Nestled amidst stunning limestone karsts and verdant paddy fields, Vang Vieng is a charming little town in the heart of Laos that has been transforming into a booming tourist destination over the years. Despite its small size, Vang Vieng offers countless activities and attractions all year round, making it the perfect destination for travelers and adventurers alike. If you’re looking to explore beyond the town’s borders, here are the 6 best day trips that you can take from Vang Vieng to discover the surrounding landscapes and cultural experiences.
The 6 Best Day Trips in Vang Vieng
- Vang Vieng: Kayaking & Cave Tubing with Zip Line/Blue Lagoon
- Half-Day Nam Song River Kayak Tour with Zipline or Tham None
- Vang Vieng: Half-Day Zip Lining with Cave Exploration Option
- From Vang Vieng:Tham Xang & Tham Nam with Kayaking or Tubing
- Vang Vieng: Blue Lagoon and Countryside Bike Tour with Lunch
- Vang Vieng: Jungle & Caves Full-Day Private Trekking Tour
The 6 Best Day Trips in Vang Vieng
1. Vang Vieng: Kayaking & Cave Tubing with Zip Line/Blue Lagoon
Experience kayaking, cave tubing, zip lining, and swimming at the Blue Lagoon 1 in Vang Vieng with this full-day tour. Begin with hotel pickup in Vang Vieng and travel to the Nam Song River for a kayaking adventure with stunning views of the surrounding mountain karts. Stop at Tham Nam Cave to tube inside the massive cave before enjoying a local picnic lunch. Then, choose to either be transferred back to your hotel or participate in zip lining and swimming at the Blue Lagoon 1. Before the zip lining adventure, receive instructions and safety training from your guide. Fly over the forest and river, soaring 4440 feet through the air on 7 lines, 12 platforms, and 2 bridges. Take a dip or relax by the beautiful Blue Lagoon 1 before heading back to Vang Vieng. Basic accident insurance is included, and participants should bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Note that this tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with limited mobility.
2. Half-Day Nam Song River Kayak Tour with Zipline or Tham None
One of the best day trips in Vang Vieng is the Half-Day Nam Song River Kayak Tour with Zipline or Tham None. This tour starts with a pick-up from your accommodation in Vang Vieng city center and will take you to the kayak starting point. Your professional English-speaking guide will provide you with basic paddle instructions and give some important information about the Nam Song river. During the kayaking experience, you’ll witness the stunning views of mountain peaks along both sides of the river.
Apart from kayaking, you can choose to enjoy zip-lining over the green forest and river below or explore the Tham Nam None Cave, a secluded cave with many beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about its significant role during the second Indochina war.
The tour includes transportation from and to your hotel in Vang Vieng, kayaking and zip-lining equipment (if option selected), Tham Nam None tubing equipment (if option selected), drinking water, and lunch.
Please note that this tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility, and basic accident insurance is included. It is recommended to acquire travel insurance before traveling to Laos. Overall, this tour is a great way to experience the beauty of the Nam Song river and choose your adventure activity according to your preferences.
3. Vang Vieng: Half-Day Zip Lining with Cave Exploration Option
Experience an exhilarating half-day zip lining adventure in Vang Vieng with the option to explore Tham Nam Cave. Zip line over the lush green forest and the stream beneath you, covering a total distance of 4440 feet with six thrilling zip lines. Before the ride, your guide will provide you with safety training and instructions. You can also upgrade your journey to include a visit to Tham Nam Cave that served as a shelter during the Indochina Wars. Inside the cave, using an inflatable inner-tube, you will go on a short but exciting tubing experience and discover stalactites and stalagmites. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation in Vang Vieng, zip line and Tham Nam tubing equipment, drinking water, English-speaking guide, and lunch. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with back or heart problems and those with limited mobility. Don’t forget sunscreen and to acquire travel insurance before traveling to Laos.
4. From Vang Vieng:Tham Xang & Tham Nam with Kayaking or Tubing
Experience the breathtaking nature of Vang Vieng on this full-day adventure that takes you to Tham Xang and Tham Nam caves. Marvel at the fascinating rock formations inside Elephant Cave, then go tubing through Tham Nam cave and admire the stunning stalactites. Take a refreshing swim in the clear spring water, followed by a delicious BBQ lunch served on traditional banana leaves. Choose between kayaking or tubing along the Nam Song River back to the city, and enjoy the scenic views of Lao farm villages and local fishermen along the way. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to the caves, tubing and kayaking gear, life jacket, waterproof bag, drinking water, and insurance. Please wear sports/active wear and bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and mosquito repellant. Not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.
