Laos Travel Guide: One of the 5 Communist Countries in the World; Places to Visit in Laos
- berfinozelsel
- 2 days ago
- 16 min read
Laos Travel Guide
Although Laos isn't as popular as its Southeast Asian neighbors, the feeling it left me with is completely different. If you were to ask me, "Which country is happiness?", I would say Laos without hesitation. After seeing it, I even developed a dream of settling in Laos someday.
Located east of Thailand, north of Cambodia, and west of Vietnam and China, this small but impressive country unfortunately has no direct flights from Türkiye. It is usually accessible via a connecting flight through Thailand. Perhaps this difficulty in accessing Laos is the reason it remains so unspoiled and peaceful.
Laos is one of the most heavily bombed countries in the world. Particularly during the Vietnam War, between 1964 and 1973, an incredible amount of aerial bombardment was carried out over Laos. This period is even known as the "Secret War in Laos." Imagine, for years, a bomb was dropped almost every 8 minutes, and millions of tons of ordnance were used in total. But what is truly shocking is that a significant portion of these bombs did not detonate. Even today, walking through rural areas of Laos, these unexploded ordnance buried underground still poses a risk. So, this country, which appears calm and peaceful from the outside, actually has a very heavy history; the more you travel through it, the better you understand the story hidden beneath that silence.
Despite its difficult past, Laos today is a country that captivates with its nature, people, and tranquility. Now, let's explore Laos together, tracing its entire history.
Laos Travel Guide
With a population of approximately 6.5 million, over 10% of Laos's population lives in the capital. So, we're actually talking about a relatively small and peaceful country. Laos is one of the few countries in the world still governed by a communist system. China, Vietnam, Cuba, and North Korea are in the same category. This gives the country's general order and way of life a unique character.
The official language is Laotian. While English speakers aren't very numerous, you'll more often encounter people who speak French. This is because Laos was formerly a French colony. So sometimes you might feel like you're not in Southeast Asia, but rather in a different region with subtle French influences.
The most prevalent belief is Buddhism, which is similar to Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar. But what sets Laos apart is the strong presence of traditional beliefs alongside Buddhism. Concepts such as spirits, nature energies, and respect for ancestors are part of daily life.
Finally, a small but important detail: The currency used in the country is the Laotian Kipchak. Cash is widely used, so always keep some cash on hand.
Places to visit
🌿 Vientiane
Mekong River: A must-see at sunset; boat tours are very popular. (Elephant rooftop bar has the best Mekong view.)
Morning Market is a must-visit for souvenir shopping.
🛕 Temples
Pha That Luang
Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Si Saket
Ho Pha Keo
Wat Ong Teu
Wat Si Muang
Buddha Park
Transportation: Motorbike rental is recommended (~70,000 Kip/day)
Walking Street & Night Market (open until midnight)
🏯 Luang Prabang
The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a unique atmosphere with its pristine streets and two-story colonial buildings.
📍 Places to Visit
Kuang Si Waterfall has 6-7 waterfalls and offers swimming opportunities.
Mount Phousi is ideal for watching the sunset (entry: 20,000 Kip).
Pak Ou Caves are 25 km away, accessible by boat tour (1 day recommended).
Wat Xieng Thong
Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham
Royal Palace Museum
Royal Ballet Theatre
🐘 Elephant Camp: An experience spending time with elephants (~100–150,000 Kip)
🍽️ Food
Sakkaline Road area: both local and Western cuisine options.
🌄 Vang Vieng
A small but impressive nature town.
📍 Between Vientiane and Luang Prabang (approximately 4 hours)
🌿 Activities
Exploring lagoons, hiking trails, and motorbike rentals.
📍 Places to Visit
Pha Ngern View Point is about a 1-hour climb away, and the sunset view is spectacular.
Blue Lagoon 3: The most beautiful lagoon, zipline available (roads are bad but worth it)
Tham Poukham Cave (Blue Lagoon 1) Crowded, entrance 10,000 Kip
⚠️ Elephant tours are expensive (~450,000 Kip) → Luang Prabang is a better alternative.
🗺️ Other Places to See
Plain of Jars
Nong Khiaw
Bolaven Plateau
Pakse
Vieng Xai
Champasak
Si Phan Don
Best things to do in Laos
What are the best places to visit in Laos?
Here you won't find massive cities or ostentatious tourist centers; instead, you'll encounter golden temples, misty mountains, and boats gliding slowly along the Mekong River.
