Discover Champasak’s Lush Landscapes and Ancient History by Bike
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Pedal back in time on an exceptional cycling adventure! Your ride takes us from Champasak to UNESCO World Heritage–listed Wat Phou, a spiritual sanctuary over 1,000 years old. Its remarkable monuments and ancient structures reflect the power of the Khmer Empire and we deepen our understanding through its evocative relics and on-site museum. The tour can be tailored with a support vehicle for rest or to extend the route along the Mekong River to Muang Kang Temple, the oldest active temple in Champasak. Cultural riches and serene scenery blend perfectly on this excellent excursion.
Available options
Discover Champasak’s Lush Landscapes and Ancient History by Bike
Pickup included
What's included
Support Vehicle- Pickup from your hotel lobby in Champasak
Local basic English-speaking guide
Mountain Bike
Detailed itinerary
1
Pedal back in time on an exceptional cycling adventure! A two-wheel ride is one of the best ways to explore Champasak and its idyllic rural surroundings. This eco-friendly mode of travel offers a more intimate connection with nature and local communities than a car or bus ever could. The ride is through rice fields (Seasonal) and villages, making it ideal to observe rural life. With its lush greenery, ancient temples and French colonial ruins, this is a perfect landscape for exploration. Our ride takes us from Champasak to UNESCO World Heritage–listed Wat Phou, a spiritual sanctuary dating back over 1,000 years. This remarkable complex of monuments and ancient structures reflects the power and sophistication of the mighty Khmer Empire. We gain insight into this rich history through atmospheric relics and the fascinating on-site museum.
2
The tour can be tailored with a support vehicle for rest or to extend the route along the Mekong River to Muang Kang Temple, the oldest active temple in Champasak and one of the most intriguing in Southern Laos. It features a striking Thai-style ubosot ordination hall and a Tripitaka library blending Lao, Chinese and Vietnamese architectural influences. Cultural riches and serene scenery blend perfectly on this excellent excursion.
What's not included
Water
Entrance fee to Vat Phou
Optional lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this
We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the excursion/tour in case of unfavourable weather conditions or situations where we are forced to make alterations to guarantee the safety of our guests;
Tours and excursions often include obstacles of various kinds that may not make this excursion suitable for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility
The protection of the country’s flora, fauna and its historical and cultural treasures is of immense importance for us. We will not pursue any activities that are not in line with our animal, wildlife and environment protection principles
Please ensure that you bring drinking water, sunglasses, a hat /cap, non-slip shoes like sturdy sandals or trainers, camera, loose comfortable clothes, , sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us. Even when it is cloudy, the sun still has an immense power
Departure : From the bike rental shop located in Ban Muang Saen at 9:00 AM. Return to the same location.
Cycling time: 2h30 and Cycling Distance: 18 Km
About Pakse
Pakse, the capital of Champasak Province, is a charming riverside town in southern Laos. It serves as a gateway to the stunning Bolaven Plateau and the historic ruins of Wat Phou, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Top Attractions
Wat Phou
An ancient Khmer temple complex dating back to the 7th century, located near the Mekong River. A UNESCO World Heritage site.
Historical/Religious
Half to full day
Moderate (5-10 USD)
Bolaven Plateau
A scenic highland area known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and ethnic villages.
Nature
Full day
Moderate (depends on tours and activities)
Dong Hua Sao National Biodiversity Conservation Area
A protected area featuring diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes, perfect for trekking and nature lovers.
Nature
Half to full day
Free or donation-based
Must-Try Local Dishes
Laap
A minced meat salad made with herbs, spices, and lime juice, often served with sticky rice.
Main dish
Can be made with chicken, beef, or pork. Vegetarian versions available.
Tam Mak Hoong
Green papaya salad with tomatoes, chili, and fish sauce.
Appetizer
Vegetarian version available with tofu.
Khao Piak Sen
A noodle soup made with rice noodles, chicken, and a flavorful broth.
Main dish
Vegetarian version available with mushroom broth.
Popular Activities
Trekking
Waterfall visits
Caving
Riverside dining
Coffee tasting
Spa treatments
Temple visits
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This period offers pleasant weather with lower temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Lao
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Lao Kip (LAK)
Time Zone
ICT (UTC+7)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Pakse is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious with street food
Getting there
By air
- Pakse International Airport • 4 km from city center
By bus
Pakse Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Basic but affordable. Routes are not always well-signposted.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Pakse
Wat Phou Village
Day trips
Wat Phou
30 km from Pakse • Half to full day
Explore the ancient Khmer temple complex and enjoy the stunning views of the Mekong River.
Bolaven Plateau
60-100 km from Pakse • Full day
Discover the scenic highland area with its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and ethnic villages.
Festivals
Laos New Year (Pi Mai) • Mid-April
Pro tips
- Visit the Pakse Night Market for authentic Laotian street food
- Hire a local guide for a more immersive cultural experience
- Explore the Bolaven Plateau for its stunning waterfalls and coffee plantations
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples
- Carry small denominations for markets and street vendors
$44
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
