Things To Do
in Xékong
Xékong Province sits in southern Laos where the Sekong River carves through forested hills and scattered ethnic villages. The pace is slow, with markets, temples, and stilt houses offering a glimpse into daily rural life. Lush landscapes, caves, and coffee plantations in the highlands invite quiet adventures.
The region is less touristy than Laos’ well-trodden routes, rewarding travelers who seek authentic experiences off the beaten path.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Xékong with a delicious breakfast at a local eatery, where you can savor traditional Laotian dishes. After breakfast, head to the nearby Bolaven Plateau for a scenic hike amid lush coffee plantations. As you explore, enjoy the breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls that dot the landscape.
Continue your exploration of the Bolaven Plateau with a visit to a coffee farm, where you can learn about the coffee production process and sample some of the region's best brews. Spend some time relaxing by one of the serene waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip. As afternoon blends into evening, prepare for a peaceful ride back to Xékong, soaking in the stunning natural beauty along the way.
Back in Xékong, indulge in a hearty dinner featuring local Lao cuisine at a popular restaurant frequented by locals. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere as day transitions into night. Enjoy a nightcap at a cozy café, surrounded by the sounds of nature and soft local music.
Start your day with a visit to the Xékong Provincial Museum, which offers insights into the region's history and culture. Spend time exploring the various exhibits that highlight local traditions and artifacts. Afterward, head to the morning market to interact with vendors and taste delicious street food.
In the afternoon, visit a nearby ethnic village to learn about the unique customs and lifestyles of the local communities. Participate in a traditional weaving workshop, guided by skilled artisans who share their techniques and stories. Enjoy a simple yet authentic lunch with the villagers, deepening your cultural experience.
Return to Xékong and unwind with a scenic sunset view at a local viewpoint that overlooks the tranquil landscape. For dinner, choose a restaurant that features a blend of Lao and regional specialties, providing a delightful culinary journey. Finish your day by attending a community event or live performance, immersing yourself further in Laotian culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🧃Soft drink | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🍺Local beer | $1-2 |
| 🛵Scooter rental (per day) | $8-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Lao culture away from crowds
- Beautiful river scenery and highland landscapes
- Friendly locals and accessible village experiences
- Low-cost travel with simple, satisfying Lao cuisine
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas
- Fewer English speakers outside towns
- Sparse nightlife and fewer Western amenities
- Public transport options can be irregular
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Khop chai" - Thank you
- "Khơp jai" - You're welcome
- "Chǎw dâi māi?" - Could you please help me?
- "Ān-ahn—yī jai?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Xékong
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river bends with silhouettes of boats and distant hills; best during golden hour when water glows amber.
A cluster of teak stilt houses along the riverbank; capture daily life, textile weaving, and children at play.
Terraced plots and misty mornings in higher elevations; ideal for atmospheric landscape shots and sunrises.
Forest path leading to a cascading waterfall; opportunities for long-exposure shots and lush greenery.
Food in Xékong
Xékong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A zesty minced meat salad with herbs, lime, and chilies—try it with sticky rice as a staple accompaniment.
Must-Try!
Shredded green papaya with peppers, tomatoes, dried shrimp, and lime; a refreshing counterpoint to grilled meats.
Herb-rich meat or mushroom stew thickened with ground sesame and local greens; a comforting bowl on cooler evenings.
A Lao noodle curry soup featuring lemongrass, coconut milk, and herbs; a warming option for lunch or dinner.
Freshly caught fish grilled over charcoal with dill and herbs; best enjoyed with a scoop of sticky rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main daily market offering produce, herbs, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling inexpensive local bites.
Seasonal stalls along the waterfront with grilled fish, papaya salad, and sweet treats—best after dusk when it’s cooler.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples and remove shoes before entering. Men and women should cover shoulders and knees.
A wai or a simple nod is appreciated; use the right hand or both hands when giving or receiving items from elders.
Ask before photographing people, especially in villages. Some may appreciate a small token or permission first.
Safety
Tipping in Xékong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory. For guides or drivers, 5–10% of the bill or a small round-up at the end of service is common.
Cash is king in most rural areas. Lao Kip is preferred, with some places accepting Thai Baht or USD. Cards are rarely accepted outside larger towns; carry small denominations for markets and transport.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November to February brings cooler mornings and comfortable days. Trails are generally clearer, but evenings can be chilly; dress in layers.
June to October brings heavy rainfall and lush scenery, but trails can be muddy and river levels rise. Pack a light rain shell and waterproof footwear.
March–May and late September–October offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, with varying humidity. Great for outdoor activities with fewer disturbances.
Xékong at Night
Hiking in Xékong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hike along the river with viewpoints over water and forest canopies.
A scenic trail through hillside coffee farms and terraced fields near higher elevations.
Short loop visiting multiple hill-tribe settlements for cultural insight and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Xékong by plane.
Major gateway in southern Laos with domestic connections and some international flights; from Pakse, ground transport is required to reach Xékong.
Regional airport serving southern Laos; convenient for travelers heading toward the eastern routes and the Bolaven Plateau region.
Smaller regional airport offering limited flights; useful for connecting to more remote southern districts.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in rural Laos with strong agricultural traditions.
Communities with distinct languages and weaving traditions; many villages are at higher elevations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in villages and town courts during the dry season evenings.
Popular in social gatherings and markets; easy to join as a visitor.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport seen in some towns and schoolyards.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xékong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lao dishes can be adapted with tofu or vegetables. Request no fish sauce or meat broth, and look for vegetable curries, mushroom salads, and sticky rice with fresh greens.