Vientiane
Vientiane, one of Southeast Asia's most tranquil capitals, is truly an ideal starting point for your Laos adventure. Like most travelers, you'll likely enter the country from here. But don't let the word "capital" intimidate you; it's less of a chaotic city filled with skyscrapers and more like a tranquil town that slows you down. The blend of French colonial and Asian architecture, wide boulevards, and impressive temples give the city its unique character. And that's exactly the spirit of Laos: no rush, no fuss.
Luang Prabang
Although Vientiane is the capital of Laos, if you want to experience the true spirit of the country, you absolutely must head to Luang Prabang. Temples, ancient streets, and that serene atmosphere… they all slowly draw you in. Once one of the important centers of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, this city has managed to preserve its historical character today. The harmony of French colonial architecture and Buddhist temples gives the city a completely different personality.
Luang Prabang, nestled along the meanders of the Mekong River, doesn't feel like a "city" in the classic sense. It's more like an intimate and tranquil living space made up of interconnected small villages.
Early in the morning, while the streets are still quiet, you watch the monks collecting alms. Then you climb Mount Phousi and admire the city from above. The Mekong River is below, and greenery surrounds you… Later in the day, you head to Kuang Si Falls. If you enjoy visiting temples, Wat Xieng Thong should definitely be at the top of your list. With its gold-detailed structure and impressive Buddha statues, it's an unforgettable place. Another important stop is Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham. With its tiered roof and magnificent structure, it's one of the most striking temples in the city. As the sun begins to set, the city takes on a completely different atmosphere. A night market is set up; don't leave without trying local delicacies like jaew bong and kai phaen .
If you have the time, definitely dedicate a day to venturing outside the city. Don't leave without seeing the Pak Ou Caves, located on the Mekong River and home to hundreds of miniature Buddha statues.
Vang Vieng
The first thing you notice upon arriving in Vang Vieng is the scenery. It's one of the most impressive stops in Laos where you can be at one with nature. Hundreds of limestone karst peaks rise towards the sky. While here, you truly feel your mind "reset." Dirt roads, hidden caves, natural pools, and suddenly appearing viewpoints... The best plan here is to be unplanned.
Spending a day without following any specific route, simply following the beauty that comes your way, is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in this town.
There are plenty of options for those seeking adventure. You can rock climb on limestone cliffs, enjoy a bird's-eye view of valleys with a paramotor, or glide over mountains rising through the mist in a hot air balloon.
Hot air balloon tours, especially during sunrise and sunset, are one of the things that make Vang Vieng unforgettable. Once a town known primarily to backpackers and difficult to reach, Vang Vieng is now much more accessible. Thanks to the new high-speed rail line, it's easily reachable from Vientiane and Luang Prabang. This makes it ideal even for a short getaway. Although it has become a bit more comfortable with the boutique hotels that have opened in recent years, Vang Vieng still manages to preserve its natural beauty and tranquil spirit. The dining and nightlife options aren't very extensive.
But that's not your purpose for coming here anyway. Vang Vieng is here to slow you down. To reconnect with nature, to breathe, and to truly enjoy those unique landscapes.
Mekong River
If you want to experience Laos from a different perspective, be sure to head to the Mekong River. This river is not just a geographical feature; it's the lifeblood of Laos. Flowing towards the South China Sea, it provides life to a large part of the country. And the best way to explore it is by taking a boat trip on its slow-moving course. This journey, usually starting from Luang Prabang or Huay Xai, takes about two days. The night is spent in the tranquil Pak Beng. Along the way, you stop at small villages. People fishing by the riverbank, lush green hills shrouded in mist, and a life that remains almost unchanged… Each leg takes approximately 7-9 hours. If you have time, you can also stay another day in Pak Beng and observe elephants in their natural habitat at the Mekong Elephant Park.
This trip is simple and quite local, so it's best not to set your comfort expectations too high 🙂 If you want a more comfortable experience, especially during peak season, there are alternative boutique boats available. With fewer passengers, offering meal service and stopping at places like Pak Ou Caves along the way, these tours make the trip more "luxurious." But whichever option you choose, these two days spent on the Mekong… become one of the most unforgettable moments of a trip to Laos.
When is the best time to visit Laos?
In Laos, as in much of Southeast Asia, there are three main seasons that directly affect your trip. Which season you go in will largely determine the comfort and style of your experience.
Dry Season (November – February)
This period is the most ideal and popular time to explore Laos. The weather is cool and balanced; the sky is usually clear. These months offer the best conditions for hiking, visiting temples, and exploring cities. Temperatures average between 20°C and 25°C, and humidity is low. In short, there's neither oppressive heat nor uncomfortable humidity. This allows you to travel around Laos comfortably. We visited in February, and it really might be the best time to visit.
