Pakse is a fantastic hub for exploring southern Laos, thanks to its proximity to stunning waterfalls, lush plateaus, and historic temples. Unlike busy tourist spots elsewhere, Pakse offers a variety of engaging tours that mix natural beauty with cultural insight. For example, the Pakse Zipline Experience in Tad Fane Waterfall is a highlight for thrill-seekers wanting to soar above emerald forests, while the Full Day Crossing the Bolaven Plateau gives a more laid-back, private-guided look at coffee plantations, waterfalls, and local villages. Whether you’re after adrenaline rushes, scenic drives, or cultural exploration, Pakse’s tour options deliver authentic experiences with a practical touch.
Below, we’ve curated the top five tours in Pakse, each offering a different way to discover Laos’ southern charm. From ziplining to multi-day Mekong trips, every option promises memorable moments and insights into local life.
1. Pakse Zipline Experience in Tad Fane Waterfall
During this ziplining adventure near the spectacular Tad Fane Waterfall, you’ll soar through vibrant green scenery and feel the thrill of gliding over one of Laos’ most iconic waterfalls. Priced at just $65 per person, the experience lasts about an hour and can be tailored to include either the traditional zipline or the Sky Hammock, which adds a relaxing sway high among the treetops. The setup near Tad Fane Waterfall makes for a dramatic backdrop, offering views that are as exhilarating as the ride itself.
This tour is perfect for those seeking quick, high-energy fun with minimal planning. The guides are experienced and focus on safety, making it accessible even for first-timers. As you glide from platform to platform, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the lush jungle and the crashing waterfall below. Many visitors find that this is one of the most memorable activities in Laos because it combines adventure with stunning scenery, all in a compact package.
Bottom Line: If you want an adrenaline rush combined with incredible vistas, this zipline is a must-do. It’s a straightforward, fun activity for solo travelers, couples, or families looking for a quick dose of excitement.
$65.00 per person
2. Full Day Crossing the Bolaven Plateau
For around $125.57 per person, this full-day private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Bolaven Plateau, a land of coffee plantations, waterfalls, and ethnic villages. Starting with a friendly pickup, your guide will take you over breathtaking paved roads into this highland region, where you’ll learn about Laos’ coffee-growing traditions firsthand. Visiting a family-run coffee plantation, you’ll see the process from bean to cup—and get to sample some freshly brewed coffee.
The tour’s highlight is the visit to Tad Fane, Laos’ most famous waterfall with a 120-meter drop. You’ll also enjoy a swim beneath Tad Yuang, explore local rural life in traditional villages, and indulge in a delicious Laotian lunch at a local restaurant. The personalized attention from your private guide makes this tour both educational and flexible, with the opportunity to ask questions and customize your stops.
Recent review: “We had a fantastic day discovering the Bolaven Plateau with our guide Lei and driver Le. From the knife-making workshop to the waterfalls to the coffee plantation, the tour was fun and informative.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a mix of nature, culture, and learning, with the ease of having a private guide to customize the experience.
$125.57 per person
3. Pakse: Mystic Falls & Timeless Temples of Southern Laos Tour
At about $274 per person for roughly eight hours, this comprehensive tour combines natural beauty with cultural discovery. It includes visits to the stunning Tad Gneuang Waterfall and the iconic Tad Fane Waterfall, both showcasing Laos’ impressive waterfalls. After exploring these natural wonders, you’ll enjoy a traditional Laotian lunch that highlights local flavors.
The tour’s cultural centerpiece is the visit to Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an ancient Khmer temple complex. The tour also features panoramic views of Pakse and the Mekong River from Wat Phousalao. Guides will take you through the history and significance of each site, providing context to deepen your appreciation.
One reviewer describes it as a good balance of sightseeing and culture, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to walk around. The experience is especially well-suited for those with a keen interest in history and architecture, as well as nature lovers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a full-day, in-depth look at southern Laos’ waterfalls and temples, with some time to soak in the scenery.
$274 per person
4. 2-Day Private Tour from Vientiane to Pakse by Flight
This luxurious two-day journey is ideal for travelers with limited time and a taste for comfort. For $1,250 per person, you’ll fly from Vientiane to Pakse, avoiding long road trips, and enjoy guided visits to Wat Phu, Kampahapen Waterfall, and Khon Island on the Mekong River.
The tour includes exploring UNESCO-listed sites, a boat ride to Khon Island, and a stop at the Somphamit Waterfall. Meals are covered, allowing you to savor Lao cuisine at each step. The itinerary is flexible and tailored, offering personalized attention from your guide.
While this tour is on the pricier side, the convenience of flying and the well-curated experiences make it worthwhile for those who prefer comfort and efficiency. One traveler mentioned that the guided tour of Wat Phu was especially memorable, with insights into Laos’ ancient history.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers short on time who want a premium, seamless experience combining culture, nature, and luxury.
$1,250 per person
5. Pakse: 4000 Islands Bike Tour with Boat Cruise
For $76 per person, this half-day cycling and boat tour is a wonderful way to see the dramatic landscape of the 4000 Islands. Starting with an easy bike ride through villages and past waterfalls, you’ll visit the historic French locomotive—a relic from colonial days—and enjoy stunning views of the Khone Pasoy and Li Phi Waterfalls.
The tour includes a relaxing private boat cruise, where you’ll spot traditional fishing villages and learn about local bamboo weaving. It’s a hands-on experience that combines physical activity with cultural insight, making it particularly appealing for active travelers who want to see rural Laos from a local perspective.
The itinerary is well-paced, with stops for photos and a local lunch. Many participants find this tour offers great value for the variety of sights and experiences packed into just over five hours.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a mix of cycling, sightseeing, and boat cruising in a scenic setting, with plenty of authentic local interactions.
$76 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Pakse
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you have. If adrenaline is your thing, the zipline experience offers a quick thrill with stunning views. For a relaxed but enriching day, the full-day Bolaven Plateau tour combines nature and culture at a comfortable pace. History buffs should consider the Mystic Falls & Temples tour, especially if they want to understand Laos’ spiritual sites. Travelers short on time but craving comfort might opt for the 2-day private Mekong tour from Vientiane, while active adventurers will love cycling through the 4000 Islands.
Make sure to book early, especially for popular activities like the zipline or multi-day tours, and check the weather—Laos’ rainy season can affect outdoor plans.
Final Thoughts
Pakse offers a rich variety of tours tailored to different interests. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural insights, or scenic relaxation, you’ll find a suitable option. For a quick adrenaline rush, the zipline near Tad Fane checks all the boxes. Want a deeper cultural experience? The Mystic Falls and Temples tour is a fantastic choice. And if you’re pressed for time but want to cover a lot, the private Mekong journey from Vientiane is a luxurious way to see southern Laos.
No matter which tour you pick, booking early ensures you get the best slots. Take your time deciding based on what excites you most—Pakse and its surroundings won’t disappoint.