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Laos
Luang Prabang
Warm
From $59 /day
Laos
Laos is a land of timeless tranquility where the mighty Mekong River carves a path through jagged limestone peaks and lush jungles. Known as the Land of a Million Elephants, this landlocked nation offers a slower pace of life that stands in stark contrast to its more hectic neighbors. You can expect to find shimmering golden temples, saffron-robed monks collecting morning alms, and emerald-green rice paddies stretching toward the horizon. Whether you are exploring the French colonial architecture of Luang Prabang or navigating the mysterious Plain of Jars, Laos rewards the patient traveler with authentic cultural encounters and untouched natural beauty. It is a destination where the journey itself—often involving slow boats or mountain passes—becomes the highlight of the adventure.
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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
1 city
3 guides
$59 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Vientiane
Languages
Lao
Currency
Lao Kip (LAK)
1 $ ≈ 21,525 ₭
Plug Type
Type A/B/C/E/F (230V, 50Hz)
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+856
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
ICT (UTC+7)
Emergency
1191 (Police), 1195 (Ambulance), 1190 (Fire)
Why Visit Laos
Spiritual Heritage in Luang Prabang
This UNESCO World Heritage town is the soul of Lao culture, featuring over 30 active temples and the daily Tak Bat alms-giving ceremony. The blend of traditional Lao timber houses and European colonial mansions creates an atmosphere of quiet elegance found nowhere else in Southeast Asia.
Untouched Natural Landscapes
From the multi-tiered turquoise pools of Kuang Si Falls to the rugged karst mountains of Vang Vieng, the scenery is breathtaking. Adventurers can explore vast cave systems, trek through dense northern forests, or enjoy sunrise views over the misty mountains of Nong Khiaw.
The Mighty Mekong Experience
Life in Laos revolves around the Mekong River, and traveling its waters is an essential experience. You can take a two-day slow boat from the Thai border or relax in the far south among the 4,000 Islands, where the river widens into a labyrinth of waterways and hidden waterfalls.
A Rising Adventure Hub
Laos has transformed into a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking more than just sightseeing. You can go rock climbing in Central Laos, zip-lining through the canopy of the Bolaven Plateau, or kayaking through the subterranean river of Tham Kong Lo cave.
Incredible Value for Travelers
With an average daily budget of ~$59 / LAK 1,267,850, you can enjoy high-quality boutique accommodation and exceptional dining. Laos offers a sense of luxury for a fraction of the cost found in Western destinations, making it ideal for long-term exploration.
Authentic Culinary Discoveries
Lao cuisine is a vibrant explosion of fresh herbs, lime, and chili that remains relatively undiscovered on the global stage. Participating in a traditional Baci ceremony or sharing a meal of sticky rice and spicy dips with a local family provides deep insight into the country's communal spirit.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in Laos
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Northern Laos
Dominated by the cultural jewel of Luang Prabang, this region is a mountainous wonderland perfect for trekking and river travel. Travelers head here to visit remote ethnic villages near Phongsali or to enjoy the serene riverside atmosphere of Nong Khiaw and Muang Ngoy.
Central Laos
This region encompasses the capital, Vientiane, and the adventure hotspot of Vang Vieng. It is characterized by dramatic limestone karst landscapes and the massive Phou Hin Poun National Biodiversity Conservation Area, home to the famous 7km-long Tham Kong Lo river cave.
Southern Laos
Known for its more relaxed pace and coffee plantations, the south features the Bolaven Plateau and the Khmer ruins of Wat Phou. The journey typically ends at Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands), where the Mekong creates a tropical archipelago near the Cambodian border.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season is the most favorable time to visit, offering comfortable temperatures and clear skies for river cruises and trekking. Humidity and heat peak just before the monsoon, while the rainy season brings lush landscapes but potential travel disruptions.
Peak Season
Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
The 'cool-dry' season features pleasant temperatures ranging from 15–27°C (59–81°F). This is the busiest period for tourism, especially in Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng, so booking the Laos-China Railway and hotels in advance is essential.
Shoulder Season
Mar, Apr, Oct
April is the hottest month, with temperatures often reaching 35°C, but it coincides with the vibrant Lao New Year (Pi Mai) water festival. October marks the transition out of the rainy season, offering green scenery with fewer crowds.
Off-Peak
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. While waterfalls are at their most spectacular, rural roads in provinces like Phongsaly can become impassable, and boat travel on the Mekong may be affected by high water levels.
Getting Around
Laos is undergoing a transport revolution with the high-speed Laos-China Railway, though local infrastructure remains limited. Public transport is scarce after sunset, and car taxis are mostly found at major airports or border crossings.
Train
The Laos-China Railway connects Vientiane to Boten via Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. Vientiane–Luang Prabang is ~1h45–2h50 depending on service. Ticket sales/availability depend on channel and period; official sources describe reservations up to ~7 days in advance. Fares vary by class and train type (quoted in LAK).
Bus
VIP and sleeper buses connect major cities for ~$18–$29 / LAK 380,355–LAK 633,925, though journeys can take 10–12 hours on winding mountain roads. Minivans are faster for shorter tourist routes like Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng.
Boat
Slow boats along the Mekong remain a popular scenic route, particularly the 2-day journey from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang. Private river cruises offer high-end alternatives, while local ferries are vital for reaching islands like Si Phan Don.
Tuk-Tuk
The primary mode for short urban trips; larger versions known as 'jumbos' or 'skylabs' can carry up to 10 people. Fares typically start at ~$2.36–$5.89 / LAK 50,714–LAK 126,785 and must be negotiated upfront.