Hot Season (March – May)
Temperatures rise sharply, making it quite difficult to spend time outdoors, especially during midday. Furthermore, smoky and hazy conditions prevail in some areas due to burning methods used in agriculture. These conditions can make long hikes and outdoor activities particularly challenging. Bus travel and budget-friendly accommodation options also become more tiring in this heat. Another important point is the decrease in river levels. This, combined with dam projects in the region, may limit certain activities.
If you can time your trip to coincide with April, a very special experience awaits you: Pi Mai, the Laotian New Year. But don't expect a classic celebration; this is a giant water fight! Everyone takes to the streets, with water guns, buckets, balloons… and an incredibly fun atmosphere emerges. Plus, it's perfect for cooling off during the hottest time of the year. A small note: If you're coming during this period, be sure to arrange your accommodation in advance because the city gets quite crowded. However, the celebrations in Laos are calmer and more culturally rich compared to neighboring Thailand. If you spend time with the locals, you might have the chance to participate in "merit-making" ceremonies, where people wish for health, luck, and prosperity for the new year. In the city centers, parades, markets, and various events are organized.
Rainy Season (June – October)
With the onset of the rains, the country turns lush green. Rivers rise, waterfalls swell, and the landscapes come alive. Nature reaches its most beautiful state, especially from July onwards.
As the number of tourists decreases, accommodation prices also fall, making travel more economical. However, there are also some challenges during this period. Heavy rainfall can cause delays in transportation, some roads may be closed, and landslides may occur. In addition, some tourist areas and national parks may be temporarily closed for safety reasons.
How much money do I need in Laos?
Carrying cash is crucial in Laos. Even in major cities, credit cards are accepted very rarely. You may not be able to pay with cards at supermarkets, gas stations, and restaurants. ATMs are also limited, so it's a good idea to have sufficient cash with you.
The Laotian Kip (LAK) is unstable in value and is sometimes affected by inflation. Recently, the government has been encouraging the use of only the Kip, so more and more businesses are accepting only Kip. Banks generally apply the official daily exchange rate when exchanging currency. ATMs also display the exchange rate on the screen during withdrawal and dispense the appropriate amount of Kip banknote.
Below you can find a few examples of average prices in Laos 👇
🛺 City tuk-tuk ride: 100,000 – 400,000 Kip
🚌 Intercity bus ticket: 300,000 Kip
⛽ 1 liter of gasoline: 34,000 Kip
🎟️ Tourist site entrance fee: 20,000 – 60,000 Kip
🍜 Noodles: 30,000 Kip
💧 Water bottle: 5,000 Kip
🍺 Beerlao (local beer): 10,000 Kip
👉 In summary, budgeting an average of 400,000–600,000 Kip (approximately 20–30 USD) per day should be sufficient for a pleasant trip, including accommodation, transportation, and meals.
Is Laos expensive?
Laos is known for being much more affordable compared to its neighboring countries in Southeast Asia. While transportation is usually the biggest expense in daily spending, accommodation and food are quite inexpensive.
If you eat at noodle stalls and affordable restaurants, opt for simple accommodations, and use public transportation, you can comfortably travel in Laos on a budget of under $30 a day. However, it's important to remember that prices are significantly higher in the cities of Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
While some restaurants and shops offer fixed prices, generally in Laos, products don't have price tags. Therefore, bargaining is commonplace. Prices are usually negotiable.
Do I need a visa to travel to Laos?
Information about Laos Visa (For Turkish Citizens)
Laos is among the countries that do not require a visa .
However, a visa-on-arrival process is available for Turkish citizens before entry.
Visa Type: “Visa on Arrival”
Where to buy: Available at Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Pakse international airports or at land border crossings.
E-Visa Option: You can also apply online through Laos' official e-visa system: https://laoevisa.gov.la Once you receive the confirmation email, simply print it out and present it upon entry into the country.
Required Documents:
Passport valid for at least 6 months.
2 biometric photos
Return ticket or ongoing travel plan
Visa fee (approximately 30–40 USD, payable in cash)
Duration of Stay: Tourist accommodation is usually permitted for up to 30 days.
Additional Information: Cash payment is important because credit cards are not accepted at some smaller border crossings.
Before traveling, check out Laos' official e-visa website: https://laoevisa.gov.la . The e-visa application is quite easy; after receiving the confirmation email, simply print it out and show it upon entry into the country.
