Laos-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Laos

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang

  • Arrival: Fly into Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel or guesthouse in the city center
  • Activities:
    • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage town, including the Night Market and Royal Palace Museum
    • Visit Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most beautiful temples in Laos
  • Tips:
    • Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples
    • Try some street food at the Night Market

Day 2: Luang Prabang

  • Activities:
    • Take a morning boat ride along the Mekong River to see the Pak Ou Caves
    • Visit the Kuang Si Falls, a turquoise waterfall surrounded by lush greenery
    • Explore the local markets and try some traditional Lao coffee
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for a long day of travel and bring sunscreen and water
    • Respect the local environment and do not litter

Day 3: Luang Prabang to Vientiane

  • Transportation: Take a bus or flight from Luang Prabang to Vientiane (approximately 1 hour)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel or guesthouse in the city center
  • Activities:
    • Visit the Patuxai Arch, a war monument and symbol of the city
    • Explore the Talat Sao Market, a bustling marketplace with local goods
    • See the stunning That Dam Stupa, a sacred Buddhist site
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for the chaos of Vientiane’s streets and traffic
    • Try some traditional Lao cuisine at one of the many restaurants

Day 4: Vientiane

  • Activities:
    • Visit the COPE Center, a museum showcasing the effects of UXO (unexploded ordnance) in Laos
    • Take a stroll along the Mekong River promenade and enjoy the city views
    • Explore the many temples and pagodas throughout the city
  • Tips:
    • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples
    • Try some street food at the Night Market

Day 5: Vientiane to Vang Vieng

  • Transportation: Take a bus or taxi from Vientiane to Vang Vieng (approximately 4 hours)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel or guesthouse in the town center
  • Activities:
    • Explore the stunning limestone karst scenery and take a boat ride along the Nam Song River
    • Visit the Tham Chang Elephant Cave, a massive cave with ancient elephant carvings
    • Take a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views of the countryside
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for a long day of travel and bring sunscreen and water
    • Respect the local environment and do not litter

Day 6: Vang Vieng

  • Activities:
    • Take a guided kayaking trip along the Nam Song River
    • Visit the Blue Lagoon, a stunning swimming hole surrounded by lush greenery
    • Explore the many caves and rock formations in the area
  • Tips:
    • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting rural areas
    • Try some local seafood at one of the many restaurants

Day 7: Departure from Vientiane

  • Transportation: Take a bus or taxi from Vang Vieng back to Vientiane (approximately 4 hours)
  • Departure: Fly out of Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport (VTE)

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of certain countries can enter Laos visa-free for up to 30 days
  • Otherwise, a tourist visa can be obtained upon arrival or in advance through the Lao Embassy or Consulate

Transportation

  • Domestic flights are available between major cities
  • Bus services connect most towns and cities
  • Taxi and tuk-tuk services are widely available
  • Renting a motorbike or car is also an option

Things to Know

  • Laos is a Buddhist country, and dress modestly when visiting temples
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including rain and heat
  • Learn some basic Lao phrases, such as “sabai sabai” (hello) and “khop chai lai” (thank you)

Health and Safety

  • Vaccinations are recommended before traveling to Laos
  • Take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and Zika virus
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and markets
  • Respect local health guidelines and avoid eating undercooked meat or raw vegetables