Kayak Along the Mekong in Don Det

A Truly Magical River Island

Don Det is a tiny island among the 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don) archipelago in Southern Laos. It’s an area of the Mekong river full of islets, sandbanks, rice paddies and lush vegetation - a tranquil, magical setting unlike anything I’ve experienced before.

A backpacker haven, Don Det offers a serene natural escape while still boasting bars and delicious restaurants. Prepare to explore some remarkable natural sites by day and then deeply relax every night.

Take an All Day Kayaking Tour

From Don Det, you can schedule yourself for a full day kayaking adventure that explores the 4000 Islands archipelago region. You’ll stop at waterfalls (including Khone Phapheng Waterfalls, sometimes referred to as the "Niagara of Southeast Asia"), boat through rapids, swim at quiet beaches, and jump off of rocks in the middle of the river. If you’re lucky, you may even see the Irrawaddy dolphins - an endangered animal native to the region.

It’s a busy, delightful nature excursion. There are a few tourist agencies offering the tour in Don Det, so you can just book it when you arrive to the island.

Bike Around Don Det and Don Khon

The entire island of Don Det and the slightly larger island of Don Khon (which are connected by a bridge) can be easily biked within one day. Go around the perimeter of the islands, stopping to swim or check out a waterfall whenever you feel like it. (Be aware the Google Maps doesn’t have all the roads, and there is a path all the way around.) Make sure to check out this hidden beach on Don Khon. It was our favorite place. We also found a lovely, quiet swimming spot in this area.

Just Relax

Don Det is truly an escape - with a laid back lifestyle amidst beautiful views everywhere you look. Spend lots of time in your hammock; (Make sure you book a guesthouse with a hammock along the river). Grab dinner or drinks at a spot on the south side of the island with a sunset view - which is delightful every day. And if it’s your thing, there are places on the island to easily buy marijuana or shrooms. (I’m not going to share them here, but I promise they’re easy to find if you just ask at a bar.)