Laos

Laos: general info for travelers

Laos is a landlocked country located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Myanmar (formerly Burma) to the northwest, China to the north, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, and Thailand to the west. The country's capital and largest city is Vientiane.
With a diverse range of landscapes, Laos boasts tropical forests, mountains, rivers, and plateaus. The Mekong River, one of the world's longest rivers, flows through the country and plays a significant role in the country's agriculture and transportation.
Laos is known for its rich cultural heritage and Buddhist traditions. The country is home to numerous temples, including the famous Buddhist temple of Wat Phou and the sacred site of Pha That Luang.
Tourism in Laos has been growing in recent years, with visitors attracted to the country's stunning natural scenery, ancient temples, and friendly people. The country is also known for its delicious cuisine, including popular dishes such as Laap, Papaya salad, and Sticky rice.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Laos, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Laos: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the top places to visit in Laos: 1. Luang Prabang - A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its splendid natural scenery, unique architecture, Buddhist temples, and vibrant night markets. The town has a rich history with French colonial influence.
2. Vang Vieng - Located in central Laos, this picturesque town is surrounded by limestone karst mountains, caves, and rivers. It's perfect for outdoor activities such as kayaking, cave exploring, and rock climbing.
3. Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands) - A group of islands in the Mekong River where visitors can relax, swim, and watch the Irrawaddy dolphins. The islands are also home to waterfalls and rice paddies.
4. Plain of Jars - A mysterious archaeological site featuring hundreds of large stone jars scattered across several fields in central Laos. The origins and purposes of these jars are not yet fully understood.
5. Xieng Khouang - A province located in northern Laos, known for its unique culture and history. Visitors can explore the Plain of Jars, visit the old capital of Muang Khoun, and learn more about the Hmong people.
6. Pakse - A bustling city located in southern Laos, Pakse is a great starting point for exploring the Bolaven Plateau, a popular destination for coffee lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
7. Nam Ou River - A scenic river known for its turquoise waters, surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore local villages, caves, and waterfalls.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to explore in Laos. Each destination offers a unique experience and is sure to leave an unforgettable impression on travelers.
There is more to see and do in Laos: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Laos: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Laos, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Laos has a tropical climate, and it is generally warm and humid throughout the year. The year is divided into two main seasons: 1. The dry season runs from November to April. During this time, temperatures are cooler and the air is drier. This is generally considered to be the best time to visit Laos, especially for outdoor activities.
2. The wet season runs from May to October. During this time, Laos experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity levels. However, the rain is usually in short bursts, so you can still enjoy activities in between showers.
The best time to visit Laos depends on your interests. If you're looking for outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife spotting, the dry season is the best time to go. On the other hand, if you're interested in seeing the lush green landscape and experiencing the local cultures, the wet season could also be a good time to go. Ultimately, the best time to visit Laos really depends on what kind of experience you're looking for.

Laos: activities and what to do

There are a variety of activities and sports to enjoy on holiday in Laos, including: 1. Trekking and hiking: Laos is home to some of the most scenic and beautiful trekking and hiking trails in Southeast Asia, including the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls and the Phou Khao Khouay National Park.
2. Jungle Zip-lining: If you're looking for an adrenaline-packed adventure, the zipline courses deep in the jungle of Northern Laos should be on your itinerary. 3. River Kayaking: Laos is criss-crossed by beautiful rivers such as the Mekong, Nam Ou, and Nam Khan, providing great opportunities for kayaking, particularly in the mountainous regions of the north and central Laos.
4. Caving and Cave exploration: Laos has an abundance of stunning limestone caves, including the famous Tham Kong Lo Cave, which stretches for over seven kilometers in length.
5. Elephant Rides: Elephants are featured in many of Laos’ national parks and conservation centres, providing unique opportunities to experience and interact with Asian elephants and their mahouts.
6. Cycling: Laos is a cycling paradise with miles of scenic country roads and lightly trafficked rural lanes providing unforgettable cycling experiences.
7. Overnight trekking and homestays: Laos is a great destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts, many trips offered include staying in local homestays which further provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture, learn about traditional life and gives benefits back to the local communities.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports to enjoy on holiday in Laos.