If you are a citizen of an ASEAN member country, you can enter Laos without a visa, as Laos is also an ASEAN member. Citizens of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam can enter Laos visa-free for a maximum stay of 30 days.
The maximum stay for different nationalities generally does not exceed 30 days, and for some countries it may be less than 15 days.
Your visa is issued as a full-page sticker affixed to your passport and allows you to stay in the country for 30 days.
What is accommodation like in Laos?
Laos is one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia, and this is directly reflected in the accommodation options. Whether you're a backpacker or planning a more comfortable vacation, it's possible to find alternatives to suit every budget.
In general, accommodation prices are quite reasonable:
Hostel & guesthouse: 5–10 USD
Mid-range hotels: $10–30
Boutique & luxury hotels: $40 and up
Especially in tourist areas like Luang Prabang and Wang Vieng, the options are a bit wider and of better quality.
📍 Where to Stay?
Vientiane: It's best to choose quieter hotels closer to the city center. Staying near the Mekong River is a nice advantage.
Luang Prabang: The best options are usually in the old city (peninsula) area. You can get everywhere on foot.
Vang Vieng: Riverside hotels offer the most enjoyable views.
Booking a hotel in Laos is quite easy. The most commonly used and reliable platforms are:
Agoda, Booking.com . Booking in advance is especially important during peak season (November–February).
🛏️ Our Own Experience
We stayed at the Riverside Hotel Vientiane and were very pleased. Its location was central, and we could reach all the attractions on foot. I would recommend it.
Is Laos safe?
Overall, Laos is a fairly safe country. Both in cities and rural areas, people are generally kind, helpful, and trustworthy. This makes you feel comfortable while traveling. However, as with any country, it's important to take basic precautions. Be especially careful not to carry valuables in plain sight, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets. Small but simple precautions can make your trip much smoother.
One of the best things about Laos is the attentiveness and awareness of the local people. They usually react quickly when they notice something unusual around them, which often makes you feel safe. Many countries don't have embassies in Laos. Therefore, if you lose your passport or need to complete an urgent official transaction, the process can be a bit longer and more complicated. This is especially true when traveling to neighboring countries, which could delay your plans.
Is travel insurance required for Laos?
Yes. Laos's healthcare infrastructure is limited; in case of a serious illness or emergency, transfer to the capital Vientiane or to Thailand may be necessary. This means very high costs.
Foods you should try in Laos
Laotian cuisine is a blend of neighboring Vietnamese and Thai cuisines. However, unlike typical Asian cuisine, you'll also find French influences. Given its history as a French colony, you might be surprised to see baguettes, in particular. Thai food is generally more intense (more spicy/sweet/sour), while Vietnamese food is lighter in comparison. You can find numerous noodle and rice dishes, as well as baguette sandwiches.
Here are the main dishes you shouldn't miss:
Larb (Laap)
Larb , considered the national dish of Laos, is a dish usually made with chicken, beef, or pork. It's flavored with fresh herbs, lime, and chili peppers, offering an explosive taste. It's a traditional Lao dish everyone should try, and it's incredibly delicious.
Lao Sausage (Sai Gok)
This is a traditional Laotian sausage made with minced pork, flavored with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir leaves, shallots, cilantro, chili peppers, and fish sauce. It is served both as a snack and as a perfect accompaniment to sticky rice.
Tam Mak Houng
Tam Mak Houng is a spicy, tangy, and crispy salad made with grated green papaya, chili peppers, lime, and fish sauce. While similar to the Thai version, it stands out with its unique Laotian characteristics.
Khao Piak Sen
Khao Piak Sen, a hearty soup made with chewy rice noodles, is often served with chicken or pork and fresh herbs. This comforting soup, made with chewy rice noodles and a clear broth, is typically served with chicken or beef and garnished with fresh herbs. It is a common breakfast dish in Laos.
Or Lam
Originating from Luang Prabang, Or Lam is a mildly spiced, dense stew made with meat, lemongrass, dill, Lao chili peppers, and other herbs. It is usually served with sticky rice and is a true representative of northern Laotian cuisine.
Mok Pa
Mok Pa, steamed with herbs and spices while wrapped in banana leaves, is usually prepared with freshwater fish and offers an aromatic, fragrant experience.
Pho – similar to Vietnamese pho.
Noodle Soup – Can be made with rice or yellow noodles. Served with various meat toppings. Usually accompanied by bean sprouts and lime.
Khao Piak Khao Gai – A rice porridge with a soup-like consistency. It's eaten for breakfast. It contains eggs and pieces of chicken.
