Laos travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Laos is known for its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, earning it the nickname "Land of a Million Elephants and the White Parasol", and millions come to this country each year to experience it. This country also boasts stunning natural landscapes, including cascading waterfalls such as Kuang Si Falls near Luang Prabang and Tad Fane Waterfall in the Bolaven Plateau. Here's our collection of the best Laos travel tips, to help ensure that you're trip goes swimmingly.

When is the best time to visit Laos?

The cool season (November to February), is generally considered the best time to visit Laos. The weather is just right – cool and dry – perfect for all your outdoor adventures and sightseeing plans. Temperatures sit comfortably between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), and the humidity is lower.

Another option is the hot season, from March to May. These months bring some serious heat and humidity. That said, if you're into water activities, this is your time to travel.

Last but not least, we've got the rainy season from June to October. Expect heavy rainfall and a spike in humidity during this time. While it might not be the ideal weather for trekking or river adventures, the landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise. Plus, you'll find fewer tourists and some sweet deals on accommodations in Laos.

Is Laos expensive?

Laos is renowned for its affordability compared to its neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia. As for everyday expenses, the main costs are likely to be transportation, while accommodation and food remain pleasantly inexpensive.

By eating at noodle stalls and cheap restaurants, opting for basic accommodation and traveling by public transport, you can travel in Laos on a daily budget of less than $37 (€34). 

Staying in more upmarket hotels and resorts, and eating in the best restaurants will push your budget up to a very reasonable $50-90 (€45-83) a day. Note, however, that prices are significantly higher in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

While restaurants and some shops have fixed prices, in general merchandise almost never has price tags, and the lack of a fixed pricing scheme can take some getting used to. Prices, unless marked or for food in a market, are usually to be negotiated. 

For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, Laos can set you back anywhere from $300-1000 (€275-915) per day, depending on your preferences.

Is Laos safe for travelers?

Laos is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, but like anywhere, there are a few Laos travel tips to keep in mind to ensure your trip is smooth sailing.

First off, be mindful of areas where unexploded ordnance from past conflicts may still pose a risk. It's essential to respect these off-limits zones for your safety.

Now, onto a more common concern: theft. Unfortunately, tourists can be targets for thieves (who may include your fellow travelers). Keep an eye on your belongings and take precautions, especially in crowded areas. Vang Vieng, in particular, has a reputation for petty crime, so stay vigilant if you find yourself there.

Another crucial point to note is Laos' stringent drug laws. Possession of even small amounts of drugs, including marijuana, can result in particularly severe penalties.

When visiting temples and religious sites, be sure to dress appropriately.  You’ll want to keep shoulders and knees covered out of respect for the sacredness of these places.

For more information, see the UK Government’s foreign travel advice page, or the US Department of State’s travel advisory.

Laos for women travelers

Laos is generally safe for solo female travellers. However, as with any destination, it's important to take certain precautions. If something doesn't feel right, trust your intuition and remove yourself from the situation. While street harassment is not common in Laos, bag snatching is, so it’s best to be aware especially in the tourist hotspots. 

Laos for LGBTQ+ travelers

Regarding LGBTQ+ travelers, Laos is generally welcoming. However, it's essential to be mindful of local attitudes. Open displays of affection, whether same-sex or opposite-sex, are uncommon and considered rude.  

Laos is a conservative culture, and attitudes towards homosexuality are complicated. You’re unlikely to find any nightlife scene here. That said, most LGBTQ+ travelers, including gender non-conforming travelers, tend to find Laos a safe place to visit. Respect for local norms and customs is key to a safe and enjoyable visit to Laos.

Do you need a visa for Laos?

Yes, typically most visitors to Laos will require a visa. 

If you're from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, most European Union countries, or many others, you're in luck. You can snag a visa on arrival. Just make sure your passport is valid, bring a passport-sized photo, and have some cash (usually in USD) handy for the visa fee. This visa on arrival usually gives you a solid 30 days to explore Laos, and you can get it at major airports like Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang’s, and Pakse.

Laos also offers an e-visa system for folks from specific countries. This means you can sort out your visa online, no embassy visits are required. Just upload a passport-sized photo and pay the fee online. 

If you prefer the traditional route, you can still apply for a visa at a Lao embassy or consulate before your trip begins.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Laos?

Staying healthy in Laos mostly comes down to avoiding dodgy water, staying cool, and dodging mozzies. Medical care is decent in cities like Vientiane and Luang Prabang, but rural areas are a different story – bring any meds you rely on and a basic first-aid kit.

