Vang Vieng Travel

Vang Vieng Weather Overview

Vang Vieng weather is somewhat the same as Vientiane. Average temperatures in Vang Vieng vary little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for most of the year with a low chance of precipitation most of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 24th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Vang Vieng, the hottest months are April, May, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid April where highs are regularly around 95.8°F (35.4°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 76°F (24.4°C) at night.

Check the below table for the general idea of Vang Vieng weather throughout the year.

Best time to go to Vang Vieng

The best time to visit Vang Vieng is during the dry season from November to March, when temperatures are somewhat cooler. March to May is the hot season and the temperatures can reach 40ºC or higher. The wet season runs from May to October and the rains can make traveling around the surrounding area difficult.

It also depends on what you want to do. Vang Vieng is known among backpackers for tubing, where you ride a rubber tube down the river while drinking along the way. Today tubing is much less prevalent than 6 years ago, when it peaked and Vang Vieng became notorious for drunk parties and bad safety cause lots of tourists to die

• For tubing: to enjoy tubing, the best time to do so is during the wet summer months (May-September) or the first few months of the dry season (October-mid December). In the later months of the dry season (January - April), the water level may be too low to enjoy tubing comfortably (see more details)
• If you like peace and quiet: early rain season (May - July) is a good time to visit because there are far fewer tourists and backpackers around during this time. Rain is obviously an issue but it's not as bad as July and August. Rain also replenishes all the rivers and lakes around here so you really get the Vang Vieng's vibe during this time of the year

Vang Vieng Seasonal Weather Guide

Spring (March through May)

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 95.8°F (35.4°C) and 90.5°F (32.5°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 2 to 11 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the slowest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with 12 to 16 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the second busiest season for tourism in Vang Vieng, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly more.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 89.9°F (32.2°C) and 85.7°F (29.8°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 1 to 13 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Vang Vieng to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 91.9°F (33.3°C) and 79.5°F (26.4°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: consistently 1 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Vang Vieng current weather & 7-day Forecast

VANG VIENG WEATHER

From its towering karsts and aquamarine pools, to tubing, kayaking and zip lining, you’ll be spoiled for choice with all the incredible things to do in Vang Vieng, Laos. Vang Vieng has something for everyone, boasting stunning natural scenery, numerous caves, water sports, adventure activities and friendly, laid-back vibes everywhere you go. So whether you’re planning on spending one day or one week, Vang Vieng has it all for you.

1. Rock Climbing

Hire a guide and rent equipment from one of several rock-climbing schools such as Adam’s Climbing School and drive the short distance to one of two locations where routes from novice to expert have been anchored to the limestone karst by European and Lao climbers. Half-day, full-day and multi-day options are available. Some routes are open all year, others close in the rainy season.

2. Tubing

Rent an inflatable inner tube and take a tuk tuk to Mulberry Farm (or even farther upstream if you don’t want to stop at the bars.) Float down the Nam Song and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. Take a pit stop by grabbing onto a rope thrown out from the banks by tavern proprietors and grab a cold one or play volleyball on dry land. Don’t forget the sunscreen. A dry bag purchased at any souvenir shop in town is a necessity to keep your clothes and phone from getting wet.

3. Hiking

The hiking in Vang Vieng ranges from rather flat treks around the river to challenging uphill treks involving scrambling up rocks or wading across streams. Some hikes lead to caves, others to the tops of hills looking out over the town. Try hiking to the top of Phangern Mountain, you’ll see the white flag flying at the top. From the base of the mountain it’s a solid 30-minute hike up wooden ladders and boulders, but the view is well worth it.

4. Sip a Cocktail on the River

Lao lao, the locally distilled rice spirit, makes cocktails plentiful and inexpensive in Laos. Relax on on of the many hotel terraces overlooking the Nam Song and partake in happy hour. Sip a delicious concoction while watching the motor boats cruise down the river during sunset.

5. Walk Through the Rice Paddies

Just over the toll bridge, at one end of town, the bustle of the bar scene gives way to rice fields, cow pastures and bamboo huts. Walking through the flooded rice fields is a meditative experience. Be on the lookout for giant snails, dragonflies, frogs and fish that call the rice paddies home. With the blue sky and mountainous backdrop, you’d be hard pressed to find a place more representative of Laos.

6. Kayaking

Rent a single or double kayak and choose your pace. Paddling is hardly necessary as you float with the current down the Nam Song. You can also pick up the pace on the rapids of the nearby Nam Ngum, and take in the rice paddies and mountains on the west bank, and wave at the tourists in town on the east bank. Kayak rentals are available through any of the dozens of tour operators around town or can be booked through your guest house.

7. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Waking up before dawn is worth the spectacular views of the mist over the mountains and river from the basket of a hot air balloon. This silent and majestic form of transportation offers breathtaking views. Vang Vieng Tours offers several flights per day, but the tours fill up quickly so booking in advance is recommended.

8. Cycling

Rent a bicycle and head up Route 13 to take in the beautiful farms, bamboo houses and jungle mountains from the paved road. If you’re experienced and looking for more adventure, opt for mountain biking and take to the trails on the west side of the Nam Song. Looking for something slower paced? Opt for a guided tour on the packed dirt roads.

9. Caving

Tham Sang Triangle — four caves in walking distance of one another 8 miles (13 kilometres) north of Vang Vieng — is easily accessible by bicycle or tuk tuk and can be part of a half- or full-day tourist package. Tham Sang (Elephant Cave) has an elephant-shaped stalactite inside. Tham Hoi has a Buddha at the entrance, and Tham Loup has stunning stalactites. In the rainy season, visitors can rent a tube and float inside Tham Nam.

10. Swim in the Blue Lagoon

Vang Vieng has three blue lagoons that are accessible as part of a packaged tour, including visiting caves, swimming in the lagoons, hiking and tubing. The swimming holes are also easily accessibly via tuk tuk or bicycle. Take a dip in the azure water during the dry season when they are their prettiest color.

Hiking, kayaking, and tubing in Vang Vieng will surely work up an appetite. But you might be overwhelmed come meal time with Vang Vieng’s surplus of sandwich stands, noodle shops, and cheap eats catering to backpackers. So we’ve compiled a list of the top eateries in Vang Vieng – everything from excellent local, Western, and ethnic cuisines.

Viman Vang Vieng

Viman Vang Vieng is run by Mr. Kaz, who is Thai-born but lived in Germany for decades before opening up Viman. This restaurant specialises in both Thai and German food. Mr. Kaz is a Renaissance man waiting on tables and cooking up a fabulous schnitzel and delicious curries. He is also a musician and a painter. His restaurant showcases his artwork as well as his culinary prowess.

More Info

• Meal service: All Day
• Atmosphere: Arty, Outdoors, Unusual
• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos
• Phone: +856 20 5892 6695
• Visit Facebook page

Il Tavolo

Il Tavalo will give pizzerias in Italy a run for their money. Perfect crust and a wide variety of toppings ranging from white pizza, lots of vegetarian options, and the gamut of charcuterie and cheeses are on offer. Run by an Italian father-and-son duo and away from the tourist crowds down town, it’s a must for anyone craving authentic pasta or pizza and a glass of wine.

More Info

• Meal service: Lunch
• Atmosphere: Relaxed, Casual, Traditional
• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos
• Phone: +856 20 7854 2528
• Visit website
• Visit Facebook page

Amigos Vang Vieng

For the best Mexican food in Laos, look no further than Lao- and Australian-run Amigos. The sister establishment of the original Amigos in Luang Prabang, this Vang Vieng restaurant serves equally delicious tacos, nachos, french fries, and guacamole when avocados are in season. Locally sourced ingredients and a killer playlist make this hidden gem in a secret garden a must-visit.

More Info.

• Meal service: All Day
• Atmosphere: Casual, Cosy, Outdoors, Fast Casual
• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos
• Phone: +856 20 5697 5509
• Visit website

Peeping Som's Bar and Restaurant

Peeping Som’s is a Korean barbecue joint on the main road in Vang Vieng and is popular with Korean and Western tourists alike. Come hungry, come with friends, and cook your own meats and vegetables at your table. A range of Lao and Korean cocktails and beers are available on the drink menu as well.

More Info.

• Atmosphere: Outdoors, Secret, Casual
• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos
• Phone: +856 20 5577 3459
• Visit Facebook page

Green Restaurant

Green Restaurant serves up impeccable views of the Nam Song alongside a mean curry and fabulous fresh spring rolls. While the menu has plenty of Western options, the Asian side of it is where Green Restaurant really shines. Order a fruit shake to accompany your chicken satay or lam stew or pad thai.

More Info.

• Meal service: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Atmosphere: Cosy, Outdoors, Relaxed
• Location: Google Maps
• Adress: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos
• Location: +856 20 2860 8030
• Visit Facebook page

Pizza Luka

There is no shortage of pizzerias in Vang Vieng but only one is run by French chef Jean-Loup, who cooks his pies in the outdoor oven he built himself. Pizza Luka is named for Jean-Loup’s son and serves pizza, lasagna, salads, and desserts six nights a week. Try the white pizza or the goat cheese honey pizza, which features locally made goat cheese from Vang Vieng’s organic farm.

