Your trip to Laos will almost certainly include a visit to the south of the country. The 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Done in Laotian) are a real haven of peace and in my opinion are an absolute must visit in the region.
In my opinion, the relaxed atmosphere and magnificent scenery, make the 4,000 Islands the ideal place to have a break and rest for a few days during a peripatetic trip .
A great moment of the stay is the opportunity to get on a little pirogue at the end of the day and try to see the Irrawaddy dolphins. And you also shouldn't miss the beautiful waterfalls of Phapeng, which form the border with Cambodia.
I found Don Khône the most interesting, mainly because that is where you'll find the Liphi waterfalls, whose volume is truly impressive. There is a road around the island which is ideal for a day's cycling. There is a French colonial bridge cnnecting it to the island of Don Det, which is where I decided to stay for a few days.
In my opinion, these two islands are the least touristy and the nicest. Don Khong island is loved by backpackers and is really crowded in high season.
I think this region is one of the most beautiful in Laos - you can enjoy the peace and quiet of Laotian life whilst being surrounded by sublime scenery. Don't miss it whatever you do!
I stayed on Don Det island for 5 days, in a little bungalow on the banks of the Mekong. The island's beach is tiny and often full of people.
You can swim from island to island. There are lots, of all different sizes, where you can rest after swimming in the Mekong. The islands go for as far as the eye can see and the scenery is incredible!
On the island you can take a bike to explore the rice paddies and the other side of the island which is less populated. There are also kayaking excursions where you might see dolphins.
This is just one of the enormous number of islands in the area...it's up to you to choose the one you want!