Tapping into Remote Sekong

History: Little is known of this remote province. Sekong was established in 1984, and consists of areas that were once part of Salavan and Attapeu Provinces. After its founding, Sekong became the most ethnically diverse province in southern Laos with 14 groups reported from a population of some 85,000.

Ethnic Diversity: Sekong is home to some 14 distinct ethnic groups, making this sparsely populated province one of the most diverse in Laos. A handful of southern Laos’ Alak live in Sekong, having migrated from Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Their palm and thatch houses encircle communal spirit houses on stilts. Several clans – named after animals considered sacred.

Things to Do: Sekong remains mostly unexplored, with its forested mountains difficult to access. Still, you can visit waterfalls on the road linking it to Attapeu Province. You can take a Sekong riverboat ride or visit ethnic groups in Ban Khan Don on an organized tour. The Sekong River cuts through the province’s west and passes through Sekong Town as it flows south.

Attractions: Be among the first to explore this remote province. Though access is challenging for much of Sekong, you can easily explore Bolaven Plateau waterfalls near Town. Route 11 between Sekong and Attapeu Towns follows the eastern rim of the Bolaven Plateau and the Sekong River, and presents three easy-to-reach waterfalls. At Km 14.5, a turnoff leads to Tad Faek.

Getting There: Though rather remote and without an airport, Sekong can be reached by bus from Vientiane and Central Laos. You can find more options in Southern Laos. Pakse, about 140 km away, is the most popular gateway to Sekong, as its airport welcomes domestic and international flights. The regional hub can also be reached by bus from Thailand’s Ubon province.

Getting Around: Guesthouses, hotels, and the Visitor Information Centre in can help you arrange transportation. Bicycles can also be rented, and the visitor centre can arrange guided tours, as can travel agents in Sekong Town and Pakse. Without a motorcycle rented in Pakse, getting around the province’s more remote areas can be challenging.

Where to Stay: Sekong remains a mystery for many, but you can tap into unseen Southern Laos from your base at a room in town. Stay where the locals do in Sekong Town on the Xe Kong River between Salavan and Attapeu. You’ll mostly find modest yet new accommodation geared for domestic travellers in a typical rural Lao community.

Travel Guide: It is also quite simple to get to Sekong by bus from other Southern Lao destinations, Vientiane, and Central Laos. Accommodation options are limited to Lamam and Thateng Districts including Sekong Town, and aside from hotels, dining mostly centres on local food at noodle shops.