Laos, often called the hidden gem of Southeast Asia, is a destination that captivates travelers with its – cultural heritage. From green mountains and Buddhist temples to villages nestled along the Mekong River, this country offers a unique travel experience.
In this article, we present a 15-day itinerary that covers Laos’ must-see destinations, from Luang Prabang to the landscapes of Vang Vieng. Get ready to pack your bags, as the treasures of Laos are waiting for you!
Laos must-sees
During your 15-day journey through Laos, several sites should not be missed.
Luang Prabang
This UNESCO World Heritage city is famous for its Buddhist temples, including the Vat Xieng Thong, and the sacred Phu Si mountain, which offers stunning views of the city. Don’t miss the monk alms-giving ceremony at sunrise!
Vang Vieng
Known for its karst mountain landscapes and the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng offers activities like kayaking and hiking to explore the local caves.
Vientiane
The capital city is home to landmarks such as the golden Pha That Luang stupa, a national symbol of Laos, and the Buddha Park, featuring a collection of Buddhist sculptures.
The Mekong River
A cruise along this river provides insight into Lao life, with stops at floating villages and views of green rice paddies.
Kuang Si Waterfalls
Near Luang Prabang : These turquoise waterfalls are surrounded by bamboo forests, offering natural pools where you can cool off after hiking through the site.
On the Bolaven Plateau : Known for its coffee plantations and waterfalls like Tad Fane, this area is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Vat Phou
This Khmer temple, often compared to Cambodia’s Angkor temples, is set in a natural landscape near Champassak, offering a glimpse into Laos’ ancient history.
Our 2-week Laos itinerary
Planning a trip to Laos? Trazler has put together a two-week itinerary for you to explore this region, combining history, culture, and relaxation.
Week 1 : Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane
Start your journey by exploring Luang Prabang, the UNESCO World Heritage city. Visit the old town’s temples, the Kuang Si waterfalls, and take a boat trip along the Mekong River.
Head to Vientiane, where you’ll find a range of accommodation options. After a minibus ride from Vientiane, visit Vang Vieng and enjoy outdoor activities like paddling down the Nam Song River and exploring the Tham Phu Kham and Tham Nam caves.
Finish the week in Vientiane, visiting landmarks like That Luang and Patuxai. Don’t miss the local markets to taste Lao specialties.
Week 2 : Bolaven Plateau, Champassak, and the 4000 Islands
Visit the Bolaven Plateau, where you’ll find coffee plantations and waterfalls like Tad Lo and Tad Fane.
Next, head to the Champassak Province, where you can explore the historical site of Wat Phou, a pre-Khmer temple. Then, visit the small town of Champassak, known for its colonial architecture.
End your trip by exploring the region and the 4000 Islands with a boat tour. Discover colonial ruins and local villages by bike. Don Det Island is highly recommended for its tranquility and relaxing atmosphere, with guesthouses offering stunning sunset views.
Travel preparation tips
To make your 15-day trip to Laos unforgettable, be sure to prepare in advance. Here are some practical tips to help you organize your journey smoothly :
Administrative formalities for traveling to Laos
You will most likely need a visa to enter Laos. You can get a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival at international airports and certain land border checkpoints, or apply online. The e-visa is often more convenient and provides peace of mind.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date into Laos.
Health and vaccinations
Consult your doctor or an international vaccination center to ensure your vaccines are up to date. Vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, and Japanese encephalitis are often recommended.
Additionally, malaria and dengue fever are present in some areas of Laos. Be prepared with insect repellent and long-sleeved clothing for protection.
It’s also wise to purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency repatriation.
Best time to visit Laos
Laos has a tropical climate with a dry season (November to April) and a rainy season (May to October).
The period from November to February is usually the most pleasant, with moderate temperatures and low humidity.
Local currency and budget
The official currency of Laos is the Lao kip (LAK). US dollars and Thai baht are also widely accepted in tourist areas. It’s a good idea to bring some cash or exchange currency at the airport upon arrival.
The cost of living in Laos is relatively low. Depending on your desired level of comfort, a budget of 30 to 50€ per day should suffice. Accommodations range from 8€ to 15€ per night, with nicer rooms available for up to 20€.
Local cuisine is affordable. Expect to spend between 5€ and 10€ per day on meals at local restaurants, where you can enjoy dishes like laap or tam mak hoong.
Transportation via tuk-tuk, bus, or taxi is also budget-friendly. A tuk-tuk ride typically costs around 1€ to 2€, and local bus fares are usually less than 1€.
Temple visits and excursions are often inexpensive ; for instance, entry to Kuang Si Waterfalls is about 2.30€, while guided day trips range from 30€ to 70€, depending on the activity.
Language and culture
Lao is the official language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas. To stay connected, you can purchase a local SIM card, which offers good internet coverage.
Laos is a conservative Buddhist country, so modest dress is important, especially when visiting temples. Always remove your shoes before entering a house or temple, and avoid public displays of affection.
Transport and accommodation : Logistical tips for visiting Laos
Buses, minivans, and boats are the main forms of transportation, but domestic flights are available between major cities for added convenience. Renting motorcycles or bicycles is a popular way to explore local areas.
High season accommodation
During peak season, it’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance. Laos offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly dormitories to luxury hotels.
For booking your car or hotel, you can visit Trazler’s platform and take advantage of exclusive discounts on a variety of accommodations and vehicles. With a simple and intuitive interface, Trazler makes it easy to organize your trip.
Food and water in Laos
Laotian cuisine is full of flavors, featuring dishes like laap (minced meat salad) and tam mak hoong (spicy green papaya salad).
Be mindful of hygiene when eating. It’s best to avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially freshwater fish and shellfish, which can carry parasites like Opisthorchiasis.
Tap water is not safe to drink in Laos. It’s recommended to only consume bottled water and ensure the bottles are properly sealed. In areas where bottled water might not be readily available, bring purification tablets.
To avoid common intestinal infections, make sure to wash your hands frequently and carry anti-diarrhea medication in case of food poisoning.
How to organize your trip to Laos with Trazler?
Want to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Laos? Trazler makes it easy to plan your 15-day itinerary. With its all-in-one platform, you can book accommodations, transportation, and activities without hassle.
Book your trip to Laos with Trazler in advance to enjoy great rates on a wide range of options, while maintaining the flexibility to customize every step of your journey according to your preferences.
Two weeks are enough to discover Laos’ main tourist sites, such as Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Vang Vieng, the 4000 Islands, and the Bolaven Plateau.
One week is sufficient to visit major sites like Luang Prabang and Vientiane. For a trip including the southern regions and rural excursions, 10 to 15 days are recommended.
For moderate comfort, €30 to €50 per day is sufficient, covering accommodation, meals, and transportation. Travelers seeking premium experiences should budget between €50 and €100 per day.
Two weeks are enough to cover the key regions from north to south. With more time, three weeks allow for off-the-beaten-path experiences.