Medical care and pharmacies

Vientiane has private hospitals and international clinics, but beyond that, facilities are basic. Travel insurance with medical cover is a must.

Pharmacies are common and usually stock basic meds without a prescription. Don’t expect brand names – bring anything specific, especially for allergies or chronic conditions.

Vaccinations and health prep

You won’t need jabs to enter Laos, but get these before you go:

• Tetanus/diphtheria – For cuts and scrapes.
• Hepatitis A – Spread through food and water.
• Typhoid – Especially if you’ll be eating street food.
• Japanese encephalitis – Worth it if you're rural or visiting during monsoon.

Malaria and dengue are both present in Laos. No vaccine for dengue – wear repellent and long sleeves. Antimalarials may be recommended if you're heading deep into the countryside.

Water, food, and gut survival

Tap water’s not safe – stick to bottled or filtered water, even for brushing your teeth. Most hotels include it.

Food is part of the adventure, but play it smart:

• Eat hot, cooked dishes.
• Skip raw salads or fruit you didn’t peel.
• Pick busy places with a queue.
• Use hand sanitizer – soap’s not a given.

If your gut rebels, local pharmacies sell rehydration salts and basic treatments.

Heat, sun, and mozzies

Laos gets seriously hot and humid. Drink more water than you think you need, take shady breaks, and slow down in the midday heat.

Sunburn and insect bites can sneak up on you. Sunscreen and bug repellent are non-negotiable, especially during rainy season.

Wildlife and other irritants

• Stray dogs are common – don’t pet them.
• Mosquitoes are your main enemy – bring strong repellent.
• Leeches show up during jungle hikes in the wet season – long socks help.
• Dust and smoke from burning season (February-April) can aggravate asthma – consider a mask if you're sensitive.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Laos?

Laos is laid-back but traditional. People are warm and welcoming, but manners and modesty matter – especially in temples and rural areas. A little cultural respect goes a long way here.

Dress modestly, especially at temples

• Cover shoulders and knees in religious or rural areas.
• Tight or revealing clothes can be seen as disrespectful.
• Visiting temples? Wear long trousers or skirts, and bring a scarf to cover your shoulders.
• Swimwear is for swimming – not walking through town. Bring a cover-up for getting to and from the water.

Greetings and body language

• The Lao greeting is the nop: hands pressed together at chest level with a slight bow. Locals won’t expect you to do it perfectly, but a respectful nod or smile goes far.
• Avoid touching people’s heads – even kids. It’s seen as the most sacred part of the body.
• Don’t point your feet at people or religious objects. Sit cross-legged or with your feet behind you.

Public behavior: keep it mellow

• Loud or aggressive behavior is frowned upon. Laos is a quiet country – raise your voice, and you’ll stand out for the wrong reasons.
• PDA is not common. Holding hands is usually fine, but kissing or hugging in public is best avoided.
• Dress modestly and act respectfully when taking photos – don’t pose with Buddha statues or climb on religious monuments.

Temple visits: be respectful

• Take off your shoes and hat before entering.
• Women should not touch monks, and men should avoid direct contact too.
• Sit lower than monks and religious statues when possible.
• Donations are welcome, but not expected – a quiet moment of respect is enough.

Food and dining customs

• Lao people eat with a spoon and fork or with their hands when eating sticky rice.
• Use your right hand for eating and passing food.
• Don’t start eating until the host invites you.
• It’s polite to try everything, but you don’t need to finish it all.

Religion and daily life

• Most people in Laos practice Theravāda Buddhism – it shapes social norms.
• The Buddhist calendar affects festivals, temple visits, and even shop hours.
• Monks are highly respected, and temples are active community hubs. Always be quiet and respectful inside.

Tipping: not expected, but appreciated

• Tipping isn’t part of the culture, but in tourist areas it’s becoming more common.
• Leave small tips at restaurants, for hotel staff, and tour guides if you’re happy with the service.
• Round up taxi fares or add a little extra if they help with bags or wait for you.

Is Laos a good destination for families?

Traveling through Laos with kids can be both challenging and fun, but the rewards far outweigh any negatives. The Lao people are very family-focused, but long, bumpy journeys can make things a struggle at times.

In tourist areas, it should be no problem finding food that kids will eat, and dishes like spring rolls, fried rice, and fõe, where chilli is added by the diner, are a good choice for those who may not be used to the spiciness of Lao cuisine.

