Vang Vieng Travel Guide

Vang Vieng is a familiar name on the Laos tourist map. Don’t know why? Check out the following Vang Vieng travel guide for the essential information on weather & best time to visit, best places to see, etc.

General Information

Vang Vieng is a small idyllic riverside town on the road from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. It is located in an area of beautiful karst formations, the classic South-East Asian views that dip into lovely greys and mauves as the sun sets behind them and, in front, the Nam Song River turns black with colors rippling in its reflections. Vang Vieng is an excellent combination of adventure and relaxation. Though hardcore tubing is no longer available, the Nam Song River still offers enjoyable activities such as kayaking.

How to get to & around Vang Vieng

Buses and vans are your best bet for getting to Vang Vieng. Vans and VIP buses leave Luang Prabang at 09:00 and 14:00. A van service from Xieng Khouang is also available, and a VIP sleeper departs Pakse at 13:30. You can also take a direct bus and van service from Bangkok. Moreover, consider hiring a tuk-tuk or a car.

There are numerous transportation options in Vang Vieng. By foot, you can explore the temples, find a restaurant or bar, or cross a suspended bridge to a hammock on the Nam Song River. Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation for visiting many of the caves and exploring the surrounding countryside. For rougher terrain, you can also ride a mountain bike or motorcycle.

Traveling independently by tuk-tuk is another option, whether you’re moving around the town or visiting a natural attraction. Create your own itinerary and bargain with a tuk-tuk driver to ensure a ride back to town.

Best Time to visit Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is best visited during the dry season, which runs from November to March and has slightly cooler temperatures. The hot season lasts from March to May, with temperatures reaching 40oC or higher. The wet season lasts from May to October, and the rains can make getting around difficult.

Best Places to Visit in Vang Vieng

Lagoons

Bring your swimsuit and towel to enjoy a swim and some relaxation time at the lagoons. Lagoon 1 is one of the most popular places to visit in Vang Vieng because it is only a 20-minute ride from town. It is best to go as early in the morning as possible. You’ll have the lagoon to yourself for a relaxing swim and to enjoy the rope swings. If you enjoy adventure, take the trail leading up to the Phu Kham Cave. Blue Lagoon 3 is approximately a half-hour drive from Blue Lagoon 1. It is much quieter because it is further from town, but it is also much more scenic. Travelers can relax in the water or on one of the bamboo rafts in the sun.

Nam Xay viewpoint

Stop for sunset at Nam Xay Viewpoint on your way back to Vang Vieng. Hike to the top of the limestone karst, where a motorbike has been placed (by locals) and the Laos flag is flapping in the wind. This is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Vang Vieng and a great way to end the day.

Kaeng Nyui Waterfall

It is only a 30-minute drive from town and is the ideal place to escape the hot sun. Another reason to go is the scenic drive to the falls. Beautiful drive through unspoiled nature, traditional Laotian houses, and cute farms!

Pha Tang Bridge & Temple

Ban Pha Tang, a picture-perfect village, is only a short drive from Vang Vieng. It’s becoming more popular as a thing to do in Vang Vieng because of its postcard-worthy views. Find the bridge that crosses the river and take in the breathtaking view of the dense greenery and limestone karsts ahead.

Tham Chang cave

When the sun is hot in the middle of the day, head to Tham Chang Cave for cooler temperatures. Drive or walk to the cave, which is only a 20-minute walk from town.

Where and What to Eat in Vang Vieng

Gary’s Irish Bar – The Rising Sun

They serve a menu with Laotian and Western dishes. The Cumberland sausage is divine. The owner and staff are extremely friendly.

A.M.D. Restaurant

This restaurant is owned by a husband and wife and their young son. Everything is prepared fresh and on the spot. Here you will find the best fresh fruit smoothies and pad Thai.

Restaurant du Crabe d’Or

The staff was outstanding and deserving of 5 stars. The location and views are stunning, right on the river. The restaurant serves Laotian, Western, and Japanese cuisine. Tempura, pasta, and tofu laab are all options. Their wine selection is also excellent.

Pizza Luka

Some visitors claim that they serve the best pizza in Laos. They are topped with goat cheese and other delectable fresh ingredients. Cocktails with hibiscus gin, chocolate mousse, salads, and so on. And the price is very reasonable given the high quality of the food.

Travel Tip

• In the summer, wear light clothing, but we recommend long sleeves and pants due to malaria concerns.
• Purchase a good pair of walking shoes that adequately cover your feet. Many Laotian roads are lined with stones, rocks, and planks.
• In addition, some areas are muddy, and leeches can be found in swampy areas. So make sure you have leech socks on hand.
• Keep a disinfectant on hand. These items are not readily available in rural areas.
•  Bring a good camera fully charged because you will want to take a lot of photos.

We hope the information in the preceding article is useful to you. If you are interested in a trip, please contact us!