’re also likely to be wowed by the views, which are downright stunning!

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8 great Tips for Things to do in Vang Vieng, Laos

27. February 2023

Destination The World

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Vang Vieng in Laos is probably one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia. But it is actually not about the town itself, as it is more about the surroundings and the breathtaking landscape. Rice fields, palm trees, limestone cliffs, and rocks as far as the eyes can see. Enjoying this stunningly serene and peaceful landscape is just one of the things to do in Vang Vieng. There are definitely more things to do in Vang Vieng.

Vang Vieng got very well-known and popular in the 2000s when lots of backpackers came to this paradise to go tubing. Almost everyone went to Vang Vieng for that reason. You got a large tube and stopped at several bars for drinks and other stuff. Unfortunately, many people lost their lives while tubing. When you are drunk /intoxicated it is easy to lose control of a river which can sometimes get a bit rough. In 2012, the Lao Government closed down this toxic party scene, since many people died during tubing in Vang Vieng.

Today you still can go tubing but without many of the bars though. Now, they actually offer many different adrenalin-fuelled adventures and activities, e.g. ziplining, rafting, or climbing. It is great to see that the government found good other alternatives to enjoy time in Vang Vieng.

TIP: Read our posts on things to do in Bangkok and the Royal Thai Palace if you are heading there as well

We first visited Vang Vieng in 2014 and again in 2023. We could experience a big change though. There are bigger hotels (especially along the river) and the riverbanks expanded and more developed. Before we could watch the cows along the river and now you can rent boats and kayaks for river tours.

Laos is mostly known for being rural, more authentic, and less visited than the neighbouring countries like Thailand or Vietnam, but of course, Laos also needs tourists and tries to develop interesting tourist hubs. And Vang Vieng is one of them. Also, Laos is still one of the cheapest places to visit in Asia , so your hard-earned money will last longer than many other places.

Even though Vang Vieng’s reputation is not the best and it is just known as a party paradise, there are so many cool things to do in Vang Vieng. Many backpackers though go there for tubing and partying but it has so much more to offer. The landscape is simply unique and absolutely stunning.

TIP: Our posts on Ayutthaya and Sukhothai will help you plan your trip to these Southeast Asian destinations as well

The town itself is not the reason to visit Vang Vieng, it is all about the magical landscape. Read more in this blog post about the things to do in Vang Vieng, and how to get to Vang Vang.

How to get to Vang Vieng, Laos

Vang Vieng is located between Luang Prabang and the capital city of Vientiane. It is easily accessible from these two cities and other destinations from Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam as well. Vang Vieng has no airport. The closest one is either in Luang Prabang or Vientiane. We strongly recommend the slow boat to Laos if you are travelling from Thailand.

There are lots of booking offices in the centre of Vang Vieng where you can purchase your tickets to get around in Laos. You usually can get a bus or train tickets from your hotel or guesthouse where you stay. Check prices in different booking offices to find the cheapest tickets or to get a clue of how much it should cost.

Bus to Vang Vieng

Buses are usually a good way to get around in Southeast Asia. They take a bit longer compared to minibuses but are mostly a bit cheaper to get to other places in Laos, e.g. Luang Prabang or Vientiane. To get to other big cities in neighbouring countries like Chiang Mai or Hanoi, you mostly have to change buses in Luang Prabang or Vientiane, too.

Minibus to Vang Vieng

Minibuses leave several times daily to Luang Prabang (6 hours) and Vientiane (3-4 hours). These are the most common destinations from Vang Vieng. Plan a few hours longer for your minibus trip. We experienced that it can take longer due to lunch or toilet breaks or the bad road conditions.

Train to Vang Vieng

The best way to get to Vang Vieng from Vientiane or Luang Prabang is by train. It is a high-speed route and takes a bit more than one hour to get to Vang Vieng. The train route is part of the Lao-China Railway and connects Vientiane and the northern town of Boten on the border with Yunnan, China.

TIP: Fan of train travel? So are we. Our posts on train travel will give you some of our favourite train journeys so far

The train stations and trains are super new since the route just opened in December 2021. You will get a ticket with a designated seat. The trains are air-conditioned and have a small kiosk where you can buy cold drinks or cookies. Be at the train station a bit before leaving. There is a security and baggage check. You are not allowed to bring dangerous items like knives or spray (hairspray, deodorant spray), but you still can bring bottles with water.

TIP: Heading to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai? Our posts on the best  coffee in Chiang Mai  and our  Chiang Rai coffee guide  will show you where to find the best brew in both cities.

Things to do in Vang Vieng

This list of things to do in Vang Vieng is random and not rated in any way. To do all of these things you should probably count 3-4 days in Vang Vieng. If you are efficient maybe a day less, and if you want more out of your time, you can add more days. In reality, one could spend days on end in Vang Vieng, but not everyone can do that. Even with limited time on hand, you will be able of doing many of these things to do in Vang Vieng.

1. Hot Air Balloon

If you have never done a hot air balloon ride before, then do it there. It is one of the best things to do in Vang Vieng. the views are amazing and it is such a great experience to do a hot air balloon ride in Vang Vieng. You can choose between sunrise or sunset flights. We decided to do a sunrise flight. You usually get picked up from your hotel/guesthouse and drive to the starting point. It is a different experience compared to flying in a plane or paragliding.

When you leave the ground and get higher and higher you can watch the small town waking up from the night. Some people start a fire, monks walk to the temples and the sun turns the sky in all bright colours. It was magical how the morning light changed in such a short time. And the landscape was even more beautiful from above. The flight costs around 100-120 € per person and takes up to an hour in total. Well, we know it is not a cheap thing to do in Vang Vieng but it is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime- experience that we will never forget. You can book your hot air balloon flight at Above Laos Ballooning Adventure.

2. Visit one of the Blue Lagoons and the Caves

One of the things to do in Vang Vieng is to visit one of the blue lagoons and the caves. In total, there are three blue lagoons (1, 2, and 3) very close to Vang Vieng. You can easily visit them by renting a bike, or a scooter, or hiring a driver. There are also many beautiful caves which you can visit.