A major consideration will be the long journeys that are sometimes necessary when getting around Laos – these can be bone-numbing at the best of times, and young kids may find them excruciatingly boring. That said, bus journeys are a real “local” experience that can make more of an impression than wandering around temples. It is easy, however, to see a fair amount of the country by sticking to journeys of less than six hours.

Most hotels and guesthouses are very accommodating to families, often allowing children to stay for free in their parents’ room, or adding an extra bed or cot to the room for a small charge.

What are the best places to visit in Laos?

Looking for the best places to visit in Laos? This is a country that rewards you for slowing down. You won’t find megacities or blockbuster attractions here – just golden temples, misty mountains, and slow boats drifting down the Mekong. Whether you're into waterfalls, jungle hikes, or ancient history, here’s where to go.

• Luang Prabang – Laos’ cultural heart. A blend of Buddhist temples, faded French architecture, and Mekong magic. Climb Mount Phousi, visit Kuang Si Falls, and catch the monks’ morning alms procession quietly. all of which are among the best things to do in Luang Prabang.
• Vang Vieng – Karst cliffs, river adventures, and a backpacker scene that’s mellowed out. Kayak the Nam Song, explore caves, or float in a hot air balloon over misty limestone peaks. See the best things to do in Vang Vieng.
• Vientiane – One of Southeast Asia’s sleepiest capitals. Visit golden Pha That Luang, wander along the riverfront, and drop by the COPE Center for a powerful history lesson — these are all among the best things to do in Vietiane.
• Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands) – Laid-back and low-key. Don Det and Don Khon offer hammocks, waterfalls, and a chance to spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Zero rush, maximum chill.
• Plain of Jars – Mysterious and slightly eerie. Scattered across the hills near Phonsavan, these massive ancient jars are fascinating – and surrounded by reminders of Laos’ war-torn past.
• Nong Khiaw – All about the scenery. A riverside village ringed by dramatic cliffs and lush jungle. Hike to viewpoints, paddle down the Nam Ou, or head upriver to even quieter Muang Ngoi.
• Bolaven Plateau – Coffee country with cool air and waterfalls everywhere. Rent a motorbike and loop past Tad Fane, Tad Lo, and other thundering falls. Stay in village-run lodges and sip fresh brews.
• Pakse – More of a hub than a highlight, but handy for southern adventures. Base yourself here for trips to Wat Phou – a UNESCO-listed Khmer temple older than Angkor.
• Vieng Xai – A remote town with a hidden history. Explore the cave network that once sheltered the Pathet Lao leadership – underground bunkers, meeting rooms, and even a cave theatre.

How long to spend in Laos?

The ideal number of days you’ll want to spend in Laos will depend on your budget and whether Laos is the only destination you’ll be traveling to (versus being an additional leg to a larger trip in Southeast Asia). 

Most find 7 to 10 days a good amount of time to see the main highlights: like Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and the picturesque countryside, without feeling rushed.

That said, if you're keen to dive deeper, really soak in the culture, and take things at a leisurely pace, stretching your stay to two weeks might be more up your alley. This way, you can truly experience Laos' charm and explore its hidden gems without watching the clock too closely.

What’s the best way to plan a Laos itinerary?

Planning a trip to Laos isn’t just about ticking off sights – it’s about knowing when to slow down. Distances might look short on the map, but winding roads, mountain passes, and boats instead of buses can stretch out travel times. The real magic of Laos comes when you ditch the rush, float down a river, or linger in a village homestay without staring at your watch.

A good Laos itinerary gives you space to breathe – enough time to explore temples without racing through, actually taste that Lao coffee in the Bolaven Plateau, and enjoy a Mekong sunset without thinking about your next transfer.

Start with how long you’ve got

Your route depends on your time. Don’t try to do everything – Laos rewards the unhurried.

• Less than a week – Focus on Luang Prabang and maybe a side trip to Kuang Si Falls or Nong Khiaw. Stick to the north to avoid long transfers.
• 7-10 days – The sweet spot. Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane fit nicely, or skip the capital and go deeper into the countryside.
• 2 weeks – Now you can really explore: add the Bolaven Plateau, Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands), and maybe the Plain of Jars or Vieng Xai caves.

Match your trip to your travel style

Laos is low-key, so think about what actually excites you – not just what shows up on Instagram.

Into temples and history?

