Trekking and Viewpoints in Vang Vieng

Nestled among towering limestone cliffs and vibrant green rice paddies, the former party town of Vang Vieng has transformed into Laos' adventure capital. While tubing down the Nam Song River with a cold Beerlao in hand never gets old, Vang Vieng offers much more for thrill-seeking travelers. From heart-pumping hikes to peaceful paddle boarding trips, you'll find endless options for outdoor entertainment. And you won’t forget about those iconic panoramas!

Starting your Trekking Experience

While there are trekking tours available, and during high season can be booked on this website, you can plan your treks yourself quite easily. Your journey into the countryside will likely start at the old toll bridge across the Nam Song river. From there you will head along the road that leads to the famous, and original, Blue Lagoon 1 and Tham Phu Kham cave.

On your way you can then follow signs to a variety of viewpoints (new ones are appearing fairly frequently and often have interesting objects at the top - including a motorbike and a buggy car - for photo opportunities). Below are a few of the popular viewpoints to hike to.

Take In Panoramas from Pha Ngern Mountain

Although the steep 40 minute hike leaves your leg muscles burning, catching the sunset atop Pha Ngern Mountain is worth every step. The observation platform allows for unparalleled views stretching over the patchwork rice fields to the jagged mountain peaks beyond.

Early risers can also watch the sunrise, with the added bonus of seeing the morning balloons drifting peacefully overhead. Talk about starting your day off on the right foot!

Immerse Yourself in Nature at Nam Xay Viewpoint

Another exceptional Vang Vieng viewpoint, Nam Xay treats you to lush green rainforest and soaring limestone cliffs as far as the eye can see. The fun begins with a heart-pumping 30 minute trek, including some rock scrambling near the top. Once you summit, kick back in the hammock and watch the sky blaze with color as the sun sinks below the peaks. Just be mindful of the trip back down before darkness sets in.

Take in Vang Vieng from Above at Other Scenic Spots

If scaling mountains isn't your idea of a good time, opt for slightly less intense viewpoints like the Silver Cliff Lower Viewpoint or the one at Tham Jang Cave. Though less famous, they still offer gorgeous scenery without the knee-wobbling heights!

Staying Safe on your Adventure

Be mindful that the rainy season is not the safest time to be entering certain caves or climbing to viewpoints. And, these journeys are generally better done with another person. At the least, tell someone where you are planning to go. More than one person has found themselves lost inside a cave or had an accident descending from a viewpoint.

Let Your Journey Begin!

Sunrise yoga on a mist-cloaked mountaintop. Appreciating tiny purple wildflowers only visible when you ditch the main trail. Finding hidden pools at the end of a dark cave that you have all to yourself. Vang Vieng sprinkles a little magic across every minute when you immerse yourself fully into its wild beauty.

All that's left to do is book your ticket! The landscape sprawling below that makes your heart skip a beat - it's waiting patiently for you. But not forever, so pack your bags and let the adventure in Vang Vieng begin!