We decided to visit Blue Lagoon 1 and Phu Kham Cave Vang Vieng. Although it is the closest one to Vang Vieng, it might be the busiest one too. But at least you can visit a lagoon and a cave at the same location. It is very crowded but still worth a visit. A bike ride takes you there in around 30-45min from Vang Vieng. You will pass green rice fields and have a great view of the breathtaking rocks until you reach the lagoon.

There is a large parking spot and lots of shops for food and souvenirs around and inside the lagoon area. You need to pay a small fee to enter ( 10.000 KIP). When you are there, it is possible to go swimming or swing off into the blue lagoon (yes, the water is really crystal clear and turquoise blue!) or even ziplining.

And you have the chance to visit a cave there as well. Make sure to rent a head torch before you climb up the steep 200-meter limestone cliffs to the cave. The cave is pretty dark and it is easier to get around there with some light. The cave is called Phu Kham Cave. Inside the cave you find a Thai bronze reclining Buddha from where you can explore deeper galleries that branch more into the mountain.

The Opening hours of Blue Lagoon 1 and Phu Kham Cave are daily from 8 am until 6 pm.

3. Action and adrenaline activities

If you like adventure and action activities, then you should definitely not miss Vang Vieng. It is the place in Laos to kick your adrenaline. There are so many cool things to do in Vang Vieng.

You can choose from tubing, kayaking, rafting, biking, ziplining, or rock climbing. It is a stunning area to fully enjoy any of these action activities. There is something for everyone.

And if you are not so into action sports, you could go on a riverboat tour or rent a buggy to explore the beautiful landscape and /or visit one of the caves and lagoons.

There are many booking offices all over where you can book the best things to do in Vang Vieng. Most accommodations offer tours or rent out bikes, and scooters as well.

4. Watch the Sunset over the Mountains

Another highlight and one of the things to do in Vang Vieng is to watch the sunset over the mountains. There are several restaurants, bars, restaurants, and cafes in Vang Vieng which have a view over the river and the mountains. From there, you get to watch an amazing sunset.

Our favourite cafe is PullMind Cafe. They offer great coffee specialities and have an outdoor terrace with a spectacular view over bungalows, palm trees, fields, and mountains.

Another great place to watch the sunset in vang Vieng is the Egg Sunset Bar. To get there, you need to cross the Namsong Bridge to get to the other side of town. It is in the middle of fields from where you can spot cows and buffaloes. They offer lots of different seats. With a cold Beer Lao, it is an amazing place to watch the sunset in Vang Vieng.

It is popular with backpackers and tourists. They have a large selection of cold drinks and food and you can even have a bonfire there. It is a great place to relax, meet friends and enjoy the atmosphere during sunset.

5. Eat street food

Southeast Asia is famous for its street food. And Laos food might not be as famous as Thai or Vietnamese food but it is definitely as delicious as in its neighbouring countries. There are shops and restaurants all over which offer yummy and fresh food. One of the most common dishes is noodle soup. Usually, you can choose if you want to have it with pork, chicken, beef, or only vegetables.

You can even find delicious French baguettes which you can fill with Lao-style paté, egg, pork and vegetables.

TIP: Heading to Hanoi as well? Don’t miss our posts on the best coffee in Hanoi and the best things to do in Hanoi before you go

Our favourite food in Vang Vieng is a banana-Nutella pancake. Yes, you will get all the calories for the next few days but it is simply delicious and so worth it. You will find them all over the town and choose different fillings and flavours. Our favourite is the crispy crepe filled with fresh and fruity bananas, Nutella, and a bit of condensed milk on top of it.

6. Go Hiking

There are many trails to hike around Vang Vieng. One of the most popular summits and hikes is the Nam Xay Viewpoint. You get great 360° views of Vang Vieng and the beautiful landscape, especially for sunrise and sunset. It is for sure one of the things to do in Vang Vieng.

To go for a hike make sure you wear proper shoes (no flip-flops) because it can get slippery or muddy in certain spots, especially during the rainy season.

Another tip is to bring enough water. It can get very hot and humid and if you don’t drink enough and might get dehydrated. It is safer to bring enough water to keep away from this situation.

Start your hike earlier in the morning to avoid the heat and the groups. Some hiking trails are very popular and get crowded during the day.

7. Visit one of the Temples

Another great tip for things to do in Vang Vieng is to visit one of the temples. Temples in Laos are mostly free to visit. You can admire the beautiful golden Buddhas and decorations during your visit to a temple.

Temples are always quiet and relaxed places to calm down or to pray. Maybe you can watch some monks praying or you might be lucky and get involved in a talk with them. But you should follow the common rules for a temple visit in Vang Vieng:

• Take off your shoes before entering the temple
• Cover shoulders and legs (shorts are normally ok)
• Don’t smoke
• Don’t touch anything
• Don’t eat or drink anything in the temple or on the ground
• Turn your feet away from the Buddha
• Don’t touch the monk

The most central temples in Vang Vieng are What That, Wat Kang, and Wat Si Sou Mang.

TIP: Chiang Mai in Thailand has many great temples to visit. Our post on temples in Chiang Mai will give you more information before you go.

8. Enjoy the river

Enjoying the river Nam Song is a great tip for things to do in Vang Vieng. Life along the river is usually very busy. You can watch kids swimming in there, tourists take boat tours and there are lots of hotels, cafes, and restaurants with a view of the river.

To cross the toll bridge (Namsong Bridge) is made of wood and the most common way to get over to the other side (where you get to the Blue Lagoon 1 or the Egg Sunset Bar). It looks not very safe but many people use this bridge to get over the river to the other side. It is definitely an experience to walk over there and watch the river. During sunset, you can see lots of hot air balloons flying over Vang Vieng.

We are Matthias and Kent. With a strong desire to travel the world, we create articles and travel guides from our many trips. We aim to inspire you to explore the world, near and far. Maybe your next adventure is closer than you think?

Backpacking Vang Vieng: Budget Travel Guide 2024

A famous reputation and a wealth of history around tubing and its deaths cloud the beauty of modern-day Vang Vieng .

Backpacking Vang Vieng is a must-do for anyone backpacking South East Asia, along the Banana Pancake Trail.

There’s so much to this riverside town, it truly is the heart of adventure in Laos . But there are lots of questions which you may have before beginning your journey.

Luckily for you, I’m a full-time backpacker, and I’ve created this ultimate guide to backpacking Vang Vieng.

So without further ado, let’s get into it!

