I had naturally heard all those stories and read in other Van Vieng Travel Guides about the notorious tubing in Vang Vieng. Back in the days, the wildest tales were going around about this little village in Laos. It was still being done a lot, but the countless bars along the Nam Song River had dramatically decreased after all the problems.
Still, that notorious reputation was actually a reason for me to go explore Vang Vieng during my backpacking trip through Laos. And you know what? I found much more beauty there than I had expected! Vang Vieng has completely transformed from a dangerous party destination into Southeast Asia’s newest adventure paradise.
This Vang Vieng travel guide is based on my personal experience discovering a destination that’s nothing like the old stories suggest. Thanks to a Korean variety show that put Vang Vieng in the international spotlight, this former backwater town now attracts adventure seekers from around the world – not just party-hungry backpackers. With the new Chinese speed train connecting it perfectly to Luang Prabang and Vientiane, it’s become incredibly accessible for all types of travelers.
Is Vang Vieng Still Safe? My Honest Experience
The short answer: YES. I did go on the river too, but consciously chose a different activity than the classic tubing. At the travel agency where I booked my trip, they recommended a combined journey: a bit of tubing in Vang Vieng… but then through a cave. And besides that, the majority would be kayaking on the Nam Song River. This seemed much safer and more active than the old “drunk tubing” scenario.
What has changed since the problems: The Laotian government drastically intervened after the tragic accidents in 2011. All dangerous ziplines and water slides are gone, drugs are strictly prohibited, and there are far fewer bars along the river. The tubing that exists now is more controlled and much safer.
Where is Vang Vieng Actually Located?
Vang Vieng is located about 160 kilometers north of the capital Vientiane, on the Nam Song River. It has around 25,000 inhabitants and until it was discovered by tourists, it was a village where time had stood still. Now there’s a relaxed adventure tourism atmosphere, attracting everyone from backpackers to luxury travelers.
Game-changer: The new Chinese-built high-speed railway has revolutionized access to Vang Vieng. What used to be a bone-rattling 4-6 hour bus journey from Luang Prabang now takes just 50 minutes by train! This has opened up Vang Vieng to a much wider range of visitors, including older travelers and families who previously would have skipped it due to the difficult journey.
My Vang Vieng Adventure: Tubing Through a Cave
So I booked that new, safer and more active trip. I can tell you I had a wonderful day! The weather was beautiful and the group was fun – two Dutch girls, a girl from the US, and a man from Israel.
The Tham Xang Cave (Elephant Cave)
We started at the Tham Xang cave – they called it the elephant cave. As with many caves, you already know you’ll encounter something that looks like an elephant. Inside we found a large reclining Buddha, truly impressive in that underground space.
Walk Through the Laotian Countryside
After this we walked through the amazing landscape, past several villages. We were on our way to the place where we would go tubing – but in a cave! You’re really standing in the middle of rural Laotian life. That walk through the rice fields with those mountains in the background was truly magnificent.
Budget tip: This combined day costs about $18-25 including transport, lunch and all activities. Much better value than just tubing.
Tubing in the Tham Nam Cave
And then came the highlight: tubing through a cave! We each got a tube (one of those round inflated rings) and a lamp for our heads. A rope hung from the cave ceiling that we could pull ourselves forward with. We would be in the cave for about 45 minutes.
In the background you can see the cave we entered
It was really super fun! Some sections were very shallow and we walked stretches dragging our tube behind us. At first it was quite chilly, but because you’re actively moving it becomes quite manageable. Unfortunately I didn’t have a waterproof bag for my camera, so no photos from inside – definitely buy a waterproof phone case!
Afterwards we sat relaxing by the water, enjoying the view and sunshine with a BBQ lunch. Perfect break after that adventure.
Buy a waterproof phone case so you can take your phone into the cave.
Kayaking: The Real Highlight
After that we kayaked 18 kilometers down the river back to Vang Vieng. I really didn’t feel like it was that far! After traveling for a while and being inactive (that 22-hour bus from Vietnam to Laos…) it was wonderful to use my muscles again.
Why kayaking is better than just tubing: You have control over your speed, you’re actively engaged, and you see much more of the landscape. Most Vang Vieng travel guide focus heavily on tubing, but I’d argue kayaking gives you a much more rewarding experience. Halfway we stopped on shore for drinks. I saw that alcohol was being sold there and they found it strange that I just wanted soft drinks – the old reputation still lingers a bit.
Along the way we encountered tubers who wanted to hold onto our kayak because they found it too slow. That’s when I was really glad I had chosen the kayak version! You drift very slowly down the Nam Song River when tubing, you can only paddle a bit with your hands.
