Laostravel guide
⌖ 18.2° N · 103.8° E · CAPITAL: VIENTIANE
First impressions
Know before you go.
Welcome to Laos, a hidden gem in Southeast Asia! Nestled between Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and China, this landlocked country offers a tranquil and authentic travel experience for those seeking something off the beaten path. Laos is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, from the lush mountains of Luang Prabang to the tranquil waters of the Mekong River.
Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng are the two touristic hotspots in Laos and certainly worth a visit, but don't miss out on exploring the countryside. Rent a motorbike to explore the caves on the Thonglor Loop or the scenic waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau and take a boat to remote Muang Ngoy.
With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, Laos invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in its unique blend of tradition and tranquility.
Entry card · LA
- Currency
- Lao kip (â‚)
- Exchange rate
- US$1 = â‚22055
- Language
- Lao
- English
- Very Low
- Capital
- Vientiane
- Population
- 7.3 million
- Drives on
- right
- Plugs
- A, B, C, E, F
- Time zone
- Indochina Time (UTC+07:00)
01 · The seasons
When to go.
- November to FebruaryHigh Season - Dry and cooler weather
- May to OctoberLow Season - Rainy season with occasional flooding
02 · Daily fares
What it costs.
Est. daily fares
LAOS · US$1 = â‚22055
- Hostel DormUS$5
- Takeaway MealUS$2
- Public transportUS$1
- Long-distance busUS$10
- Entrance FeeUS$4
- BeerUS$1.5
Daily totalUS$16 (â‚ 352,880)
Money field notes
Cards
Card payment is often possible, but not always
ATM Fees
All ATMs charge fees
ATMs to avoid (high fees)
JDB
THIS TRAVEL GUIDE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS
03 · The shortlist
Best experiences.
- 1Discover the hidden charms of Vientiane
- 2Swim in the impressive Kuang Si Waterfalls
- 3Explore the ancient tombs at Plain of Jars
- 4Go tubing in Vang Vieng
- 5Take a boat trip along the Mekong River
04 · At the table
Eat like you live here.
Menu
TASTE OF LAOS
- LaapMUST TRY
- Tam mak hoongMUST TRY
- Khao soiMUST TRY
- Or lamMUST TRY
- Sticky riceMUST TRY
Before you go
At the border.
Customs declaration · Travel etiquette
Declare
- greet people with a respectful 'Nop' (hands placed together in a prayer-like gesture) when meeting them.
- remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a temple.
- dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- ask for permission before taking photos of local people.
- try the local cuisine and respect local customs.
Do not bring
- point your feet towards someone or something sacred.
- raise your voice or display anger in public.
Is Laos safe for tourists?
What are the must-visit tourist destinations in Laos?
What are some essential phrases in the Lao language?
What's the best way to get around in Laos?
05 · The flight plan
Itineraries.
Laos Adventure (3 weeks)
- 1Luang PrabangFly in or arrive by boat on the Mekong from Huay Xai on the Thai border. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site with its stunning temples and don't miss the Kuang Si wasserfalls.
- 2Nong KhiawEnjoy the scenic beauty of limestone mountains, and hike to the viewpoints.
- 3Muang NgoyEscape to this remote village accessible only by boat, relax in a hammock and go kayaking.
- 4Plain of JarsBase yourself in Phonsavan, then rent a motorbike for the day and visit the mysterious archaeological sites with ancient giant stone jars. Don't miss Phonsavan night market.
- 5Vang ViengIndulge in outdoor activities like tubing, rock climbing, and exploring limestone caves.
- 6Thakhek LoopRent a motorbike for a few days and ride through scenic karst landscapes and visit caves.
- 7Bolaven Plateau LoopDiscover waterfalls, coffee plantations, and ethnic minority villages. Best done as a multi-day motorbike trip from Pakse.
- 84000 IslandsRelax on the peaceful islands of the Mekong River and spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. You can continue to Cambodia from here or take a bus to Vientiane.
06 · The community