Laos is the type of place that can project feelings of being transported into another time, a country as exotic as it is utterly intriguing. With its culturally diverse native tribal groups and varied ethnicities, Laos is the destination for you to encounter unique experiences. Most importantly: Lao cuisine is simply delectable. So, what are you waiting for?
The Highlights
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is home to many glorious Buddhist monasteries and temples. By day, you can get your fill of local Lao delicacies, enjoy the French-influenced cafe culture and visit the many neighbouring waterfalls. And at night, watch as the town comes alive with a night market that takes up residence on the main street. How you spend your time is completely up to you.
Vang Vieng
If cycling, yoga and gentle to rigorous hikes are your calling, Vang Vieng will cater to your adventurous side. If you’re after a relaxed approach to exploring the area, you can hire a giant rubber tyre to float down the river making stops along the way at cafes or bars. Next: repeat all of the above until the sun goes down.
Pakse
It’s easy to overlook the populous town of Pakse; the gateway to southern Laos but the most important reasons to visit are the many surrounding attractions. Start with a day trip to Champasak, where the ancient Khmer ruins of Wat Phou reside which are in fact, older than the Angkor temples in Cambodia. Make time for the Don Heung Market in Pakse that is known to be the biggest in southern Laos.
Kong Lor Cave
Possibly one of the most compelling sights in Laos, the Kong Lor Cave situated in the Khammouane Province will reward you with a voyage beneath jagged limestone rock facades and beyond. The cave itself is 4.5 miles long and was carved naturally by the river, meaning visitors can take a cruise alongside emerald pools within the cave.
Vientiane
If we could share only one piece of advice with you: it’s that you need to make time to visit Vientiane. This is where travellers can take a break and just take in the city. From Buddhist temples, the historic old quarter, surrounding rice paddies, museums, old French villas dotted around town and historic cafes are a few of the many reasons why Vientiane will impress you.
Si Phan Don
Si Phan Don translates to Four Thousand Islands where quite literally, thousands of islands make up the archipelago in the Mekong area. And while there isn’t much to do here, it’s the type of place that you visit simply to mingle with locals, explore local guesthouses and cafes or hire a bike along the Mekong River. You might be surprised to find yourself spending more time here than expected.
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The Location
Laos is a country in Southeast Asia and shares borders with China, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia. From Sydney, a non-stop flight is 11 hours, and from Dubai, it is roughly 10 hours.
Capital City
The capital and largest city is Vientiane and sits near the border of Thailand along the Mekong River. Other major cities include Luang Prabang, Savannakhet and Pakse.
Main Airport
Wattay International Airport is the main hub for international and domestic travel. It is located 3 km outside of the city centre of its capital, Vientiane. CODE: VTE; CLOSEST CITY: VIENTIANE.
Language Spoken
The official language of Laos is Lao, however, English is commonly spoken across the country. In areas that are further away from major cities, fluent speakers may be harder to come by.
Currency
Laos uses the Laos Kip. The currency code is LAK. It is safe to withdraw money from banks or ATMs while you’re there, however, the withdrawal limit is quite low (under $100 USD).
Visas
30-day visas can be obtained on arrival at most entry points into Laos. Visa information can change often and varies from country to country. We recommend checking your country’s travel advisories in advance of booking a trip.
Electricity
Electrical current is s 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. In Laos the power sockets are of type A, B, C, E and F. The standard voltage in the US is 110 volts, so you may need a surge adaptor.
Vaccinations
The usual vaccinations of Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B are advised and you may need to prove you have had a yellow fever vaccination if travelling through infected areas. Consult your doctor 6 to 8 weeks before you depart.
Emergency Calls
The phone numbers to call in case of emergency are 191 for the police, 195 for an ambulance and 190 for a fire.
When to Visit
Peak Season
JUNE TO AUGUST
Laos position means the temperature throughout the year is relatively enjoyable, however, the reason that travellers flock to Laos is mostly due to the pleasant temperature. Also, the higher the altitude, the lower the temperatures will so make sure you pack accordingly. Christmas and New Year’s Eve in December always sees a rise in visitors, so it is best to book well in advance. Notable festivals that you might want to consider include Chinese and Vietnamese New Year celebrations in Vientiane, Pakse and Savannakhet where you will encounter vibrant street parties and of course – fireworks aplenty.
Low Season
APRIL TO AUGUST
Over the months of April to July is when temperatures start to rise, and travellers may find themselves sweltering in the 40°C average temperatures. But, if you’re not afraid of the warm weather, you can feel free to explore Laos during this time. Yes, this is the rainy season and your adventures will mostly be unbothered by rainfall, yet visitors must be aware that rainfall may cause some roads or unpaved areas to require itineraries to be rerouted. While the months of April to August are known as the low season, travellers should be aware that August is when most Europeans take their vacation along with many university students. Best to book ahead to avoid higher prices.
