Overland & Highlight Tours
Watphou and 4000 islands
A scenic overland journey from Pakse through the historic UNESCO ruins of Wat Phou and Hong Nang Sida, concluding with a scenic boat crossing to the 4000 Islands.
Discover the historical and cultural highlights of Southern Laos on this specialized overland routing. Trace ancient Khmer civilizations at sacred mountainside sanctuaries before journeying down to the pristine river channels of the Mekong archipelago.
Tour Itinerary
08:00 AM : Departure from Pakse
After picking you up from your hotel or designated meeting point, we cross the Mekong bridge to drive South, passing small villages nestled between jungle covered mountains and the banks of the river.
08:00 AM: Departing Pakse via the main Mekong transit corridor
08:30 AM to 08:50 AM : Hillside Views at Vat Phou Ngoi
Before reaching the greater Champasak town area, we stop briefly at Vat Phou Ngoi to climb a long steep stairway to the temple on top of the hill, from where a stunning view down to the Mekong and the Champasak plain can be enjoyed.
08:30 AM: Looking up the monumental stair access path to Vat Phou Ngoi
09:15 AM to 11:15 AM : UNESCO Wat Phu Complex Exploration
After entering the Wat Phu (Temple of the mountain) complex, it is recommended to visit the museum first before proceeding to the actual site, to get helpful info of the history and the structures you are going to see. A free of charge electric shuttle vehicle will take you from the museum about 1 km to the first level of structural remains. Following the ancient causeway upwards past partially reconstructed ruins decorated with stone carvings of Hindu deities and demons, you climb up steep, rocky stairs, until the sacred spring emanating from the bottom of the vertical sandstone cliff enclosing the sanctuary comes in sight, inviting you to taste the clean, fresh Holy water. An amazing view over the Champasak landscape, the Mekong, Don Daeng island and the plains spreading out to the horizon are the reward for the strenuous climb. This particular spring was an integral part of the temple construction, as its Holy water was used to keep a sacred yoni and lingam constantly wet, supposedly giving it therefore greater divine powers. On your way back to the entrance there is a pick-up point for the free electric shuttle service, saving you a sweaty walk in the glaring sun.
Note: It is recommended to bring an umbrella for sun protection, but you can also rent umbrellas at the site for a small fee, though there is just a limited number available.
09:15 AM: Ascending the historic stone pathways of the main Wat Phu complex
11:30 AM to 12:00 PM : Active Conservation at Hong Nang Sida
A short drive from Wat Phu is the location of the crumbling ruins of Hong Nang Sida. Currently in process of restoration by a Korean and Lao joint venture, it is possible to observe conservation in action. Hong Nang Sida is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
11:30 AM: Stone conservation works underway at Hong Nang Sida temple ruins
12:15 PM to 13:00 PM : Riverside Lunch at Nakorn Café
Return to Champasak town to enjoy lunch at the beautiful Nakorn Café and Restaurant overlooking the Mekong to Don Daeng island. Please note that meals are not included in the baseline tour pricing.
12:15 PM: Midday lunch stop on the waterfront at Nakorn Café in Champasak
13:10 PM to 13:30 PM : Champasak Ferry Crossing
Board the ferry from Champasak to cross back over the wide waters of the Mekong River.
13:10 PM: Loading onto the local cross-river barge transit system
14:30 PM to 15:30 PM : Hilltop Panoramas at Vat Saikhoune
After a one hour drive through agricultural landscape of Southern Laos, we arrive at the ancient Vat Saikhoune. Built on top of a hill amidst the jungle, one has a great view overlooking the nearby 4000 islands and surroundings.
14:30 PM: Panoramic views from the secluded hilltop grounds of Vat Saikhoune
15:50 PM to 16:30 PM : Overland Transit to Nakasang
Continue the southward drive through rural landscapes until arriving at the Nakasang river port.
15:50 PM: Driving down the southern highway toward Nakasang village
16:45 PM to 17:15 PM : Longtail Boat Crossings to Don Khone
Passing numerous small, uninhabited islands and seasonal sandbars, your ferry boat will take you across the river to Don Khone, the location of your overnight stay.
16:45 PM: Navigating the river channels heading to Don Khone island
17:30 PM : Hotel Check-In & Leisure Time
Check-in at your hotel on Don Khone island (Sengaloune Hotel or similar standard property). Enjoy the evening at your own complete leisure.
17:30 PM: Check-in and evening rest at your Don Khone island resort