4-Day Southern Laos Escape
This four-day journey leads you through a region rich in ancient heritage, vibrant local culture, and stunning natural landscapes. You’ll explore towering waterfalls, traditional villages, and fertile highlands before setting out on a countryside trek that reveals historical sites and sacred monuments. The adventure concludes with a peaceful stay on a tranquil river island, where calm waterways and laid-back charm create the perfect ending before your onward transfer.
DAY 1: PAKSE - BOLAVEN PLATEAU - PAKSE
Departure: 08:00 hrs
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the lush Bolaven Plateau, famous for its rich coffee plantations and dramatic landscapes. The first highlight of the day is the towering Tad Fane Waterfall, plunging 120 meters into a breathtaking gorge. Stop at Tad Yuang Waterfall next, where you can admire its elegant 40-meter cascade from multiple viewpoints. Continue your exploration with a visit to Jhai Coffee Cooperative, where 450 families cultivate premium coffee while engaging in sustainable community projects. Enjoy a guided introduction to the coffee-making process and the cooperative’s social initiatives. Afterward, savor a delicious local lunch surrounded by the serene plateau scenery.
The afternoon adventure leads you to Phu Krateh, the summit of a "Million-Year-Old Volcano." Begin a gradual hike to the top, surrounded by rich flora and panoramic views of the plateau. Upon reaching the summit, marvel at the 360-degree view, perfect for photography and witnessing the vastness of the landscape. Learn about the volcanic history and how natural forces shaped this fertile region. Spend some relaxing moments soaking in the serenity and capturing the sunset if timing allows. Descend the volcano and return to your vehicle for the drive back to Pakse. Reflect on a day filled with natural wonders, cultural insights, and local flavors. This program highlights the majestic waterfalls, sustainable coffee culture, and ancient volcanic landscapes of Southern Laos. End the day back in Pakse with memories of an unforgettable adventure.
Vehicle Journey: Approximately 170 km
Meals: - / Lunch / Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight stay at Pakse hotel & Restaurant (3-Star hotel)
DAY 2: PAKSE - CHAMPASAK
Your day begins with an 8:00 AM departure from your hotel, where our comfortable Tuk-Tuk will transfer you to the boat pier in Pakse. From there, embark on a scenic 1-hour boat journey along the Mekong River, arriving at Champasak pier around 9:00 AM. Upon arrival, a local Tuk-Tuk will greet you and take you to Ban Nong Sano, a charming village and meeting point with your local guide. Begin your cultural exploration with a walk through the lush rice fields, leading to Hong Thao Tao Temple, a modest sanctuary featuring a central tower and outer court. Continue your trek to Hong Nang Sida, situated near the meadows of the ancient Khmer road, where you can witness the remnants of a 12th-century Khmer tower sanctuary built contemporaneously with Angkor Wat. After your morning exploration, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Lao cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit the museum at Vat Phu, displaying recovered objects, architectural elements, and sculptures for conservation and study. Then, explore Vat Phu Temple, the renowned "Mountain Temple," a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the grandeur of the Khmer Empire from the 5th to 15th centuries. Stroll through the complex, appreciating the integration of ancient architecture with the surrounding natural landscape. Later, take a Tuk-Tuk back to Champasak city to admire its French colonial architecture, interwoven with traditional Lao wooden structures. Capture the unique charm of this blend of cultural heritage as you explore the city. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Champasak.
*Option: At night full, the Champasak shadow the Palateu Shadow Puppet Theater performs 4 times a week from November to April (on request outside these months) in a show which, depending on the evening, combines theatre, silent film projection and traditional music. (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 8.15pm, next to the tourist office). In a newly constructed venue next to the tourist office, ancient tales inspired by the Ramayana unfold through intricate shadow puppets, their silhouettes dancing to traditional music. The CHAMPA project also supported the purchase of new traditional instruments and the training of a young generation of artists who will take up the torch in the future.
Vehicle Journey: Approximately 100 km
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Champasak (3-Star hotel)
DAY 3: CHAMPASAK – 4,000 ISLANDS
After crossing the Mekong by ferry, delve into history at Tomo temple, an ancient site with unique architecture. Continue your journey with a cultural stop at Ban Nong Bueng, where you can witness traditional village life and connect with the warm hospitality of local residents. Your adventure continues with a rewarding trek to Phou Asa’s panoramic viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
The afternoon takes you to Hat Saikhoune pier, the charming gateway to the renowned 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don). From here, board a boat for a scenic two-hour journey along the Mekong’s gentle waters, passing lush riverbanks and observing everyday life on its shores. The cruise gradually leads you to Done Som Island, where a leisurely stroll introduces you to the authentic rhythm of local fishermen, a quiet temple, and a village school.
As the day winds down, sail onward to Done Khone island, one of the highlights of the archipelago. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax. Dinner will be served in a serene riverside setting, allowing you to savor both delicious cuisine and the tranquil atmosphere.
The evening offers a chance to unwind at leisure, listening to the timeless flow of the Mekong. Overnight, rest comfortably on Done Khone island, preparing for more discoveries that await the following day.
Vehicle Journey: Approximately 154 km
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight on Done Khone (3-Star hotel)
DAY 4: 4,000 ISLANDS - TRANSFER TO CAMBODIA BORDER OR BACK TO PAKSE
Today, you will delve deeper into the captivating beauty and rich history of the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don), exploring both its natural wonders and traces of its colonial past.
Your morning begins with a departure from the hotel by local Tuk-Tuk or bicycle (depending on your convenience), an authentic and enjoyable way to experience island life. The first stop is the Liphi Waterfall (Tad Somphamit), a striking cascade renowned for its dramatic rock formations and powerful flow. You’ll then continue to the Khone Pasoiy Waterfall, where you can admire another of the Mekong’s breathtaking natural spectacles, surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere.
After a refreshing local lunch, return by boat to the mainland at Ban Nakasang. From here, your journey continues to the legendary Khone Phapheng Waterfall, often referred to as the “Niagara of the East.” As the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia by volume, its thundering cascades offer an unforgettable display of the Mekong’s immense power and beauty—a spectacular farewell to Laos.
In the late afternoon, transfer by car to the Nong Nok Khiene Border (Cambodia–Laos border), where your service concludes, or return to Pakse for the end of your journey.
Vehicle Journey: Approximately 32 km (To the border)
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / -
Accommodation: -
TOTAL COVERED DISTANCE: around 456 Kilometers.
Pricing Options
Price per person: 628 USD
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Minimum: 2 participants
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Single supplement: 312 USD
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Maximum capacity: 7 participants
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Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, ideal for groups and longer rides
What’s Included
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Private transportation minivan
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All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the program
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Local transportation in 4000 islands
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Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner as mention in the program
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Bottled water provided during the tour
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Accommodation 3 nights
What’s Not Included
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English-speaking guide (available upon request at 70 USD per day)
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Any additional meals not mentioned
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Tips for the driver and boat
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Travel insurance
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Personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, and additional beverages
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Any services not specified in the itinerary
Choose the option that suits your travel style. Feel free to contact us for personalized advice or group discounts.