More Info.

• Meal service: Dinner
• Atmosphere: Cosy, Outdoors, Open Kitchen
• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos
• Phone: +856 20 5912 3403
• Visit Facebook page

Nazim Indian

They’ve got your butter chicken and your garlic naan and your tiki masala. Nazim took over this Indian restaurant in 2017 and caters to tourists and locals with a wide variety of dishes, including plenty of vegetarian and some vegan options. In addition to Indian favourites, Nazim has a page of Malay foods on the menu that are halal.

More Info.

• Meal service: Takeaway, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Atmosphere: Casual, Relaxed
• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos
• Phone: +856 20 5551 9877

Chaleun Restaurant

Chaleun is a homy family-run restaurant with fabulous noodle and rice dishes. Unlike many local restaurants, Chaleun also has excellent Western cuisine, including pesto, garlic bread or burgers and fries. Sit Lao-style at low tables on cushions or at the tables. Every meal purchased comes with a free fruit shake, coffee, or tea.

More Info

• Atmosphere: Casual, Cosy, Traditional
• Sun - Sat: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
• Location: Google Maps
• Adress: Across from K Mart Main Road, Vang Vieng, Laos

Restaurant du Crabe d'Or

Restaurant du Crabe d’Or is a fine dining establishment at Riverside Boutique Resort in Vang Vieng. Overlooking the river and mountains beyond, the restaurant is named after a nearby cave and serves both traditional Lao and French cuisine. Try the Lao Degustation Menu to taste five local dishes made with ingredients from the Vang Vieng morning market.

More Info

• Meal service: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Atmosphere: Boutique, Fine Dining, Gourmet
• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos
• Phone: +856 23 511 726
• Visit website

Lotus Restaurant

Lotus Restaurant is on the other side of the toll bridge from the main town of Vang Vieng. Run by Boa and Philippe, it specialises in French and Lao cooking. Eat inside or at the charming garden surrounded by plants and natural beauty on the quiet side of the Nam Song. Try the laap or fish soup if you’re leaning toward the Lao side of the menu or opt for a burger and fries if you’ve got a hankering for Western food.

More Info

• Meal service: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Atmosphere: Arty, Cosy, Quirky
• Location: Google Maps
• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos

It’s no wonder, with its wide range of accommodation, from the cheap hostels to the five-star hotels, new visitors are befuddled with all the options in terms of pricing, location, and amenities. Let this list be the ultimate guide when it comes down to booking the potentially best place to stay in Vang Vieng.

Budget options

Mountain View Riverside

Nestled in the heart of Viengkeo, Mountain View Riverside Boutique Hotel is an ideal spot from which to discover Vang Vieng. 

At Mountain View Riverside Boutique Hotel, the excellent service and superior facilities make for an unforgettable stay.

For the comfort and convenience of guests, the hotel offers 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, fireplace.

24 rooms spread over 4 floors provide a warm and pleasant home away from home. Modern comforts such as television LCD/plasma screen, additional toilet, complimentary instant coffee, complimentary tea, dressing room can be found in selected rooms. The hotel offers wonderful recreational facilities such as massage, billiards, garden to make your stay truly unforgettable.

Adress: Old Market River side Road, Viengkeo, Vang Vieng, Laos

Mid-range options

Vansana Hotel Vang Vieng

Situated in central Vangvieng, this 3-star property is perfectly aligned along the banks of the Namsong River, making an ideal place to stay in a prime location for all travelers. Offering premium guestrooms, junior suites, and executive suites, Vansana Hotel Vang Vieng features modern amenities designed for utmost luxury. When you are done with roaming around to explore the surroundings, take time to relax in your room, overlooking the glittering waters in the Namsong River and the peaceful mountain landscape. Guests can also enjoy a fine assortment in the on-site restaurant or swim in the beautiful pool for relaxation. 

Adress: Ban Sysavang, Vang Vieng Riverfront, Vang Vieng, Laos

Villa Nam Song

The hotel is not too far from the city center: just 0.5 km away, and it normally takes about 185 minutes to reach the airport. 

At Villa Nam Song, the excellent service and superior facilities make for an unforgettable stay. For the comfort and convenience of guests, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi in all rooms, daily housekeeping, 24-hour security, wheelchair accessible, taxi service.

Step into one of 16 inviting rooms and escape the stresses of the day with a wide range of amenities such as clothes rack, complimentary instant coffee, complimentary tea, free welcome drink, towels which can be found in some rooms.

The complete list of recreational facilities is available at the hotel, including boats, massage, garden.