Where is Vang Vieng?

Vang Vieng is a relatively small town located in the heart of Laos – make sure you know how to pronounce Laos before heading to the country.

North of Vientiane, it’s a common stop along the Banana Pancake Trail . Vang Vieng used to be extremely popular in the 80s, 90s and early 2000s due to the tubing that took place down the river.

Along with riverside bars and clubs, it was the place to be to get drunk and club like never before.

This gave Vang Vieng an incredibly bad reputation (outside of the backpacking community) as there were hundreds of deaths over the years as a result of the tubing.

After a few years when tubing was banned completely, Vang Vieng fell off the typical backpacker’s route, this only helped Vang Vieng.

It allowed Vang Vieng to recover and reshape itself as a town filled with outdoor adventure. Now, Vang Vieng is becoming more popular again with backpackers, but for better reasons this time, with popular jungle treks and hiking routes, endless water activities and other great attractions.

T here’s no better time for backpacking Vang Vieng than the present!

Why should I visit Vang Vieng?

As said above, Vang Vieng has found a new lease of life. No longer the party centre of Laos, the town is the adventure centre of Laos . There are so many opportunities to get involved in outdoor activities, surrounded by landscapes you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

How can I get to Vang Vieng?

If you are backpacking Vang Vieng, it is most likely that you are coming from either Vientiane or Luang Prabang. Here is a table of your possible transport options. As a backpacker, you will most likely want to choose the cheapest option , in order to save as much money as possible.

From Vientiane :

From Luang Prabang :

Weighing up the time vs money balance, the best way to get to Vang Vieng is via a minivan or minibus. These are extremely cheap to get you from A to B. The best site to book these through is 12Go. However, it usually works out slightly cheaper if you book in person , usually at a local travel agent.

How long should I stay in Vang Vieng?

As always, this depends on you, the individual. It depends on how fast you like to travel and spend in each location. That being said, I would recommend a minimum of 3 nights . This should allow you to see most of everything there is to see in Vang Vieng. Backpacking Vang Vieng can be very different from backpacker to backpacker, it depends on how many activities you want to do.

Places to stay while backpacking Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is filled with amazing hostels , which is perfect if you are backpacking Vang Vieng. Hostels are a great way to save money whilst travelling, as they are extremely cheap to stay in! My biggest piece of advice for new backpackers is to stay in hostels.

Here are 3 of the best hostels to stay in in Vang Vieng:

• Vang Vieng Freedom Backpackers Hostel

With ‘backpackers’ in the name, you know you are staying in the right hostel! This hostel is the highest rated on Hostel World, at an impressive 9.6/10. You know you are in for a great stay, and at a great price too! Only $5 USD a night- the perfect hostel for backpackers! Find out more here .

• Parkview Pool Hostel & Guesthouse

The cheapest hostel on Hostel World is only $2 USD a night! It’s also rated 8.9/10 so you are still staying in a great hostel- as it says- it has a pool! Vang Vieng is full of bargains, but this might be the best one. To put it into perspective, you could stay here for $60 a month- imagine how much you currently pay in rent! Find out more here .

• Vang Vieng Rock Backpackers Hostel

As their description says, a hostel “should be more than just a bed!” This hostel offers this- it is another great option for staying in Vang Vieng, at only $4 a night, and rated superb on Hostel World, it is one of many great hostels in the area. Find out more here .

Things to do while backpacking Vang Vieng

As you probably know by now, Vang Vieng is a town filled with adventure! There are lots of opportunities to get physically active here and explore this beautiful part of Laos. There are SO many things to do here, but this is a list of 5 of the best things to do if you are backpacking Vang Vieng:

• Climb up to Nam Xay Viewpoint

This is by far the best view you will see in Vang Vieng. It’s a view worthy of a postcard! Every way you look, 360°, it’s an out-of-this-world view. Take a look for yourself! I f you are backpacking Vang Vieng, you’ll definitely find yourself up here at least once.

• Go kayaking on the river

Kayaking is fun at the best of times, but kayaking through Vang Vieng is one of the most surreal experiences you can have on a kayak. The views are unbelievable! You can even book tours to kayak to Vientiane (takes about half a day)! The river is amazing, you can do so many things on it but if I had to choose one, I would say to kayak.

• Visit the Blue Lagoon

Pictures can’t do this place justice. The water is so clear yet so blue at the same time. There are so many things to do here from swimming to ziplining, it’s a great place to relax . There are also some beautiful caves to explore! Definitely worth a visit.

• Walk through the Rice Fields

South East Asia is famous for its rice fields, and Vang Vieng is home to plenty! At Vieng Tara, there is a beautiful walk through rice fields, along boardwalks, surrounded by some beautiful hills and mountains. It’s like walking through a fairy tale!

• Make a trip to Pha Tang Bridge and Temple

Just outside Vang Vieng is a small village called Ban Pha Tang. It’s definitely worth the trip as it is home to a beautiful temple and a dreamy wooden bridge. It’s a great spot to feel the culture of Laos and embrace the South East Asian lifestyle.

Backpacking Vang Vieng: The Wrap Up

And that wraps up this guide to backpacking Vang Vieng.

It’s such a great part of Laos, and I would really encourage you to make the trip here.

It really is a town reborn and the sheer amount of things to do and see makes Vang Vieng worth a visit.

So get out there and get exploring this stunning riverside town!

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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The 4 best things to do in vang vieng laos.

• On 23February2022

Continuing the journey exploring Laos, my next destination is Vang Vieng Laos. Vang Vieng is known for its karst mountain ranges, limestone cliffs, scenic paddy fields, and the blue lagoon. If you are traveling or backpacking through Laos, you have to make Vang Vieng one of your stops. Here is what you need to know to enjoy the best things to do in Vang Vieng.

Table of Contents

Vang Vieng Laos

Vang Vieng was established around 1353 as a staging post between Luang Prabang and Vientiane. Originally, the town was called Mouang Song; however, it was renamed Vang Vieng during French colonial rule in the 1890s. In the late 1990s, the town grew substantially due to the flood of backpackers traveling through southeast Asia due to the opportunities for adventure tourism along the Nam Song River (tubing, kayaking, mountain biking) and the spectacular limestone karst landscape surrounding the town.

