Top 5 Highlights of Champasak
There are some attractions that simply must be checked off the list when visiting the Champasak Province.
Irrawaddy Dolphins
Though their relatives are ocean residents, the Irrawaddy Dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris) in the Mekong Delta near the Four Thousand Islands and are part of a unique subpopulation of dolphins that live in a freshwater river system. They can be found in some of the world's biggest river systems.
Photo: The Irrawaddy dolphin in its freshwater river habitat
These guys are easily spotted with their distinctly rounded forehead and the little triangular pectoral fin on their backs. It is estimated that about 70 adult members live along the 190km of the Mekong River; their numbers are in jeopardy and they are considered an endangered species due to extensive fishing in the region. Many live in the deep pools that surround the Four Thousand Islands, especially during the dry season when the river levels drop. The best way to see these rare dolphins is by getting a local longtail boat in the early morning or late afternoon from Kong Ngay. Be sure to take a Mekong River tour with a reputable tour company so that the conservation needs of the dolphins are taken into consideration during boat trips.
Four Thousand Islands
In Southern Laos, Si Phan Don is the area termed “Four Thousand Islands” since during the dry season there is so little water that sand banks emerge to create thousands of islets. During the rainy season, this stretch of the Mekong River becomes its widest point and spans to about 14 km. Three main islands remain all year round that retain some French influence from colonial days: Don Khong, Don Khone and Don Det. A smattering of bamboo bungalows are ready to house travellers that wish to venture out and see the dolphins or hike out to behold the amazing waterfalls around these well-equipped tourist hot-spots. A personal recommendation is to hire a local bicycle (for a well spent dollar or so) in Don Det and tool around the picturesque isle taking photos of the old French railway bridge or exploring the nearby Don Khon Island.
The Most Spectacular Waterfalls in Southeast Asia and the Pearl of the Mekong.
A short jaunt from Si Pan Don one can find the most beautiful cascades in the region, including the largest waterfall- Khone Phapheng. This particular fall rises to about 21 metres (69 ft) and is the main reason why one cannot navigate on the Mekong River to China. Right before the rainy season is the best time to travel out to view the Khongphrapheng waterfall that is 161 km south of Pakse. This famous waterfall then continues its route to the South China Sea via Cambodia and Vietnam . Be sure to keep an eye out for the Dok champa when travelling around the waterfalls, which is Laos’ national flower.
This destination is a place on the map that has only recently been touched by the modern world and electricity is still a new thing. Don’t expect a crazy nightlife, but if you are in search of a blood pressure lowering, lackadaisical afternoon swinging in hammocks with short trips to see endangered species and beautiful waterfalls – plan on spending a few extra days in the Champasak Province.
Immerse yourself in the ultimate jungle experience, go where very few have gone before and explore the jungle treetop canopy, help do your bit for conservation and save the remaining forest by showing that real standing jungle has more lifetime value than felled trees.
Let your inner Tarzan free and come alive in the jungle, explore the treetop walkways, zip line from tree to tree (the longest of which is 400m), abseil down the middle of unforgettable waterfalls and sleep high above the forest floor in the jungle canopy.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wat Phou
For enthusiasts of ancient history, culture, and spirituality, The Wat Phou site is a fascinating intersection of all three.
To find a tour of the Wat Phou site that is best suited to your travel plans, check out the Wat Phou half day tour. For those on a longer itinerary, the Wat Phou Mekong cruise is a three-day voyage down the mighty Mekong river with a guided stop in the Wat Phou site.