Laos: few words on history and culture

Laos has a rich history and culture that dates back more than 10,000 years. The country was first inhabited by hunter-gatherer communities before the arrival of early agricultural societies around 4,000 years ago. Over time, Laos was ruled by various kingdoms and empires, with the most significant being the Khmer Empire, which was based in neighboring Cambodia.
In the 14th century, the kingdom of Lan Xang was formed, which became the precursor to modern-day Laos. Buddhism has been the dominant religion in the country since the 14th century, and it remains an essential part of Lao culture. The country has also been influenced by Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, making for a unique blend of traditions and customs.
Laos suffered greatly during the Vietnam War, experiencing a significant amount of bombing and damage. In 1975, the communist Pathet Lao took control of the government, and the country remained isolated from the rest of the world for many years. Since the 1990s, Laos has opened up to tourism and international trade, leading to a growing economy and increased cultural exchange.

Laos: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport to reach and visit Laos, depending on your preferences and budget. Some of the popular modes of transportation are: 1. Airplane: Laos has several international airports, including Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, Luang Prabang International Airport, and Pakse International Airport, among others.
2. Bus: If you are coming from neighboring countries, you can take a bus to Laos. Several bus companies operate services from Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
3. Train: There is no direct train service to Laos, and the nearest train station is in Nong Khai, Thailand. From there, you can take a train to the border and cross over to Laos.
4. Riverboat: If you are traveling from Thailand, you can take a riverboat along the Mekong River to Luang Prabang or other cities in Laos. This is a scenic and unique way to travel and see the natural beauty of the region.
Once you're in Laos, you can also get around the country by bus, minivan, tuk-tuk, or rental car, depending on your preferences and budget. To hire a car to visit Laos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Laos: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Laos with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Laos and their descriptions: 1. Laap/Larb: This is a popular meat-based salad dish served with sticky rice. It can be made with different varieties of meat including chicken, beef, or pork, mixed with herbs, spices, lime juice, fish sauce and roasted rice powder.
2. Khao Piak Sen: It is a delicious and filling noodle soup made with chicken or pork, rice noodles, herbs, lime juice, and chili flakes. It is a popular breakfast and lunch dish in Laos.
3. Tam Mak Hoong: It is Lao-style spicy green papaya salad contains shredded green papaya, tomatoes, chili peppers, fish sauce, lime juice, and garlic.
4. Mok Pa: It is a popular Lao fish dish that is marinated with classic Lao herbs and spices like lemongrass, cilantro, garlic, and chilies. After marinating, it is usually wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection.
5. Ping Kai: This is a popular street food in Laos. Also known as grilled chicken that is marinated with Lao spices and herbs such as lemongrass, garlic, and kaffir lime leaves. 6. Or Lam: This is a traditional stew made with forest vegetables, river fish or pork, and flavored with fresh herbs and spices, including dill, cinnamon, and chili.
These are some of the typical foods of Laos. They are delicious and flavorful, and also very affordable.

Laos: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Laos is generally a more affordable country for tourists compared to neighboring countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. Accommodation, meals, and transport costs tend to be lower, and there are many budget-friendly options available for backpackers. However, the cost of tourism activities such as trekking, kayaking, and other adventure sports can add up quickly. It is always a good idea to set a budget in advance and plan accordingly.

