A beautiful set of islands, Si Phan Don is located in a section of the Mekong River in north of the border with Cambodia. This area of the Mekong is unique from all others for its many islands, some of which are uninhabited and still remain in their pristine natural form. Si Phan Don gives important natural habitat for both bird and aquatic wildlife species- most notably the freshwater and also provides an important natural resource base to support many local people through fishing and other indigenous activities.
In Si Phan Don there are plenty of small islands, the most important islands of the 4000 islands of the Mekong are: Don Khong, Don Det and Don Khon. Don Khong by far the largest island in Si Phan Don. It is the island where you find the spectacular falls of water. The Wat Chom Thong Temple, located on the eastern flank of Don Khong Island, very close to the river. The temple is a beautiful example of architecture and Khmer influence where the highlight of Wat Chom Thong is its plant in cruciform form and windows wood carvings. Despite its largest size, Don Khong is sleepiest and sees the fewest tourists. There's much more to do on Don Khon and Don Det, which have become popular place with backpackers on the Southeast Asia. The highlight of Don Khon Island are undoubtedly the water falls, the most famous are the Khone Phapheng Falls the largest in Southeast Asia and known as the Niagara falls of Laos, and also Somphamit falls. In addition to these beautiful formations of water, to the South of the island of Don Khon can spot the Irrawaddy dolphins, a dolphin that inhabits the waters of the Mekong River.
Activities include cycling, swimming, tubing, boat cruises, kayaking, and dolphins spotting are popular among travelers.
Phan Don can only be reached by road and then by boat. Most common to reach Phan Don route is to take a flight to the city from Pakse, a mini-bus to Ban Hatxaykhoun and Pier Ban Nakasang to catch the ferry to the 4000 islands. In total it takes 4 hours to reach the 4000 islands from Pakse.
Notice
There is no ATMs in Si Phan Don and credit cards are not a very popular in Laos payment method, it is convenient to carry enough cash (Kip, Thai Baht or US dollars).
The internet connection is slow and expensive; better to wait to come to the Mainland to share photos with family and friends.
For travelers staying at some island Si Phan Don, is important to confirm with the hotel that yes there will be ferry to take you from the Mainland to the island, otherwise you can stay ashore without possibilities of arriving.
