Natural beauty and outdoor adventures make Vang Vieng a firm favourite on the Southeast Asian travel circuit. The town is set on the Nam Song River and framed by towering limestone karst mountains. Enjoy a leisurely float along the river, explore subterranean caves and savour the town’s traveller-friendly food scene.
Things to Do
Rent an inner tube and float along the Nam Song River. You’ll pass emerald-green rice paddies, soaring limestone cliffs and traditional villages as you cruise along the waterway. Tuk-tuks drop you at the starting point and pick you up several kilometres downriver.
Discover a mirror-like underground lagoon in Tham Phu Kham Cave. Follow a steep hiking trail to reach the cave, which features an enormous reclining Buddha statue. Rent an inflatable tube and headlamp to explore the subterranean river that flows through Tham Nam Cave.
Sheer limestone cliffs make Vang Vieng a rock climber's paradise. Whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned climber, there are experiences for every age, skill and fitness level. Guided tours are a safe and fun introduction to the sport.
Take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride over Vang Vieng. From the air, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the town and the snaking Nam Song River. Flights are usually scheduled at sunrise and sunset when the winds are low and the light is magical.
Vang Vieng is packed with traveller-friendly restaurants where you can enjoy everything from international cuisine to local fare. Try traditional Laotian dishes like “laap” minced meat blended with herbs, spices and lime juice, “khao niew” sticky rice and “tam mak houng” green papaya salad.
Getting Around
Vang Vieng is compact and easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. The town is a five-hour drive from Vientiane. Motorbike and scooter rentals can be a fun and flexible way to explore nearby sights and attractions, or you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk. Wattay International Airport is a five-hour drive away.