Ready for your dream Laos vacation? From the golden temples of Luang Prabang to the limestone karsts of Vang Vieng, the colonial charm of Vientiane to the 4,000 islands of the Mekong, this guide outlines the ultimate Laos itinerary.
These curated itineraries help you find the top things to do in Laos—featuring sunrise almsgivings, tubing adventures, Buddhist caves, waterfalls, and river island sunsets.
Want to make your Laos trip even more special? Learn basic Lao before you go
- Luang Prabang: Laos’s cultural gem—golden temples, saffron-robed monks, French colonial charm, and dreamy Mekong River sunsets.
- Vang Vieng: Once a backpacker party town, now a nature-lovers’ haven with limestone cliffs, blue lagoons, kayaking, and epic views.
- Vientiane: The laid-back capital where French cafés, golden stupas, and Mekong riverfront evenings offer a chill intro to Lao life.
- Kuang Si Falls: Near Luang Prabang, these cascading turquoise pools are pure magic—swim, hike, and snap Insta-worthy jungle photos.
- Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands): Laos’ river paradise—chill out in a hammock, spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins, and float into island time.
- Phonsavan: The gateway to the mysterious Plain of Jars—ancient history, war scars, and highland mystique.
- Plain of Jars: Mysterious ancient stone jars scattered across rolling hills—one of Southeast Asia’s most enigmatic archaeological sites.
- Bolaven Plateau: Known for its lush landscapes and coffee farms, this highland region offers scenic waterfalls and peaceful rural villages.
- Thakhek Loop: A legendary motorbike circuit through caves, cliffs, and sleepy villages—Laos adventure at its finest.
- Muang Ngoi: A remote riverside village accessible only by boat—perfect for hammock days, jungle hikes, and total disconnect.
- Nong Khiaw: Dramatic mountain views, slow village life, and riverside peace make this one a backpacker favorite.
- Savannakhet: A sleepy Mekong city with colonial remnants, quiet temples, and an easygoing southern rhythm.
- Champasak: Home to the pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Phou and riverside serenity amid timeless rural scenery.
💡 Laos Tips
- Cash is essential: The Lao kip (LAK) is the main currency. Credit cards are accepted at upscale hotels and restaurants, but most local places operate on cash.
- Use US dollars or Thai baht when needed: These are often accepted in tourist areas and for large purchases, though change is usually given in kip.
- Tipping is not required but appreciated: Round up your bill or leave a small tip in restaurants and for guides or drivers.
- Transport is slow — plan ahead: Roads can be rough and travel times longer than expected. Use domestic flights or book buses in advance for popular routes.
- Respect Buddhist customs: Dress modestly at temples, remove shoes before entering, and never touch a monk (especially if you’re a woman).
- English is limited outside tourist areas: Learn basic Lao phrases like “sabaidee” (hello) and “khop jai” (thank you), or use a translation app.
- Internet is available in cities: Wi-Fi is common in cafes and hotels, but may be slow. Buy a local SIM for better connectivity.
- Be mindful of personal space and modesty: Lao culture is gentle and reserved — avoid public displays of affection or loud behavior.
- Laos is very safe for travelers: Violent crime is rare, but take normal precautions with belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.
- Bargaining is accepted in markets: Do it respectfully and with a smile — it’s part of the local culture.
- Tap water is not safe to drink: Stick to bottled or filtered water and avoid ice if unsure of its source.
- Laos runs on “island time”: Life is laid-back — embrace the slow pace and relaxed atmosphere.
🇱🇦 Laos Menu
- Larb (Laap) (National Dish): Minced meat salad (often chicken, pork, or fish) mixed with lime juice, herbs, toasted rice powder, and chili — spicy, tangy, and served with sticky rice.
- Sticky Rice (Khao Niew) (Nationwide): The staple of Lao cuisine — rolled by hand and eaten with almost every meal. Served in a woven basket.
- Tam Mak Hoong (Vientiane & Luang Prabang): Lao-style green papaya salad — tangier and fishier than the Thai version, with fermented fish sauce and strong chili.
- Or Lam (Luang Prabang): A spicy, herbal stew made with buffalo or chicken, eggplant, wood ear mushrooms, and lemongrass — traditionally thickened with sticky rice flour.
- Khao Piak Sen: A comforting noodle soup made with chewy rice noodles, chicken or pork, herbs, and a thick, starchy broth — Laos’ version of chicken noodle soup.
- Khao Soi (Lao-style) (Northern Laos): Not to be confused with the Thai version — this is a mild tomato-based noodle soup with minced pork and hand-cut rice noodles.
- Sai Oua (Lao Sausage): Grilled pork sausage seasoned with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chili — fragrant and full of flavor.
- Jeow: A variety of spicy dipping sauces made from grilled ingredients — eaten with sticky rice and vegetables. Jeow bong (chili paste with buffalo skin) is a specialty of Luang Prabang.
- Nem Khao (Crispy Rice Salad) (Central Laos): Crumbled crispy rice mixed with fermented pork, herbs, and peanuts — wrapped in lettuce or served as a salad.
- Mok Pa: Fish steamed in banana leaves with herbs and chili — soft, aromatic, and eaten with sticky rice.
- Fried Mekong Fish (Southern Laos): Fresh fish from the Mekong River — fried whole and served with tamarind or chili sauce.
- Khao Jee (Lao Baguette Sandwich) (French-influenced): A crusty baguette filled with pâté, meats, pickles, and chili sauce — a popular breakfast or snack.
- Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango: A dessert of sticky rice, coconut milk, and ripe mango — simple, creamy, and beloved across Southeast Asia.
- Lao Beer (Beerlao): The national lager — light, crisp, and brewed with local rice. Often considered one of the best beers in Southeast Asia.
- Lao Lao: A strong rice whiskey — usually homemade and offered during social gatherings. Often shared with a toast.
📅 Laos Calendar
- Boun Pha Vet (January, Nationwide): Buddhist storytelling, donations, and merit-making ceremonies
- Boun Ma Kha Bu Saar (February–March, Nationwide): Thousands of candles lit at temples to honor Buddha’s teachings
- Lao New Year – Pi Mai (April, Nationwide): Three days of water fights, sand stupas, and blessings
- Rocket Festival – Boun Bang Fai (May, Villages in Central Laos): Home-made rockets launched to ask the gods for rain
- Boat Racing Festival (September–October, Vientiane & riverside towns): Colorful canoe races and riverside celebrations
- That Luang Festival (November, Vientiane): The country’s most sacred Buddhist festival at the golden stupa
- Loy Krathong / Boun That Luang (November, Luang Prabang): Floating candle-lit offerings on rivers under the full moon
- Hmong New Year (December, Northern Laos): Cultural music, clothing, and traditional ball-toss courtship games