Pre-Angkor Wat World heritage site

Champassak in Laos!!! located in the south of Champassak Province are the Four Thousand Islands, which is considered by some the largest complex of waterfalls and rapids in the world. Rafting and kayaking through this amazing stretch of Mekong waterfalls up to 14 km wide is recommended for only those with intermediate to advanced skills. Also, not to be missed are the Irawaddy fresh water dolphins which can be seen from Don Kone island. Wat Phou temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which predates Angkor Wat in Cambodia, is one of Champassak's main attractions. There is a new community-based alternative for accommodation at the Wat Phou Consevation area. Homestays can be arragned on Don Daeng island located across the Mekong river from Wat Phou. On Don Daeng, local guides can be hired for walks around the island, boat trips and bird watching.

In northern Champassak Province is the Pu Xieng Thong National Protected Area which has a recently opened a one-day trek led by village guides. The trek covers some of the major natural and cultural sites of Pu Khong Mountain (located inside the protected area) which is best known for its diversity of orchid and mushrooms species. Home stay is available in Mai Singsamphan Village, located at the base of the Pu Khong Mountain. The Mekong river north of Pakse (capital of Champassak Province) has some interestingcultural attractions, most notably silk weaving on Don Ko island a former French colonial administrative center. Home stay with local families is also available on Don Ko Island.

In the northeastern part of Champassak Province is the Bolaven Plateu rising over 1,500m above sea level and famous for producing some of the finest Arabica coffees in the world. Beans can be purchased along the road from local villagers. The plateau also has two very beautiful waterfalls, the Xe Katamtok and Tad Fane waterfalls. The Tad Fane Resort, located at the edge of Dong Houa Sao National Protected Area, has breathtaking views of the waterfall and can arrange one day treks around the protected area and to nearby coffee plantations.