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The 4,000 Islands of Laos

Updated: | Published: by |

In southern Laos, near the border of Cambodia, is a region along the Mekong River collectively referred to as 4,000 Islands.  As the name implies, there are thousands of little islands dotting the river.

Among the most popular for backpackers is Don Det, due to its laid back atmosphere (and electricity!).

Approaching the Mekong River for the short boat ride to Don Det (island).
Approaching the Mekong River for the short boat ride to Don Det (island).

A cold beerlao is enjoyed alongside the slow-moving Mekong waters.
A cold beerlao is enjoyed alongside the slow-moving Mekong waters.

Lap Chicken: Minced chicken is mixed with fresh herbs and served over rice.
Lap Chicken: Minced chicken is mixed with fresh herbs and served over rice.

A large waterfall rages alongside the island of Don Khone.
A large waterfall rages alongside the island of Don Khone.

Walking amongst the rice paddies of Don Det.
Walking amongst the rice paddies of Don Det.

Exploring the island of Don Khone while enjoying a brief break in the clouds.
Exploring the island of Don Khone while enjoying a brief break in the clouds.

Kids at play.
Kids at play.

School kids cross the an old bridge built by the French to connect Don Det and Don Khone (islands).
School kids cross the an old bridge built by the French to connect Don Det and Don Khone (islands).

A local boy goes for a ride.
A local boy goes for a ride.

Inexpensive accommodations line the edges of Don Det, with porches perfect for lounging around in hammocks.
Inexpensive accommodations line the edges of Don Det, with porches perfect for lounging around in hammocks.

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About Dave Lee

Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio. He's been to 68 countries and lived in Colombia and Peru. Read the full story of how he became a travel blogger.

Comments

  1. James Clark says

    Great photos! I was there in the dry season so I didn't see that raging torrent of a waterfall or beautiful green rice fields like that.

  2. Giulia says

    Wow... amazing photos and amazing places! this area has been in my wishlist for too long! Thank you!!!

  3. Dave says

    Yea, that was cool to see, but in exchange, we had rain and clouds. Very muddy!

  4. Dave says

    Thanks. It's super laid back down there, and a fun little adventure.

  5. backpackingmatt says

    Excellent photos - looks like a terrific place, even with the clouds.

  6. GlobalButterfly says

    What a cool place! I love the shot of the waterfall and the boy riding the donkey (?)!

    • Don Lee says

      That is a young water buffalo. They are very docile and are found all around Don Det.

      • Dave says

        Thanks Don!

  7. Aaron says

    I loved 4,000 Islands so much! Absolute bliss. Though FYI, Don Det and Don Khone now have electricity 24/7, which led to some very loud local karaoke nights on Don Khone!

  8. Fred says

    What a wonderfull place, so peacefull it seems time just stoped.

  9. Oliver says

    Very jealous of your lifestyle you professional traveller you.

  10. SID says

    Grreat relaxing place but watch what u eat like the happy food or happy shake cause i didn t find out till it was to late, it contains marijuana i was pretty wasted after i ate the food.

    • Dave says

      That sucks, I'm surprised the staff didn't warn you, or at least confirm what you ordered was "happy" food.

  11. Shannon @ Life, Other Than says

    Amazing photos! Good comment also about the "happy food." That's awesome.