Travel advice for Laos
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Laos
written by
Joanne Owen
updated 01.05.2025
A divine destination for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences and cultural immersion — and for nature lovers who are looking to enjoy jungle treks and river trips — Laos can be a little tricky to get around. As a result, it can also be tricky to curate your ideal Laos itinerary. To help you navigate your way through the trip planning process, here we share expert-curated Laos itineraries, along with a couple of incredible multi-country trip plans.
Recommended Laos itineraries
Covering stacks of the best places to visit in Laos — from cultural towns and ancient temples, to waterfalls and caves — the following Laos itinerary encompasses Luang Prabang, the northern mountains, and the southern Mekong region to serve an immersive, well-rounded experience.
Short on time? We also share a great way to condense a two-week trip into ten days. Conversely, if you have longer, we cover how to curate multi-country trips covering Laos and Cambodia, and Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.
Our recommended Laos itinerary kicks off in Luang Prabang © gg-foto/Shutterstock
Laos itinerary 14 days
From UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang, to the fabulous 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don), here’s how to enjoy Laos in 14 days.
Day 1: Arrive in Luang Prabang
Known for its colonial architecture and glorious Buddhist temples, this UNESCO-designated city invites cultural immersion at pretty much every turn.
There are also lots of ways to enjoy a green stay in Luang Prabang, making it a richly rewarding place to start your Laos adventure.
After arriving and settling in (why not read up on the best Laos accommodation?), stroll the lively illuminated night market and enjoy a riverside dinner.
Day 2: Enjoy Luang Prabang’s temples and cultural highlights
Day two is devoted to experiencing some of the city’s cultural highlights. For example, you could take part in a traditional alms-giving ceremony in the early morning before visiting Wat Xieng Thong and the Royal Palace.
Come dusk, head to Mount Phousi to soak up a sublime sunset.
Day 3: Visit Kuang Si Falls
On day three, we suggest taking a half-day trip to Kuang Si Falls (about 30km south of town) to swim in turquoise pools, and marvel at the multi-tiered cascades.
Many tours also offer the chance to visit a bear rescue center, and stop at a local village on the return journey.
Day 4: Mekong cruise to Pak Ou caves
Day four brings a blend of adventure and culture, thanks to enjoying a cruise on the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves.
By river, the trip to Pak Ou Caves takes around two hours from Luang Prabang — either book via a reputable tour agency, or make your own way there and buy a ticket from the boat dock
After a scenic river ride, the caves reveal thousands of Buddha statues, adding up to a magical experience.
Kuang Si Falls © Shutterstock
Day 5: Travel to Nong Khiaw
We suggest shifting locations to Nong Khiaw in the far north on day five.
Nestled on the Nam Ou River, and surrounded by some of Indochina’s most dramatic scenery, it’s 3-4 hours by road from Luang Prabang, and worth making the journey for an overnight stay in a riverside bungalow.
Day 6: Hike and experience village life
On day 6, rise early and either take a boat and trek to Muang Ngoi, or else hike to the Pha Daeng viewpoint.
Both options serve sublime scenery, so you might want to pick your trip and guide according to whether they offer the chance to make stops at remote villages.
Day 7: Return to Luang Prabang to rest or sightsee
Next, return to Luang Prabang for a rest day or more sightseeing and cultural experiences ahead of taking an internal flight on day eight.
For example, you could visit the textile village of Ban Xang Khong (around ten minutes from town), or enjoy a traditional Lao massage.
Nong Khiaw, Laos © taboga/Shutterstock
Day 8: Fly to Vientiane
Take a short flight to Laos’ laid-back capital, Vientiane.
If you arrive early enough, visit That Luang, Laos’ most sacred religious monument — its golden spire is especially striking as the sun sets — before strolling the Mekong River promenade after the golden hour has done its thing.
Day 9: Culture and chilling in Vientiane
On day 9, head out to see the Patuxai Victory Monument, visit Wat Sisaket (Vientiane’s oldest temple, no less), and check out Wat Simuang, which is where locals tend to worship.
Spend the afternoon relaxing in Vientiane’s cafés, or else book a cooking class or spa treatment.
Day 10: Travel to Thakhek
Day ten heralds a transfer to Thakhek, an appealingly quiet town on the Mekong that serves as the gateway to cave and karst adventures. You can either drive or take a bus or train.
Day 11: Day trip to Kong Lor Cave
Take an unforgettable guided day trip to Kong Lor Cave. After being surrounded by majestic karst landscapes, you’ll travel through a 7km-long limestone cave by boat.
