Where to Stay in Don Det & the 4000 Islands, Laos
A stay in Don Det and the 4,000 Islands is the perfect way to escape into an island paradise of palm trees, river sunsets, and total relaxation.
We spent four nights on Don Det and did extensive research on guesthouses before booking our stay – so we know how tricky it can be to choose the right spot.
That’s why we put together this guide to the best places to stay in Don Det and the 4,000 Islands.
From budget-friendly bungalows to more comfortable stays, you’ll find options across Don Det, Don Khon, and Don Khong.
👉 Ready to book your island stay? Let’s get into the top accommodations in the 4,000 Islands so you can find the perfect fit for your trip.
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The Best Places to Stay in Don Det
Don Det is the most popular tourist destination in the area. Most backpackers tend to stay here because of the abundance of guesthouses, bars and restaurants.
There are accommodation options for every budget.
Regardless of how much you’re looking to spend, be sure to grab a spot with a river view for either sunrise or sunset – you won’t regret it.
The sunsets on Don Det are truly magnificent, but if you’re an early riser, sunrises are just as special.
Pick a bungalow on the east side of the islands to wake up with the sun and listen to the island come to life from the comfort of your own bed.
Budget Guesthouse
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is located on the sunrise side of Don Det towards the Southern end of the island. Expect peace and quiet to the max.
The only sounds you’ll hear is the creak of your hammock, water buffalo swimming, or boats passing downstream.
The wooden bungalows are clean and comfortable, plus the host is friendly and approachable should you have any requests.
🛎️ See current prices and availability before it books out ➡
Midrange Riverside Stay
Mama Leuah Guesthouse – OUR PICK
Mama Leuah is owned by Pheng and Lutz, a Laotian and German couple. We absolutely LOVED our stay here.
The guesthouse isn’t available to book on third party online platforms, so check out their website and send an email if you’d like to stay here.
The service at Mama Leuah is impeccable – Lutz and his family are very attentive from arrival to departure.
Furthermore, the restaurant is one of the best on the island. The kitchen offers some tasty Western home comforts as well as delicious local cuisine options. We highly recommend staying here!
TOP TIP: Whenever possible, choose locally owned accommodations to support the community and promote sustainable travel.
Upscale Option on Don Det
BABA Guesthouse
If bungalows made from wood or bamboo really aren’t your idea of luxury, BABA Guesthouse is the one for you. It is a beautiful property with lots to offer.
Still reasonably priced by Western standards, the guesthouse exudes comfort. The calm riverside setting allows for ultimate relaxation on your balcony, whilst you absorb the sunset views in peace.
🌿 See why travelers love staying here – and what’s still available ➡
The Best Places to Stay in Don Khon
A serene bicycle ride over a small bridge is all that keeps Don Det and Don Khon apart.
Rather than stay in Don Det, those with a higher budget may choose to stay in Don Khon. It is a little quieter yet still within reach of bars and restaurants.
Should you choose to rent a bicycle on Don Det like we did, it’s worth noting that many key stops along the way are actually located on Don Khon. It’s perfect for a day trip even if you are staying on Don Det!
Budget-Friendly Stay Near the Water
Chanhthida Riverside Guesthouse
Spend the day relaxing in the property’s garden or in your hammock, then take advantage of the River Front Restaurant for a tasty meal with a lovely backdrop.
You can book a room with air conditioning here, perfect to escape the heat of the day.
Comfortable Midrange Guesthouse
Pomelo Restaurant and Guesthouse
Pomelo Guesthouse is more isolated, located at the Southern end of Don Khon. The private balconies offer a view of Cambodia across the Mekong River.
Observe local life in a fishing village from your private terrace and watch the world go by.
Unique Higher-End Choice
Sala Done Khone Hotel
Come for the air conditioning, stay for the floating bungalows. Book a room here for the unique experience of sleeping in a floating bungalow during your stay on the 4000 Islands!
Sala Done Khone Hotel also offers rooms on land as well if the idea of floating on the Mekong river isn’t for you. Whichever option you choose, be sure to soak up an unforgettable sunset from your balcony.
