Vang Vieng is one of those places that has a relaxed sort of energy. It’s surrounded by karst mountains, rice fields, and little roads that invite travelers to explore. While many folks opt for a full-day tour to hit all the ecotourist sights, I decided to do things a little differently: I rented a motorbike, giving myself permission to roam.

There’s something very satisfying about making your own schedule. No need to stick to an itinerary, no crowded vans, no tour guides waving flags. It was just me, the pothole-filled road, and Google Maps on my phone.

Blue Lagoon #2

After picking up my little motorbike ($5 USD per day) and filling it up with fuel ($3.50 total), I departed Vang Vieng, crossing over a super-sketchy bridge.

I got to Blue Lagoon #2 around 9:30 in the morning, and it was still quiet and peaceful. There were only a few other people milling around, mostly sipping drinks or chatting quietly in the shade. I tip-toed into the cool, turquoise water, slowly acclimating to the refreshing chill. After a good swim, I climbed out, bought a Coke from a nearby stand, and just… sat. It was one of those rare solo travel moments that feels both calm and cinematic. I envisioned the soundtrack of my life slowing down for a bit.

Blue Lagoon #3

Next stop: Blue Lagoon #3. Back on the motorbike, dodging buffalo, small children, and more potholes. There was a very different vibe here, and this one was way more lively and fun. There were rope swings, zip lines, and the kind of obstacle courses that make you feel like a kid again. I didn’t hesitate. I flung myself into the water via the rope swing, laughing along with the small crowd of people cheering each other on. There was a joyful energy in the air.

After splashing around, I settled in for a plate of chicken fried rice. I had worked up quite an appetite, so the fluffy and savory dish was just the thing I needed.

I washed it down with a cold Beerlao (a government-owned national beer), then wandered toward the cave entrance tucked into the limestone wall nearby. I didn’t go too far in  because my footwear was too flimsy, but I did feel the cool, damp air shift and hear my breath echo off the cave walls. Then I stepped back into the sun and jumped into the lagoon one last time before heading out.

Tham Jang Cave + Secret Lagoon Swim

The next day, I was on foot and already missing my fun little motorbike. I crossed the Nam Song River via a small bridge and made my way to Tham Jang Cave. It’s one of the more accessible caves in the area, but when I arrived, the area was empty except for some workers getting set up for the day. I climbed up 200 steps to the cave’s entrance. There were no other tourists and no voices. It was just me and the sound of water dripping from stalactites. I wandered through the cave for nearly 45 minutes, feeling like I’d stumbled into a secret part of the world. It was a beautiful kind of silence, and I enjoyed investigating this hidden space.

Just outside the cave was a small, shaded lagoon. It was hot, and the water looked so inviting. I slipped in and floated under the leafy branches overhead, relishing the coolness and playing in the current that flows in and out of the cave. At one point, a small monkey showed up and sat near the edge, eyeing me curiously. When I moved, he moved. It became a little game between us. I’d splash around and he would hop from rock to rock, keeping an eye on me and dipping into the water every so often.

I ended the day with a pineapple and coconut smoothie that tasted like pure sunshine. Sweet, creamy, ice-cold perfection.

Vang Vieng might not be as famous as other Southeast Asian destinations, but it’s an ecotourist’s dream. There’s a certain kind of magic, especially if you’re willing to veer off the guided path. If you like caves, cool water, and a little bit of solitude, this place is calling.

Just maybe bring a towel. 🙂