Old Airstrip Vang Vieng - VH-VGR Airbus A320 landing in Wellington
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Old Airstrip Vang Vieng

4
·1 reviews·Vang Vieng, Laos

Vast, flat expanse surrounded by Vang Vieng's iconic karsts, perfect for cycling, ballooning, and serene relaxation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Cooler air, balloon launches

CrowdLow
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Old Airstrip Vang Vieng - VH-VGR Airbus A320 landing in Wellington

Old Airstrip Vang Vieng

Best Time

Early morning

Cooler air, balloon launches

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vast, flat expanse surrounded by Vang Vieng's iconic karsts, perfect for cycling, ballooning, and serene relaxation.

4
(1 reviews)

"A place to exercise, take off and land balloons, and rest and relax."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚴‍♀️ Cycle the Expanse

Rent a bike to explore the vastness of the airstrip and surrounding countryside. It's a fantastic way to see the scenery.

🎈 Balloon Ride Magic

Book a hot air balloon ride for an unforgettable perspective of Vang Vieng's landscape. Book in advance!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hot Air Balloon Launch Site

Hot Air Balloon Launch Site

Central Airstrip

Witness or participate in breathtaking hot air balloon flights over Vang Vieng's iconic karst formations.

Cycling Paradise

Cycling Paradise

Entire Airstrip Area

Cycle across the expansive, flat terrain with panoramic views of limestone karsts and rice paddies.

Tranquil Relaxation Spot

Tranquil Relaxation Spot

Various points along the airstrip

Find a quiet spot to picnic, read, or simply relax amidst the serene natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Open Space

The Old Airstrip offers vast, flat terrain perfect for activities like cycling or hot air balloon rides. Visit during cooler parts of the day to fully enjoy the open air and stunning karst scenery.

Relax and Recharge

This spot is ideal for unwinding. Bring a picnic, enjoy the tranquility, and soak in the unique landscape. It's a peaceful escape from the usual tourist hustle.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Cooler air, balloon launches
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

EVERY CIA COUP IN SOUTH AMERICA - #southamerica #cia #travel #argentina #brasil
@distant.elephant
212.9K likes • 1.9M views

🚴‍♀️ Cycle the Expanse

Rent a bike to explore the vastness of the airstrip and surrounding countryside. It's a fantastic way to see the scenery.

🎈 Balloon Ride Magic

Book a hot air balloon ride for an unforgettable perspective of Vang Vieng's landscape. Book in advance!

¿La religión católica es comunista? La CIA creyó que sí Sí, la CIA combatió el mensaje cristiano cuando se volvió incómodo. #cia #iglesia #catolicos #cristianos #historia #AmericaLatina #comunismo #politica
@dannyelcomunista
91.1K likes • 660.2K views

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Pack a picnic to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely meal.

📸 Capture the Views

The open space and dramatic karsts offer incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Tips

from all over the internet

🚴‍♀️ Cycle the Expanse

Rent a bike to explore the vastness of the airstrip and surrounding countryside. It's a fantastic way to see the scenery.

🎈 Balloon Ride Magic

Book a hot air balloon ride for an unforgettable perspective of Vang Vieng's landscape. Book in advance!

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Pack a picnic to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely meal.

📸 Capture the Views

The open space and dramatic karsts offer incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.

What Travellers Say

4
(1 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Old Airstrip for its expansive beauty and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for exercise, relaxation, and unique activities like hot air ballooning. It's a peaceful escape offering stunning natural scenery.

"Beautiful, a place to exercise, a place to take off and land balloons, and a place to rest and relax."

Bounthavy KHAMMACHAK

What People Like

Beautiful open space
Peaceful and relaxing
Great for cycling

What People Dislike

Can be hot during midday

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Airstrip is located a short distance from Vang Vieng town. You can easily reach it by renting a bicycle, motorbike, or hiring a tuk-tuk. Many travelers find cycling to be the most enjoyable way to experience the journey and the surrounding scenery.

It's a manageable distance, typically around a 15-30 minute ride depending on your mode of transport and starting point within Vang Vieng. The flat terrain makes it accessible for most.

While possible, walking might be a bit far for most visitors, especially if you plan to explore the entire area. Cycling or a short motorbike ride is generally recommended for convenience.

The airstrip itself is quite distinctive with its large, flat expanse. You'll also see the iconic limestone karsts that Vang Vieng is famous for surrounding the area.

Yes, especially during peak hours. You can usually find tuk-tuks waiting near popular spots, or arrange a pick-up with your rental provider.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no entrance fee to access the Old Airstrip itself. It's an open public space. However, specific activities like hot air balloon rides will have their own associated costs.

The Old Airstrip is an open area and doesn't have set opening hours. You can visit at any time, though early mornings and late afternoons are often preferred for activities and photography.

