May 06, 2020

Thrilling Places For Adventure Travellers In Laos

Covered by jungle, mighty Mekong river, waterfalls and mountains, Laos is an adventure lover’s paradise. If you want to experience some of the best nature has to offer in Southeast Asia, make a Laos Tour Package to Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng or the Four Thousand Islands. These destinations have plenty of options for the adventurous or more relaxed travellers who have a passion for the outdoors and local wildlife.

Luang Prabang

Kuang Si Falls

Luang Prabang locates in the Northern Laos at the heart of a mountainous region. The formal capital is built on a peninsula formed by the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. Thanks to the unique geography, Luang Prabang is home to some of the most beautiful natural spots in Laos – Mount Phousi, Pak Ou Caves and Kuang Si Waterfalls.
Kuang Si Falls, around 29 kilometers from Luang Prabang, is a favorite side trip from the city. It is a famous 60-meter fall flowing into turquoise blue water pools which is great for a refreshing swim. Many other activities take place here, including kayaking and hiking to the top of the falls via a steep track where stunning views await you at the top.
For kayaking lovers, The Pak Ou caves are an awe-inspiring natural and historic wonder you can explore as well since many kayaking packages include a trip to this Buddha-filled caves.

Mount. Phousi

If you prefer outdoor activities in the city center, try walking up to the stupa on the top of Mt Phousi, a towering natural structure which is over 100 meters high. The climb uphill can be exhausting, but it will reward with unforgettable sunset views overlooking the city and the Mekong River.
More challenging adventures are day trekking to Kuang Si Falls or to villages around Luang Phrabang, and mountain biking to the capital Vientiane.

Vang Vieng

Zip lining in Vang Vieng

Around 4 hours driving to the north of Vientiane, Vang Vieng is not just a bus stop on the long journey up to Luang Prabang, but it is the eco-adventure paradise in Southeast Asia. The town has been known as a party destination and backpacker hub for years. Today, more outdoor-oriented activities are now available such as trekking, kayaking, caving, zip lining, swimming, rock climbing and hot air ballooning. The town is also called “tubbing capital of the world” so if you are up for adventurous activities, this is the place to be in your Laos Tour Package.
Vang Vieng has the most famous and amazing caves in Laos, which are brilliant for hiking, trekking and spelunking. There are so many caves that it would take weeks to see them all. If you have limited time, Tham Chang cave is more accessible from town and well-maintained.
Nam Song River is stunning and offers great sunset with the dramatic limestone karst landscape as background, and also a great place for kayaking and tubbing. River tubing in Vang Vieng involves lying on a rubber ring and floating down the Nam Song, with numerous stops for a cool beer on the way.
A series of so-called Blue Lagoons just outside of Vang Vieng town with turquoise waterholes are incredibly popular with tourists; all three of the Blue Lagoons are truly enchanting. With a name derived from the spectacular, glassy color of the water, the best way to enjoy your time here is to jump enthusiastically into the lagoon. There are a number of swings, zip lines and balancing beams for the intrepid, so make sure to pack your swimsuit when heading to Laos.

Cave tubing in Vang Vieng

Alternatively, you can do tubing through dark Water Cave then whizz through the air on a zip line; climb forested limestone peaks and soar the skies paramotoring or hot air ballooning. Seeing Vang Vieng from above, whether on a zip line or hot air balloon offers hair-raising experience and breathtaking views.
Last but not least, good old-fashioned trekking can be done around town, while two of the best mountains to climb are Phangern and Nam Xay – both are scenic and relatively beginner-friendly hikes. For thrill seekers, this little town truly has it all.

Four Thousand Islands

Kayaking in Four Thousand Islands

Down south, Si Phan Don, the famously beautiful Four Thousand Islands is a region not to be missed in the Laos Tour. This area is an archipelago with the most islands in Indochina. The riverine network will carry you on a journey of extreme natural beauty and opportunities for some exhilarating activities, including kayaking.
The laid-back archipelago is in fact one of the best spots in the country to kayak. Paddle through gentle waters and some challenging spots to take in the stunning scenery and stop off at villages and islands as you meander along the river. A kayaking trip leads you to hidden waterways of the Mekong, where you can see water buffalo, marvel at some beautiful waterfalls including Li Pi Falls and Khone Phapheng Falls, and even have a glimpse of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
Another popular activity is cycling around Don Det and Don Khone, two of the biggest and most touristic islands. From Don Det, meander down riverside pathways and palm tree lined lanes. Cycle over the iconic bridge to the neighboring island of Don Khone, where there are several waterfalls to be explored.

Laos, often overlooked in favor of its better-known neighbors, now is making a name for itself as a destination for thrill-seekers and adventurers. Intrepid travellers will discover a country full of voluptuous landscapes, vivid nature, and amazing activities to enjoy. Follow Threeland Travel Blog for more guides and tips of your favorite Indochina destinations!