Vang Vieng may be somewhere you’ve heard of for several reasons, both good and bad. When I first heard about Vang Vieng, stories of its tubing heyday were unavoidable. But as I researched further, a different picture emerged – one of dramatic natural beauty and a burgeoning adventure scene. Intrigued, I decided to see for myself, and what I discovered was a revelation. The Vang Vieng of today is so much more than its past. It’s a place where the iconic karst mountains provide a stunning backdrop for kayaking adventures, where hidden caves whisper ancient secrets, and where the vibrant blue lagoons offer a refreshing escape. Join me as we explore the new Vang Vieng, a destination that has embraced its natural gifts and offers an unforgettable experience far beyond the tube.
Arriving in Vang Vieng from Luang Prabang, a shared songthaew transported us from the train station to what initially appeared to be a vibrant party strip. However, the lively atmosphere soon receded, revealing a more peaceful village core. Following check-in, we took a brief stroll along the main street, a refreshing mango smoothie in hand.
The next morning, we woke up to a beautiful sunrise, illuminating the landscape that we could not see at night. The iconic karst mountains I had learned about finally revealed themselves. And what a sight they are to behold!
Kayaking the Nam Song River
The following morning, we joined a small group of fellow travellers and a few experienced local guides for a kayaking adventure down the Nam Song River. Setting off around 10 am, the gentle current immediately offered a refreshing change of pace. While the leisurely flow was generally serene, the river presented a couple of tricky sections where faster currents and deeper pockets of water appeared. Thankfully, our guides were incredibly attentive and provided clear instructions on how to navigate these obstacles.
I really enjoyed kayaking and admiring the beautiful scenery around us. We even saw some water buffalo in the river!
Once we were dropped off downstream, it was time for some lunch. We went to A.M.D. Restaurant, a Laotian restaurant in a very casual setting. We had the lab salad, with spicy fish, herbs, chilli and mint, and the sweet and sour fish and vegetables with rice. Both dishes were yummy and filling.
Exploring on Bike
After lunch, we rented a couple of bikes and headed off to explore the outskirts of Vang Vieng. Just beyond the town’s edge, paved roads quickly give way to red dirt paths that wind through rice paddies, limestone karsts, and small, sleepy villages. It’s an easy and peaceful way to soak in the landscape, with stunning views in every direction—especially as the late afternoon light hits the mountains.
Along the way, you might stop at a local farm, a hidden lagoon, or a bamboo bridge crossing the river. Renting a simple push bike or mountain bike is affordable and easy from most guesthouses or rental shops in town, and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
After returning our bikes, we headed to one of the many bars in town for a beer with a sunset view. It was the perfect end to a wonderful day of adventure.
Mountain Hike
The next day, we hired a songthaew driver to take us further out, into the more rugged terrain where the bike couldn’t quite go. It was the best decision—we were able to visit several of the region’s stunning blue lagoons, each with its own vibe, from quiet and secluded to lively and social.
Before going to the lagoons, we tackled a mountain hike with sweeping views over the valley. There are a couple of options, but we chose the Phapoungkham Cave hike. The climbs were steep and sweaty, but totally worth it for the panoramic scenery and sense of solitude at the top. Having a local driver gave us the flexibility to take our time and avoid the crowds. This particular hike is famous for its two peaks, one topped with an aeroplane and the other with a unicorn. We went with the unicorn as there were fewer people on this side!
The Blue Lagoons
After our particularly steep and rewarding climb, we made our way to Blue Lagoon 3, which turned out to be the perfect place to cool off. It’s more low-key than the original Blue Lagoon, with fewer people, a peaceful setting, and a rope swing that makes it feel more like a hidden swimming hole than a tourist attraction. After the heat and dust of the hike, diving into the cool, turquoise water was nothing short of bliss. There were plenty of people when we got there, but the lagoon has these little huts to hang out in, and we managed to score. It’s where you can lay your towel, be sheltered from the sun, and just have a bit more space.
There are quite a few blue lagoons around Vang Vieng, each with its own vibe—some are lively and packed with tourists, while others are quieter and more remote. We chose a couple that felt more in line with what we were looking for: a mix of nature, relaxation, and fewer crowds.
From Blue Lagoon 3, we continued to Blue Lagoon 2, which had a more built-up, social atmosphere—complete with picnic tables, a zipline, and plenty of locals enjoying the afternoon. It was the ideal place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the last bit of sun before heading back into town.
Once we got back to downtown Vang Vieng, we decided to go on an early evening stroll, stopping by a rooftop to enjoy the epic scenery. We even had a hot air balloon fly right over us!
For dinner, we opted for something a bit different. After a day of hiking and swimming, we headed to The Academy Training Hotel and Restaurant, a hospitality school where students get hands-on experience by running the kitchen and dining room. The setting is relaxed but professional, and the service is incredibly warm. The menu blends local Lao flavours with international touches, and knowing that your meal is helping train the next generation of hospitality workers makes the experience even more rewarding. It was a thoughtful and delicious way to end the day—and a reminder of the community-oriented side of Vang Vieng that often gets overlooked.
Vang Vieng surprised us. Beyond its reputation for wild parties and riverside bars, we found a place filled with natural beauty, quiet adventure, and meaningful moments. From cycling through rice fields and hiking limestone peaks to swimming in tranquil lagoons and dining at a student-run restaurant, it felt like we experienced a different side of Laos—one that was slower, softer, and far more memorable than we expected. If you’re willing to look past the clichés, Vang Vieng offers something truly special.
Coming from Luang Prabang? Check out my guide on this other great place in Laos.
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