• Luang Prabang (UNESCO-listed, full of gold stupas and quiet monasteries)
• Wat Phou (Khmer ruins older than Angkor, near Pakse)
• Plain of Jars (mysterious ancient relics and war history combined)

Want nature and adventure?

• Nong Khiaw (hiking, kayaking, and epic viewpoints)
• Bolaven Plateau (waterfalls, motorbike loops, and coffee farms)
• Vieng Xai (Pathet Lao cave network and remote mountain scenery)

Need to unplug and chill?

• Si Phan Don (island hammocks, bicycles, waterfalls, and dolphins)
• Vang Vieng (tubing, hot air balloons, laid-back riverside vibe)
• Luang Prabang again – because it’s worth staying longer.

Getting around: slow, scenic, and not always straightforward

Transport in Laos can be part of the adventure – or a test of patience. Don’t expect high speed, but do expect views.

• Minivans and VIP buses link most tourist towns, but journeys can be long and winding.
• Slow boats and ferries are common in the south and near the Mekong – plan extra time.
• Motorbikes are ideal for short loops like around Thakhek or the Bolaven Plateau.
• Trains now run from Vientiane to Luang Prabang – fast and comfy, a real game changer.

Book key tickets ahead in high season, especially for trains and longer buses. Local travel agents and guesthouses can help on the ground.

Think about the season

Laos has two real seasons – and they shape how you travel.

• Dry season (November-February) – Peak time. Cool nights, clear skies, great for hiking and temple-hopping. Best weather across the board.
• Hot season (March-May) – Expect blazing heat, smoky skies (due to burning), and slower travel. Avoid strenuous hikes in the middle of the day.
• Rainy season (June-October) – Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and cheaper stays. Rivers swell, waterfalls roar – but landslides and delays are possible.

Book essentials early – then stay flexible

Some things need locking in:

• Accommodation in Luang Prabang during festivals (like Pi Mai in April)
• Slow boat tickets or trains during high season
• Tours with limited spots (like Gibbon Experience or multi-day hikes)

But Laos isn’t the place for a tight, over-scheduled plan. Leave room for detours, chill days, and recommendations from other travelers. A lot of the best stuff? You won’t find it online – just ask around when you’re there.

How to slow travel in Laos?

Laos isn’t just a checklist of waterfalls and temples. It’s a place that invites you to ease off the throttle. This is a country where a lazy afternoon in a hammock or a slow boat ride can be more meaningful than racing from one sight to the next. If you want to feel Laos, not just see it – slow down.

Start in Luang Prabang, but don’t just skim the temples. Wake early to watch the monks collecting alms, take your time at the morning market, and linger over strong Lao coffee by the Mekong. Climb Mount Phousi at dusk, not for the photo, but for the pause. Stay longer than you planned. Most people do.

Skip the minivan rush and take the slow boat down the Mekong from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang. It’s two days of river bends, jungle banks, and actual silence – interrupted only by engine hum and clinking Beerlao bottles.

In Nong Khiaw, don’t just snap a photo from the viewpoint and bounce. Hike to nearby villages, take the longtail upriver to Muang Ngoi, talk to your guesthouse host, and spend a night without Wi-Fi. It’s bliss.

Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands) is made for doing absolutely nothing. Rent a bike, visit a waterfall, read by the river, and sleep in a stilted bungalow. That’s the whole point.

Key to slow travel in Laos?

• Stay longer in fewer places.
• Swap buses for boats whenever you can.
• Say yes to the local rice wine.
• Be open. Laos runs on spontaneity, and the best stories start when you stop trying to control the plan.

How to handle money and payments in Laos?

Laos isn’t tap-and-go territory. Cash is still king, especially outside the main towns. Keep some kip on hand, and don’t expect to swipe your card for a bowl of noodles or a tuk-tuk ride.

The currency is the Lao kip (LAK). Locals usually talk in thousands, and yes, the notes can feel Monopoly-level confusing at first – get used to dropping a few zeros when chatting about prices.

• ATMs are easy to find in Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Pakse, but can be scarce or empty in rural areas. Machines at big banks like BCEL or Lao Development Bank are your safest bet.
• Most ATMs charge a withdrawal fee (usually around 20,000 LAK), and have fairly low limits – bring a backup card just in case.
• Credit cards are accepted at high-end hotels, tour operators, and some restaurants, but don’t count on it. Small guesthouses, cafés, and local markets are cash-only.

