Vang Vieng has Thrilling Waters: Kayaking Crystal Caves & Tubing the Turquoise Lagoon

Embark on a Vang Vieng adventure with kayaking, cave tubing, ziplining, and the Blue Lagoon on a full-day tour. Explore caves, river float, and jungle zip.

Floating Through Fantastic Caves: Kayaking & Tubing Vang Vieng's Stunning Blue Lagoon

Vang Vieng Laos PDR

Vang Vieng is a small town in central Laos that has become one of Southeast Asia's top adventure travel destinations. Nestled along the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng is surrounded by striking limestone karsts and lush green countryside.

Originally just a sleepy rural village, Vang Vieng first put itself on the map in the 1990s as a stopover for backpackers traveling between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Word quickly spread about its idyllic riverside setting and opportunities for outdoor recreation. By the 2000s, Vang Vieng had exploded in popularity and became known as a party town, with bars lining the river pumping music and offering cheap drinks along with inner tube rentals.

However, concerns emerged over safety issues, especially involving young visitors. In 2012, the Lao government responded by closing the bars and clamping down on hedonistic behavior. Since then, Vang Vieng has repositioned itself as an adventure and ecotourism destination. The town still attracts backpackers and young travelers drawn by the stunning scenery, caves, rivers, and jungle. But the focus is now on enjoying outdoor activities in a more sustainable and responsible way.

Vang Vieng offers a range of popular adventures including kayaking, tubing, rock climbing, caving, ziplining, mountain biking, trekking, and more. The easily accessible countryside provides the perfect playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. While the party scene has faded, Vang Vieng still offers lively bars and restaurants to enjoy after a day of adventures. With such spectacular natural surroundings and so many ways to get the adrenaline pumping, it’s no wonder Vang Vieng has become a must-visit destination for active travelers in Southeast Asia.

Getting to Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is located in central Laos, about 4 hours north of the capital city Vientiane by road. It's a very popular stop on the backpacker trail between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. See you there click this link.

There are several transportation options to get to Vang Vieng:

• Bus - This is the most common and affordable way to reach Vang Vieng from Vientiane or Luang Prabang. Buses run several times per day and take around 3-4 hours. Tickets can be purchased from travel agents or directly at the bus station.

• Minivan - Minivans are faster than buses and can be booked through travel agents. The journey takes around 3 hours from Vientiane.

• Rental Car - Hiring a car and self-driving is an option, but roads can be tricky to navigate. It takes around 4 hours to drive from Vientiane. An International Drivers Permit is required.

• Tuk Tuk - For the adventurous, tuk tuks can also be hired for the journey from Vientiane, but it takes around 6-8 hours. Be prepared for a bumpy and dusty ride.

• Airplane - There are a few domestic Lao Airlines flights per day between Vientiane and Vang Vieng taking just 25 minutes. This is the fastest but most expensive option.

The bus or minivan are recommended for getting to Vang Vieng as they balance affordability and travel time. Keep in mind it's a winding mountain road trip, so take motion sickness medication if required.

Kayaking

Kayaking is one of the most popular activities in Vang Vieng due to the beautiful scenery of limestone cliffs and caves along the Nam Song River. There are a few different kayaking routes to choose from depending on your experience level and interests.

The easiest and most popular route is to kayak from the old town to the blue lagoon, which takes 1-2 hours. This route passes through photogenic scenery like caves and hill tribes along the way. More experienced kayakers can opt for longer routes up to the Organic Farm or all the way to Vieng Xai caves.

You can rent a kayak along the river for around 20,000 kip per hour from many shops in town. Make sure to thoroughly check the kayak for leaks before setting off. Life jackets are typically included but feel free to request one if not provided.

When kayaking, be sure to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water. The sun reflects intensely off the water and it's easy to get dehydrated. Pay attention to any changes in weather. Also be careful of floating debris in the river that could overturn your kayak if hit unexpectedly. It's best to kayak with a partner for safety. Avoid kayaking if there are storms in the forecast. Booking tour ticket link.

Cave Tubing

Cave tubing is one of the most popular activities in Vang Vieng. This involves floating down the river on an inner tube and going through limestone caves along the way. Many of the caves have stunning stalactites and stalagmites to see as you gently float by.

The most popular caves for tubing are Tham Loup, Tham Nam, and Tham Hoi. Tham Loup is known for having massive caverns and impressive rock formations. Tham Nam has very narrow passages in parts which make for an exciting ride. Tham Hoi is the longest at 1.6 km, taking about 45 minutes to tube through.

Some tips for cave tubing:

• Wear a headlamp - The caves are pitch black inside so you'll need light to see the rock formations. Headlamps are provided with tube rentals.

