Photo Essay: The 4,000 Islands of Laos

by Dave on July 1, 2010 · 13 comments

In southern Laos, near the border of Cambodia, is a region along the Mekong River collectively referred to as 4,000 Islands.  As the name implies, there are thousands of little islands dotting the river.

Among the most popular for backpackers is Don Det, due to its laid back atmosphere (and electricity!).

Approaching the Mekong River for the short boat ride to Don Det (island).

Approaching the Mekong River for the short boat ride to Don Det (island).

A cold beerlao is enjoyed alongside the slow-moving Mekong waters.

A cold beerlao is enjoyed alongside the slow-moving Mekong waters.

Lap Chicken: Minced chicken is mixed with fresh herbs and served over rice.

Lap Chicken: Minced chicken is mixed with fresh herbs and served over rice.

A large waterfall rages alongside the island of Don Khone.

A large waterfall rages alongside the island of Don Khone.

Walking amongst the rice paddies of Don Det.

Walking amongst the rice paddies of Don Det.

Exploring the island of Don Khone while enjoying a brief break in the clouds.

Exploring the island of Don Khone while enjoying a brief break in the clouds.

Kids at play.

Kids at play.

School kids cross the an old bridge built by the French to connect Don Det and Don Khone (islands).

School kids cross the an old bridge built by the French to connect Don Det and Don Khone (islands).

A local boy goes for a ride.

A local boy goes for a ride.

Inexpensive accommodations line the edges of Don Det, with porches perfect for lounging around in hammocks.

Inexpensive accommodations line the edges of Don Det, with porches perfect for lounging around in hammocks.

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Categories: Features, Laos, Photos
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13 Comments

James Clark July 1, 2010 at 1:15 pm

Great photos! I was there in the dry season so I didn't see that raging torrent of a waterfall or beautiful green rice fields like that.

Reply

Giulia July 1, 2010 at 5:33 pm

Wow… amazing photos and amazing places! this area has been in my wishlist for too long! Thank you!!!

Reply

Dave July 1, 2010 at 7:57 pm

Yea, that was cool to see, but in exchange, we had rain and clouds. Very muddy!

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Dave July 1, 2010 at 7:58 pm

Thanks. It's super laid back down there, and a fun little adventure.

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backpackingmatt July 2, 2010 at 2:50 am

Excellent photos – looks like a terrific place, even with the clouds.

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GlobalButterfly July 4, 2010 at 8:44 pm

What a cool place! I love the shot of the waterfall and the boy riding the donkey (?)!

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Don Lee September 19, 2010 at 6:11 pm

That is a young water buffalo. They are very docile and are found all around Don Det.

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Dave September 19, 2010 at 7:48 pm

Thanks Don!

Reply

Aaron July 10, 2010 at 6:28 am

I loved 4,000 Islands so much! Absolute bliss. Though FYI, Don Det and Don Khone now have electricity 24/7, which led to some very loud local karaoke nights on Don Khone!

Reply

Fred March 30, 2011 at 5:27 pm

What a wonderfull place, so peacefull it seems time just stoped.

Reply

Oliver December 16, 2011 at 5:33 am

Very jealous of your lifestyle you professional traveller you.

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