Nam Song River

Many years ago, Vang Vieng was known for being party central, where backpackers came to drink, take drugs, float down the Nam Song river on inflatable tubes, and swing from rope swings at the river bars into the shallow rocky water. Yep, a recipe for disaster. In 2011, there were 27 recorded tourist deaths. Each year averaged around 20 deaths until the government decided to step in and ban the drugs, drinking, and dangerous tubing activities in 2012. Today, you can still tube, but it is a much more relaxing adventure where you can enjoy the beautiful Vang Vieng scenery at a leisurely pace.

How to Get to Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is halfway between Luang Prabang and Vientiane, the capital of Laos. We rented a spot on a shared minivan that shuttles people to Vang Vieng from Luang Prabang. The ride takes about 5-6 hours and lets you off on the main street. From there, hopefully, you have your guesthouse all sorted out and can head directly there. I had booked a night at the Kong Resort, which happened to be across the Nam Song river. Since it was late, we started over there but didn’t realize we had to pay the toll (4,000 kip) to walk across. It wasn’t until the next day that we found out we could have walked over the walking bridge for free.

Where to Stay in Vang Vieng

There are a lot of cheap places to stay in Vang Vieng if you are backpacking through southeast Asia. However, since I had been in Asia for a few months, I wanted something special, and the minute I saw a hot tub, I was sold. There is nothing like enjoying a bit of luxury in one of the poorest countries in Asia. If you are looking for someplace to pamper yourself or simply a place to lay your head at night in Vang Vieng , all your options can be found on the Agoda app.

Kong Resort

Staying at the Kong Resort was a wonderful experience. The Kong Resort is also a Mercedes Benz company retreat, so you’ll see lots of Mercedes logo gear around this riverbank resort. We showed up late, but they still had someone working reception to give us our room key. All the rooms are set up in shipping containers. And even though we showed up late, we spent so much time exploring the two floors of our guesthouse with its large rooms and spacious bathrooms. The minute I was done exploring, I made a beeline to the hot tub attached to the guesthouse. Sitting in that hot tub relaxing and being able to look up at the stars overhead made it a lovely night.

The next morning, I looked out the window and was rewarded with bright blue skies with the karst mountains in the distance before heading to munch down a wonderful breakfast in the dining hall.

Jasmine Hotel

We knew we wanted to stay another day to explore Vang Vieng within one night. So, we booked a second night at the Jasmine Hotel. This was a lesser expensive option than the night before, but just as comfortable. And the good thing was that there were no mishaps or bugs at either place we stayed in Vang Vieng, Laos.

Where to Eat in Vang Vieng

There are plenty of food options for the traveler visiting Vang Vieng. You can sit by the Nam Song riverbanks and admire the reflections in the water, stroll through Walking Street, partake in some street food, or stop in one of the many restaurants that cater to the tourists visiting. Whatever you choose, you will walk away full and satisfied for sure.

Thai Deutsches Restaurant

This authentic German restaurant was a hidden gem in Vang Vieng. And hidden it was, the entrance is behind tons of greenery, almost like a mini jungle in front. You can enjoy Schnitzel along with Bratwurst and fried potatoes at this award-winning restaurant. I enjoyed eating here, and we were lucky to chat with the friendly owner as well.

Food Vendors on Walking Street

I’ve mentioned it before in previous blog posts, but I love eating street food. And at Vang Vieng’s Walking Street, there are some great choices. For less than $2, I had a delicious pad Thai dinner with a fruit smoothie. Asian noodle dishes are tasty!

Luang Prabang Bakery

If you are looking for something sweet to start your day, stop at the Luang Prabang Bakery in Vang Vieng. We stopped here to grab a quick croissant before our adventurous ride to Vientiane. And what the heck, I was on a mini-vacation, so I added a strawberry daiquiri to it. They had so many pastries and sweets to choose from, I loved it.

What to do in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is a travel adventurer’s playground. You can find almost anything to do outdoors, such as kayaking, tubing, hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, rock climbing, even going on a hot air balloon ride. Not to mention the epic landscapes to see, like crossing the free bamboo bridge to see the lush green rice paddies or the towering karst mountains. You might even see lanterns floating up to the sky along the Nam Song river at night. Here are my favorite things to do in Vang Vieng, Laos.

Blue Lagoon s

Blue Lagoons are abundant in Vang Vieng; currently, there are 5 Blue Lagoons. How do you know which one to choose? Each of the Blue Lagoons in Vang Vieng has pros and cons. But, they all are their prettiest color during the dry season (October-April) when taking a dip in the azure water is an amazing experience. You will need to take a tuk-tuk or rent a scooter to get the blue lagoons. Renting a scooter for 70,000 kip ($6) for the day; Sitting on the back of the scooter with sunshine on my shoulders; flying by the lush green rice paddies, and seeing the karst limestone mountains in the distance get closer – priceless!

Blue Lagoon 1

• Info – a little more than 6 miles out of the center of Vang Vieng, entrance fee is 10,000 kip (less than $1), lagoon is narrow, but very deep
• Pros – travelers and locals hang out to cool off from the hot Vang Vieng temperatures, zipline, Phu Kham Cave exploration, picnic area, water slide, swimming area
• Cons – the most popular lagoon, can be crowded during the afternoon, chilly water

Visiting my first Blue Lagoon was amazing. I was so excited to go swimming in the blue-green water, although I wasn’t expecting it to be so cold. A wading area past the large jumping-off tree helped me get acclimated to the cold water temperature. Although the bravest would jump right in, I was more hesitant and dipped my toes in, then legs, etc., until I could submerge myself under the water without having goosebumps. The biggest highlight at this blue lagoon is the giant tree where you can either jump from either a 2-meter or 5-meter branch into the water. And yes, I did buck-up the courage to jump from the 5-meter branch. It is quite deep at that spot, so the only thing you have to worry about is the other swimmers getting out of your way. If you want a calmer place to enjoy the water, further down from the giant tree, a rope divides the jumpers from the waders. Even as one of the more popular lagoons, I felt that it wasn’t too crowded for me to have a great swimming day at the blue lagoon.

Cafe Parisien

After hiking through the Phu Kham Cave while visiting the Blue Lagoon, I was starving and couldn’t figure out what to eat for lunch. Until we noticed that right outside the Blue Lagoon entrance was a restaurant that served American fare. The individual pepperoni pizza was exactly what I needed to give me energy for swimming the rest of the day.