Crispy Mekong Fish – Mekong fish, likely catfish, is fried until crispy and served with a spicy sauce.
Kaipen – Spicy, deep-fried river seaweed. Goes great with spicy sauces.
Naem – A fermented pork dish. It is steamed and then sun-dried for 1-2 days.
Larb Pla Meuk – Barbecued squid served with plenty of herbs and a spicy-salty sauce. Also available in Thailand.
Ping Hua Jai Kai – Chicken hearts skewered and grilled.
Naem Khao – Crispy fried rice balls made with pork, dried coconut, and herbs.
Sai Oua – Herb-infused pork sausages. Prepared with plenty of herbs and pork.
Khao Jee Pate – baguette sandwiches similar to 'Banh Mi' in Vietnam or 'Num Pang' in Cambodia.
What is Laotian Coffee Like?
☕Coffee culture is highly developed in Laos, and coffees made from freshly roasted beans are a must-try.
Some places we tried and recommend in Vientiane.
QIU 19
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Gallery 38
Khop Chai Deu
Tipsy Elephant Rooftop Bar
How to get around in Laos?
Travel to Laos
Laos is a landlocked country bordered by China's Kunming region and Myanmar to the north, Vietnam to the east, Thailand to the west, and Cambodia to the south. The Mekong River, the longest river in Southeast Asia, flows through these six countries, offering various transportation options to reach Laos. Most international passengers arrive by plane, connecting via Bangkok with Air Asia and then flying to Luang Prabang or Vientiane before reaching Laos.
The main international airports in Laos are:
Vientiane Wattay International Airport (VTE) – capital Vientiane
Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) – in northern Luang Prabang
Pakse International Airport (PKZ) – in Pakse, south of Pakse
Getting around Laos is much easier and more economical than you might think. Within cities, especially in places like Vientiane and Luang Prabang, taxis and tuk-tuks are quite common. The Grab app is a good alternative to avoid price surprises, but if you're using a tuk-tuk, it's a good idea to negotiate the price beforehand. If you're adventurous, you can explore the city at your own pace by renting a scooter or motorbike. For out-of-city trips, minivans are usually the most practical option; they're both affordable and offer frequent services. For those who want to save time on longer distances, domestic flights are also an option. However, if you really want to experience Laos, renting a scooter and charting your own route or taking a boat trip along the Mekong River offers a completely different experience.
Long-Distance Travel: When traveling between major cities like Vientiane or Luang Prabang, you can use domestic flights or buses. Laos Train can also be an affordable and comfortable option.
Scenic and Alternative Options: Boat tours along the Mekong River offer a delightful experience. Cycling is a fun way to explore both urban and rural areas. In some cities, electric scooters can be an alternative.
Tips for a Wonderful Trip to Laos
Book your transportation tickets in advance: Book your bus, train, or plane tickets well in advance. You can obtain tickets through 12Go or BaoLau. (BaoLau only sells train tickets 3 days before the expected departure, and they must not have been purchased yet through tour agencies or 12Go.)
Motorcycle Reservation: Make a reservation in advance or arrange it by noon upon arrival at your destination. You can also inquire at your accommodation. Make sure you have your driving license and insurance.
Check activities in advance: Check activities on Klook or GetYourGuide (GYG). Klook is generally cheaper, but GYG may have some activities that Klook doesn't.
Internet Connection: Get an Airalo eSIM to connect to the internet immediately.
Keep cash on hand.
Bring a shawl or scarf: You'll need them when entering temples. They're useful for women to cover their shoulders or knees. You can also buy them from night markets.
Choose Easy-to-Wear Shoes: Wear comfortable slip-on shoes or sandals when visiting temples. Shoes are not allowed inside temples.
Basic Phrases
Lao sounds and is written similarly to Thai. Knowing Thai numerals and some basic expressions will make things easier. Using basic Lao expressions when speaking with locals will create rapport. While English and body language are often sufficient, using their language when thanking them will increase the smiles in their eyes.
Greetings and Basic Phrases
Sai Bai Dee – Hello
La Kone – Goodbye
Khop Jai – Thank you
Doi – Yes
Bow – No
Khaw Toot – Excuse Me
Baw Pen Nyang – No problem
Numbers
Soon – Zero
Neung – Bir
Song – Two
Saam – Three
See – Four
Ha – Five
Hok – Altı
Jet – Seven
Pet – Eight
Kao – Nine
Sip -On
Phan – Bin
Meng – Ten thousand
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