Things To Do
in Salavan
Salavan is a province located in southern Laos, known for its lush forests and picturesque landscapes. The area is home to various ethnic minority groups, contributing to its cultural diversity. Visitors can explore traditional villages, trek through the stunning countryside, and experience local markets selling handicrafts and produce.
Salavan offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for outdoor adventure and immersion in authentic Laotian culture.
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Khawp chai" - Thank you
- "Sala baai" - How are you?
- "Noy noy" - A little
- "Baw" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can enjoy fresh produce and traditional snacks. Engage with local vendors to learn more about Salavan's unique culture.
Visit the Salavan Museum to discover the region's history and heritage. Don't miss the artifacts and exhibits that showcase the diverse ethnic groups in the area.
Enjoy a dinner at a traditional Lao restaurant, sampling regional dishes. Take a stroll around town to experience Salavan's relaxed nighttime atmosphere.
Head to the nearby Bolaven Plateau for stunning views and lush landscapes. Begin with a guided hike through coffee plantations and waterfalls.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Tad Fane Waterfall, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch by the falls. Take some time to swim or take photos in this beautiful natural setting.
Return to Salavan and unwind at a local café, sipping on Lao coffee. Reflect on your day's adventures as night falls.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and lush green valleys.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional Laotian customs and festivals.
- Less touristy compared to other destinations in Laos, providing a more authentic experience.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, biking, and exploring waterfalls.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities for tourists compared to more popular destinations.
- Language barrier, as English may not be widely spoken.
- Access to certain areas may be challenging due to road conditions.
- Fewer options for dining and entertainment.
- Potential for limited healthcare facilities in case of emergencies.
Best Activities in Salavan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike to the Tadlo Waterfall and take a refreshing swim in its natural pool.
Embark on a trekking or cycling adventure to explore the stunning landscapes, coffee plantations, and ethnic villages of the Bolaven Plateau.
Discover the diverse wildlife and lush greenery while trekking in the Dong Hua Sao National Protected Area, which offers various trekking trails for nature enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Salavan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Salavan
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and stunning views, including rice fields and mountains.
Offers panoramic views of lush greenery and unique geological formations, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by tropical forests, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Food in Salavan
Salavan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Laap is a minced meat salad often made with chicken, fish, or beef, mixed with herbs, lime juice, and ground rice. It's a must-try dish that embodies the essence of Lao cuisine. You can savor authentic Laap at Kualuang Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Khao Piak Sen is a comforting noodle soup dish featuring handmade rice noodles, tender meat, and a flavorful broth. Visit Nang Khao Restaurant to sample this soul-warming delicacy.
Or Lam is a hearty stew prepared with an assortment of vegetables, fragrant herbs, and your choice of meat. It's a wholesome dish that's best enjoyed at the bustling Salavan Night Market.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Salavan Night Market is a treasure trove of local street food, offering a myriad of grilled meats, fresh seafood, and delectable snacks. You'll find an array of dishes like barbecued skewers and savory pancakes, creating a feast for the senses.
Talat Lak 20 is a vibrant food market where you can experience the pulse of local life while sampling an array of authentic Laotian street food. From spicy papaya salad to grilled river fish, this market is a paradise for food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Salavan, Laos, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and offering assistance when needed.
It is respectful to dress modestly, particularly when visiting temples or attending traditional ceremonies in Salavan, Laos.
Removing shoes before entering someone's home or a temple is a common practice in Salavan, Laos, and is a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Salavan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Salavan, Laos. It is not customary to tip in restaurants, hotels, or for most services.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Salavan, Laos. Credit cards may be accepted in some larger hotels or restaurants, but it's always best to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Salavan with dry and cool weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning natural scenery.
Expect heavy rainfall and lush, green landscapes. May experience occasional flooding, but also witness the region at its most vibrant and fertile state.
Salavan at Night
Hiking in Salavan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected area offering diverse wildlife and scenic trails for hiking enthusiasts. It features stunning landscapes and opportunities for birdwatching.
This area is known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful hilly terrain, providing numerous hiking opportunities through lush forests and past waterfalls.
A mountain that offers trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills, making it a popular hike for both locals and visitors.
A trek along the Nam Eth River that showcases the natural beauty of the region, featuring streams, forests, and the possibility of wildlife sightings.
Known for its cooler climate and stunning waterfalls, the Bolaven Plateau offers several hiking trails that lead to picturesque views and local coffee plantations.
Aiports
How to reach Salavan by plane.
The nearest major airport to Salavan, located in Savannakhet, approximately 120 km away.
Located in Vientiane, about 390 km from Salavan, this is the main international airport in Laos.
An international airport located in Luang Prabang, approximately 440 km from Salavan.
Located in Pakse, around 250 km from Salavan, it serves as another international gateway in southern Laos.
Situated in Thailand, about 100 km from Salavan, it handles international flights and is a viable option for travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Salavan, Laotian people primarily speak the Lao language and practice Theravada Buddhism.
An indigenous ethnic group, the Khmu people are known for their traditional agricultural practices and rich cultural heritage.
This group includes various highland ethnic groups that often practice shifting cultivation and have distinct cultural practices.
Comprising ethnic groups that inhabit the mountainous regions, they are known for their unique customs and languages.
A smaller demographic group that has migrated to Laos, often involved in trade and commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Salavan and throughout Laos, with local leagues and teams participating in various competitions.
A traditional sport in Southeast Asia, sepak takraw is similar to volleyball but uses a rattan ball and players hit it with their feet, head, knees, and chest.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Salavan, with courts available in many schools and public areas.
Several forms of martial arts are practiced in Salavan, including traditional Lao martial arts like Muay Lao.
Volleyball is also a common sport in Salavan, played recreationally and competitively in schools and communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salavan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Lao cuisine prominently features meat, many eateries in Salavan offer vegetarian and vegan versions of classic dishes. Restaurants like Kualuang and Nang Khao are accommodating and can customize dishes to suit vegetarian and vegan preferences.
For those with gluten restrictions, Café Sabaidee is an excellent choice, providing a selection of gluten-free pastries and treats to indulge in. Additionally, communicating dietary needs to local vendors at food markets allows for a tailored culinary experience.