Do I need a visa to travel to Laos?
Most travelers need a visa for Laos travel, and people from most countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, and Italy, benefit from the visa-on-arrival policy at major international airports and border checkpoints for a maximum stay of 30 days. It costs around USD 30-45 according to your nationality. Please be aware that your passport needs to be valid for at least six months. It is also possible to obtain an e-visa before departure, which is valid for up to 30 days with a single entry and costs around USD 50.
Please note that the policies are subject to alterations in national policies. It’s advisable to double-check the official website before your tour.
What to see in Laos for first-time travelers?
It is suggested that you schedule your destinations according to your planned visit time.
Around 5 days: For first-time travelers, focus your Laos tour packages on the highlights of the capital city, Vientiane, and the UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang. Take your time to experience the Buddhist morning alms-giving ceremony, Kuang Si Falls, local markets, and sacred temples.
8-10 days: Extend your trip to discover the mysterious Plain of Jars in Xieng Khouang, trek through tropical rainforest and meet ethnic minority villagers in the north, and enjoy a therapeutic walk with elephants in the jungle.
2 weeks or more: For a longer Laos vacation package, dig deeper and admire the karst landscapes in Vang Vieng, the plantations and waterfalls in Bolaven Plateau, and the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don). Or combine your Laos tour with neighboring countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
Read more on Things to Do.
When is the best time to visit Laos?
Generally, November to April is the best time to plan your Laos tours, as the weather is at its most pleasant, with little rainfall and mild temperatures between 18 and 28°C (64.4 and 82.4°F), suitable for outdoor activities.
The rainy season lasts from May to October, with hot and humid weather, so pack breathable clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses. As rainfall peaks in August and September, with floods prone to occur in rural areas, please check the weather and bring rain gear before venturing out. However, many festivals fall on the rainy season, and the lively atmosphere adds to the appeal of traveling.
How to get to and travel around Laos?
There are four international airports in Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Pakse, and Savannakhet. However, there is no direct flight from Europe or North America to Laos, and most airlines will connect flights in Asian hubs like Bangkok of Thailand and Hanoi of Vietnam.
The high-speed train makes it possible to travel straight between Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vang Vieng in 1-2 hours. The slow boat along the Mekong River is a classic route, including a 2-day and 1-night trip from Luang Prabang to Houayxay with a night stopover in Pakbeng.
Tuk-tuks, motorcycles, and local buses are the primary modes of transportation within cities, and please confirm the price with the driver in advance. LOCA and Indrive are useful local car-hailing apps.
Read more on Laos Transportation.
Can I use US dollars in Laos?
Yes, US dollars are accepted in Laos, notably in major cities’ large shopping centers and restaurants; the same goes for credit cards. However, the local kip (USD 1=LAK 21,700) is king, especially when it comes to making purchases at street stalls and in rural areas. You can exchange some Laotian kip at banks and currency exchangers in major cities like Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Pakse.
Read more on Laos Travel Tips.