🏆 Interested in more luxury on a budget? Take a look at The Urban Hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
The Best Places to Stay in Don Khong
Don Khong is the largest of the 4000 Islands, connected to the mainland by Don Khong Island Bridge.
You will notice the remnants of the French colonial era, with many colonial buildings now used for hotels and guesthouses.
If exploring temples is your thing, Don Khong is the place to stay on the 4000 Islands. There are 20 temples to discover so don’t hesitate!
Affordable Guesthouse for Backpackers
Don Khong Guesthouse
The guesthouse is located in the main town of Muang Kong so you have plenty of restaurants to choose from nearby.
You can also take advantage of the guesthouse restaurant and the on-site massage services so you don’t have to go too far on your relaxing getaway to the 4000 Islands.
If colonial history is your jam, the guesthouse is set within a beautiful building with plenty of architecture to admire.
Midrange Riverside Hotel
Senesothxuene Hotel
With a restaurant set right on the Mekong river, spend your days in the pristine hotel swimming pool before sitting down for a gorgeous sunset meal.
Make sure not to miss the spectacular sunrises. Since you’re awake, why not enjoy a hearty breakfast and a bicycle ride around the islands before the heat kicks in.
Basic Luxury Hotel
Pon Arena Hotel
A rarity anywhere in Laos, Pon Arena Hotel boasts not one but two infinity pools. Indulge in refreshing swims amidst the stunning views on the Mekong river, from sunrise to sunset.
Enjoy direct room access to the swimming pool! To fully immerse yourself in island life, book a massage to truly unwind, then try the fish at dinner, direct from the Mekong river.
🎒 Check availability and lock in your room with pool access today ➡
What to Expect from Accommodation in the 4000 Islands
Unless you’re paying luxury prices, there are some things you will likely experience with any accommodation option you choose in the 4000 Islands.
We don’t like to leave bad reviews for things that are the same across most guesthouses. It’s fair to make potential guests aware of what to expect, but don’t penalize the guesthouse for factors out of their control!
Key Things to Know Before Booking
We’ve compiled a list of some common comments/complaints to understand before your stay:
- There’s no water system on the islands
- Many budget and mid-range properties won’t have a cistern in the toilet so expect to bowl flush
- Shower/tap water is directly from the Mekong river. It’s safe to shower in this water, but please don’t drink it or use it to brush your teeth!
- Most guesthouses don’t have hot water and the water pressure may be low
- There are no ATMs on the islands
- Usually this means you can’t pay with card, so be prepared with plenty of cash BEFORE you arrive on the island
- If you aren’t prepared and need cash, exchange rates will be high at money exchange offices
- The rooms are usually made from wood or bamboo
- It’s not possible to completely prevent encounters with friendly bugs and creatures
- Thin materials means thin walls. If this is problematic, perhaps invest in earplugs
- To maximize river views for all, many bungalows are lined up in a row. Prepare for your balcony to potentially be close to the next one
- Life is simple here. Dim lighting in rooms isn’t unheard of, but shouldn’t be a reason not to enjoy your stay
- Your room will be very hot during the day!! Air con isn’t a guarantee but most guesthouses will provide a room fan
- You’re on a beautiful island
- You’ll hear wildlife in the morning as the sun rises that may disturb your slumber
- Service is generally slow in restaurants as you’ll see the person taking your order is usually the one cooking your food too
- Don’t expect all services to be available out of season (late April – late October)
- Nobody is in a rush here – embrace it!!
How Long to Stay in Don Det and the 4000 Islands
We chose to stay in Don Det for 4 nights. For us, this was an ideal amount of time to truly recover at the end of our 30 day Laotian adventure.
You could easily stay in Don Det and the 4000 Islands for longer thanks to the exciting mix of fun activities accompanying the peaceful ambience running through the islands.
It’s also possible to spend only a couple of nights staying in the 4000 Islands. If you’re short on time, use the couple of days to soak up what island life you can.
Regardless of how long you choose to stay, be sure not to skip this idyllic destination.
🧡 Now that you’ve booked your stay in the 4000 Islands, we’ll share with you all of the best things to do whilst you’re there.
💚 Is your stay in Laos time-sensitive? Read our two week Southern Laos itinerary that includes the 4000 Islands!
