4000 Islands in Laos is a labyrinth of islands and waterways formed by naturally parting Mekong river close to Cambodia boarder.
Si Phan Don is an unique place, and definitely high in top ten on Laos map.
Getting there:
Most people come here from:
the North– after visiting Bolaven Plateau – with it’s waterfals and Pakse city
the South – coming from Cambodia after visiting Angkor Temples
Which out of 4000 islands in Laos to chose?
There are 3 main islands to choose from
Don Det
Is the most popular island for travellers to Si Phan Don. Don Det has the most low budget accommodation options and attracts a strong flow of young travellers looking for a party.
Don Khon
Is mostly for those backpackers who are a little older or simply do not like the young backpacker partying. Not so cheap anymore with much better restaurants than the sub-standard fare served on Don Det. If you are a backpacker who wants to avoid the stereotypical backpacker scene or little higher standard, it’s for you.
Don Khong
The largest island (8x18km) and least visited. The best option is to rent a bicycle and explore its vast interior which includes forests, rural villages, farms and hills.
My pick was Don Det – the best way to get there is a ferry boat from Ban Nakasang town.
Time recommended: 2-3 days is just enough or more if you like relaxing vibe of Si Phan Don.
I will not recommend any guesthouse because there are some many to choose from, I stayed in one of the nice low budget bungalows.
I met two friends Jürgen from Germany and Joran from Netherlands. We had some beers, weed and a really good time. As a matter of fact we kept on travelling together down to Cambodia and Thailand after Si Phan Don…
RENTING A BIKE
is a great idea, it will help you not get too tired walking around the islands.
There are many activities to chose from: like water rafting, tubing, fishing, spotting fresh water dolphins.
Hot spots are:
Khone Phapheng and Somphamit Falls
Don Det-Don Khon Bridge
Beside parting with other backpackers for me the best time in 4000 Islands in Laos was just riding a bike and walking around, observing normal life in these islands and feeling the relaxing vibe of this wonderful place.
Getting out – also with a ferry and a bus to the Cambodian boarder.