5. Vang Vieng: Blue Lagoon and Countryside Bike Tour with Lunch
Explore the scenic side of Vang Vieng with the Blue Lagoon and Countryside Bike Tour with Lunch. The adventure starts with pickup from your Vang Vieng hotel at 9am and takes you on a journey through the lush jungle landscapes. Follow your guide and cross over the Nam Song River Bridge while admiring the lush scenery. Discover the hidden religious statues inside Phu Kham Cave after a climb to the top of the mountain.
Next, take in the breathtaking countryside views as you bike around the 30km long Blue Lagoon Loop. Pause your ride at Blue Lagoon One and cool off in the water while resting your legs. Continue your journey across rugged dirt roads and through small villages to learn about the region’s culture and heritage.
The tour concludes after cycling back towards Vang Vieng and reaching the center of town where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel around 4pm. With a countryside bike tour, local English-speaking guide, lunch, entrance fees to Blue Lagoon and Phu Kham Cave, bike and helmet, water, and accident insurance all included, this excursion is not to be missed. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Please note, participants should have a moderate level of fitness and be able to ride a bike confidently. The operator reserves the right to refuse service if the customer cannot ride a bike safely.
6. Vang Vieng: Jungle & Caves Full-Day Private Trekking Tour
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Vang Vieng on this Jungle & Caves Full-Day Private Trekking Tour. Begin your adventure with a pick-up from your hotel in Vang Vieng at 9:00 AM and head out to the village of Phathao, which is located 12 km north of Vang Vieng. From there, climb to an elevated location for breathtaking panoramic views of Vang Vieng. Then, head to Tham Hok Cave, which is home to some of the most impressive stalactites and stalagmites in Vang Vieng.
After exploring the cave, make your way down the mountain to “Secret Eden,” where you can take a refreshing swim in the cool waters and enjoy a picnic lunch. Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable English-speaking guide will provide insight into the local lifestyle and natural attractions of Vang Vieng.
Please note that this tour is not recommended for individuals with limited mobility as it requires a certain level of fitness. Additionally, the insurance covers only basic accidents, so it is recommended that you acquire travel insurance before traveling to Laos. Bring your hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the amazing sights on this unforgettable full-day trekking tour.
What is Vang Vieng?
Vang Vieng is a town in central Laos, located in the Vientiane Province. It is situated beside the Nam Song River, surrounded by limestone mountains, caves, and rice paddies. Vang Vieng has a reputation for being a backpacker’s hub where travelers come to enjoy the natural scenery and outdoor activities.
When is the best time to visit Vang Vieng?
The best time to visit Vang Vieng is between November and February when the weather is dry and pleasant with average temperatures of 25 °C. However, it is also the busiest time of the year and accommodations and activities can be more expensive.
What are the popular things to do in Vang Vieng?
Vang Vieng is known for its outdoor adventures such as tubing down the Nam Song River, kayaking, rock climbing, and hot air balloon rides. Visitors can also explore the nearby caves such as Tham Phu Kham, Tham Chang, and Tham Nam. For those interested in culture and history, there is the Vang Vieng Museum.
Is it safe to go tubing in Vang Vieng?
Tubing down the Nam Song River in Vang Vieng has a reputation for being a party activity with bars and drinking along the way. Visitors should exercise caution and be aware of the risks involved with alcohol consumption, water currents, and the rugged terrain.
What should I wear when visiting Vang Vieng?
Lightweight and breathable clothing, such as shorts and t-shirts, are suitable for the tropical climate. Visitors should also bring comfortable hiking shoes or sandals that can handle the rocky terrain. It is also advisable to bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
What is the cuisine like in Vang Vieng?
Vang Vieng’s cuisine is influenced by Laos and Thailand. The popular dishes include laap (a minced meat salad), khao soi (a coconut milk curry noodle soup), and mok pa (grilled fish in banana leaves). Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, and visitors can try the local street food in the night markets.
How do I get to Vang Vieng?
The nearest airport to Vang Vieng is in Vientiane, and visitors can take a bus or taxi from there to reach Vang Vieng. Visitors can also take a bus from other cities in Laos, such as Luang Prabang or Pakse. Private transfers and tour companies also offer routes to Vang Vieng.
Where can I stay in Vang Vieng?
Vang Vieng offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, from hostels and guesthouses to resorts and boutique hotels. The town center and riverside have the most options, and visitors are advised to book in advance during peak season.
What should I know before visiting Vang Vieng?
Visitors should be aware of the local customs and culture, such as removing shoes before entering homes and temples, and dressing modestly. Tipping is not a common practice in Laos, but visitors can round up the bill or leave small change. Visitors should also respect the natural environment and avoid littering.
Conclusion
Vang Vieng offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences that are worth exploring. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views, immerse in the local cuisine, and engage with the friendly locals. With careful planning and consideration, visitors can have a safe and memorable experience in Vang Vieng.
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