That Luang, Vientiane, Laos © Shutterstock
Day 12: Travel to Si Phan Don
On day 12, head to the far south of Laos to explore Si Phan Don, also known as 4000 Islands.
The journey involves a combination of bus or minivan and boat, and typically takes 8-10 hours, depending on connections and your final island destination (e.g. Don Det or Don Khon).
It’s well worth making the trip — these Mekong islands invite slow travel while offering riverfront charm, river adventures (like tubing and kayaking, and some very special wildlife experiences.
Day 13: Explore Si Phan Don
Depending on your interests and energy levels, there are plenty of ways to spend day 13 of this Laos itinerary.
For example, flat, traffic-free paths make it easy to explore the islands by bike — picture yourself gliding by rice fields, traditional villages and scenic riverbanks.
We also really recommend taking a longtail boat tour to spot endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, and visiting Li Phi Falls and Khone Phapheng Falls, which happen to be among the most dramatic waterfalls in Southeast Asia.
Day 14: Depart Laos via Pakse
On day 14, it’s time to travel to Pakse for your return flight.
Alternatively, why not consider extending your trip and continuing Cambodia? We share multi-country itinerary ideas a little later.
Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang, Laos © Shutterstock
Laos itinerary 10 days
If you're limited to 10 days in Laos, we suggest focussing your attention on a few locations in the north (Luang Prabang and Nong Khiaw), and then doing the same in the south, focusing on Si Phan Don, and enjoying some special day trips.
Here's how to make the most of ten days in Laos.
Days 1–5: Luang Prabang and Nong Khiaw
Follow the original itinerary for days 1–7, but skip the return to Luang Prabang on day 7 by taking an evening transfer instead.
Days 6–10: Fly to Pakse and explore Si Phan Don
- Day 6: Fly to Pakse (bypassing Vientiane and Thakhek).
- Day 7: Transfer to Si Phan Don.
- Day 8: Explore Don Det or Don Khon.
- Day 9: Enjoy an optional strip to Bolaven Plateau or waterfalls near Pakse.
- Day 10: Depart from Pakse.
Wat Ounalom, Phnom Penh, Cambodia © Shutterstock
Combined Laos itineraries
While we’ve just shown the kinds of experiences that can be enjoyed through following a 14-day or 10-day Laos itinerary, keep reading for a few ideas that might just tempt you to expand your horizon by also heading to Cambodia and Vietnam.
If you’ve gone to all the effort of getting to Laos, these options are really worth considering.
Laos and Cambodia itinerary
First up, a suggestion for how to split a 14-night trip across Laos and Cambodia. If you’re thinking of taking a family vacation, be assured that visiting Cambodia with kids can be a wonderful experience.
Days 1–7: Laos
- Day 1: Arrive in Luang Prabang, explore the night market and riverside.
- Day 2: Visit temples and the Royal Palace, and watch the sun set from Mount Phousi.
- Day 3: Day trip to Kuang Si Waterfalls
- Day 4: Cruise to Pak Ou Caves and visit local villages.
- Day 5: Travel to Nong Khiaw, relax surrounded by splendid mountain scenery.
- Day 6: Hike to the Pha Daeng viewpoint or visit remote villages.
- Day 7: Return to Luang Prabang and fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Days 8–14: Cambodia
- Day 8: Arrive in Siem Reap, explore the Old Market and riverside.
- Day 9: Full-day tour of Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm temples.
- Day 10: Visit Banteay Srei and the Cambodian Landmine Museum.
- Day 11: Travel to Phnom Penh by flight or bus.
- Day 12: Explore Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Museum, and Killing Fields, which are among the best things to do in Phnom Penh.
- Day 13: Optional Mekong cruise or Silk Island day trip.
- Day 14: Depart Phnom Penh or extend to Kampot or the coast.
Keen to visit Cambodia? Dive into our guide to how to plan a trip to Cambodia, and take inspiration from our Cambodia itineraries.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia © Shutterstock
Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary
If you can extend your trip to three weeks, why not spend your last week exploring Vietnam from north to south?
You can fly from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City in around 1–1.5 hours. As with Cambodia, visiting Vietnam with kids can also be an amazing experience.
Vietnam in 7 days
- Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, explore Ben Thanh Market and the historic Post Office.
- Day 2: Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about Vietnam War history.
- Day 3: Take a Mekong Delta day trip with boat rides and local food.
