laos

Best Time to Travel:

The best time to visit Laos is between November and February, when the weather isn’t too hot and the rainfall is the lowest. This also happens to be when most of the festivals happen in Laos.

Please note that a visa is required to visit Laos, we can assist you with this process.

Suggested Itineraries:

The capital city, Vientaine, is not only the economic hub of Laos, but is also known for it’s Buddhist temples and stunning surrounding landscapes. Head over to Buddha Park, where 200 larger than life statues dot the park. Since Vientaine pretty much borders Thailand, you’ll be able to sneak a peek while in the park. Going to Talat Sao, the morning market, is also a fun trip. While it contains small shops and restaurants, you’ll also be able to find musical instruments, wooden crafts, silks, and fresh food vendors. Some temples to check out while in Vientaine include Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan and Wat Si Saket, both have incredible significance to the area.

Luang Prabang is another neat city to visit while in Laos. The city is dotted with Buddhist temples, but a real treat is the Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum. The rooms are preserved to how the last Royal Family left it when they were forced out in 1975. Explore the palace and take a look into the Throne Room to see the Crown Jewels of Laos. A break from the city is a must, and many locals love taking their bikes out for the day and going to Kuang Si Falls. These three tier falls collect turquoise water are more than inviting, but be sure to ask which one is ok to swim in. At least one of the pools is closed as it is a sacred site. 

Xiangkhouang Province is home to the Plain of Jars; more than 90 sites dotted along the province, each site containing huge stone jars. Archaeologists have been trying for ages to determine what exactly these jars were used for. Many are filled with beads, but some believe they were used to store rice beer or rainwater.

Champasak Province is located near the south of Laos, and is home to many natural wonders. There are many waterfalls in this region, as well as unique types of birds like the green peafowl, red-collared woodpecker, and Siamese Fireback. But beyond all the natural beauty, there is Vat Phou, a ruined Khmer temple located at the base of Phu Kao. While most of the site is still in ruins, the people in the Champasak Province still hold it has important. Each February, a festival is held at the site. Activities include elephant racing and cultural performances of traditional Laos music and dance. 

Cooking classes, private guides and drivers can all be added to your visit, if you’d like.

Extensions:

Many tourists check out Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia at the same time. Ask us about adding another country or two to your itinerary.

The beaches of Thailand are also a great place to spend a few extra days.