Blue Lagoon 2

• Info – a little over 4 miles southwest from Blue Lagoon 1, entrance fee is 10,000 kip
• Pros – plenty of sunshine, numerous pools to swim in, ziplines, swings, platforms, deck chairs for sunbathing, not crowded, quiet, Tham Chang Cave
• Cons – most people visit the cave (walk by the lagoon), might not be relaxing with the cave traffic

Blue Lagoon 3

• Info – approximate 10.5 miles away from Vang Vieng city center, a.k.a. Nature Park Patong Cave & Bubbling Springs
• Pros – rope swing that flies you across the lagoon before looping you higher letting you flip into the deep water, zipline crossing the lagoon where you can drop in the middle, balancing beams, bamboo raft in center of lagoon, jungle scenry around the lagoon, huts to rest in, restaurant
• Cons – bumpy, broken roads to reach blue lagoon, shaded by large karst mountain, chilly water

Blue Lagoon 4

• Pros – quiet, can visit on a day trip with Discover Laos (includes cave exploration)
• Cons – hard to find ( Google Maps )

Blue Lagoon 5

• Pros – have bungalows that you can rent and stay the night, quiet, away from crowds
• Cons – located quite a distance our of the Vang Vieng city center

Phu Kham Cave

Exploring the Phu Kham Cave was the first thing we did when we got to Blue Lagoon 1. This is one of the country’s largest and most sacred caves. There is a straightforward trail leading to the cave; however, it is very steep, with only bamboo poles sporadically positioned for you to hold onto to help pull you up between boulders. I was glad that I was in good shape from playing soccer and walking everywhere in Thailand. But, the short hike up to the cave was intense, very sweaty, and, to be honest, a little winded when I reached the small, dark entrance to the cave.

Carefully stepping on flat rocks, you enter the cave and follow the path down to the main cavern. Your eyes get accustomed to the limited light coming in from the entrance as you walk into the cave and see the small reclining Buddha shrine at the center of the main cavern. I was fascinated with how the light from a large hole in the limestone mountain shined down on the Buddha statue perfectly.

My travel partner was ambitious and had already hiked past the shrine, even though I asked him to wait for me as I had on the least optimal shoes for hiking in caves, flip flops. Phu Kham Cave is ginormous with what seemed like an endless amount of connecting caverns and tunnels. This is a real cave, not artificial, so dangerous areas are marked with large red x’s. These help you stay clear of the giant holes of an abyss. Using my phone’s flashlight, I was able to find my travel partner toward the back of the cave, where people left their handprints and marked that they had been there.

Now, this is where the cave exploration turned from excitement to scary, at least for me. My wonderful travel partner (sense some sarcasm here) decided to be funny and turn off his light. Complete and udder darkness descended. Then to be even funnier, he came up behind me and scared the crap out of me. And to top matters off, he took off and left me there alone to find my way back out of the cave. I was not happy. I was completely freaking out as I got turned around and had difficulty finding my way back out of the cave. There aren’t any arrows to help point you in any direction. With no one’s help but myself having faith that I would find my way out, I did. Hopefully, when you visit here, you will be accompanied by someone that likes to explore together.

Walking Street

Every night, on the street across from the Silver Naga Hotel, Vang Vieng’s main tourist market, Walking Street, has souvenirs, food, and drink for sale. This is the place to go in the evening after your adventure-filled day. I spent some time wandering the stalls looking for souvenirs. Then I started shopping in earnest. This is a great place to purchase lighter clothes that do well in the hot, humid climate of Asia and, of course, take up hardly any space in your luggage. I bought two light-weight dresses at the Walking Street that has traveled everywhere with me, even to Italy.

While waiting for our shuttle to take us to Vientiane, we had some time to get in one more exploration of Vang Vieng. Right down the street was Wat That, one of the more beautifully maintained and the largest temple in Vang Vieng. Wat That is a functional Buddhist temple with monks in residence. While I was walking the grounds, several monks and people were praying in the main prayer hall, which is open to the public. Make sure to check out the chedi, the oldest part of Wat That, and the seated Buddha statue in the green pavilion. Buddha is represented in this statue with a broad smile, which is unusual and unique that you will only see in this temple in Vang Vieng Laos.

Stopping in Vang Vieng for a couple of nights was a great idea to break up our exploration of Laos. Plus, how can you not visit the Blue Lagoon! The cold, blue water was refreshing under the hot Laos sunshine. Have you traveled through Laos? Did you stop in Vang Vieng? Well, the next time you are backpacking or traveling through Asia, I hope you make a detour and check this adventurous town out. You won’t regret it!

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Further Reading

If you are exploring the National Parks in the Southwest, check out these posts for extra travel inspiration:

• Visa Run to Laos from Thailand
• 2-Day Slow Boat to Luang Prabang: Mekong River Cruises
• Pakbeng : Overnight Stay on Slow Boat to Luang Prabang
• What to Do in Luang Prabang to Make the Most of Your Visit
• Chasing Waterfalls in Laos: Kuang Si Falls
• Top 7 Things to Do in Vientiane , Laos

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Where to Stay In Vang Vieng: Best Areas + Hotels With Views

Vang Vieng is definitely the new outdoor and relaxation hub of Laos. Yes, I said new! Vang Vieng used to be a notorious party town, popular among backpackers for its crazy drinking culture along the Nam Song River.

But guess what? Vang Vieng has reinvented itself over the years as an oasis for outdoor lovers and those seeking relaxation. Now it's all about hiking, kayaking, and biking, and trust me, Vang Vieng does it all amazingly well!

This little town is nestled in the scenic countryside of Laos, about 4 hours south of Luang Prabang and 2 hours north of Vientiane. It's home to some of the country's most beautiful limestone formations, lakes, and hiking trails.

Vang Vieng absolutely lives up to its reputation as a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.

To help you find the perfect accommodation in this charming town, I've prepared a guide on where to stay in Vang Vieng, featuring my favorite areas and the best hotels with all the stunning views that the town is known for.

Best areas to stay in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is such a charming little town, so it's crucial to find the perfect spot that suits you and your travel style.

