Introduction

Attapeu is a popular destination in southeast Laos known for its breathtaking scenery and diverse cultural heritage. With its varied ethnic communities, verdant forests, and tranquil Sekong River, this province provides authentic experiences even though it is less developed than other parts of Laos.

Attapeu, Laos

Let's explore Attapeu for an authentic experiences. (Source: Travel.blog)

Overview of Attapeu

Overview

Attapeu stands out for its diverse natural landscape and historical significance. It was historically important as a strategic location for military security during the feudal period.  The province is a haven for nature lovers with its rough, mountainous terrain covered in rivers, breathtaking waterfalls, and old forests. The Bolaven Plateau, which this province shares with Cambodia, Vietnam, the Sekong, and Champasak, is what makes it most well-known. Attapeu is also home to a number of ethnic minorities, each of which has a unique cultural history. 

Attapeu offers travelers a unique and enriching travel experience because of the unspoiled beauty of its landscapes and the rich traditions of its people. When visiting Attapeu, visitors will walk through old forests to see the peaceful and wild natural scenery. However, don't worry because the road to this province is currently quite good, so cars can speed along. Attapeu possesses many interesting attractions for visitors to freely explore.

Attapeu, Laos

Attapeu stands out for its diverse natural landscape and historical significance. (Source: Voyage au Laos)

History

Attapeu has a rich history, shaped by many ethnic groups that have lived there for centuries. During the time of King Saysethathirath, Attapeu province belonged to the Lane Xang Kingdom. Before being governed by the Kingdom, it was a country populated by wild buffaloes, also known by the name "Idkabue," meaning buffalo droppings. The French colonialists recognized this name as "Attapeu," and it has remained so until today.

The National Liberation Front formed its headquarters at Attapeu during the initial Indochinese War. It was mostly destroyed after the war, with remains discovered across some Ho Chi Minh Road. On April 28, 1970, they were able to secure and liberate the province from French control.

Attapeu has a rich history

Attapeu has a rich history. (Source: Laotian Times)

Read more: Laos Classic Highlights

Some tourist destinations when traveling to Attapeu

Sae Pong Lai Waterfall

Sae Pong Lai Waterfall is located in Xepian National Park, Xanamxay District, 75 km from Samakkexay district, Attapeu province. This majestic waterfall originates from the Xepian River and has a width of 130 meters. 

The special thing that impresses visitors when coming to Sae Pong Lai waterfall is the majesty that hides the mystery of nature. Here, rainbows often appear when the sun begins to go down the mountain, shining light through the majestic waterfall, creating an extremely impressive scene.

Sae Pong Lai Waterfall in Attapeu

Immerse yourself in nature with Sae Pong Lai Waterfall. (Source: Nuwat Photo)

Pha Saysettha Temple

This temple is in Muang district, about 15 kilometers from the center of Attapeu province. This is the burial place of King Setthathirat of Laos. With its sophisticated architecture and stunning golden pyramids, Wat Pha Saysettha is a sight to behold. This famous landmark, dating back to the 16th century, is rich in cultural and historical significance.

Pha Saysettha Temple

Wat Pha Saysettha is a sight to behold. (Source: Laos Simply Beautiful)

Dong Ampham Conservation Area

This vast conservation area stretches across Laos's southeast flank. This enormous, 200,000-hectare protected paradise is home to an amazing mosaic of landscapes. Many plant and animal species find refuge at Dong Ampham, which provides a window into a world unspoiled by contemporary progress. 

Dong Ampham Conservation Area in Laos

Dong Ampham Conservation Area is home to stunning landscapes. (Source: Ecotourism Laos)

Weather in Attapeu

General weather in Attapeu

Attapeu has three seasons:

Cool-dry (November-February): The average temperature during this time is approximately 29°C, but can drop as low as 17°C, especially during January's coldest month. Please remember that the temperature here lowers quickly, especially after sunset, so bring appropriate clothing with you to stay warm.

Hot-dry (March-April): Temperature hovers around 33°C and can reach 39°C, particularly at the start of the month. Small showers may occur during this time, so bring an umbrella or raincoat to protect against the weather. 

Rainy season (May-October): The average temperature hangs around 27°C and can reach 37°C. Rainfall is common throughout the season, with the highest amounts occurring in August and September. It is best to have an umbrella or raincoat to keep yourself dry.

Best season to go

The dry season, from November to April, is considered the best time to visit Attapeu. During this period, the weather is more pleasant, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. The landscape is also lush and green from the previous rainy season.

weather in attapeu, laos

The dry season is considered the best time to visit Attapeu. (Source: Wearelao.com)

How to get to Attapeu

At Attapeu, an airport is currently built, but it does not operate regularly. If you want to travel by air, you must book flights to Vienna.  Then, from Vientiane, continue flying to Champasak and use a car to travel to Attapeu. Thus, traveling to Attapeu by air is not really convenient. 

Instead of that, using a passenger car or personal car gives you more opportunities to admire the scenery and explore nature right on the roads. After arriving at Attapeu, visitors should rent a tuk tuk or self-driving taxi to travel to attractions.

Transportation Attapeu Laos

Visitors can choose to travel by tuk-tuk or rented car. (Source: David McKelvey)

Specialities in Attapeu

Sausage (Sai ​​Oua): Sausages in Laos are processed very differently. This dish is made from finely ground pork, marinated with many spices such as lime leaves, galangal, lemongrass, etc. When traveling to Attapeu, visitors can easily find sausage shops to enjoy, even buy. as gifts for friends and relatives.

Dried beef (Sien Savanh): Lao dried beef has a rich flavor, mixed with a bit of spicy and salty taste, and has become a popular drinking dish in the Land of a Million Elephants.

Fried seaweed (Kaipen): This is a must-try dish when visiting Attapeu. This dish is very special, after being crushed, it is marinated with spices and then dried. Next, they will fry the seaweed in an oil pan to create an attractive, fragrant crunch.

Lao Chili Sauce (Jew Bong): This specialty is used by Attapeu people in daily meals. Therefore, when traveling here, buy a few bottles as meaningful gifts. 

Lao Coffee: If you are a lover of this drink, when you come to Attapeu, immediately enjoy a delicious cup of coffee branded Le Trio Coffee. This is a very famous coffee roaster company in Laos.

Attapeu, Laos cuisine

Attapeu has a rich and diverse cuisine. (Source: marie martin)

Conclusion

Attapeu is a wild and charming destination in southern Laos, worthy of travel with majestic natural landscapes, lush primeval forests, and unique ethnic minority villages. Come here to explore the rich local culture, enjoy special cuisine, and experience a peaceful atmosphere, separate from the noise of the city.

Read more: Laos Off the Beaten Tracks