Don’t bother exchanging kip abroad. It’s not easily traded outside Laos, and you’ll get a better deal using local ATMs or exchange offices once you arrive.

What are the most common scams?

Laos is one of the calmest countries in Southeast Asia, and scams are rare compared to busier tourist hotspots. But where there are travelers, there’s always a little hustle. Most of it is harmless – more cheeky than dangerous – but knowing what to expect helps you keep your cool. If you’re after smart, real-world Laos travel tips, staying alert to the small stuff is a good place to start.

• Tuk-tuk overcharging – Classic move. Drivers quote inflated fares, especially near bus stations or temples. There are no meters, so everything’s negotiable. Agree on the price before you get in—or just walk away if it sounds off.
• Dodgy transport tickets – That VIP bus might be a beat-up minivan with plastic stools. Some agents oversell or switch vehicles last minute. Book through a trusted guesthouse or agency, and don’t pay full price upfront to someone on the street.
• Kip confusion – Too many zeros, too fast a transaction. Vendors sometimes give the wrong change, hoping you won’t notice. Count your money slowly, and don’t let anyone rush you.
• Fake monks and donation scams – Real monks don’t beg in the street or ask for cash. Watch out for robed “monks” hanging around tourist areas with dodgy donation books. Give at temples if you want to help.
• Unlicensed “guides” – In places like Luang Prabang, some friendly locals offer impromptu tours or village visits, then hit you up for tips or steer you into souvenir shops. Stick with guides arranged by your hotel or a tour company.
• Drug traps – Weed, pills, and happy shakes get offered in party towns or on islands. Some are real. Others are police bait. Either way, drug laws in Laos are strict, and the consequences aren’t worth it.

If something feels off, walk away with a smile. Most Lao people are respectful and polite – a firm but friendly no goes a long way.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Laos

Laos is known for its calm vibe and warm hospitality, but being a respectful traveler means more than smiling and saying thanks. It’s about understanding the culture, minimizing your impact, and making sure your trip actually benefits the people and places you visit.

• Dress respectfully – It’s hot, but that doesn’t mean it’s time for short shorts. In temples and rural areas, covering shoulders and knees shows basic respect, especially for women. Bring a sarong or scarf if you plan to visit religious sites.
• Learn the basics – Lao people appreciate effort. A few simple words go a long way: sabaidee (hello), khop chai (thank you), and bor pen nyang (no worries). Even trying earns smiles.
• Buy local, not mass-produced – Skip the imported trinkets. Look for handwoven textiles, bamboo crafts, or coffee grown in the Bolaven Plateau. Support social enterprises or community-run shops – your kip stays where it counts.
• Respect nature and sacred sites – Stay on marked trails, don’t leave trash behind, and never climb on Buddha statues or stupas. That riverside temple isn’t just a photo op – it’s a living, breathing place of worship.
• Avoid unethical animal tourism – Steer clear of elephant rides or photo ops with drugged wildlife. If you're visiting a sanctuary, do your research – the good ones don’t let you ride, bathe, or feed animals for entertainment.
• Be mindful with water and waste – Tap water isn’t drinkable, but don’t rely on endless plastic bottles. Bring a filter bottle or refill at your guesthouse when possible. Skip daily towel changes, and avoid single-use plastics when you can.

Don’t rush the river routes

It’s tempting to take the quickest minivan to your next stop – but slowing down and traveling by river is where Laos really shines. The two-day slow boat from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang is a classic for a reason: long, lazy hours drifting past jungle-covered hills and remote villages you’d never reach by road. Same goes for boat rides in Si Phan Don – don’t just zip in and out by bus. Let the Mekong set the pace.

Morning is everything

In Laos, the day starts early and winds down fast. Markets buzz at dawn, monks collect alms at sunrise, and the midday heat makes everyone retreat into the shade. By 8 pm, many towns are already shutting down. Want to see local life in full swing? Get up early. Want to hike, bike, or explore without melting? Start at sunrise. Even nightlife towns like Vang Vieng go quiet earlier than you’d expect.

Respect the rice – and the moment

In Laos, an offer of sticky rice, tea, or homebrew is more than a snack – it’s a gesture of welcome. Whether you’re in a village or a riverside café, if someone invites you to sit and share, take the time. You’re not being sold to (usually). This is how Lao hospitality works – slow, generous, and personal. Smile, sit, eat, and don’t rush off. It’s often the best part of the day.