Don Det

Laos, Asia

Don Det, a picturesque island in the 4000 Islands archipelago, offers a tranquil escape with its stunning landscapes, laid-back vibe, and unique attractions such as the captivating waterfalls and the chance to see the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Visitors can experience the rich local culture, enjoy bike rides along serene paths, and bask in beautiful sunsets. This idyllic setting makes Don Det a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration in Laos.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Pakse

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

14 Best Things to Do in Don Det

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the 4000 Islands

Discover stunning islands, unique wildlife, and serene landscapes.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Irrawaddy Dolphins

Spot endangered dolphins in their natural habitat.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Bike around Don Det

Cycle through scenic paths and local villages.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at the waterfalls

Enjoy the stunning beauty and tranquility of waterfalls.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience local cuisine

Taste traditional Laotian dishes at local eateries.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Watch the sunset at the river

Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Mekong River.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a cooking class

Learn to cook traditional Laotian dishes.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the local markets

Shop for crafts and experience local culture.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour

Explore the Mekong River and its islands by boat.

Booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the old French colonial buildings

Explore the architecture and history of the area.

No booking required
11

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Join a meditation retreat

Relax and rejuvenate with local meditation practices.

Booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the local wildlife

Discover unique flora and fauna in the area.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the local temples

Experience the spiritual side of Don Det at temples.

No booking required
14

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Enjoy river tubing

Float down the Mekong for a relaxing day.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Kip

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Lao

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Laap

Spicy minced meat salad. (National dish)

Tam Mak Hoong

VE

Spicy green papaya salad.

Khao Piak Sen

Laotian rice noodle soup.

Sai Oua

Grilled herb sausage.

Khao Jee

VE

Grilled sticky rice sandwich.

Phrases to learn

English

Lao

Hello

Sabaidee

(Sah-bye-dee)

Yes/No

Men / Bo

(Men / Boh)

Thank you

Khawp jai

(Kop chai)

Excuse me

Khaw thot

(Khao thoht)

How much?

Tha dai?

(Tah dye)