Magical Southern Laos

Dive into the heart of Southern Laos (the provinces of Champasak, Sekong, Attapeu and Salavan), a region full of natural wonders, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. From bustling markets to serene waterfalls, your adventure begins here. Some people visit only northern Laos and skip the south. That is a great pity, as they miss out on beautiful areas. Don Som is in the far south of Laos (from Khinak, the village opposite us on the mainland, to the international border crossing between Laos and Cambodia is about 25 km). Read a little more here about the beautiful areas and places that southern Laos has to offer visitors!

For more specific information about the 4000 Islands, click here. For more general information about Laos, read more here.

The lush Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau is a must-see for every visitor to Southern Laos. This highland is known for its spectacular waterfalls, such as Tad Fane and Tad Yuang, which plunge into deep gorges with a thundering roar, but beyond those two, there are dozens more (some easy to find, others better 'hidden' waterfalls). Explore the vast coffee and tea plantations where you can sample the local produce and meet the friendly locals (for a workshop where you can learn to make tea, contact us). The breathtaking views over the rolling hills make the Bolaven Plateau an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty. A perfect place for nature lovers and adventurers. By motorbike, you can visit many places and enjoy a lot of freedom. We recommend renting a motorbike from Missnoy Motorbike Rental in Pakse. You will receive good information there and have excellent motorbikes for rent. They are also happy to help you with transport from Pakse to us here on Don Som.

Wat Phu (Champasak)

Travel back in time at Wat Phu Champasak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the Khmer period. These impressive temple ruins, situated at the foot of Mount Phou Kao, offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient architecture and religious practices. The serene atmosphere and stunning views of the Mekong River make this a spiritual and historical experience. Don't forget to visit nearby Don Daeng, a rustic island where you can experience authentic Laotian rural life, far off the beaten track. Great for a day trip by bicycle.

Did you know that Wat Phu is older than Angkor Wat (the big brother in Cambodia)? No? Well, now you do!

Pakse: discover the secrets

Pakse, the largest city in southern Laos (although some sources refer to it as Savannakhet), is a bustling center of trade and culture. Here you will find the enormous market, a sensory experience where the aromas of fresh herbs, fish (and padaek), and exotic fruit mingle with the sounds of local life. Pakse also serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region (Wat Phu Champasak, Don Daeng, and the Bolaven Plateau), and you can hardly avoid the city if you are traveling to or from us. Pakse has some hidden gems, and if you would like to read more about them, please visit this site. Nicolas (a Frenchman who has lived in Pakse for many years) is a beacon of information about southern Laos and Pakse in particular. The homestay he runs with his wife Kiao and daughter Marie is also well worth a stay (see the website mentioned before with a lot of information). You can find plenty of Laotian and Asian food in Pakse (especially at the markets and in various restaurants, such as the small restaurant Meiling), but if you want to eat something more international and are craving perhaps the best Italian food in Laos, visit Mister Corrado at Dokmai Lao Restaurant.

Would you like to learn more about Laotian food later? Then join our Cooking Class!

4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don)

The 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don) is a unique river landscape where the Mekong River widens, creating thousands of small islands, many of which are uninhabited. It is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a relaxed pace. Rent a motorbike from us and explore the rural trails of Don Som, Don Det, Don Khone, Don Khong, or one of the other islands. Take a day trip and admire the impressive Khone Phapheng Falls – the largest waterfalls in Southeast Asia. The sunsets over the Mekong here are legendary and offer an unforgettable end to your day. Read more about the 4,000 Islands here or visit this Facebook page for more photos and information.

Other things to visit in the south of Laos

Of course, there is much more to see in southern Laos. There are beautiful waterfalls and a lovely lake (Nong Fa Lake, 78 meters deep) in Attapeu province, the small town of Sekong in the interesting province of the same name, the mysterious temple ruins of Wat Tomo, the island of Don Daeng opposite the old capital of Champasak, Mount Phu Asa with its ruins possibly dating from the 10th or 11th century (the exact origins and builder of the structures remain a mystery), Tadlo and the surrounding area, Salavan, and much more.

More information about Laos in general