Laos: where to find accodation

There are a variety of options for accommodation in Laos, ranging from budget guesthouses and hostels to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. Here are some popular websites to look for accommodation in Laos: 1. Booking.com: This is a popular website for booking hotels, guesthouses, and resorts around the world, including in Laos.
2. Agoda: Another popular online booking platform that offers a variety of accommodation options in Laos.
3. Airbnb: This platform offers a range of homestays and vacation rentals in Laos, which can be an excellent option for experiencing local culture and traditions.
4. Hostelworld: This website is focused on budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels and guesthouses.
5. Tripadvisor: This website offers reviews and recommendations for hotels and other accommodations in Laos, which can help you make informed decisions.
Regardless of the website you choose, be sure to read reviews carefully and do your research before making any reservations.
You can check hotel prices in Laos here:
Booking.com

Laos: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Laos receives approximately 4.2 million international visitors annually. The peak season for tourism in Laos is generally from November to February when the weather is dry and cool, and festivals such as Boun That Luang (held in November) and the Lao New Year (held in April) take place. This period can be quite crowded, particularly in popular tourist areas like Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. It's best to book accommodations and tours in advance during these times of the year. The low season is from May to September when the weather is hot and rainy, and tourist numbers tend to be lower.
Laos is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any country, there are some areas that are best avoided or visited with caution due to potential hazards. One area to be cautious of is along the borders with Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. There have been reports of armed conflict and landmines, and travelers are advised to exercise caution and check with local authorities before traveling to these areas.
In Vang Vieng, a popular tourist destination known for its tubing and party scene, tourists should also be cautious when partaking in these activities, as there have been instances of accidents and deaths. Overall though, the majority of Laos is safe for tourists, and visitors should take normal precautions as they would when traveling in any unfamiliar place.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Laos on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Laos: events for tourists

Laos is a fascinating country with a unique culture and traditions. There are many interesting events and festivals that take place throughout the year in different parts of the country.
1. Boun Pimai (Laos New Year): This is a three-day festival that takes place in mid-April, and it is one of the most important events in Laos. It is a time for families and friends to gather, visit temples, and splash water on one another for good luck.
2. That Luang Festival: This festival takes place in Vientiane, the capital city, during the full moon of November. It is a celebration of the golden stupa, That Luang, which is the most important religious monument in Laos. Visitors can witness traditional performances and enjoy local food and drinks.
3. Rocket Festival: This festival, also known as Boun Bang Fai, takes place in May or June in different parts of Laos. It is a unique event where rockets made of bamboo and other materials are launched into the sky in order to bring rain for the upcoming rice-growing season.
4. Boat Racing Festival: This festival takes place in the town of Luang Prabang in October or November. It is a tradition that dates back to ancient times when boats were used for transportation and trade. Teams of paddlers compete on the Nam Khan River, and visitors can enjoy food, music, and dancing.
5. Hmong New Year: This festival is celebrated in different parts of Laos in December or January. It is a time for the Hmong people to showcase their culture and traditions through dances, music, and food. Visitors can witness colorful traditional clothing and try different local dishes.
These are just a few of the many interesting events and festivals that take place in Laos. It is always a good idea to check the calendar and plan your trip accordingly to experience the unique culture and traditions of this beautiful country.

Laos: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Laos, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a suggested two-week itinerary for a tourist in Laos: Day 1-3: Luang Prabang - Begin your journey in this UNESCO World Heritage city where you can explore the ancient temples, night market, and waterfalls.
Day 4-5: Nong Khiaw - Head to the countryside where you can try kayaking, hiking and explore the nearby villages.
Day 6-7: Muang Ngoi - Engage in peaceful and scenic boat ride on the Nam Ou river and explore the caves and hike.
Day 8-9: Vang Vieng - Adrenaline junkies can try rock climbing, water activities including tubing and kayaking.
Day 10-12: Vientiane - Experience the capital city of Laos which is filled with ancient temples and interesting markets.
Day 13-14: Pakse & Bolaven Plateau - Take a relaxing break and Head to the lowlands of Pakse where you can discover lush green landscapes, hike and take a dip in waterfalls.
I hope this itinerary gives you an idea of how to spend your two weeks in Laos. You can, of course, adjust it to your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip!

