Vang Vieng - Discovering Laos

Travelling to Vang Vieng

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Vang Vieng, a pretty good destination in Laos (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Vang Vieng and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Vang Vieng, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Laos, here's everything to know about Vang Vieng for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is a small town in Laos, known for its scenic beauty, limestone rock formations, and adventure sports. The town is located about 150 km north of the capital city, Vientiane, and is situated on the banks of the Nam Song River. Vang Vieng attracts many tourists due to its adventurous activities such as tubing, kayaking, rock climbing, and trekking. Moreover, the town is surrounded by stunning landscapes and offers a variety of picturesque viewpoints to see the natural beauty of Laos. It is a great place for backpackers, adventurers, and nature lovers.

What to visit in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is a town in Laos located in the Vientiane Province. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Vang Vieng and some information about each of them: 1. Tham Nam (Water Cave): This popular attraction is located 7 kilometers north of Vang Vieng town and features an underground river that visitors can explore by swimming or tubing. The cave is illuminated by natural light and is a great way to escape the heat of the day.
2. Tham Chang Cave: Located in the center of the town, Tham Chang Cave is a popular tourist destination in Vang Vieng. Visitors can explore the cave's many chambers, climb to the top of the cave and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Blue Lagoon: The Blue Lagoon is a beautiful natural swimming hole located about 7 kilometers west of the town. The crystal clear water is perfect for swimming and there are many places to lounge in the sun around the lagoon.
4. Nam Xay Viewpoint: This viewpoint offers stunning views of the karst mountains and the Nam Xay River. Visitors can climb to the top of the viewpoint for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
5. Tham Poukham Cave: Tham Poukham cave is a short drive south of Vang Vieng and is famous for its natural pool. Visitors can take a dip in the cool water and explore the cave's many chambers.
6. Hot Air Balloon Ride: For a truly unique way to explore Vang Vieng, visitors can take a hot air balloon ride. From the sky, you'll have incredible views of the town and the surrounding hills.
7. Kayaking and Tubing: Vang Vieng is a popular spot for kayaking and tubing along the Nam Song River. This is a great way to see the town from a different perspective and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Laos.
Overall, Vang Vieng offers a mix of natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural attractions. It's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Laos.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Laos, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Vang Vieng.

When to go on holiday to Vang Vieng

The best time to visit Vang Vieng, Laos is between November and February. During these months, the weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and adventure sports. The temperatures typically range from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and there is generally very little rain. Avoid visiting Vang Vieng from May to September, as it is the rainy season, and heavy downpours can make it difficult to explore the area.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Vang Vieng

There are several ways to get to Vang Vieng in Laos depending on your starting point. Here are some options: 1. By bus: You can take a bus from Vientiane (the capital city of Laos) to Vang Vieng, which takes around 3-4 hours. There are also buses from Luang Prabang which take around 6-7 hours.
2. By van: Vans can also be hired to take you to Vang Vieng from either Vientiane or Luang Prabang. The journey time is similar to that of a bus.
3. By private car/taxi: If you prefer a more comfortable and private journey, you can hire a car or taxi from either Vientiane or Luang Prabang. This will cost more than a bus or van but will give you more flexibility with your travel plans.
4. By flight: The nearest airport to Vang Vieng is in Vientiane. If you are coming from outside of Laos, you can fly into Vientiane and then take a bus or van to Vang Vieng.
Whichever option you choose, it is always a good idea to check schedules and prices in advance and to book in advance during peak season.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Vang Vieng, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Vang Vieng

Sure, here are some typical foods of Vang Vieng in Laos: 1. Laap: Laap is a popular traditional Laotian dish made with minced meat (chicken, pork, or beef), mixed with mint, lime, coriander, and other spices. It is typically served with steamed sticky rice and fresh vegetables.
2. Khao Piak: This is a traditional noodle soup made with rice noodles, chicken or pork broth, and meat. It usually comes with fresh herbs and lime wedges on the side, and can be customized with your preferred level of spiciness.
3. Or Lam: Or Lam is a rich and hearty meat stew, typically made with beef or pork along with pumpkin, eggplant, bamboo shoots, and other vegetables. It is flavored with chili paste and galangal and can be served with sticky rice.
4. Tam Mak Hoong: This is a spicy papaya salad made with shredded green papaya, lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, chili, and palm sugar. It usually comes with sticky rice and is a popular snack or side dish.
5. Gai Yang: Gai Yang is grilled chicken, marinated in a mixture of honey, garlic and lemongrass. It is usually served with sticky rice and spicy sauce.
6. Mok Pa: Mok Pa is a Laotian steamed fish dish, which comprises fish wrapped in banana leaves with spices, lemongrass, and herbs. It is usually served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.
Hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Laos here.

