Laos travel guide
Laos Tourism | Laos Guide
You're Going to Love Laos
Ethnically diverse and with unforgettable natural landscapes, Laos is perhaps one of the most authentic countries in Asia where rural life is still alive and well.
What to do in Laos
1. Experience Luang Prabang
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang is one of the top destinations in Laos and is famous for its countryside appeal, royal palaces, and dozens of temples.
2. Visit the Ancient Wat Sisaket
Perhaps one of the most famous temples in Laos, this 18th-century building houses thousands of Buddha sculptures and is a beautiful example of local religious architecture.
3. Shop at Unmissable Markets
Even if you're just browsing, it's impossible to feel indifferent in one of the dozens of markets in Laos. Luang Prabang has two of the must-visit markets: the Handicraft Night Market and the Morning Market.
4. Explore Vientiane
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is a vibrant mix of cultural influences that will entertain you for houses. From French-inherited café culture to going on a tuk-tuk safari, there are dozens of ways to get under the skin of the city.
5. Discover Local Cuisine in Savannakhet
One of the most authentic places in Laos to taste local cuisine is Savannakhet, from breakfast to dinner.
When to visit Laos
Weather wise, the best time to visit is between November and March, when temperatures are milder. One of the top events in Laos, the festival Bun Pha That Luang, happens in Vientiane in November.
How to Get to Laos
Entry requirements
A visa on arrival is issued to all citizens upon entering Laos and is valid for stays of up to 30 days.
Citizens from Russia, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, and South Asian countries don't need a visa to enter Laos.
Plane
Laos is served by four international airports: one in Vientiane (Wattay International Airport) and the other three in Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Pakse.
If you're traveling to Laos from outside of Asia, you'll most likely have a layover in Bangkok.
Train
There is a regular train connection between Nong Khai in Thailand and Tha Naleng in Laos, near Vientiane. Considering that the train station isn't in the capital city center, this might not be the best option for all travelers.
Car
Thailand and Vietnam have the most land border crossings if you're considering entering Laos by land. Practically all of them issue visas on arrival.
You can only bring a car to Laos from Cambodia or Thailand.
Bus
There are regular buses connecting the neighboring countries to Laos.
You can enter Laos by bus from Cambodia (Stung Treng, Phnom Penh, and Kratie), and several towns in China, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Popular airlines serving Laos
Where to stay in Laos
In top tourist destinations like Luang Prabang and Vientiane, it's easy to find a large range of accommodation types, from budget-friendly hostels to more expensive hotels. Elsewhere in the country, guesthouses are more common.
Where to stay in popular areas of Laos
Most booked hotels in Laos
How to Get Around Laos
Public Transportation
Outside Vientiane, where you'll find a reasonable network of buses to get around, the most common means of public transportation are tuk-tuks.
Bus
Long-distance buses in Laos are usually geared towards tourists and include special amenities like air conditioning.
Converted trucks known as "sorngtaaou" are a cheaper option usually used by locals or for shorter routes.
Car
To rent a car in Laos you'll need an International Driving Permit.
Compare prices before renting a car because it might be cheaper to rent one with a driver than driving around yourself.
Plane
Domestic flights in Laos are operated by local carriers Lao Airlines and Lao Skyway. Book flights as far in advance as possible if you're traveling during special holidays.
The Cost of Living in Laos
ATMs are widely available but dispense large sums and bank fees vary. Credit card payments are accepted in the main cities at restaurants, hotels, and some shops. A couple of days of groceries costs around 200,000 LAK (22 USD). A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost around 23,823 LAK (2.70 USD).