Located in the southeast of Laos in Attapeu Province, with Cambodia to the south and Vietnam to the east, laid back Attapeu has a distinct lack of tourist infrastructure and is thus appealing to those who enjoy getting away from it all.
The main problem in Attapeu Province, and the reason tourism has not taken off in a big way, is that unexploded ordnance is yet to be cleared, while public transport options are also poor. However, you can explore the nearby Dong Ampham and Xepiane forests without too much trouble and marvel at the solitude of it all.
The main town of Attapeu is pretty slow paced, easy to walk around and has little traffic. You can also visit the many hill tribes in the area, but would really need to hire a motorbike as public transport is thin on the ground out of town.
Getting There & Away
The nearest airport is in Pakse, from where several buses run to Attapeu in the morning. Unfortunately, the trip to Attapeu from Pakse by bus takes around 6 hours due to poor road conditions. Attapeu bus station is a couple of miles out of town and you’ll need to take a motorbike taxi or tuk-tuk to your accommodation.
Things to Do
Attapeu Attractions
- Dong Ampham Forest and Xepiane Forest
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These wilderness areas near to attapeu are biodiversity areas with excellent opportunities for hiking.
- Ethnic village groups
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There are loads of hill tribe villages to explore near to attapeu, including oye, tallang, lavenh, yae, hmong, and lao lum communities.