Would you also like to book this combination trip of tubing and kayaking? Look for your possibilities
More to Do in Vang Vieng (Without Alcohol Focus)
The Nam Xay Viewpoint – Instagram’s Most Famous Laos Spot
This is THE viewpoint where those iconic motorbike photos come from that have made Vang Vieng Instagram-famous worldwide. You’ve definitely seen them – those perfectly staged shots with vintage motorbikes perched on a mountain peak with the Laotian flag fluttering in the wind, overlooking dramatic karst mountains and rice paddies.
The 25-minute climb is steep but absolutely worth it, especially at sunset when the whole landscape turns golden. Pro Instagram tip: Get there early (before 7 AM) to avoid the crowds and get that perfect shot without dozens of people waiting in line behind you.
Essential info: Wear sturdy shoes, not flip-flops! If I go back, I’ll definitely visit this place, it’s become a must-do for every traveler to Laos.
Scooter Adventures
I always love exploring the surroundings by bike, but in Vang Vieng you’re better off taking a scooter because of the distances. There’s a 26-kilometer route called the “West Vang Vieng Loop” – highly recommended! You ride past rice fields, through the karst mountains, and can stop wherever you want.
Practical info: Renting a scooter costs about $10 per day.
Blue Lagoons
In the area you’ll find various blue lagoons, especially beautiful during the dry season. The water is crystal clear and truly blue then. Perfect for cooling off after a day of scootering or walking.
Tham Jang Cave
One of the many caves in the Vang Vieng area. This cave was used as a bunker during the war with China. So there’s plenty of room to walk around and because the cave is situated higher up, it offers you another amazing view over the landscape around Vang Vieng.
Hot Air Balloon Ride Vang Vieng
Haven’t had enough of the landscape around Vang Vieng and the beautiful panoramic views it can offer? Then book a balloon ride. Every day you see many floating over the village and surroundings. I once took a flight in Cappadocia, Turkey and it definitely gives you a beautiful overview of the area and it’s naturally a wonderful experience to do!
Book your Hot Air Balloon ride in Vang Vieng
Are you actively inclined and do you like a nice climbing challenge?
There are plenty of opportunities to actually go rock climbing! Vang Vieng has become a serious rock climbing destination with routes for all skill levels. Adam’s Climbing School offers half-day courses for beginners, while experienced climbers can tackle the more challenging limestone cliffs.
I would have definitely done it if I had been there a few years later. Or go ziplining through the green surroundings of Vang Vieng, multiple operators offer canopy tours that let you soar above the jungle with epic views of the Nam Song River below.
For the ultimate adrenaline rush: Try paramotoring! It’s newer than hot air ballooning but gives you that powered flight experience over the stunning karst landscape. If any of these had existed when I was there, I would have definitely booked them! I do love a bit of adventure!
Budget Backpacking in Vang Vieng
Daily budget:
- Hostel: $6-12 per night
- Local food: $6-10 per day
- Activities: $12-18 average
- Scooter (shared): $5 per day
Total: about $30-42 per day, perfect for backpackers! Unless you book more expensive trips like a balloon ride or ziplining of course.
Budget tip most Vang Vieng travel guides miss: Many activities can be combined into day packages for better value. The cave tubing + kayaking combo I did cost $25 including lunch, transport, and equipment, much cheaper than booking separately. Always ask about package deals when planning your activities.
The Best Time for Backpackers
November to April is perfect – dry, sunny and all activities possible. March-April can be very smoky due to burning season. May to October is cheaper but you risk daily rain showers.
I was there in the dry season (November) and it was truly beautiful weather for all outdoor activities.
Complete Vang Vieng Travel Guide: From Adventure to Accommodation
Classic backpacker route: Luang Prabang (4-5 days) → Vang Vieng (2-3 days) → Vientiane (1-2 days) → Don Det (3-4 days)
Vang Vieng is the perfect stopover – not too long, not too short, and a good change between cultural Luang Prabang and the relaxed Don Det islands. This travel guide to Vang Vieng shows you exactly how to make the most of your time here, whether you’re backpacking through Laos or taking a luxury trip.
I always love getting some color in the photo
Where to Stay in Vang Vieng
Looking for some peace and nature? Stay at the beautiful D & D guesthouse just outside Vang Vieng.
Or do you want to stay in the bustling center of Vang Vieng? The Sisavang Mountain View hotel has a nice swimming pool and can help you book all your fun excursions in Vang Vieng.
This Vang Vieng travel guide is just the beginning of what Laos has to offer. After experiencing the adventure capital, consider exploring these other incredible destinations:
- The Beautiful sunset on Mount Phu Si – Luang Prabang
- The Mysterious Plain of Jars – Phonsavan
- What to do near Pakse – Bolaven Plateau
- Visit Four Thousand Islands – Si Phan Don, Laos