If it's your first visit, I recommend staying in the  City Center . Here, you'll find some of the most popular hotels and resorts, and everything you need will be right at your fingertips – restaurants, shops, markets, and outdoor tour agencies.

For a more romantic or relaxing experience, I suggest staying at one of the amazing hotels along the  Riverside . The views of the river and countryside are simply breathtaking. 

If you're traveling with your family or prefer to stay a bit further from the hustle and bustle of the city center, but still within walking distance,  South Vang Vieng  is the place to be.

Lastly, I highly recommend staying in West Riverside for all adventure enthusiasts who want to be close to the action.

1. Where to stay in Vang Vieng for first-timers: City Center

The City Center is an amazing choice for first-time visitors who want to be right in the heart of the action.

The centre of town is packed with a variety of nice hotels and budget hostels, perfect for those backpacking throughout Laos. Moreover, you'll find the most popular restaurants, bars, and even the night market in this vibrant area.

From the City Center, you can easily explore the rest of the town and also venture to the west side of the river, where all the outdoor activities are happening.

Best area for:

First-timers

Backpackers

Things to do in the Vang Vieng City Center

In the city center, there's plenty to do. Let's start with the Vang Vieng Night Market, also known as the Vang Vieng Walking Street. It's the perfect place to try out some delicious local food such as the local noodle soup, shop for souvenirs, and find some handmade crafts.

It may not be the biggest or prettiest Night Market, but it definitely gets the job done. At the end of the night, try the coconut pancakes, yum!

If you're looking to experience what's left of Vang Vieng's nightlife, make sure to check out Gary's Irish Bar and Sakura Bar. These spots are popular among travelers to enjoy a cold beer at night. It may not get as wild as it used to, but it's definitely a great spot to grab a drink!

Best hotels to stay in the Vang Vieng City Center

($$)  premier vang vieng hotel.

This Vang Vieng boutique hotel features an outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery, modern rooms with balconies, and a prime location in the center of town. Good value for money!

Check availability & best rates

($$)  Sansan Resort

One of the best Vang Vieng hotels in the City Center is undoubtedly Sansan Resort. This beautiful resort offers an on-site swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. The rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated with traditional Lao accents.

($)  Vang Vieng Chill House

Another great Vang Vieng hotel is the Vang Vieng Chill House. It's a cheap hostel that offers comfortable private rooms and dorms, perfect for backpackers or those traveling on a tight budget.

2. Where to stay in Vang Vieng for couples & the best views: Riverside

The Riverside is hands down one of my absolute favorite places to stay.

You'll find some of the best hotels in Vang Vieng right here. Picture-perfect luxury resorts and hotels with breathtaking views of the river and countryside are all lined up along the Riverside.

If you're on a honeymoon or a couples getaway, I highly recommend staying here. The hotels are perfect for a romantic escape, and you'll still be conveniently close to the city center and the west side of the river, where all the thrilling outdoor adventure activities take place.

Honeymooners

Things to do in Riverside

The Riverside is an awesome spot to explore the river and nearby caves. Back in the day, kayaking or tubing down the river used to be part of Vang Vieng's party scene, with bars lining the Riverside for some drinks and fun. But, due to accidents, most of these bars closed down and the tubing culture faded.

However, kayaking down the river can still be fun. There are a couple of bars left where you can stop for a cold beer. You'll find plenty of kayak rentals on the Riverside.

Alternatively, you can book a guided  kayak and cave tour  for a great experience.

And don't miss out on exploring the Tham Chang Cave, just a short walk from Vang Vieng. If you're up for it, you can also rent bicycles and venture into the stunning countryside surrounding Vang Vieng.

Best hotels to stay in Riverside

($$$)  tmark resort vangvieng.

While there aren't many luxury hotels in town, Tmark Resort Vangvieng is probably one that comes a little closer to a luxurious stay. This charming hotel in Vang Vieng offers cozy rooms with balconies, a large outdoor swimming pool, and a restaurant with views of the river.

($$)  Riverside Boutique Resort, Vang Vieng

If you're looking for a luxurious yet tranquil escape, the Riverside Boutique Resort is one of the best Vang Vieng hotels for that. The Riverside Boutique Resort offers spacious and elegant rooms with balconies overlooking the Nam Song River. It also features a beautiful outdoor pool, a hotel restaurant with free breakfast, and a bar.

($)  Amari Vang Vieng

Another top-rated Vang Vieng hotel is the Amari Vang Vieng. The Amari Vang Vieng features a prime location on the riverside and offers modern rooms with balconies, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.

3. Where to stay in Vang Vieng for families & relaxation: South Vang Vieng

The southern part of Vang Vieng is a delightful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the town center. It's perfect for families and anyone seeking relaxation within the most stunning scenery imaginable.

In this area, you'll come across a few charming restaurants, shops, and some of the absolute best kid-friendly hotels and resorts in town. It's a wonderful place that allows you to experience more of the local life in Laos and escape the crowds.

From here, you can easily explore the outskirts of Vang Vieng, visiting stunning waterfalls, temples, and even some of the nearby lagoons.

Outdoor activities

Things to do in South Vang Vieng

From South Vang Vieng, it's super easy to make your way to some of the coolest waterfalls in the area!

One of them is Kaeng Nyui Waterfall , which is absolutely worth the visit. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot day.

The journey takes about 20-30 minutes of scenic drive through Laotian nature, passing by rice fields and local villages.

Then, a 30-minute trek through the jungle leads you to the waterfall. Don't worry, it's a pretty easy trek, even kids can do it. Just be careful during the rainy season as things become more slippery!

The entrance fee to the waterfall is about US$1.50, and it includes parking if you're coming by scooter, which I highly recommend.

Best hotels to stay in South Vang Vieng

($$$)  vang vieng topview hotel.

A great affordable option and family hotel in Vang Vieng. The Vang Vieng Topview Hotel offers spacious family rooms with balconies overlooking the beautiful countryside and mountains. It also features an outdoor pool and a restaurant, however, the breakfast can be a bit hit-and-miss.

($$)  Garden Resort

A favorite hotel in Vang Vieng when looking for a family mid-range option, is Garden Resort. The accommodation offers family rooms, a large outdoor swimming pool, and even a kids club. On top of that, the hotel offers bicycle rental, motorbike rental, and car hire.

