Vang Vieng: Where Nature Meets Adventure in Laos
Welcome to a place where the serene beauty of nature seamlessly intertwines with the thrill of adventure. Located only a couple of hours from Luang Prabang and Vientiane, it is a popular stop for all travellers visiting Laos.
Vang Vieng, once known for its wild party scene, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Today, it’s a destination that beckons travellers seeking a harmonious blend of relaxation and excitement. From outdoor enthusiasts in search of adrenaline-pumping activities to culture seekers eager to immerse themselves in the local way of life, Vang Vieng offers something for everyone.
In this blog, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through Vang Vieng, uncovering the hidden gems, sharing travel tips, and exploring the unique experiences that make this destination a must-visit in Laos. Whether you’re planning a trip, daydreaming about your next adventure, or simply curious about this captivating corner of the world, join us as we delve into the essence of Vang Vieng and discover why it has become a traveler’s paradise.
How to get to Vang Vieng
Train
If you take the train here or to your next destination, note that the train is almost like an airport with their security. You cannot have any sharp items like knives or scissors. You can also not bring things like hairspray or deodorant spray.
To buy tickets in Vang Vieng, you can buy from your hotel or at the train station. The station in Vang Vieng only open the ticket sale 1 hour before the departure and there are not that many departures every day so in high season these sell out quickly. Luckily we were here in low season and we managed to save about $10 by buying the tickets at the train station instead of at our hotel. The economy train ticket is very comfortable though with lots of legroom. Online you can find this ticket for $22.
Bus
You can also go by minivan from Vientiane to Vang Vieng (and vice versa), it takes about 4 hours and it is the cheaper option, we found tickets for only $8 per person. If you have any prohibited items to take the train, you can also go by bus to and from Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng, however, it is not the best road through the mountains and takes over 6 hours.
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Nature’s Oasis: Vang Vieng’s Hidden Lagoons
Lagoon 2: A Peaceful Haven
Lagoon 2, often known as “Lao Falang,” is a serene haven that is only a short ride from Vang Vieng’s busy town center. In contrast to Blue Lagoon 1, which is busier, Lagoon 2 offers a calmer and more serene atmosphere. You may have a refreshing swim in the emerald-green waters here, which are flanked by lush vegetation and limestone karsts that form a spectacular natural amphitheater.
The charming bamboo bridge that crosses Lagoon 2 is among its beauties. This lovely bridge not only serves a practical purpose but also adds to the area’s overall rustic beauty. You’ll come across a tiny café as you cross the bridge where you can have regional treats and drinks while taking in the scenery.
Lagoon 3: Nature’s Serenity
A short distance downstream from Lagoon 2 lies Lagoon 3, another hidden gem waiting to be explored. Lagoon 3 is known for its tranquility and untouched natural beauty. To reach this lagoon, you can either rent a bicycle and enjoy a scenic ride, or hire a tuk-tuk for a convenient journey, or rent a buggy and drive there.
What sets Lagoon 3 apart is its pristine and secluded setting. The water here is incredibly clear, inviting you to take a refreshing swim while surrounded by lush vegetation and limestone cliffs. The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. You can spend hours basking in the sun, reading a book, or simply daydreaming by the water’s edge.
Lagoon 3 is also home to a small wooden platform built into the cliffs, providing the perfect opportunity for cliff jumping into the inviting waters below. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the leap and feel the adrenaline rush as you plunge into the crystal-clear lagoon.
We also visited Blue Lagoon 1, which is the one closest to the city. You could even walk or bike here. However, we do not recommend going here as it is very small and gets crowded being the closes to the city. It is better to rent a motorbike or buggy to get to the lagoons further away (see Getting Around Vang Vieng further down in this blog).
Vang Vieng’s Breathtaking Viewpoints
There are many viewpoints in Vang Vieng. All of them have an item at the top. In most of them, you will find a motorcycle that you can sit on and take photos. Nam Xay is the most popular viewpoint as it is close to Blue Lagoon 1, it can get a bit crowded.
We went to Phapoungkham Cave and Viewpoint, which is located after Nam Xay. This one has two paths, one leads to a plane, and one leads to a horse. It says that it should take about 15 minutes to the top but it took us closer to an hour. The path is very difficult to climb and if it is raining this path will be slippery and very dangerous. Make sure you go when the weather is good and bring a lot of water with you. It’s definitely worth the hike.
Nightlife in Vang Vieng
The nightlife is very good in Vang Vieng with lots of bars. Most of them close around midnight, but after that people gather at a bar called Jaidee Bar, which is open until late. If you like to party, this is the place for you, but please take care of yourself and your friends, and don’t go crazy. You will know what we mean when you are there.
Tipsy Tubing
Lastly, we mentioned that Vang Vieng is known for tipsy tubing, we intended to try this, but when we got here we didn’t find it that attractive. The river that they do the tubing in didn’t look that nice, at least not this time of the year. We also enjoyed driving around Vang Vieng with the buggy to the lagoons and viewpoints. If you come here and you want to try the tipsy tubing you still can, it is still operating although more regulated than it was a few years ago.
Getting Around Vang Vieng
Nestled amidst the stunning limestone karst landscape of Laos, Vang Vieng is a traveler’s paradise known for its breathtaking natural beauty and adventurous outdoor activities. While exploring this enchanting destination, there’s no better way to get around than by motorcycle and buggy. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essentials of exploring Vang Vieng on two wheels and four wheels, ensuring you have an unforgettable adventure.
Renting A Scooter or Motorcycle
Before embarking on your Vang Vieng motorcycle adventure, the first step is to rent a motorcycle. You can easily find rental shops scattered throughout the town. However, remember to prioritize safety and quality over the cheapest option. Look for reputable rental agencies that provide well-maintained motorcycles and ensure you have all the necessary documentation.
Many specialty shops and guest houses offer motorbikes for rent, with typical prices of 100-120,000 LAK for an automatic and 60-80,000 LAK for a semi-automatic, though that is subject to bargaining.
Buggy Adventures
For those looking for a more adventurous and off-road experience, Vang Vieng offers buggy rentals. These sturdy four-wheeled vehicles are perfect for tackling rugged terrain and taking your exploration to the next level.
Buggies open up a world of off-road trails that motorcycles can’t navigate. Explore the rugged terrain, cross rivers, and enjoy the thrill of adventure. Use your buggy to reach remote villages and hidden lagoons that are off the beaten path. The versatility of a buggy makes it an excellent choice for exploring the countryside.
Many places offers buggy rentals, we found that it was better to walk around the city than renting through the hostel for better rates. It cost around $10 per hour for a buggy for 2 people (they also have 4 seaters).
Respect Local Culture and Environment
As you explore Vang Vieng, be respectful of the local culture and environment. Keep noise levels down, dispose of trash properly, and respect the privacy of local communities. By being a responsible traveler, you contribute to the preservation of this beautiful region for future generations to enjoy.
Where to stay in Vang Vieng
One of the popular backpacker hostels is Nana Backpackers Hostel, but it can get a but noisy. If you want to experience Vang Vieng’s parties and also get a good night sleep, you can look up Vangvieng Backpackers Hostel. Large rooms with A/C, pool table, a swimming pool, and walking distance to everything.
Conclusion
Vang Vieng is a place where you can get the full experience: enjoy the serene nature, get the thrill of adventure, and evening parties with other backpackers, which makes Vang Vieng a must-visit destination. It is a popular destination for all travellers coming to Laos as it is easily accessible with a short train ride from both Luang Prabang and Vientiane.
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