The province is a combination of fertile plains where people grow coffee, tea, vegetable and rice; and the hills where eco-tourism is popular. In the south of the province the Mekong river drops and creates a large waterfall. There are many islands in the river in this place. "Si Phan Don" as the area is known is also where people can spot fresh water dolphins.

Many ethnic tribes live in the province. Main economy is farming. Some of them have been working in the timber business, as well as tourism. The Bolaven plateau region in the east is famous for its eco-tourism operations. Trekking, elephant ride, waterfall visit are popular, and accommodations are available. The Khmer style temple of Wat Phu on the western bank of the Mekong river, south of Pakse is a famous spot.

Pakse, the capital, is located on the eastern bank of the Mekong river. Border crossing at Vaeng Tao to and from Thailand's Chong Mek (Ubon Ratchathani province) overland is open for both local and international tourists. The bridge over the Mekong to Pakse makes the travel easier. The border crossing with Cambodia close to the Mekong river is also possible. However the procedure is often up to the immigration officers at the check point.

A scene at Lao-Cambodian border on the Mekong river.