Laos: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Laos described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Ban Houayxay is a small town located in the northern part of Laos, near the borders with Thailand and Myanmar. It serves as a gateway to the famous Mekong River, which provides access to stunning natu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ban Houayxay
- Ban Nahin is a small village located in the Khammouane Province in Laos. It is known for its natural beauty, including stunning waterfalls and limestone formations. The village is also a gateway to ex... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ban Nahin
- Ban Nalan is a small traditional village located in the mountains of northern Laos. The village offers visitors a unique and authentic look into the culture and daily life of the minority ethnic group... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ban Nalan
- Ban Tha Li is a small village located in the Luang Prabang Province of Laos, along the Nam Ou River. It is a rural area with a population of around 200 people and is known for its scenic beauty and tr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ban Tha Li
- Bokeo Nature Reserve is located in northern Laos and is one of the country's most important protected areas. It covers an area of around 2,880 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bokeo Nature Reserve
- The Bolaven Plateau is a volcanic plateau located in the southern region of Laos. It is characterized by its cooler climate, lush forests, and numerous waterfalls. The plateau is home to several minor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bolaven Plateau
- Champasak is a province located in southern Laos, known for its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Mekong River runs through the province, providing stunning views and opportunities for wa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Champasak
- Don Khon is a small island located in the southern part of Laos, in the Mekong River. It is one of the four thousand islands that make up the Si Phan Don area, which translates to "Four Thousand Islan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Don Khon
- Houay Xai is a town located in the northwestern part of Laos, near the border with Thailand. It is the capital of Bokeo Province and situated on the banks of the Mekong River. The town is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Houay Xai
- Kasi is a small town located in the Vientiane Province of Laos. It is situated about 300 kilometers north of the capital city of Vientiane along the Mekong River. The town itself is surrounded by lush... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kasi
- Khammouane is a province located in the central part of Laos. The provincial capital is Thakhek, which is one of the largest cities in the region. Khammouane is known for its natural beauty, including... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khammouane
- Khong Island is a beautiful and serene island located in the southern part of the Laos in the Mekong River. This small island, which is part of the Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands), offers a perfec... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khong Island
- Konglor Cave is a stunning limestone cave located in the Khammouane Province of Laos. The cave stretches for over 7 kilometers and is home to a beautiful underground river, which visitors can explore ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Konglor Cave
- Luang Namtha is a province in northern Laos, known for its lush forests, diverse ethnic groups, and adventure tourism opportunities. The provincial capital is also named Luang Namtha, which is a hub f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Luang Namtha
- Luang Prabang is a small city in northern Laos, located on the banks of the Mekong River. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture, golden-roofed Budd... CONTINUE here for a trip to Luang Prabang
- Muang Khoune is a small town located in the Northern province of Phongsaly in Laos. The town is situated along the eastern bank of the Nam Ou River and is known for its beautiful natural scenery and c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muang Khoune
- Muang Khua is a small town in the northern region of Laos, located in the Phongsaly province. It is situated on the banks of the Nam Ou River and surrounded by lush green vegetation. Muang Khua is a g... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muang Khua
- Muang La is a small town located in the northern part of Laos, nestled in a valley surrounded by rolling hills. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery and endless outdoor opportunities, includi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muang La
- Muang Long is a district and town in the Luang Namtha Province of northwestern Laos. It is located approximately 110 kilometers northwest of Luang Namtha town and 20 kilometers from the Chinese border... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muang Long
- Muang Ngoi is a small town located in northern Laos, known for its beautiful scenic views and peaceful atmosphere. The town is situated on the bank of the Nam Ou River and surrounded by stunning limes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muang Ngoi
- Muang Sing is a district in the northern province of Luang Namtha, Laos. It is located near the border with China and Thailand and is known for its diverse ethnic communities, with over 16 different e... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muang Sing
- I believe you may have mistaken Nakhon Phanom as a place in Laos. In fact, Nakhon Phanom is a city located in northeastern Thailand, along the banks of the Mekong River bordering the country of Laos. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nakhon Phanom
