Pakse &
Champasak
Welcome to your complete Champasak travel guide — gateway to southern Laos, home to ancient Khmer temples, spectacular waterfalls, and the legendary 4,000 Islands.
Where thundering waterfalls cascade from the Bolaven Plateau, ancient Khmer temples rise from the jungle, and the Mekong flows wide and golden.
Epic Waterfalls
Tad Fane, Tad Yeung & more
Wat Phu Temple
UNESCO Khmer heritage site
Coffee Farms
Bolaven Plateau arabica
Mekong Islands
Si Phan Don · 4,000 Islands
Champasak — Nature's
Masterpiece
Pakse sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Xe Don rivers, serving as the vibrant hub of southern Laos. From here, adventurers venture to the Bolaven Plateau — a cool, misty highland bursting with coffee plantations and some of Laos' most spectacular waterfalls.
The wider Champasak province is home to Wat Phu, a pre-Angkor Khmer temple complex that predates Angkor Wat itself, and the legendary 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don) where rare Irrawaddy dolphins still swim in the Mekong.
Bolaven Waterfalls near Champasak
Top Attractions in Champasak
Wat Phu
Ancient Khmer temple complex predating Angkor Wat, set dramatically on a mountain with sweeping Mekong views.
Si Phan Don
The magical 4,000 Islands where the Mekong spreads wide — spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins and relax in island paradise.
Bolaven Coffee Farms
Tour the fertile plateau where world-renowned Lao arabica and robusta coffee grow among waterfalls and cool mist.
Wat Phu Salao
Giant golden Buddha overlooking Pakse and the Mekong — stunning at sunset with panoramic views of the city.
Xe Pian–Xe Namnoy
UNESCO natural heritage — pristine forests, diverse wildlife, and spectacular waterfalls in Champasak province.
Dao Heuang Market
The largest market in southern Laos — fresh produce, local spices, handicrafts, and authentic Lao street food.
Rent a Motorbike
Best way to explore Bolaven Plateau. Rent from 130,000–150,000 KIP/day in Pakse.
Rainy Season
Waterfalls are most powerful May–Oct but roads can be muddy. Dry season Nov–Apr is easier.
Getting There
Fly from Vientiane (1hr) or take a bus from Thailand via Chong Mek border crossing.
Road Rules
Laos drives on the RIGHT — opposite to Thailand. Take care on mountain roads to Bolaven.