Laos Travel Guide (Southeast Asia/Asia)

Laos, located in Southeast Asia, is a hidden gem filled with a rich history, natural beauty, and unique culture that is waiting to be explored by adventurous travelers. Despite being a small country, Laos has a lot to offer, from its iconic temples and ancient ruins, to its breathtaking natural landscapes. Read this comprehensive travel guide to Laos for all you need to know about planning your next trip.

Introduction to Laos

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia surrounded by Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Laos has a distinguished culture and history with a mix of Buddhist and French colonial influences. The country is home to over 7 million people, with the majority speaking Lao, and the official currency is the Lao Kip.

List of Places to Visit in Laos

Laos has an abundance of scenic locations and culturally important attractions that are worth visiting. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in Laos.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Luang Prabang - This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a historic city that features well-preserved architecture, temples, and cultural landmarks.
Wat Xieng Thong - This is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Laos and an iconic symbol of Luang Prabang.
Pha That Luang - This is a golden temple and a national symbol in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos.
Buddha Park - Located in Vientiane, this park is dotted with over 200 concrete sculptures depicting Buddhist figures and Hindu gods.

Natural Attractions of Laos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kuang Si Falls - A beautiful waterfall that is a popular swimming spot and picnic location located near Luang Prabang.
Mekong River - The Mekong River runs through Laos and is a fantastic spot for river cruises and activities such as kayaking and fishing.
Phou Hin Poun National Protected Area - A sprawling protected area that offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic views of limestone cliffs and underground rivers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Laos

Laos has some of the best hiking and biking trails in Southeast Asia. Here are some of the most popular routes to explore:

Luang Prabang to Kuang Si Falls - This is a scenic bike ride that offers spectacular views of the countryside and the famous waterfall.
The Plain of Jars Trail - This is a trekking trail that takes visitors past ancient jar stones and through pristine landscapes.
Thakhek Loop - A six-day motorbike adventure that takes riders through limestone mountains, valleys, and rivers.

Best Things to Do in Laos: Activities and Tours

Laos offers a range of activities and tours that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some ideas for things to do in Laos:

Food Tour - Sample the local street food and traditional Lao cuisine on a guided tour.
Sunset Boat Cruise - Take a relaxing boat cruise along the Mekong River during sunset.
Zip Line Adventure - Soar through the jungle canopy on a thrilling zip line ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Laos

Laos is a small country with a lot to offer. Here is a week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1 - 2: Luang Prabang Day 3 - 4: Vang Vieng Day 5 - 6: Vientiane Day 7: Depart for home.

Food and Drink Scene of Laos

Laos may not be as famous for its cuisine as Thailand or Vietnam, but it has a distinct and delicious food culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Lao Sticky Rice - A staple in Lao cuisine, sticky rice is served with most meals and is often paired with stews, stir-fries, or curries.
Laap - Traditional Lao-style minced meat salad, typically made with chicken, beef, or fish.
Khao Soi - A spicy rice noodle soup with a coconut milk-based curry.

Local Beverages

Lao beer - The Beer Lao is a national favorite and can be found in most restaurants and bars across the country.
Lao Coffee - Laos has a thriving coffee culture, and coffee beans are often harvested and roasted locally. Try the traditional Lao coffee, a rich, dark brew mixed with condensed milk.

Where to Stay in Laos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Laos has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some recommendations for where to stay in Laos:

Mekong Riverside Lodge - Located in Vang Vieng, this riverside lodge offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
Rosewood Luang Prabang - A luxury resort in Luang Prabang that blends traditional Lao design with modern comforts.
Khounboun Guesthouse - A budget-friendly guesthouse in Vientiane that offers basic amenities and a central location.

What to Buy in Laos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Laos is known for its handicrafts, textiles, and silk. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from Laos:

Laotian Silk - Laos is famous for its high-quality silk, which is often dyed with natural colors and made into scarves, bags, and clothing.
Handicrafts - Laos has a thriving handicraft industry, and visitors can purchase handcrafted items such as pottery, baskets, and wood carvings.
Beer Lao Merchandise - Beer Lao is a national favorite, and visitors can bring home merchandise such as T-shirts, hats, and bottle openers.

Local Culture and Customs of Laos

Laos is a country steeped in tradition and culture. Here are some things to keep in mind about Lao culture and customs:

Buddhism - Lao culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism, and visitors should be respectful of temple customs and traditions.
Language - The official language of Laos is Lao, but English is widely spoken in urban areas.
Etiquette - Lao people are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors should be polite and respectful when interacting with locals.

Best Time to Visit Laos

The best time to visit Laos is from November to February when the weather is dry and cool. The summer months of June to September are the rainy season, which can make travel difficult.

Do’s and Don’ts of Laos

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Laos:

Do:

Dress modestly when visiting temples or other cultural sites.
Smile and be respectful when interacting with locals.
Try the local cuisine and cultural experiences.

Don’t:

Take photos of people without their permission.
Touch the head of a monk or Buddha statue.
Litter in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Laos is a relatively safe country, but visitors should take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Laos

Use reputable tour companies and travel with a guide in rural locations.
Be aware of theft in tourist areas.
Avoid political demonstrations and protests.

Health in Laos

Drink only bottled or filtered water.
Be aware of mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue and malaria.
Obtain proper vaccinations and travel insurance before your trip.

Getting to Laos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Laos is accessible by air, road, and river. Here are some transportation options to consider when planning your trip:

Airports Near Laos

Wattay International Airport in Vientiane
Luang Prabang International Airport in Luang Prabang

Bus Stations Near Laos

Northern Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Thailand
Southern Bus Terminal in Vientiane, Laos

Other Options

Boat cruises on the Mekong River
Train journeys to Nong Khai, Thailand

How to Get Around in Laos

Tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorbikes are popular modes of transportation in Laos. Visitors can also travel by bus or boat to reach more remote locations.

Where to Go Next from Laos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, here are some destinations and excursions to consider:

Chiang Mai, Thailand - A vibrant city known for its culture, food, and temples, located across the border from northern Laos.
Hanoi, Vietnam - A bustling city known for its food and history, located a short flight away from Laos.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia - A world-famous temple complex located close to the border of Laos and Cambodia.

Conclusion

Laos is a fascinating country with a wealth of cultural and natural attractions waiting to be discovered by travelers. With this comprehensive travel guide to Laos, you now have all the information you need to plan your next trip to this Southeast Asian gem.