Things To Do
in Pakxé
Pakxé (Pakse) sits on the Mekong River in southern Laos as a relaxed regional hub and a gateway to the Bolaven Plateau. The town blends Lao temple life, colonial-era charm, and riverfront cafés with easy access to waterfalls, coffee farms, and hill-tribe villages. Market bustle, riverfront scenery, and warm Lao hospitality define everyday life here.
Its tropical heat and laid-back pace make it a great base for day trips and slow travel through Champasak Province.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Pakxé and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the Mekong River to absorb the town's laid-back charm. Enjoy a traditional Laotian breakfast at a local café, savoring the flavors and aromas of freshly cooked dishes.
Visit the nearby Bolaven Plateau, renowned for its coffee farms and stunning waterfalls. Engage with local farmers to learn about coffee cultivation and enjoy tastings of the world-class brews. Capture the picturesque landscapes that this region is famous for.
Return to Pakxé and enjoy a riverside dinner at a local restaurant. As the sun sets, indulge in traditional Laotian dishes while listening to the gentle lapping of the Mekong. Explore the vibrant night market for souvenirs and local street food treats.
After breakfast, head to Wat Luang, the largest and most important temple in Pakxé. Marvel at the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere as you wander through the temple grounds. Take some time for reflection or meditation in this sacred space.
Visit the nearby Champasak Archaeological Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Browse through fascinating exhibits showcasing artifacts from the ancient capital of Champasak. Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Wat Phu, a stunning temple complex with impressive stone structures.
Return to Pakxé and check out the local food stalls for dinner. Sample unique dishes, such as papaya salad or grilled fish, while engaging with local vendors. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the riverbank under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚗Local transportation (tuk-tuk or songthaew per ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🧳Souvenir item | $2-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the Bolaven Plateau and nature trips
- Friendly locals and relaxed vibe
- Good value for money and fresh river cuisine
- Charming riverside scenery and markets
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Hot and humid climate can be tiring in peak day heat
- Some tourist services can be basic, and English may be less widely spoken outside main spots
- Roads to some remote attractions can be bumpy during the rainy season
- "Sabaidee" - Hello / Hi
- "Khop jai" - Thank you
- "Dai dai" - Excuse me / Pardon me
- "Khow jai dee" - Nice to meet you
- "Sai diao" - No problem
Places to Visit in Pakxé
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour light over the wide Mekong, with boats and palm silhouettes framing the riverwalk.
Intricate temple architecture and serene courtyards offering quiet composition opportunities.
Colorful stalls, stacked produce, and lively vendor scenes make vibrant documentary shots.
Wide river views, ferries, and riverside activity ideal for long-exposure and street photography.
Food in Pakxé
Pakxé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A zesty minced-meat salad with lime, herbs, and toasted rice; widely available at markets and Lao restaurants.
Must-Try!
A hearty, aromatic stew usually made with meat, eggplant, lemongrass, and herbs, often served with sticky rice.
A comforting Lao noodle soup with a rich broth and handmade rice noodles.
Lao-style baguette often filled with meat, herbs, and chili—popular for a quick street snack.
Papaya salad with lime, chili, garlic, and peanuts; fresh, spicy, and commonly found at markets and stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling morning market where you can sample fresh fruit, sticky rice, noodle dishes, and Lao snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove shoes before entering temples, and speak softly near sacred spaces.
A polite Lao greeting is Sabaidee; a gentle bow or hands pressed together is common in respectful interactions.
Avoid touching someone’s head and pointing feet at people or sacred objects; show respect in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Pakxé
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Small tips (1–5 USD) to guides, drivers, and staff are common in tourist areas.
Cash (LAK and USD) is widely used; some shops accept cards in Pakxé, but many places are cash-only. ATMs are available in town for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Lush landscapes with afternoon downpours; prepare for humidity and occasional travel delays; carry a lightweight rain jacket.
Pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor exploring and photography without excessive heat.
Pakxé at Night
Hiking in Pakxé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and viewpoints near the waterfalls and coffee plantations; a great way to experience highland scenery.
Gentle hikes through plantation grounds with opportunities to learn about Lao coffee production and farming practices.
Airports
How to reach Pakxé by plane.
Located near Pakxé, this airport handles domestic flights and a limited number of regional connections; taxi or tuk-tuk can bring you to town.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the region, primarily Lao-speaking and Buddhist.
Small communities in the surrounding hills and villages with distinct traditions and crafts.
Seasonal travelers and long-term visitors who contribute to a small but growing international presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular leisure activity and local pastime; you’ll often see games in parks and schoolyards.
Common in schools and community centers; casual games are easy to find in the city.
Relaxed social games seen in some parks and café areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pakxé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lao vegetarian options are widely available in cafes and markets. Look for dishes centered on tofu, mushrooms, vegetables, and sticky rice; ask for no fish sauce or meat broth if needed.