Si Phan Don (4000 Islands!)

Si Phan Don is located in the south of Laos, where the Mekong River breaks down into multiple rivers and channels, and form into a big and small islands. According to the statistic there are about 4000 islands scattering in this area.

When the Mekong river flows through here and just before entering Cambodia it's tranformed into magnificant scenic waterfalls called Khon Phapeng Waterfalls which today become one of the most visited attraction in the south of Laos.

Apart from Khon Phapeng Waterfalls tourist also explore Don Khong the biggest of all the islands about 18km long and 8km wide and has the best tourist infrastructure compare to Don Det and Don Khon where they are popular with backpackers and tourist too.

Don Khong hotel is a popular accommodation for vistors and travellers alike, you will enjoy your stay while you explore the beauty of the islands. Don Khong hotel is highly recommend to anyone planning to visit the island and is available for booking online before you leave home.

And because of this waterfalls which make this section almost impossible to river traffic between Laos and Cambodia by boat. Therefore, during French colonial times a narrow-gauge railway was once built for transportation across the rapids but never completed.

The Mekong below the falls has a small population of Irrawaddy Dolphins that are considered threatened.

In recent years the region has become a tourist destination for backpackers. The three principle islands that have been developed to cater for tourists are Don Det, Don Kon and Don Kong. Most of the lodging available is comprised of simple, family run bungalows.

Below is the train's engine left over during French's era.

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