Adress: Viengkeo village, near the riverbanks of Nam Song river and next to the long tail boat station, Vang Vieng Riverfront, Vang Vieng, Laos

Silver Naga

Situated right on the river bank in the heart of town, Silver Naga Hotel offers magnificent mountain views on top of warm caring hospitality. Travelers will surely enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay with the property’s determination to boast ethical tourism, a tranquil environment, and excellent service. Whether on business or holiday, each of the 50 rooms at this 4-star property are designed to help guests relax in comfort and style. A television and hair dryer are among the amenities guests will find in every room. Featuring laundry service/dry cleaning, shops, and room service, this Vang Vieng hotel is sure to make each guest's trip an enjoyable one. Facilities for recreation and leisure available include a garden and outdoor pool. 

Adress: Ban Savang, Vang Vieng Riverfront, Vang Vieng, Laos

Deluxe options

Inthira Vang Vieng

Inthira Vang Vieng is located in the heart of Vang Vieng City. Chic and contemporary in design, all 38 well-appointed rooms have a private balcony and unobstructed view of the river and mountain. The hotel offers many facilities, including Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, ample car-park, 24-hour CCTV, safe deposit box in all rooms, air conditioner temperature control in each room, and room service.

For the guest leisure and dining experience, the hotel provides outdoor wading and adult pool with restaurant, bar, and BBQ area. All facilities are overlooking relaxing scenic view of the river and mountain, which will be a perfect setting for poolside functions and activities.

To cater special event such as meeting, seminars, private parties, and conferences, the hotel’s function room able to accommodate total of 50 persons.

Adress: Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng Riverfront, Vang Vieng, Laos

Amari Vang Vieng

Offering quality accommodations in the sightseeing, sports, romance district of Vang Vieng, Amari Vang Vieng is a popular pick for both business and leisure travelers. From here, guests can make the most of all that the lively city has to offer. With its convenient location, the property offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations.

The facilities and services provided by Amari Vang Vieng ensure a pleasant stay for guests. A selection of top-class facilities such as free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour room service, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, wheelchair accessible can be enjoyed here.

The property's accommodations have been carefully appointed to the highest degree of comfort and convenience. In some of the rooms, guests can find closet, cleaning products, complimentary tea, towels, scale. The property offers wonderful recreational facilities such as outdoor pool, spa, garden to make your stay truly unforgettable. 

Adress: Song River Road, Vang Vieng Riverfront, Vang Vieng, Lao

Luxury options

Riverside Boutique Resort

Riverside Boutique Resort is a luxury resort located on the banks of the Nam Song River with stunning views over the limestone mountains of Vang Vieng. The property is set within a tropical garden and organized around a central swimming pool. Despite its location in the quietest part of town, this hotel is within easy reach of the center and provided as a perfect departure point for excursions in the countryside. Riverside Boutique Resort is known to be the first high-end hotel that systematically celebrates the exceptional cultural and natural diversity of Laos. 

Adress: PO Box 360, Vang Vieng Riverfront, Vang Vieng, Laos

By Bus

Vang Vieng is on Highway 13 between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. By bus (road and bus conditions permitting) about 6-8 hrs from Luang Prabang, around 3-4 hr from Vientiane.

Tickets for tourist buses and minivans can be purchased at almost every guesthouse and should include pick-up at the hotel.

VIP buses from Vientiane cost about 50,000 kip. Minivans leave Vientiane all day and cost between 35,000-50,000 kip. The express bus to Vientiane costs 60,000 kip. Slower local buses to Vientiane without air conditioning run in the early morning (05:30-10:00) and cost about 40,000 kip for a 5 hour journey. You can board them either at the northern bus station or the bus stop south of the airstrip.

From Luang Prabang, VIP buses cost 150,000 kip and minivans cost 120,000 kip. If you're susceptible to motion sickness you'll be much better off on the slower bus than the minivan (or bring appropriate medication).

Bus Schedule from Vang Vieng

Getting into town from bus station

From Vientiane, buses will drop you off either at the old airstrip (from the Vietnam war, it's now just a giant gravel pad) and the tourist buses will drop you in front of a hotel on the main street in the town. The airstrip is directly behind the main street, so in either case there is no need to take a tuk-tuk or cyclo if you plan to stay in the main area of the town. The island and bungalows along the river are about a 10-min walk away.

Buses to and from the north Laos leave from the new bus terminal 2 km north of the town. When leaving Vang Vieng, transport to the bus station is usually included in the price of your ticket.

By Car

Highway 13 is a sealed, two-lane road that is slowly deteriorating. The road between Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang is mountainous and boasts amazing scenery. The road between Vang Vieng and Vientiane is flatter and less interesting.