Is Vang Vieng an expensive destination for tourists?

Vang Vieng is not considered an expensive destination compared to other popular tourist destinations in Asia, but the cost can vary depending on your travel style and budget. Accommodation options, for example, range from budget hostels to high-end resorts, so you can choose based on your preferences and budget. In terms of food, local street food options are generally cheap, while restaurants catering to tourists can be more expensive.
Activities, such as exploring caves, kayaking, and tubing, tend to be reasonably priced. Transportation costs around the town are also affordable, but some tours and activities may require transportation and can be a bit more expensive.
Overall, Vang Vieng can be a budget-friendly destination with some planning and careful spending.

Where to find accomodation in Vang Vieng

There are three main areas in Vang Vieng where it is best to find accommodation: 1. Town Center: This area is situated along the riverside and has a large variety of accommodation options, from budget hostels to mid-range hotels.
2. Tham Phu Kham Area: This area is about 5 km from the town center and is a popular location because of the close proximity to the Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon.
3. Riverside Area: This area is about 2 km from the town center and the accommodation options here are mostly luxury resorts with stunning views of the Nam Song river.
You can check hotel prices at Vang Vieng here:
Booking.com

Is Vang Vieng a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Vang Vieng is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any tourist destination, it's important to take necessary precautions to stay safe and avoid any potential risks. Here are a few tips to help ensure a safe trip: 1. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
2. Avoid walking alone at night, and stick to well-lit areas.
3. If you plan on participating in adventure activities like tubing or rock climbing, make sure to choose a reputable tour operator and follow all safety guidelines.
4. Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or other religious sites.
5. Always travel with proper documentation, including a valid passport and necessary visas, to avoid any legal issues.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Laos here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Vang Vieng.

What type of travelers will enjoy Vang Vieng the most?

Vang Vieng in Laos is a popular destination for adventurous and outdoorsy travelers. It offers a range of activities such as tubing, kayaking, rock climbing, and exploring the beautiful karst landscapes. Most visitors to Vang Vieng are young backpackers and adventure travelers looking for fun and excitement. However, it is also suitable for families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities and exploring nature.
While couples may also enjoy the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, they may find the nightlife scene and party atmosphere less appealing. Overall, Vang Vieng is a great destination for travelers who enjoy adventure, outdoor activities, and exploring nature.

How to get around Vang Vieng

In Vang Vieng, the most convenient way to move around is by renting a motorbike or bicycle. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared taxis) are also available for short distances or larger groups. Walking is also a viable option for exploring the town. However, be cautious of the traffic and roads conditions, as some of the roads in Vang Vieng are unpaved and can be bumpy.

What to see around Vang Vieng

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Vang Vieng (Laos): 1. Pha Tang viewpoint - known for its stunning panoramic views 2. Blue Lagoon - a beautiful spot for swimming and relaxing surrounded by nature 3. Tham Phu Kham Cave - an impressive cave with a pool and a reclining Buddha statue 4. Tham Nam Water Cave - an adventurous cave where you can swim and tube through the underground river 5. Pha Ngeun Peak - a hiking trail that offers picturesque views of the surrounding area 6. Tham Xang Cave - also known as the "Elephant Cave," it has many impressive stalactites and stalagmites 7. Vang Vieng Organic Farm - a great place to learn about sustainable agriculture and sample some fresh organic produce 8. Phra That Phon Nhaen - a temple with a beautiful view of the countryside and the Mekong River 9. Nam Ngum Lake - an expansive lake with scenic views, boat tours, and fishing opportunities.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Laos you can click here.

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