Four Thousand Islands

Si Phan Don or the Four Thousand Islands add to the list of Mekong River phenomena.  At the height of the rainy season, the Mekong River bulges to a breadth of 14km near Pakse in Southern Laos creating the widest reach of the Mekong River during its journey from the Tibetan Plateau to the Mekong Delta and out into the South China Sea.  During the dry season the river recedes revealing the Four Thousand Islands of the Mekong River that comprise islands, islets and sandbars.

If the pace of life in Northern Laos is laid-back then down here among the Four Thousand Islands of Southern Laos is positively sedative.  Electricity is a very recent addition to the area and like tourism is still not widespread.  Of the islands, Don Kong is the largest and of offers the best standard of accommodation which is still basic by any standards.  Life here is baguette and strong coffee for breakfast, a hammock overlooking the Mekong River, bicycle adventures and motorbike excursions followed by more hammock, cold beer and communal television flickering into life courtesy of a shared generator.

Beyond absolute relaxation there are things to do and places to see in and around the Four Thousand Islands.  Khone Phapheng Waterfall, Southeast Asia's highest waterfall is well worth a visit particularly during and after the rainy season.  Tube the rapids below the waterfall and continue downriver and see the Irrawaddy Dolphins.  Remnants of French Indochina are scattered around and it’s a great area to explore at your own pace on foot, bicycle, motorcycle or boat.  Get in touch with us for Laos Holidays, Southern Laos Trips & the Four Thousand Islands of the Mekong River.