- Day 4: Fly to Hoi An; stroll the lantern-lit Old Town and riverside.
- Day 5: Visit My Son ruins or relax at An Bang Beach.
- Day 6: Fly to Hanoi; explore the Old Quarter and sample street food.
- Day 7: Day trip or overnight cruise in Halong Bay, then depart Vietnam.
Fancy visiting Vietnam? Check out our inspirational Vietnam itineraries, and wise up with our guide to how to plan a trip to Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam © Shutterstock
How to plan your Laos travel itinerary
As revealed in our full guide to how to plan a trip to Laos, starting early is key. That way, you’ll be in better position to do research that’ll help you craft your ideal itinerary, having wised up on the likes of getting around Laos, and the best time to visit.
While we cover some trip-planning topics below, here’s a handy checklist to help you navigate the planning process.
- Start planning several months in advance.
- Decide how many days you need in Laos.
- Research and decide the best places to include in your Laos itinerary.
- Decide when’s the best time for you to go to Laos.
- Check out the visa situation.
- Map out your itinerary in detail.
- Book flights and accommodation five or so months ahead of travel.
- Book must-see tours and attractions around four months ahead of travel.
- Alternatively, contact our local Laos travel experts — they can handle all the planning and booking aspects of your trip.
Mekong River, Luang Prabang, Laos © i viewfinder/Shutterstock
How many days do you need in Laos?
From the Laos itineraries shared above, you’ll have a sense of how much you can see and do in 10 and 14 days.
At the same time, if you’re short on time, it’s also possible to curate a Laos itinerary that covers plenty in just a week.
For example, you could spend a couple of days in Luang Prabang, take a Mekong river cruise, visit Kuang Si Falls, and enjoy a day or two in Vang Vieng.
It all depends on the kind of travel pace you’re looking for, and how you feel about making multiple transfers.
Best places to add to your Laos trip
Here’s an overview of extraordinary places to consider when curating your Laos itinerary.
Best places for culture and history
- Luang Prabang: loaded with glorious golden temples, colonial architecture, and ways to engage with traditional Lao culture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit.
- Plain of Jars (Xieng Khouang): this important archaeological site features thousands of ancient stone jars, some of which are 2000+-years-old.
- Vientiane: Laos’ capital city is packed with historic sites (e.g. Pha That Luang, Laos’ most sacred stupa, and the Patuxai Monument), and has a charmingly relaxed atmosphere.
Best places for adventure Laos
- Vang Vieng: previously known for its lively night life, Vang Vieng is now a must-visit for adventure activities, from kayaking, rock climbing and river tubing, to hot air ballooning.
- Trekking in Luang Namtha: here you can enjoy guided hikes through jungles and hill tribe villages. Take your pick from one-day walks, to epic multi-day treks.
Best places for wildlife and nature in Laos
- Kuang Si Falls, near Luang Prabang: a joyful place of turquoise waterfalls and natural pools.
- Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands): these remote Mekong river islands are ideal for wildlife lovers and relaxation.
- Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park: this remote conservation area invites visitors to learn about efforts to protect tigers and other wildlife.
- Gibbon Experience, Bokeo: located deep in Laos’ forest, this unforgettable eco-adventure offers jungle zip-lining, treehouse stays, and wildlife watching. Booking essential.
Kuang Si Waterfalls, Laos © Artit Wongpradu/Shutterstock
When's the best time to visit Laos?
To maximise opportunities to enjoy the broadest range of experiences in the most suitable conditions, the best time to visit Laos is between November and February.
And the reasons? Through this period, the weather is cooler, generally dry, and less humid — all the better for enjoying adventure activities, temple visits, and taking river cruises.
From March to May, conditions become more humid and hotter, while the June-September rainy season heralds heavy showers that are likely to have an impact on at least some of your plans.
Do you need a visa to enter Laos?
Yes — most travelers need a visa to visit Laos, with a simple visa on arrival (VOA) available for citizens of over 150 countries, including the US, UK, EU and Canada.
This is issued at major land borders and airports (e.g. Luang Prabang and Vientiane), valid for 30 days, and extendable in-country for a fee. Alternatively, you can apply for an eVisa online before arrival.
Also note your passport must be valid for 6+ months, and you pay the visa fee in cash (USD is preferred). And, as always. be sure to check visa requirements before travel as policies may change.
Ready to take a trip to Laos? While planning your trip, arm yourself with our Laos travel advice, or else let our local Laos travel experts handle the heavy lifting of curating and booking your perfect Laos itinerary