• Go with a guide - It's recommended to go with a tour company for safety. The guides are familiar with the currents and any potential hazards.

• Don't go during rainy season - Tubing should only be done during dry months when water levels are lower. The current can be dangerously fast after heavy rains.

• Watch out for bats - Some of the caves are home to bats so keep an eye out overhead.

• Don't disturb formations - Be careful not to bump into or break off pieces of the stalactites and stalagmites.

• Use proper tubes - Make sure your tube is heavy duty and won't pop on any rocky outcroppings.

Cave tubing is a unique and thrilling way to explore Vang Vieng's natural wonders. As long as proper precautions are taken, it's an experience not to be missed. Floating through the caves by inner tube is an adventure you'll never forget. Booking tour ticket link.

Zip Lining

Zip lining has become one of the most popular activities in Vang Vieng. There are several major zip line courses that take thrill seekers high above the jungle and river.

The longest zip line is over 1,600 feet long and soars nearly 200 feet above the ground at its highest point. Riders can reach speeds up to 60 mph as they zip over the lush jungle canopy. This is not for the faint of heart!

Another popular course features 10 zip lines ranging from 300 to 900 feet long. This course takes about 2.5 hours to complete as you zigzag high above rice fields and the Nam Song River. The tallest platform on this course is over 100 feet high.

Safety is paramount at the zip line operators in Vang Vieng. All riders are secured in harnesses with two attachment lines for redundancy. Guides demonstrate proper braking techniques before riders are allowed to take off from platforms. Helmets are required and all equipment is well maintained.

Still, zip lining does come with inherent risks. Riders should be aware of dangers like falls, equipment failure and health issues. Operators likely require you to sign a waiver before participating. Those afraid of heights or with health conditions should consider sitting this adrenaline-pumping activity out. Booking tour ticket link.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular attractions in Vang Vieng. This stunning turquoise pool is fed by fresh mineral water flowing out from an underground spring. Surrounded by limestone karsts and lush jungle, the lagoon has an otherworldly beauty.

The lagoon was formed naturally centuries ago from the mineral springs in the area. Local villagers used it as a water source before it became a tourist destination. In the early 2000s, the lagoon was "discovered" by backpackers and travelers. Word spread of its beauty, and it soon became a must-visit spot in Vang Vieng.

Today the Blue Lagoon remains a top highlight of Vang Vieng. Visitors can swim and relax in the cool mineral waters. There are platforms to jump from, going up to 10 meters high. Many people spend hours tubing down the river, stopping to swim and play at the lagoon. The water is a bright turquoise color from the limestone sediment, giving it a tropical, Caribbean look.

The Blue Lagoon is located about 3 km north of downtown Vang Vieng, an easy 10 minute tuk tuk ride. You can also rent a bike or walk, following signs to the lagoon. There is a small entry fee of 10,000 kip ($1 USD). The lagoon is open daily from 8am to 6pm. Don't forget your swimsuit if you want to take a dip!

Booking tour ticket link.

Where to Stay in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

Types of Accommodations

• Hotels - Vang Vieng has hotels ranging from budget to luxury. Many are located right in the heart of town within walking distance to restaurants and bars. Luxury hotels offer amenities like pools, spas, and river views.

• Guesthouses - Smaller guesthouses offer basic rooms and dorms. These are great budget options, often with free breakfast and bikes to use. Location varies from central to quieter areas.

• Hostels - Backpacker hostels cater to solo travelers and groups. Dorm beds and private rooms available, plus social atmosphere and activities. Great for meeting other travelers.

• Bungalows - Scattered along the Nam Song River are bungalows. These offer a quieter, more natural setting outside of town. Great for couples and families. Some are quite rustic while others are upscale.

• Resorts - Full-service resorts located farther from town provide a secluded getaway with amenities. Activities like yoga, hiking, and spa treatments offered. Ideal for total relaxation.

Location Pros and Cons

• Downtown - Convenient access to restaurants, bars, tubing/kayak outfitters but can be noisy.

• Riverside - Peaceful, surrounded by nature but farther from downtown. May need transport.

• Outside of Town - Secluded and quiet but very isolated. Requires transport to get around.

Budget and Luxury Options

• Budget hotels and guesthouses for under $30/night. Dorm beds around $5-10/night.

• Mid-range boutique hotels from $50-100/night. Often include breakfast and bikes.

• Luxury hotels and resorts from $150-500/night. All inclusive options available.

There are plenty of choices in Vang Vieng for all budgets and preferences. Do your research to find the right accommodation for your travel style.

