Si Phan Don Travel Guide
Laos’ 4,000 Islands
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In the far south of Laos the life takes on a slower pace. The Mekong is nearing its end and in this region splits into rivers and streams 14km wide, creating islands in its stream. These islands the Si Phan Don - The 4000 Islands - have become a legend amongst travellers – there are torpid backwaters like Muong Khong on Don Khong island to chill out in to some livelier places such as Don Det.
Located right on the Cambodian border the Si Phan Don islands were until recently Laotian backwaters - many submerged in the rainy season the permanently occupied islands were and still are dedicated to coconuts, kapok, sugar cane and fishing.
Today they are happily still backwaters and herein lies their appeal, but things are changing. Today they offer the traveller a real look at village life – exploring islands by bike and taking in the odd wat or two, then relaxing in comfortable, rustic guesthouses. Mains rather than generator-provided electricity can even be found in a few places now.
Places to visit on Don Det/Don Khon include old colonial buildings at Ban Khon and Wat Khon Tai further south on Khon. Tat Somphamit falls a mile south of Ban Khon, boat trips to try and spot the Irrawaddy dolphins that live in ever-decreasing numbers in the Mekong and, the scenic highlight for many, Khon Phaeng Falls – said to be South East Asia’s largest falls –spectacular, especially in the wet season.
Attractions in Si Phan Don
Don Khong is quiet – head to Muang Khong to see Wat Phuang Kaew, check out the market and relax by the river. For a livelier scene (well, a little livelier…) head south to Don Det – travellers trappings are starting to appear and yet it remains unspoilt and charming: Don Det is the more popular of the two locations. If you want to mix really quiet with just a bit quiet neighbouring Don Khon (yes, there’s Don Khon and Don Khong…) will allow you to bike north to Don Det to get your fix of travellers’ goodies.
Places to visit on Don Det/Don Khon include old colonial buildings at Ban Khon and Wat Khon Tai further south on Khon. Tat Somphamit falls a mile south of Ban Khon, boats to try and spot the Irrawaddy dolphins that live in ever-decreasing numbers in the Mekong and, the scenic highlight for many, Khon Phapheng Falls – said to be South East Asia’s largest falls –spectacular, especially in the wet season .
Activities in Si Phan Don
Bike and boat rides together with village walks are the main things to do here. Bikes can be hired everywhere and you’re bound to find your own favourite spots as you explore. Boat rides to spot the dolphins can be fun (from Don Khon, December to May) and a trip to Khon Phaeng Falls is a must. Allow 3 days if you can, longer if you have the time – you’ll love it.
Relaxing
A hammock, a beer, a good book and the Mekong, all de rigueur in Si Phan Don.
Getting Around
Bike and on foot – nowhere is far away.
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