3-Day Highlights of Southern Laos
A highlight of Southern Laos is this 3-day, 2-night program designed for travelers with limited time. Explore the lush Bolaven Plateau, visiting Tad Fane and Tad Yuang waterfalls and learning about coffee cultivation at Jhai Coffee cooperative. Ascend to the Volcano Summit (Phu Krateh) for a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view, perfect for sunset. Delve into ancient history at the majestic Vat Phu Temple and experience the serene beauty of the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don). This journey blends natural wonders, cultural heritage, and riverine charm for a complete Southern Laos experience.
DAY 1: PAKSE - BOLAVEN PLATEAU - PAKSE
Departure: 08.00 hrs
Begin your journey with a visit to the towering Tad Fane Waterfall, Laos’ tallest at 120 meters, followed by the serene Tad Yuang Waterfall at 40 meters. Enjoy views from multiple angles, capturing the dramatic beauty of these cascading streams.
Next, stop at Jhai Coffee, a cooperative of 450 families, to learn about their quality coffee and community initiatives. Discover how local farmers cultivate, process, and roast their beans, and enjoy a tasting of freshly brewed coffee.
After lunch, continue your journey to the Volcano Summit (Phu Krateh). A short walk leads to the top, where you are rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view, perfect for sunset. Known as the “Million-Year-Old Volcano” it rises 1,300 meters above sea level, a testament to the powerful natural forces that shaped this fertile land.
Take in the sweeping vistas and enjoy a moment of reflection amid the highland scenery. The gentle breeze and quiet surroundings offer a perfect end to a day of exploration.
After your visit, begin the return drive to Pakse, carrying memories of waterfalls, lush landscapes, and the rich culture of the Bolaven Plateau.
Vehicle Journey: Approximately 170 km
Meals: - / Lunch / Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight stay at Pakse hotel & Restaurant
DAY 2: PAKSE - CHAMPASAK - 4,000 ISLANDS
Departure: 08.00 hrs
Begin your adventure at the iconic Vat Phou temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Laos’ most sacred Khmer ruins. Start with a visit to the museum to uncover fascinating stories of ancient architecture and local culture. Take the electric shuttle up to the temple complex and explore its majestic stone ruins. Climb the sacred stairways, offering both a spiritual journey and panoramic views. Taste the holy spring water, believed to bring blessings to visitors.
Next, wander through the historic streets of Champasak town, admiring the charming mix of old French colonial buildings and traditional Lao temples. Enjoy a delicious local lunch, savoring authentic Lao flavors. Cross the Mekong River by ferry and continue by car to Tomo temple, a serene ancient site with unique architecture. Descend to Ban Nakasang pier, your gateway to the famous 4,000 Islands region. Board a boat and journey to Done Khone island, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and lush scenery. Explore the island’s quiet lanes and spot traditional stilt houses along the riverbanks. End of your day with an overnight stay on Done Khone, enjoying a tranquil evening surrounded by nature and the gentle flow of the Mekong.
Vehicle Journey: Approximately 179 km
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight stay on Done Khone
DAY 3: 4,000 ISLANDS – TRANSFER TO CAMBODIA BORDER OR BACK TO PAKSE
Today, you'll delve deeper into the captivating beauty and history of the 4,000 Islands archipelago, exploring its natural wonders and remnants of its past.
Your day begins with a departure from your hotel by local Tuk-Tuk, a fun and authentic way to navigate the islands. Your first stop will be the impressive Liphi waterfall, also known as Tad Somphamit. This beautiful cascade is a popular spot for its natural beauty and the unique rock formations.
You'll then continue to Khone Pasoiy waterfall, another stunning natural attraction in the area. You'll have time to visit and admire the power and beauty of this waterfall, taking in the serene surroundings.
Next, your journey will take you to the remains of the French presence on the islands. Here, you'll visit the remnants of colonial infrastructure, such as the old railway bridge and locomotive, which speak to a bygone era when the French attempted to navigate the Mekong's rapids. This offers a fascinating historical contrast to the natural beauty of the islands.
You'll then enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the fresh flavors of the Mekong region.
After lunch, checkout from your resort, our boat will transfer you back to Ban Nakasang on the mainland.
From Ban Nakasang, you'll embark on a short journey to witness the awe-inspiring Khone Phapheng waterfall. Often referred to as the "Niagara of the East," this is Southeast Asia's largest waterfall by volume, an immense cascade of water crashing over a series of rapids. You'll have time to visit and marvel at its sheer power and scale, a spectacular natural farewell to Laos.
Following your visit to Khone Phapheng, you will be transferred by car to the Nong Nok Khiene Border (Cambodia - Laos Border), where your service concludes or back to Pakse.
Vehicle Journey: Approximately 156 km
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / -
Accommodation: -
TOTAL COVERED DISTANCE: around 505 Kilometers.