Food and Nightlife

Vang Vieng has a lively food and nightlife scene, with restaurants serving up delicious Lao cuisine and bars offering party vibes along the Nam Song river.

Local Cuisine

Lao cuisine features fresh ingredients and bright, herbal flavors. Dishes not to miss include:

• Laap - Spicy salad made with minced meat, herbs, roasted ground rice, and lime. Try laap moo (pork laap).

• Khao poon - Fresh rice noodles in a spicy broth with vegetables and meat. Popular for breakfast.

• Tam mak hoong - Spicy papaya salad made with shredded papaya, tomatoes, lime, fish sauce, and chilies.

• Mok pa - Steamed fish in banana leaves, flavored with lemongrass and herbs.

• Khao soi - Coconut curry noodle soup, a specialty of northern Laos.

Best Restaurants

Top restaurants in Vang Vieng include:

• Living Room - Stylish cafe serving Western and Lao dishes in a relaxing garden setting. Try the spicy noodle salad.

• Le Banneton - French bakery with freshly baked breads, pastries, and excellent coffee.

• Phetdavanh Street Buffet - Lao buffet on the main street, with a wide selection of authentic dishes.

• Riverside Restaurant - Scenic spot for Lao classics like laap, tom yam soup, and vegetarian options.

Bars and Nightlife

When the sun goes down, head to the bars along the Nam Song river for drinks, music, and lively atmosphere.

Popular bars include Sakura Bar with its fire shows, Q Bar with pool tables, earth pulsing music at Bamboo Party, and chilled out vibes at Smile Beach Bar. Grab a beer lao and join the festivities!

The nightlife scene amps up on weekends but things are open every night. Just be aware of drink spiking and take safety precautions when out at night.

Safety Tips

Vang Vieng is known for its adventurous activities and lively nightlife scene. While this makes it an exciting destination, there are some safety risks to keep in mind.

Dangers of Tubing

Tubing along the Nam Song river has long been a popular activity in Vang Vieng. However, tubing can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. The river contains rocky rapids and fast currents. There have been cases of serious injury and even drowning from tubing accidents. Only tube during daylight hours and avoid going out if the water appears high or rough. Wear a lifejacket at all times and avoid alcohol consumption before and during tubing.

Risks and Precautions for Activities

The adventure activities in Vang Vieng, like ziplining, kayaking, and climbing, pose inherent risks. To stay safe, only book these excursions through reputable and licensed tour operators. Listen carefully to all safety instructions provided. Make sure equipment is well-maintained and guides are properly trained. Do not overestimate your abilities or partake in risky behavior.

Staying Safe as a Tourist

Use common sense precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime as a tourist. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and do not wear expensive jewelry or watches. Only take registered tuk tuks, especially at night. Be wary of scams involving locals inviting you to bars or karaoke. Drink spiking has been reported at some nightlife venues, so keep an eye on your drink at all times. As a solo traveler, use extra caution when exploring alone.

By using sound judgment, taking organized tours, and avoiding risky behavior, you can safely enjoy the many exciting activities and nightlife that Vang Vieng has to offer. See you there click this link.

When to Visit

Vang Vieng is a popular destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and tolerance for crowds or rain.

High and Low Seasons

The high season runs from October to March when the weather is cool and dry. Expect crowds as this is the most popular time for domestic and international tourism. Prices also increase for accommodation and activities.

The low season is May to September during the hot and rainy summer months. Fewer tourists visit at this time so prices are cheaper. However, the rain can put a damper on outdoor adventures. See you there click this link.

Weather

Vang Vieng has a tropical climate with a hot rainy season and a cooler dry season.

• December to February has pleasant daytime temperatures around 25°C/77°F. Nights can dip down to 10°C/50°F.

• March to May heats up to around 35°C/95°F. High humidity makes it feel hotter. Afternoon thunderstorms bring temporary relief.

• June to August is monsoon season. Expect heavy rain daily. Temperatures remain hot and humid.

• September to November sees less frequent rain. Days are still warm but evenings are cooler. See you there click this link.

Holidays and Festivals

Many Lao festivals follow the lunar calendar, so dates vary annually.

Major national festivals include Lao New Year (April) and Boat Racing Festival (October). Vang Vieng also hosts its own boat racing event on the Nam Song River in May or June.

Buddhist holidays like Visakha Puja and Boun Bang Fay are observed with temple visits and ceremonies.

Western holidays like Christmas and New Year see an influx of tourists. Book accommodation well in advance if visiting over these periods.

Avoid the week-long Pi Mai Lao festival in April if you wish to skip crowds. The nationwide water festival attracts huge numbers of domestic tourists. See you there click this link.