($)  Vang Vieng Diamond Resort

For a budget-friendly option, Vang Vieng Diamond Resort is an excellent choice. This charming hotel offers family rooms with mountain views, an outdoor pool, and a bicycle rental for exploring the area.

4. Where to stay in Vang Vieng for outdoor lovers: West Riverside

If you're an outdoor lover, the best place to stay in Vang Vieng is West Riverside. This area is surrounded by nature, with farms, rice fields, and a few local houses.

Plus, there are some awesome homestays, villas, and bungalows where you can stay right in the middle of nature without any neighbors in sight.

Keep in mind, you'll be a bit further from town, so it might take a little longer to get to the city center. But trust me, it's totally worth it!

You'll have breathtaking views of limestone formations and rice fields right outside your door. Not to mention, you'll be closest to the most amazing viewpoints, caves, and lagoons that make Vang Vieng so special.

Things to do in West Riverside

The west side of the river is, without a doubt, the highlight of Vang Vieng. You'll find a ton of fun activities here, from viewpoints and caves to lagoons.

The most popular thing to do is to drive the big West Loop and check out all of the amazing sights along the way. There are several stops along the loop and you might need two separate days to see them all.

The best way to do it is to either rent a motorbike or, for even more fun, rent one of the off-road buggies in town. You'll spot the rental shops anywhere alongside the river and the main road.

The loop starts with Blue Lagoon 1 and the Phu Kham Cave, which are just about 20 minutes out of Vang Vieng and provide a fantastic swimming spot where you can grab a bite, enjoy the cold water, try out the ziplines, and even do some diving jumps and swings.

Close by, you'll find Nam Xay Viewpoint and Phapoungkham Cave, which are viewpoints on top of the limestone cliffs. These are perfect spots for sunrise if you're up for waking up early. On top of the viewpoints, you can also take cool pictures that are a bit random – choose between a plane or a unicorn.

Next on the agenda is Blue Lagoon 3, which is usually the least busy as it is the farthest away from town. It also has a super cool swing and zipline and is perfect for a lunch break in the heat.

Lastly, you'll come to Blue Lagoon 2, which is the least popular of them all. It has a big diving board but often gets overlooked by many tourists.

Best hotels to stay in West Riverside

($$$)  vieng tara villa.

For a luxurious stay, Vieng Tara Villa is an amazing option. It is one of the best hotels in Vang Vieng, offering secluded villas with clean rooms that have stunning views of the mountains. Vieng Tara Villa also provides great photo opportunities with its long wooden path through the rice fields. It looks absolutely dreamy!

($$)  Bearlin Bungalow

If you're looking for a more affordable option, Bearlin Bungalow is probably the Vang Vieng hotel with the best views in town. These cozy bungalows (there are only 6, so book early!) offer stunning views of the countryside and mountains, with an outdoor seating area and bicycle rental available.

($)  Hailin Resort Vangvieng

For a budget-friendly stay, Hailin Resort Vangvieng is a great choice. This charming resort is surrounded by nature and offers bungalows with beautiful views of the mountains. It also has an outdoor pool, free bicycle rental, and is located within walking distance of the Tham Chang Elephant Cave.

Book Your Trip To Laos

Book Your Flight I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to Laos. Book Your Hotel My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com , as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings. Book Your Tours & Activities  I like finding and pre-booking tours with  Get Your Guide and Viator . You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities. Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees  I highly recommend  getting a Wise account  to withdraw money in Laos, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Laotian Kip. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more! Get the Best eSIM Getting an eSIM card eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees. Don't Go Without Travel Insurance Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo , my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased !

Where to stay in Vang Vieng – Frequently Asked Questions

🚌 how to get to vang vieng.

The most common way to get to Vang Vieng is by bus. Buses from major cities like Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Pakse are available daily. You can also take a minivan or private car from these destinations. Laos has two international airports, one in Luang Prabang and one in Vientiane, so it's most likely that you'll be coming from either of those cities.

🏞️ What is there to do in Vang Vieng?

Vang Vieng is known for its natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Popular things to do include exploring the limestone formations, caves, and lagoons, as well as kayaking, tubing, and rock climbing. You can also visit local villages, temples, and markets to immerse yourself in the culture of Laos.

🍹 Does Vang Vieng have a good nightlife?

Vang Vieng is no longer just about its wild party scene, it has more and more shifted its focus to eco-tourism. However, don't worry, there are still plenty of bars and restaurants along the main street that offer a lively atmosphere at night. If you're a backpacker, know that the hostels themselves still throw some pretty epic parties, especially the amazing Mad Monkey Hostel located just outside of town!

🌧️ When is the best time to visit Vang Vieng?

The best time to visit Vang Vieng is from November to February when the weather is cooler and drier. March to May can be very hot, and June to October is monsoon season with heavy rainfalls. However, if you don't mind the rain and want a more peaceful experience, visiting during the low season can also be a great option. Just make sure to check the weather forecast before planning your trip, especially when planning to do a lot of outdoor activities.

✅ Is Vang Vieng worth visiting?

Absolutely! Vang Vieng is a must-visit destination in Laos for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning landscapes, adventurous activities, and unique cultural experiences, it's a place that will leave a lasting impression. Plus, with the added bonus of being budget-friendly and having options for all types of travelers, there's no reason not to visit this gem of a town. 

Where to stay in Vang Vieng – Final Words

Many people might call Luang Prabang the nature hub of Laos, but Vang Vieng definitely doesn't have to shy away. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Vang Vieng has got something for everyone.

With its stunning natural scenery, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere, it's no wonder that Vang Vieng is becoming a top destination in Laos. And let me tell you, renting a scooter, mountain bike, or even one of the off-road buggies and exploring the Laotian countryside will definitely be the highlight of your entire trip!

I hope I could bring Laos' former party town, now transformed into an outdoor adventure town, a little closer to you and make it easier for you to decide where to stay in Vang Vieng.

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

About the Author: Carolin Pilligrath

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Notes on Vang Vieng: Trains and tubing in Laos

November 9, 2023 By James Clark 5 Comments

Vang Vieng became famous for being a big backpacker town, with people drawn to its karst topography and the river that runs through the landscape. I visited in 2010 , and at its peak it was like a Wild West town for backpacker hedonism .

