Journey Through Don Det: A Full Day Guide
The south of Laos is one of the most underrated regions in Southeast Asia. While the country of Laos itself is often overlooked, it is truly a gem, offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm, welcoming locals. Peaceful mountain villages, riverside towns, and idyllic islands in the south make Laos a destination worth exploring in-depth.
Despite being a landlocked country, Laos is home to the majestic Mekong River, which splits and winds through the land. At the border between Laos and Cambodia, the Mekong creates a unique network of waterways and islands known as Si Phan Don or the “4000 Islands.” This area comprises countless small local islands, with a few catering to travelers—Don Det being the most popular of them all.
Don Det offers a perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and adventure, with stunning waterfalls, peaceful river scenes, and vibrant village life. Among the many activities available, the best way to explore Don Det and its surroundings is through the full-day kayaking tour run by Mr. Lek—an experience you simply can’t miss.
Why Choose Mr. Lek’s Full-Day Tour?
Mr. Lek’s full-day kayaking tour is not just an excursion; it’s an immersive cultural experience led by someone with infectious passion and energy. Mr. Lek is a local legend on Don Det, known for his knowledge, hospitality, and storytelling. From start to finish, he keeps the group entertained with personal anecdotes, insights into Lao culture, and endless enthusiasm for his homeland.
The tour costs 550,000 Lao Kip (approximately $25 USD) and includes everything you’ll need for the day—meals, entry fees, kayaking gear, and even waterproof bags. For an additional 300,000 Kip, you can cap off the day with Mr. Lek’s cooking class, where he’ll teach you how to prepare delicious Lao dishes. If you’re interested in local cuisine and food preparation or simply want to learn more about Mr. Lek’s way of life, the cooking class is the perfect bonus.
Tour Itinerary: What to Expect
The full-day kayaking tour runs from 8:30 AM to around 5:45 PM, finishing just as the sun sets over the Mekong River. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the unforgettable day:
1. Morning Kickoff: Coffee, Breakfast, and Briefing
The day begins at 8:30 AM when you meet at Mr. Lek’s office on Don Det. While you wait for the group to gather, take the opportunity to grab a coffee from the shop across the street—arguably one of the best coffee spots on the island.
Once everyone is assembled, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant. The menu includes pancakes, eggs, omelets, coffee, and tea—all included in the tour cost. Over breakfast, Mr. Lek provides a detailed briefing, explaining the day’s itinerary and sharing fascinating information about the area. He’ll also hand out waterproof bags for your belongings to keep everything safe during the kayaking adventure.
2. Kayaking to the First Waterfall
Once everyone is prepared, the group heads to the water, where you’ll partner up, grab a kayak, and don life jackets if needed. The first kayaking stretch is calm and scenic, making it ideal even for beginners.
After about 35 minutes of paddling, you’ll reach the first stop—a short walk from the river leads you to a unique waterfall. Unlike towering waterfalls, this one is known for its immense power and the natural “massage pools” created by the cascading water. Here, you’ll spend a couple of hours swimming, exploring, and laughing as Mr. Lek demonstrates his playful energy in the powerful currents.