If you arrive by motorbike or car, there might be a small informal parking fee collected by locals managing the area, but it's usually very nominal.

While you might find vendors, it's highly recommended to book hot air balloon rides in advance through reputable tour operators in Vang Vieng to secure your spot and ensure a good price.

No, there are no specific admission fees for these activities. The airstrip is a public space for everyone to enjoy.

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The soft light beautifully illuminates the karst landscape and the expansive airstrip.

Expect stunning panoramic shots of Vang Vieng's iconic limestone karsts, wide-open fields, and potentially hot air balloons ascending or descending. It's also great for capturing local life and cycling activities.

The entire airstrip offers great vantage points. For a unique perspective, try to capture the balloons against the karsts or the vastness of the field with cyclists. Experiment with different angles!

A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of the Old Airstrip. However, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for capturing the expansive landscape.

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone to avoid issues.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Airstrip is a fantastic, safe space for families. Its wide-open, flat terrain is perfect for children to run around freely, play games, or even have a go at cycling with supervision. The lack of busy roads makes it a much more relaxed environment compared to town.

Consider packing a picnic and a frisbee or ball for a fun family outing. If budget allows, a hot air balloon ride, while potentially pricey, could be an absolutely magical experience for older children. Ensure children have sun protection and plenty of water, as it can get hot.

🚴‍♀️ Adventure Seekers

For those craving adventure, the Old Airstrip is your gateway. Renting a motorbike or a robust bicycle allows you to explore not just the airstrip but also the surrounding rural landscapes and hidden caves. Combine your visit with a trek to a nearby viewpoint or a swim in a blue lagoon.

Don't miss the opportunity for a hot air balloon ride for a truly unique aerial adventure. For the more intrepid, exploring the less-traveled paths branching off the airstrip can lead to unexpected discoveries and a sense of off-the-beaten-path exploration.

🧘‍♀️ Relaxation Enthusiasts

If your goal is to unwind, the Old Airstrip is your sanctuary. Find a quiet spot, lay down a mat, and simply soak in the peaceful ambiance. The panoramic views of the karsts and the open sky provide a perfect backdrop for meditation or quiet contemplation.

Bring a good book, enjoy a leisurely picnic, or just sit and observe the natural beauty. It’s an ideal location to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with yourself and nature, offering a much-needed respite from the usual travel itinerary.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hot Air Ballooning Adventures

The Old Airstrip is a prime location for experiencing Vang Vieng from above via hot air balloon. These flights typically take place in the early morning, offering a magical sunrise view over the dramatic karst landscape. The experience provides a unique perspective of the town, the Nam Song River, and the surrounding emerald rice paddies.

Several operators offer balloon rides, and it's crucial to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. The cost can be a significant part of a Vang Vieng budget, but many travelers deem it a worthwhile splurge for the unforgettable memories and stunning aerial photography opportunities. Always check reviews for operators and be aware of weather conditions, as flights are weather-dependent.

Traveler Tip: Some operators might pick you up from your accommodation, so inquire about logistics when booking. The feeling of floating silently above the landscape is often described as serene and awe-inspiring.

Cycling and Exploration

The Old Airstrip provides an expansive, relatively flat canvas for cycling enthusiasts. Renting a bicycle in Vang Vieng is easy and affordable, making it the perfect way to explore this area. You can cycle across the wide-open space, enjoying unobstructed views of the towering limestone karsts that define Vang Vieng's scenery.

Beyond the airstrip itself, the surrounding countryside offers a network of smaller paths and roads that lead through picturesque rice paddies and small villages. This allows for a more immersive experience of rural Laos. It's a great opportunity to interact with locals, observe daily life, and discover hidden spots away from the main tourist trails. Remember to wear comfortable clothing and bring water, as it can get warm.

Community Insight: Many visitors on Reddit mention that cycling is the best way to 'feel' Vang Vieng and discover its quieter corners. They advise taking your time and not rushing, allowing for spontaneous stops to admire the views or chat with locals.

A Place for Relaxation and Picnics

More than just a site for activities, the Old Airstrip is cherished by visitors for its tranquil atmosphere. Its vast, open nature makes it an ideal spot to simply unwind, spread out a blanket, and enjoy a peaceful picnic. The absence of heavy traffic and the stunning natural backdrop create a serene environment perfect for de-stressing.

Many travelers recommend packing some local snacks or a full meal from one of Vang Vieng's eateries to enjoy here. It’s a chance to escape the bustle of town and connect with the natural beauty of the region. The flat terrain is also suitable for casual strolls or simply sitting and watching the clouds drift by, offering a moment of calm reflection.

Review Highlight: Visitors often describe the airstrip as 'a place to rest and relax,' highlighting its serene qualities and beautiful scenery as key draws for a peaceful break.

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