The town was best known for tubing down the river and stopping at makeshift bars along the way. “Tubing in the Vang Vieng” singlets could be seen all around Southeast Asia, worn by backpackers who had been there, done that .

I returned to Vang Vieng in 2022 as part of my trip to visit every major station on the Laos-China Railway . Many things have changed since my last visit. The fact that I got a train there is of course the biggest change; something I would not have dreamed of being a possibility while crammed into a small seat in a slow minivan ride.

It previously took the better part of a day to travel from Vientiane to Vang Vieng. Now the train makes the trip in 1 hour, so it’s possible for Vientianites to have weekends away in Vang Viang.

I arrived by train from Muang Xai , and the station is around 4 km from the town centre.

I was here about a month after Laos had reopened, so the country was still dusting off the cobwebs while foreign tourists were still trickling in.

I made a booking for a guesthouse only to discover that it had closed down. Online travel agents who had laid off staff during the pandemic were not keeping up with updating their listings. This had happened to me a few times in this early reopening period.

The first place I stayed at was a guesthouse in the town, and I could see the mountains from my room. I forgot how beautiful this place is.

Vang Vieng is one of those place that people tend to dismiss because it was a pillar destination on the banana pancake trail. In honour of being back, after I dropped my bags off I got myself a banana pancake.

One of the weirdest aspects of my last visit was all the backpacker bars that were playing Friends. Everywhere you walked you could hear the Friends theme song playing. Now I was here when there were only a few backpackers about, and many of the bars hadn’t reopened.

In the years since my last visit, the tubing business had become controversial as there were a number of deaths. I went tubing in 2010, and apparently there were 27 deaths in 2011 . The combination of alcohol and water activities was never a good mix. The bars along the river also had slides and rope swings, which launched drunken tubers into the river. I don’t drink , so it was an odd experience to be a sober person floating through this party scene. The tubing business was closed down around 2012 .

Vang Vieng is still an adventure travel destination, and tubing is still offered but it’s not like it was in 2011.

Vang Vieng has worked to change its reputation . There is less emphasis on tubing now, and more on other water activities such as kayaking.

I saw kayakers but no tubers on my walks along the river.

There has also been a pivot to higher-ticket activities such as dune buggies and hot-air ballooning.

I saw advertising for hot-air ballooning at travel agencies around town, and found more people talking about going hot-air ballooning on forums.

I saw balloons floating around during the day.

In addition to promoting more expensive activities, there appears to be more of a focus towards Chinese and South Korean tourists.

Marketing to Chinese makes sense now that there is a direct train line from Kunming. I was puzzled by the amount of signs in Korean, but I looked up the Vientiane Airport wiki from 2019 and saw that there were flights by four different airlines from Seoul and Busan. Also in the years that I was away, a new motorway had opened between Vientiane and Vang Vieng, reducing the road trip to two hours. Now that the trip takes 1 hour by a nice train ride, Vang Vieng may see more Korean tourists.

The border to China wasn’t opened when I was here, and South Korea reopened a week after I was here. It was truly weird to be here with so few tourists. I expect I will be back to do another train trip, so I will make another comparison.

On this trip I was more interested in seeing what Vang Vieng was like during this window of time when there were still few tourists. I wanted to experience local stuff like going to the morning markets. It was also good to be here during the rainy season to see the misty mountains.

There are some decent cafes here now, and I was happy to see that Naked Espesso from Vientiane was here. If there were a few more awesome cafes like this it would be a better digital nomad town (for me at least).

Vang Vieng is still without the major F&B chains that you see everywhere. I started this trip in Vientiane , and Starbucks were preparing to open their first store in Laos. It doesn’t look like they are coming here, though if there is a modern train in Vientiane then a Starbucks isn’t such a outrageous idea.

Cafe Amazon from their big neighbour in the south is here, so maybe we should expect Luckin Coffee from their big neighbour in the north, or Highlands Coffee from their big neighbour to the east.

The best cafes are still the ones along the riverfront.

I was also here looking for stories on behalf of my other site, Future Southeast Asia . In my wanders around town I was gravitationally drawn towards unfinished hotels and apartment blocks.

There were also some big hotels being built close to the river that have been abandoned. They seem too close to the river, and it would be a shame if the entire river area was filled in with this type of development.

Walking along the river is the highlight of Vang Vieng for me.

It doesn’t take much of a walk before you are in a rural landscape.

I would occasionally think that this would be a nice place to live. I saw these ‘For Sale” signs and wondered if they snared people having the same thoughts.

I was happy to enjoy this view of the river without having to tube down it.

This was my last stop of this train-themed trip. After Vang Vieng I got the train back to Vientiane. Here is my Laos-China Railway review .

About James Clark

James Clark is the founder of Nomadic Notes. He has been a digital nomad since 2003, and Nomadic Notes features trip reports, train travel articles , and where to stay guides . He writes about transport and urban development at Future Southeast Asia . Subscribe to the weekly travel newsletter .

November 9, 2023 at 10:55 am

I stayed in Vang Vieng for a little while in 2018/2019 (teaching yoga at Silver Naga). I was really confused by the number of Korean tour groups – until I learned that a Korean celebrity reality TV show was filmed in Vang Vieng in 2014, and that’s apparently what’s drawn them to visit!

November 9, 2023 at 11:11 am

Ahh thanks for the context, that would explain it.

November 14, 2023 at 9:16 am

Yes, I visited in 2018, too – and the place was full of Korean tour groups. They all did exactly the same route, including the kayaking and the ATV rides and the caves, wearing the same yellow macs and life jackets. They mostly stayed in their hotels in the evening.

It was fairly quiet at night (one bar still played Friends on loop), but we found a nice bar with a very friendly owner where we hung out. There was a good Indian restaurant, too.

We stayed at the hotel on the left of your photo featuring the riverside hangouts. From there we got a great view of the big trucks crossing the river by driving through it rather taking the long way around over a bridge! This activity did confuse the kayaking Koreans somewhat…

November 15, 2023 at 1:20 am

I was there in 2006 and friends was playing around the clock at every restaurant back then. Some things are still the same! The tubing was not as big back then. Only a few bars on the river and it was quite chilled. Shame it got so out of control. It was a fun thing to do.

November 16, 2023 at 1:09 am

The Friends phenomenon was truly an odd thing to see.

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