Best 8 thing to do in Vang Vieng

8 Best Things to Do in Vang Vieng While some might claim that Vang Vieng has moved beyond its party town reputation, there's still plenty of nightlife to enjoy if that's what you're after. However, this riverside town offers much more beyond the parties, making it a destination for all types of travelers. Surrounded by stunning mountains, lush rice fields, and serene lagoons, Vang Vieng boasts a peaceful side that's just as captivating. Though tubing is often highlight, I decided to explore other adventures. Here’s a list of my favorite things to do in Vang Vieng.

Morning Activities

1. Hike to Nam Xay Viewpoint

Start your day with a hike to Nam Xay Viewpoint. The view is amazing, especially in the morning.

The drive takes about 20 minutes from town
The hike to the top takes around 30 minutes
Some parts are steep but manageable

At the top, you’ll find the famous motorcycles for photos. It can be busy, so you may need to wait.

Opening hours: 6 AM – 5 PM
Entrance fee: 20,000 KIP

2.Visit the Blue Lagoons

After your hike, cool off at one of the Blue Lagoons.

Blue Lagoon 4 (Recommended)

Very beautiful
Much quieter than others
Sun until about 3 PM
No restaurant → bring food

Blue Lagoon 1

Pretty but often crowded
Has drinks and seating
Cave nearby (worth visiting)

Blue Lagoon 3

Fun but limited sunlight (sun until noon)
Road is very dusty → avoid white clothes

3. Explore Tham Phu Cam Cave (near Lagoon 1)

If you visit Lagoon 1, explore Tham Phu Cam Cave.

Short climb to entrance
Large chamber with an altar
Very dark inside → bring a torch or headlamp

Torches are available for rent, but they are not very bright.

4. Midday Activities

Rent a Scooter & Explore the Countryside

Renting a scooter is one of the best things to do.

Ride toward Ban Pha Tang to see:

Rice fields
Forests
Small villages
Beautiful mountain views

Even if you don’t find specific attractions, the scenery is stunning.

5. Afternoon / Sunset Activities

Book a Balloon Ride

A balloon ride is unforgettable.

Not cheap, but one of the cheapest places in the world for this experience
Sunrise rides are best → book in advance

6. Lunch or Dinner at Viengtara Resort

For beautiful rice field views, visit Viengtara Vang Vieng Resort.

Resort area is for guests only
You can visit the restaurant
Best time: around sunset

Staying one night is also a great option if your budget allows.

7. Watch Sunset at The Egg Sunset Bar

A relaxing place to end your day with a drink and sunset view.

8. Restaurants in Vang Vieng

KAPPHET-VEGAN → Great vegan food (try the jackfruit burger)
Il Tavolo Vang Vieng → Good Italian food
Happy Mango Thai Restaurant → Perfect for Thai cravings

⚠ Important Safety Warning

Please be very careful with alcohol.

Reports mention that in November 2024, several tourists died after drinking poisoned alcohol.

General safety tips:

✅ Avoid homemade alcohol
✅ Only drink from licensed bars, hotels, or shops
✅ Check bottles carefully

While Vang Vieng is now more focused on adventure tourism, drugs and unsafe alcohol still exist.

Where to Stay

Backpacker Style

Vang Vieng Chill House

Friendly hostel
Pool
Good location

Luxury Options

Viengtara Vang Vieng Resort

Luxury bungalows
Rice field & mountain views
Onsite restaurant

Bearlin Bungalow

Quiet location
Beautiful garden
Walking distance or short tuk-tuk ride