The only option we found to get from Chiang Mai to Vang Vieng, Laos was a overnight mini bus to Vientiane then a bus for the rest of the journey. The mini bus was essentially a 16 person van packed full of bags and people. The roads through Thailand were paved and pretty well maintained but they were very windy. Plus we had a dare-devil driver who drove as fast as possible and took the turns so sharp we had to fight the positive g’s. We were so thankful to make it to our destination in one piece!
Vang Vieng was a small town with only one main paved road that passes through. It’s apparent that the town is focused on tourism by the restaurants, guests houses, and souvenir shops that lined the roads. We learned that the area had caves and lagoons to visit plus there was tubing and kayaking down the Nam Song river. We stopped by a few shops offering tours but felt like everything was either overpriced or too touristy for our taste. We decided to find the cheapest way to explore the beautiful scenery. There were great maps online of trails and all the places of interest. In total, we spent 3 days exploring: one day hiking, one biking and one tubing. We saw 4 caves, 2 viewpoints, 1 lagoon, and a 4 km stretch of the Nam Song riverside! Enjoy our “how to” video:
Sunset over the Nam Song
Sunset while enjoying a beer our first night
Town bridge over the Nam Song
Pha Poak summit
Pha Poak summit
Pha Poak summit
Lusi Cave
Lusi Cave
Pha Poak cave
Pha Poak cave
Hiking trail through farms to viewpoint
Floating down the Nam Song