Food & Drink
Food in Laos is centered around Khao Niew (sticky rice), which is traditionally served in a woven basket and eaten with the hands. The flavors are bold, earthy, and fresh, utilizing local jungle herbs, fermented fish paste, and plenty of lime and chili.
Must Try
Laap
Often called the national dish, this minced meat salad is flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, mint, and toasted rice powder for a unique nutty crunch.
Khao Niew
A staple of every meal, this glutinous rice is steamed in a bamboo basket and used as a tool to scoop up various side dishes and sauces.
Tam Mak Hoong
A spicy green papaya salad that is pounded in a mortar with garlic, chilies, shrimp paste, and lime, offering a powerful balance of sour, salty, and spicy notes.
Khao Piak Sen
A comforting noodle soup made with thick, handmade rice noodles in a rich chicken or pork broth, often topped with crispy garlic and fresh herbs.
Sai Oua
A fragrant Lao herbal sausage stuffed with pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, then grilled until smoky and succulent.
Mok Pa
Fresh fish marinated in herbs, dill, and coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until it reaches a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Or Lam
A traditional Luang Prabang stew made with vegetables, bitter greens, and 'sakhaan' (chili wood), which creates a unique tingling sensation on the tongue.
Beerlao
The pride of the nation, this smooth and crisp lager is made with local jasmine rice and is an essential accompaniment to any Lao social gathering.
Money & Costs
Laos offers exceptional value for money, with a daily budget of ~$59 / LAK 1,267,850 covering mid-range comfort. While the Lao Kip (LAK) is the official currency, US Dollars and Thai Baht are widely accepted in tourist hubs for larger transactions.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected but highly appreciated; rounding up a bill or leaving ~$0.59–$1.18 / LAK 12,679–LAK 25,357 in restaurants and for guides is a kind gesture.
Cards
Credit card acceptance is very low and generally limited to upscale hotels and some businesses in Vientiane or Luang Prabang; a 3% surcharge is common.
ATMs
ATMs are available in cities but often have low withdrawal limits and high transaction fees (~$2.36–$4.71 / LAK 50,714–LAK 101,428). Travelers should carry sufficient cash, ensuring bank notes are in pristine condition.
Culture & Etiquette
Lao culture is deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which emphasizes humility, patience, and the concept of 'muan' (joyful spirit). Visitors are expected to behave modestly and show respect to monks and religious sites to maintain social harmony.
✓
Dress modestly when visiting temples by ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered; women may be asked to wear a traditional 'sinh' (wrap-around skirt).
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Remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple building as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
✕
Avoid touching anyone on the head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body in Lao culture.
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Do not use your feet to point at people, objects, or religious icons, as feet are seen as the lowest and dirtiest part of the body.
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Greet people with a 'Nop' by placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly.
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Refrain from public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, which are generally considered inappropriate and embarrassing for locals to witness.
✓
Keep your cool and avoid raising your voice during disputes; 'losing face' is a significant social embarrassment that will not help resolve problems.
✕
Do not take photos of monks or religious ceremonies without asking for permission first, and maintain a respectful distance during the morning alms.
Safety & Health
Laos is generally safe for tourists, though petty crime and specific risks exist. Be cautious with alcohol due to methanol poisoning incidents (notably reported in Vang Vieng). Avoid non-essential travel to Xaisomboun Province due to security concerns.
Tap Water
Not safe to drink
Vaccinations
Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus; Malaria and Dengue fever precautions are necessary, especially in rural areas during the rainy season.
Common Scams
- ⚠ Ripped bank note scam where vendors pass off damaged Kip notes that are legally worthless.
- ⚠ Motorbike rental 'theft' where shops use spare keys to steal the bike and demand a high replacement fee.
- ⚠ Morning alms overcharging where locals pressure tourists into buying overpriced rice or seats for the ceremony.
- ⚠ Slow boat accommodation scam where touts on the boat falsely claim no rooms are available in Pakbeng to sell overpriced bookings.
- ⚠ Tuk-tuk detours to commission-based shops or stopping halfway to demand higher fees.
Healthcare facilities are limited outside major cities; for complex cases, medical evacuation to Thailand may be required. Strongly consider travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Language
Lao is the primary language, but English and French are common among tourism professionals in Luang Prabang and Vientiane. In rural areas, English proficiency is minimal, making basic Lao phrases or a translation app useful.
English Spoken: Moderately spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Sabaidee | sah-bye-dee |
| Thank you | Khop chai | kop-chai |
| Thank you very much | Khop chai lai lai | kop-chai-lie-lie |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Khor thot | kor-tote |
| How much? | Tao dai? | tao-die |
| No problem | Bo pen yang | bor-pen-yang |
| Delicious | Sep lai | sep-lie |
| Goodbye | La gorn | la-gone |
Visa & Entry
Most travelers can get a 30-day tourist visa via the official eVisa portal or visa on arrival at major entry points. From Sep 1, 2025, travelers must complete the Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF) online for both arrival and departure within 3 days before travel (coverage expanded from pilot checkpoints; check official immigration portal for current rollout).
Max Stay
30 days (tourist eVisa/VOA stay permit)
Passport Validity
More than 180 days from date of arrival
Visa-free for
30 days: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, Japan. 15 days: Luxembourg, Switzerland. 14 days: Myanmar, Hong Kong
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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