Things To Do
in Laos
Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, known for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, and Buddhist monasteries. It shares borders with China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar.
The nation is rich in cultural heritage, with the ancient city of Luang Prabang being a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's noted for its traditional Lao food, vibrant festivals, and the mighty Mekong River that flows through its heart.
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Khawp chai" - Thank you
- "Sala baai" - How are you?
- "Noy noy" - A little
- "Baw" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a hot air balloon ride to experience stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Spend the afternoon tubing down the Nam Song River, soaking in the sun and stopping at riverside bars. Visit the nearby caves for some adventure and exploration.
Enjoy dinner at one of the riverside restaurants, sampling traditional Lao dishes. Conclude your day by relaxing and observing the vibrant nightlife in Vang Vieng.
Wake up early to witness the mesmerizing Alms Giving Ceremony where monks collect offerings. Afterwards, visit the Royal Palace Museum to learn about Laos' rich history.
Explore the beautiful temples, including Wat Xieng Thong, appreciating their architecture. Then, visit local artisan shops to see traditional crafts.
Enjoy a sunset on Mount Phousi, providing a panoramic view of the city. Dinner at a night market is a great way to try street food and engage with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic groups.
- Stunning natural landscapes including mountains, waterfalls, and rivers.
- Affordable cost of living and travel.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Growing tourism opportunities and infrastructure.
- Limited access to healthcare and education in rural areas.
- Underdeveloped transportation infrastructure.
- Environmental concerns due to deforestation and development.
- Bureaucratic challenges and government restrictions.
- Language barriers for non-Lao speakers.
Best Activities in Laos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and rural villages in the mountainous regions of Luang Prabang through various trekking trails.
Enjoy a peaceful and scenic adventure while paddling along the Nam Ou River, surrounded by lush forests and karst limestone cliffs.
Embark on cycling tours to experience the breathtaking scenery, picturesque countryside, and limestone karst formations in Vang Vieng.
Tours
Uncover the best of Laos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Laos
Visit one of these nice places.
Located in Luang Prabang, it offers panoramic views of the city and the Mekong River.
A stunning series of waterfalls with turquoise pools, perfect for photography.
Known for its beautiful karst hills, rivers, and caves, offering many scenic spots for photography.
A temple atop Mount Phousi offering breathtaking views of Luang Prabang and the surrounding landscape.
Food in Laos
Laos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional minced meat salad typically made with chicken, fish, or pork, mixed with herbs, lime juice, and fish sauce.
Must-Try!
Also known as green papaya salad, made with shredded unripe papaya, flavored with lime, chili, garlic, fish sauce, and palm sugar.
A comforting chicken noodle soup commonly found in street stalls and local eateries.
A dish of steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves with herbs and spices, typically found in riverside restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Laos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An excellent place to sample a variety of Laotian street food, including grilled meats, sticky rice, and fresh fruit shakes.
A bustling market offering an array of street food options such as noodle soups, grilled fish, and fried spring rolls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Laos, it is important to show respect for elders by using proper language and gestures, such as bowing or placing the hands together in a prayer-like gesture known as nop. Elders are highly esteemed, and it is important to defer to their wisdom and authority.
Greeting others with a polite 'sabaidee' (hello) and a smile is customary in Laos. It is also respectful to use the traditional wai gesture by placing your palms together and bowing slightly when greeting someone, especially in formal or religious settings.
When visiting temples or religious sites in Laos, it is important to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. Additionally, it is respectful to maintain a quiet and contemplative demeanor, refrain from public displays of affection, and avoid touching religious objects without permission.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Laos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Laos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Laos. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for taxi services. However, in tourist areas, leaving a small tip for exceptional service may be appreciated.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Laos, especially in rural areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments in urban areas. It's important to carry enough cash when traveling to remote regions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Laos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Laos with comfortable temperatures and little rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring temples and cultural sites.
Expect hot and dry weather, with temperatures often reaching over 40°C. It's a good time for water-related activities and experiencing traditional Lao New Year celebrations in mid-April.
Heavy rainfall and high humidity characterize this season. While outdoor activities may be limited, it's a great time to witness lush, green landscapes and participate in local festivals.
Laos at Night
Hiking in Laos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning area in northern Laos featuring diverse ecosystems, lush forests, and numerous trekking routes. Ideal for hiking and eco-tourism.
Located near Vientiane, this park offers breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, and various hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Known as the 'land of spirits', this area features unique rock formations and offers beautiful hiking experiences around its landscapes.
A historical site with impressive caves to explore, providing hiking opportunities with scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Located in Pakse, this area offers hiking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls and scenic views, ideal for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Laos through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Laos by plane.
The main international airport serving Vientiane, the capital city of Laos.
An international airport located near the city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
An international airport serving the city of Savannakhet in southern Laos.
An international airport located in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, which is relatively close to Laos.
An international airport located in Udon Thani, Thailand, providing access to Laos.
The main international airport serving Bangkok, Thailand, and a major hub for travel to and from Laos.
The primary airport serving Hanoi, Vietnam, providing international connections near Laos.
The largest airport in Vietnam, located in Ho Chi Minh City, with many international flights accessible to and from Laos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Laos, predominantly living in the lowland areas along the Mekong River.
Ethnic groups primarily residing in the midland regions, often engaged in agriculture and shifting cultivation.
Highland ethnic groups, including the Hmong and Mien people, who traditionally live in mountainous areas.
Ethnic Khmer people primarily found in the southern parts of Laos, especially along the borders with Cambodia.
Chinese communities, particularly in urban areas and engaged in trade and commerce.
Vietnamese minorities, mostly concentrated in areas close to the border with Vietnam.
A highland ethnic group known for their distinct culture, language, and traditions.
Ethnic Tai groups found in various regions of Laos, known for their agricultural practices.
The Soul of Laos
Discover the essence of Laos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Laos, with many local teams and national competitions.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball but using a rattan ball and played with the feet.
Basketball has gained popularity in urban areas with various youth leagues and competitions.
Volleyball is played widely in schools and local communities, with informal matches being common.
Traditional martial arts, including Muay Lao, are practiced and celebrated in Laos.
Badminton is popular at both recreational and competitive levels, particularly in urban centers.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Laotian cuisine prominently features meat, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like tam mak hoong (papaya salad), fried noodles, and coconut-based curries available at most restaurants.
Many traditional Laotian dishes are naturally gluten-free, such as laap, mok pa, and grilled meats. However, it's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly to ensure safe dining experiences.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Laos with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laos.