What to expect when visiting Don Det
Don Det is one of the 4,000 islands in Laos’ Si Phan Don archipelago. Sitting on the Mekong River, it’s a backpacker’s paradise with its hip atmosphere, cheap prices and laidback vibe. Nipa huts line its shores. And with prices starting from $3, these are among the cheapest accommodations you’ll find in Southeast Asia!
The so-called “Mecca of backpackers” is so small, you can explore the island by renting a bike for $1 a day. Or you can walk — it takes just about 2 hours to explore Don Det on foot. Glide along the Mekong River on a boat, kayak, or just a tube and enjoy the raw scenery and occasional sightings of Irrawaddy dolphins and water buffaloes.
2 ways to get from Pakse to Don Det
There are two ways to travel the distance of 130 km (81 miles) from Pakse to Don Det: by combined bus + ferry (3h30m) and bus (3h10m-5h15m). The journey takes between 3h10m - 5h15m and the quickest way is by bus. The lowest priced tickets start from €5.50 ($7) for the bus.Where to stay in Don Det?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Don Det at the bottom of this page.
Pakse to Don Det by Bus
Most of the bus tickets from Pakse to Don Det leaving already include a ferry ride. However, if the departure time doesn’t work for you, then you can first take a bus to Nakasang Bus station and book your ferry ticket at the terminal.
Step 1: Pakse to Nakasong by Bus
Green Paradise Travel also offers bus trips just to Nakasong Ferry Boat Station, departing at 08:00. This ride doesn’t include the ferry trip to Don Det.
Aside from this company, you can also catch a local bus from Pakse’s Southern Bus Terminal or otherwise known as the 8KM Bus Terminal. This bus terminal is 8 km east of the city centre, hence, the name.
These buses have open windows and are usually crowded with locals travelling with goods, a typical Lao transport.
Bus options from Pakse to Don Det
Online booking is available only for Green Paradise Travel buses. For the local buses, you can buy your tickets at the station.
Step 2: Nakasong to Don Det by Ferry
The Green Paradise bus will drop you off at the ferry terminal, while the local bus heads only to the bus station, about 500 m from the ferry station.
Head straight to the ferry terminal to buy your boat ticket. The ticket price is fixed at $2 per person for the 10 to 15-minute ride to Don Det.
It’s important to note that most of the boats are busy from morning until noon. Boat activities start to dwindle by mid-afternoon. Also, boats require a minimum of 2 passengers to depart. Otherwise, you may have to pay a higher price of $4.
Pakse to Don Det by Combined Bus + Ferry
The easiest way to travel from Pakse to Don Det is by booking a combined bus and ferry ticket. The total journey takes about 3.5 hours and tickets cost about $11.
Only Green Paradise Trave offers one trip daily to Don Det, which is at 09:00.
Departure and arrival station
The bus departs from the Green Paradise Travel office in the city centre, about 5 minutes away from Chipatsong Bus Station.
You will be dropped off at Nakasong Ferry Boat Station, where you will take the ferry to Don Det Ferry Station.
Combined Bus + Ferry schedule from Pakse to Don Det
Green Paradise Travel gets mixed reviews for the Pakse to Don Det route. Some travellers are satisfied with their service, while others think it could improve.
Our favourite places to stay in Don Det
The Boathouse - Budget Friendly
It’s hard to believe that for only $10 you can enjoy a waterfront bungalow with your own private terrace and hammock! The rooms themselves are simple, but you’ll probably want to spend most of your time outside anyway, it’s that beautiful!
The host is incredibly friendly and cooks delicious food for the onsite restaurant. The grass area right on the river is the perfect spot for yoga and meditation.
- Riverfront bungalows
- Private balcony with hammock
- Bar and restaurant
- Amazing host
Private rooms start at $10 per night.
Mama Leurth Sunset Guesthouse - Budget Friendly
Centrally located on Don Det island, this Mama Luerth Sunset is a great choice. The rooms are large, clean and spacious. The guesthouse is within walking distance to plenty of restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
You can also rent bicycles nearby to further explore the island. Set in a quiet area, you are guaranteed a peaceful sleep here.
- Great location
- Large rooms
- Walking distance to shops and restaurants
- Quiet and peaceful
Private rooms start at $20 per night.
Moon By Night - Mid Range
Moon By Night offers an excellent location with beautiful river views in central Don Det. This hotel boasts a restaurant, bar and garden area on-site for the guest’s enjoyment.
All chalets have private bathrooms, air conditioning, and very comfortable beds. The owner is extremely friendly, often going out of his way to assist guests with their requests. Beautiful garden setting in a quiet area.
- Quiet and peaceful area
- Great location
- Stunning river views
- Friendly owner
Private rooms start at $35 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pakse to Don Det
What is the distance from Pakse to Don Det?
The distance from Pakse to Don Det is 130 km (81 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Pakse to Don Det?
The fastest way to get from Pakse to Don Det is by bus and takes 3h10m-5h15m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Pakse to Don Det?
The cheapest way to get from Pakse to Don Det is by bus with ticket costs starting from €5.50 ($7).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Pakse to Don Det. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Routes from Don Det
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Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Hi Gecko Routes
Thank you for the travel information for Pakse to Don Det. I have a couple of questions:
1. May I know if there are ferries from Nakasong to Don Khone? If so, are there tickets that combine bus and ferry from Pakse to Don Khone?
2. I would like to drop off at Muang Champasak on the way back from Nakasong to Pakse. What is the best way to get there?
Are there private transfers from Nakasong to Muang Champasak that I could hire?
Many thanks for your help.
Hi Gillian, there are boats from Nakasong going to Don Khon. Public boat tickets are about 20,000 kip ($1) per person.
If you prefer a bus + ferry package from Pakse to Don Khon, you can take Green Paradise Pakse that costs $12 per person. There are departures at 09:00 and 12:00, and travel time takes 3 hours.
For the way back, the same company offers bus trips from Don Det to Champassak Terminal West for $10. You can just head to the pick-up point in Don Det if you’re staying in Don Khon. For private transfers, you can ask your accommodation if they can arrange one for you. Hope this helps!