Vang Vieng, Laos

Vang Vieng

Vientiane ProvinceLaos

backpacking

Why You'll Love Vang Vieng

Welcome to Vang Vieng, Laos! If you're looking for adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty, you've come to the right place. Vang Vieng is a small town nestled in the midst of lush green mountains, surrounded by rivers and caves just waiting to be explored.

One of the most popular activities here is tubing down the Nam Song River. You'll float past towering limestone cliffs and stop at riverside bars for a drink or two. If you're feeling more adventurous, you can go kayaking or take a hot air balloon ride for a bird's eye view of the stunning scenery.

For those who prefer dry land, there are plenty of hiking trails in the nearby mountains that offer panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. You can also visit local villages and learn about the fascinating traditional cultures that thrive in this region.

At night, Vang Vieng comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars and clubs where you can party until the early hours of the morning. Of course, if you're looking for something more low-key, you can always enjoy a quiet sunset or relax with a massage at one of the many spas in town.

In short, Vang Vieng is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a nature-lover, you'll find plenty to love in this charming town. So come visit and experience it for yourself!

Getting to Vang Vieng

The nearest airport to Vang Vieng is the Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, Laos. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Vang Vieng, which is approximately a 3-4 hour drive away. Alternatively, there are also bus services from other cities in Laos such as Luang Prabang and Vientiane that run to Vang Vieng.

The closest city to Vang Vieng is Vientiane, in Vientiane Province.

Travelling from Wattay International Airport to Vang Vieng

When to Visit

The best time to visit Vang Vieng, Laos is between November and February when the weather is dry and cool.

Weather and Climate

In Vang Vieng, Laos, the weather varies throughout the year. The hottest months are typically from March to May, with temperatures averaging around 30-35°C (86-95°F). The rainy season occurs from May to October, which brings high humidity and occasional flooding. From November to February is generally the cooler and drier period, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Overall, Vang Vieng's climate is tropical and warm year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler and drier months from November to February.

Costs When Visiting

In Laos, the currency is the Laotian Kip.
Some sample costs when travelling around Vang Vieng are:

- Hostel dormitory bed: $5-10 per night
- Budget guesthouse double room: $10-20 per night
- Mid-range hotel double room: $30-50 per night
- Local street food: $1-3 per dish
- Restaurant meal: $5-10 per dish
- Western-style cafe meal: $10-15 per meal
- Beer Lao (local beer): $1-2 per bottle

Safety Rating

Vang Vieng is generally considered a safe destination. The crime rate is low, and incidents of violence or theft are relatively rare. However, travelers should exercise caution when walking alone at night, particularly in poorly lit areas. Women in Vang Vieng are generally safe, but it is recommended to dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention. LGBTQ+ individuals may face some discrimination in Laos, but generally, attitudes towards the community are becoming more accepting. Overall, Vang Vieng is a relatively safe destination for travelers.

Local Population

The population of Vang Vieng, Laos consists of predominantly ethnic Lao people, with small minority groups such as Hmong and Khmu. The majority of the population practice Buddhism as their religion, alongside animism and ancestor worship. The official language is Lao, but English is also commonly spoken in tourist areas. The gender ratio is relatively balanced, with slightly more females than males. As for racial breakdown, the majority of the population is considered to be of Southeast Asian ethnicity.

Things to Do

Some of the common tourist activities at Vang Vieng, Laos include tubing down the Nam Song River, hiking, hot air ballooning, rock climbing, visiting caves (such as the Tham Jang Cave and the Blue Lagoon Cave), exploring the town's markets and temples, and indulging in the local cuisine. It is also a popular destination for backpackers and partygoers due to its nightlife scene.