Vang Vieng

Laos, Asia

Nestled between stunning karst mountains and the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng captivates with its adventure-filled landscape. Known for hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views, tubing down the river, and vibrant nightlife, this charming town strikes a perfect balance between relaxation and excitement. Explore the limestone caves, indulge in local cuisine, or find tranquility at serene lagoons, making it an ideal getaway for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Wattay

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

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

10 Best Things to Do in Vang Vieng

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Blue Lagoon

Swim in stunning turquoise waters surrounded by nature.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Tham Chang Cave

Discover beautiful limestone formations in this iconic cave.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Tubing on the Nam Song River

Float down a river with bars and stunning views.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Adults only

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience breathtaking views from a hot air balloon.

Booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Pha Ngeun Viewpoint

Hike to a viewpoint with panoramic views.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Cooking Class

Learn to cook traditional Laotian dishes with locals.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Vang Vieng Market

Shop for local handicrafts and delicious street food.

No booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Kayaking on the Nam Song

Paddle along the river surrounded by stunning scenery.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Buddha Park

Explore unique Buddha statues and serene landscapes.

No booking required
10

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Join a Yoga Retreat

Rejuvenate your mind and body in tranquil settings.

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)