About Laos
Laos is Southeast Asia's hidden gem, offering ancient Buddhist temples, pristine waterfalls, and serene riverside towns. From the UNESCO-listed streets of Luang Prabang to the adventure hub of Vang Vieng and the mysterious Plain of Jars, Laos rewards travelers seeking authenticity and natural beauty.
Quick Overview
Capital: Vientiane
Languages: Lao, French, English in tourist areas
Currency: Lao Kip (LAK)
Time Zone: UTC+7 (Indochina Time)
Explore Laos by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Laos
Discover the top 26 must-see destinations in Laos, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Kuang Si Falls
Laos' most stunning natural attraction features turquoise cascading pools set in lush jungle 30km south of Luang Prabang. The multi-tiered waterfall drops 60 meters and...
Wat Xieng Thong
The most enchanting and important temple in Luang Prabang, built in 1560 during the kingdom of Laos. This royal temple showcases classic Lao architecture with...
Pak Ou Caves
Sacred caves located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, housing thousands of Buddha statues accumulated over centuries. The lower cave Tham...
Mount Phousi
Sacred hill rising 150 meters in the heart of Luang Prabang, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the city, Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Climb 328...
Pha That Luang
The Great Stupa is Laos' most sacred national monument and the country's most important religious site. This gleaming golden stupa was originally built in the...
Patuxai (Victory Gate)
Vientiane's Arc de Triomphe stands at the end of Lane Xang Avenue, built in the 1960s to commemorate those who fought for independence from France....
Royal Palace Museum (Haw Kham)
The former Royal Palace built in 1904 during French colonial era now houses a museum displaying royal religious treasures, gifts from foreign dignitaries, and ancient...
Plain of Jars
One of Southeast Asia's most mysterious archaeological sites features thousands of ancient stone jars scattered across the Xieng Khouang plateau. Dating from 500 BCE to...
Recommended Itineraries for Laos
Plan your perfect Laos trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Laos Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Laos, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Laos
- Days 1-2: Laos city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Laos
- Days 1-3: Laos comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Laos, departure
Where to Stay in Laos
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Laos offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($25-35)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($50-100)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($150-300+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Rosewood Luang Prabang
Exclusive hilltop resort with 23 elegant accommodations including luxury tents, villas, and suites hidden in lush jungle. Features world-class spa,...
3 Nagas Luang Prabang MGallery
Charming boutique hotel comprising three restored French colonial buildings in the heart of old town. 15 uniquely decorated rooms blend...
Thavonsouk Resort
Excellent value resort in Luang Prabang with comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and beautiful pool area. Clean, well-maintained property with good...
Amantaka
Intimate 24-suite luxury hotel set in a meticulously restored French colonial hospital complex. Each suite features traditional Lao design elements,...
Where to Eat in Laos
Discover the culinary delights of Laos, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Tamarind
Luang Prabang's premier restaurant for authentic Lao cuisine with tasting menus showcasing regional flavors. Five types of traditional jeow (dips)...
Khaiphaen
Social enterprise restaurant training disadvantaged youth while serving creative Lao cuisine. Signature riverweed (khaiphaen) features in multiple dishes. Attractive old...
Joma Bakery Cafe
Popular chain cafe with excellent coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. Air-conditioned refuge with reliable WiFi. Multiple locations in Luang Prabang and...
Luang Prabang Night Market Food Stalls
Rows of food stalls at the end of the night market offering Lao dishes for around $1-2 per plate. Buffet-style...
Saffron Coffee Luang Prabang
Award-winning coffee shop roasting Lao beans from Bolaven Plateau. Expert baristas, beautiful latte art, and educational approach to coffee. Cozy...
Manda de Laos
Elegant restaurant in restored French colonial house offering refined Lao cuisine in romantic garden setting. Seasonal menu features forgotten Lao...
Getting Around Laos
Budget Breakdown for Laos
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8-15 (dorm or basic guesthouse) | $25-50 (comfortable hotel or boutique guesthouse) | $80-200+ (luxury resorts, colonial boutique hotels) |
| Food (per day) | $8-12 (street food, local restaurants, self-catering) | $15-30 (mix of local and tourist restaurants, some cafes) | $40-80 (fine dining, French restaurants, hotel restaurants) |
| Transportation | $3-5 (local tuk-tuks, buses, bicycle rental) | $8-12 (private tuk-tuks, minivans, occasional domestic flight) | $15-30 (private transfers, taxis, domestic flights) |
| Activities | $3-8 (temple entrance fees, waterfalls, free hiking) | $10-20 (guided tours, kayaking, cooking classes) | $30-60 (private guides, spa treatments, premium experiences) |
| Daily Total | $25-35 | $50-100 | $150-300+ |
Best Time to Visit Laos
Best Season: November to February
Peak Season: November to February
Avoid: May to September
Essential Travel Tips for Laos
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Exercise normal safety precautions. Avoid Xaisomboun Province and remote border areas near Myanmar. Do not stray from marked paths in rural and forested areas due to active unexploded ordnance (UXO). Exercise increased caution in Vang Vieng party areas after midnight.
Avoid Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky brands — methanol-laced bootleg alcohol has caused deaths; buy sealed branded bottles from reputable shops only.
Do not stray from marked paths in rural areas due to unexploded ordnance (UXO) — Laos is the most heavily bombed country per capita in history.
Avoid Xaisomboun Province and remote border areas near Myanmar, as they can be unsafe for tourists.
Use reputable transportation providers on winding mountain roads; overnight buses on mountain routes have a poor safety record.
Drink only sealed bottled water and be cautious with ice outside major hotels and restaurants.
Keep valuables secure in tourist areas; bag snatching by motorbike thieves occurs in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
Register your trip with your home embassy upon arrival if travelling to remote areas; the US Embassy is on Thadeua Road in Vientiane.
Respect Buddhist customs — remove shoes before entering temples, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), and women must not hand objects directly to monks.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation — hospitals outside Vientiane have very limited facilities.
Carry a copy of your passport and e-visa approval at all times; police checkpoints in rural areas are common.
Avoid buying or handling wildlife products, animal parts, or endangered species items — penalties are severe and it harms conservation efforts.
Drug penalties in Laos are extremely harsh including for marijuana; possession can result in lengthy prison sentences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Laos?
The best time to visit Laos is November to February. May to September may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Laos?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Laos for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Laos?
For a comprehensive Laos experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Laos expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $25-35 per day, mid-range $50-100, and luxury $150-300+.