- Nam Ngum is a district and reservoir in the Vientiane Province of Laos, located about 90 kilometers north of the capital city Vientiane. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nam Ngum
- Correction: Nong Khai is actually a province in northeastern Thailand, not a place in Laos.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nong Khai
- Nong Khiaw is a small town located in northern Laos, surrounded by limestone mountains and situated along the Nam Ou River. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and has become a popular destina... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nong Khiaw
- Pak Mong, also known as Pak Mong District, is a small district located in the Xiangkhouang Province of Laos. It is located on the eastern bank of the Nam Ngum River, and is home to a population of aro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pak Mong
- Pakbeng is a small town located in the northern part of Laos, along the Mekong River. It is a popular stopover destination for tourists travelling between Thailand and Laos, particularly those who are... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pakbeng
- Pakse is a city located in the southern part of Laos, near the border with Thailand and Cambodia. It is the capital of the Champasak Province and is a popular tourist destination due to its natural be... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pakse
- Phonsavan is a small city located in northeastern Laos. It is the capital of Xieng Khouang Province and is known for its historical significance as it was heavily bombed during the Vietnam War. The ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phon Savan
- Phonsavan is a city located in the northeastern part of Laos. It is the capital of the Xiangkhouang Province and is situated at an altitude of around 1,200 meters above sea level, making its climate c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phonsavan
- Phou Khoun is a small town located in the northern part of Laos, about 100 kilometers north of the more popular destination of Luang Prabang. It is situated in the Annamite Range, surrounded by beauti... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phou Khoun
- Phu Bia is a mountain range located in northern Laos, with its highest peak reaching 2,820 meters. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as trekkin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phu Bia
- Phu Hin Bun is a national park located in Khammouane Province, in the southern part of Laos. The park is home to many limestone karst formations, caves, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including som... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phu Hin Bun
- Savannakhet is a province and town located in southern Laos. It is the second-largest city in Laos and is situated along the Mekong River. The town has a rich history and culture, with notable landmar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Savannakhet
- Si Phan Don, also known as the 4000 Islands, is a group of islands located in the southern part of Laos near the border with Cambodia. It is situated in the Mekong River and it is known for its scenic... CONTINUE here for a trip to Si Phan Don
- Tha Bo is a small town in the northern part of Laos, located in the province of Bokeo. It is a quiet and peaceful town surrounded by green mountains and rice paddies. The population is predominantly L... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tha Bo
- Tha Heua is a small village located in the Luang Prabang Province of Laos. The village is situated along the Nam Khan River, surrounded by lush green forests and mountains. It is known for its beautif... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tha Heua
- Tha Khaek is a small town located in the central region of Laos, about 300 km south of the capital city, Vientiane. The town is situated on the banks of the Mekong River and is known for its historic ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tha Khaek
- Thakhek is a city located in central Laos, on the west bank of the Mekong River. It is the capital of Khammouane Province and is known for its French colonial architecture, stunning limestone karst la... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thakhek
- Thateng is a small town located in the Champasak Province of southern Laos. It is surrounded by lush green mountains and is known for its beautiful waterfalls, caves, and trekking opportunities. The t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thateng
- Udomxai is a province in northern Laos, located at the border with Thailand. Its capital city is also named Udomxai. The province is known for its stunning natural scenery, including mountains, waterf... CONTINUE here for a trip to Udomxai
- Vang Vieng is a small town in Laos, known for its scenic beauty, limestone rock formations, and adventure sports. The town is located about 150 km north of the capital city, Vientiane, and is situated... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vang Vieng
- Vieng Thong is a small town located in Houaphanh province, Laos. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery including waterfalls and trekking trails. Vieng Thong is also a hub for eco-tourism activ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vieng Thong
- Vientiane is the capital city of Laos, situated on the bank of the Mekong River. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many impressive Buddhist temples and monuments. Vientiane is also ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vientiane
- Xieng Khouang is a province in northern Laos, known for its beautiful scenery, rich culture and history. It is mostly known for the Plain of Jars, a mysterious archaeological site featuring thousands ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Xieng Khouang


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