Experience Beautiful Laos

Discover the Wonders of Laos: Nature, Adventure, and Culture

Hidden away in the heart of Southeast Asia, Laos is a swath of impounded wilderness, rich culture and calm that might not always get much credit on the world stage, but there remains a simplicity to the experience that makes it one of the easiest places in the region to venture off the beaten path. From the jagged peaks of mountains to hydroelectric dams that withhold rich river flows, from ancient religious temples to far-flung tribes carving their own paths, Laos remains an intriguing frontier for diversity. So, if your dream travel seems to be constantly on the brink of being broadcast, this one is probably not for you. But if chasing waterfalls, lost temples and wide-eyed locals is more your itinerary, here’s how to let go your grips and marvel at the allure of Laos!

Nature’s Playground

Laos is famous as one of the greenest countries on Earth. Massive mountains, dense jungle and crystal-clear rivers shape the geographical reality of the nation. The mighty Mekong threadsthrough it, offering wonderful views from the riverside and some spectacular boat trips.

If you haven’t yet seen a natural wonder, be sure to go to Kuang Si Falls, about half an hour outside of Luang Prabang. There are several levels of turquoise pools that stream into each other, and you can swim in the waters that tumble in between. I really enjoyed going to the falls at dawn, when the shops and crowds hadn’t yet opened up. I loved this place.

Popular hikes include the climb to Mount Phousi, a 500-metre hill, though it is easy and a slightly less taxing venture that rewards itself with 360 degree-views of the city and the Mekong River (avoid the crowds at sunrise or sunset).

If you’re looking for muddy, action-packed adventure, go to Vang Vieng. Once a party town, Vang Vieng is now a haven for adventure-seeking outdoors enthusiasts. You can hike, rock-climb or kayak the Nam Song River through the dramatic limestone karsts, caves and lagoons.

Adventure Awaits: Outdoor Activities

Laos is the perfect place for outdoor adventurers – and it has options for those who want a thrill and those who don’t. The Nam Song River in Vang Vieng is a must-do if you visit Laos. Tubing down it with your friends is one of the most famous activities in Laos. However, if you would prefer a more serene activity, you can kayak or paddleboard down this river.

Trekkers get the best of both worlds; multi-day hikes through remote forest patches, villages and rivers can be sampled in in the Nam Ha National Protected Area in northern Laos, where you won’t be disappointed as you encounter the country’s cast of critters from birds of paradise to monarch butterflies that look like coloured glass.

For a combination of culture and the outdoors, go on a Gibbon Experience in Bokeo Nature Reserve, zooming along zip-lines through the jungle and sleeping in treehouses on the way, with the chance of seeing the shy black-crested gibbon.

Immerse Yourself in Lao Culture

Laos is a land of nature; it also has culture. One of the best places to experience Lao culture is in the well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang with its French colonial buildings, golden Buddhist wats (temples) and myriad night markets.

Being part of the morning alms-giving ceremony in Luang Prabang is an extremely humbling experience as the locals and visitors alike lay out food for the 400+ monks to collect at sunrise every day. Try not to look too closely, and for heaven’s sake, dress appropriately (this applies for the rest of your stay) — female bare shoulders and short tops are considered inappropriate in the city, so be discreet. Sarah Gore O’Reilly Yet, you definitely don’t want to detract from the ceremony. First, maintain a respectable distance from the monks. Second, don’t make any sound.

The unique festivals of Laos are also worth mentioning: Boun Pi Mai, the Lao New Year, in April, is celebrated in a carnival atmosphere of parades, water-fights and traditional dancing. But if you visit Laos then, just expect your clothes to get wet.

Travel Tips for Laos

- Visa: A visa-on-arrival is readily available at airports in major points of entry, such as Vientiane and Luang Prabang. It is good for 30 days.

• Currency: The official currency of Laos is the Lao kip (LAK). However, in tourist areas, US dollars and Thai baht are generally accepted. Smaller denominations of notes are helpful as it can sometimes be difficult to get change for large denominations of money.

- Languages: The official language of Lao, although not everyone will speak it. English is widely spoken in the tourist areas. A few words in Lao (Sabaidee, hello; Khop chai, thank you) can help you communicate with the locals.

- Transport: Laos is a landlocked country with one of the worst roads in Southeast Asia – there is only one main road, and you have to take the bus or minivan. A bike taxi might get you to the riverside if you’re lucky. A lot of travel in Laos means sitting in a cramped space on the back of a pickup truck and rattling around in the back. When you rent a mini-van for a day, the driver will make stops that aren’t checked off from the itinerary. Be prepared to go slow on bumpy roads, especially in the countryside. Renting a motorbike or bike is also an option in certain places. These modes of transport let you take your time and explore on your own.

Best Time to Visit Laos

The cool and dry season between November and February is the best time to travel to Laos. Temperatures are comfortably cool, between 15°C and 30°C and the skies are clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

The best time to avoid crowds and reduce your accommodation costs is visiting in the shoulder months of March and October. May to October is the rainy season in Laos, but it is perfectly possible to travel. Although this coincides with the hot season, the regular showers bring the impressive landscapes to life, especially around waterfalls and rice terraces.

Final Thoughts

Laos has all the potential to enchant a traveller with lush scenery, cultural legacy and genuine travel experiences. For those who are willing to take flights, trek through jungles, scale up to ancient sanctuaries, or simply leisurely pause by a river with a drink in hand, the landlocked Laotian kingdom deserves an attentive approach to do a slack-off. Slow down and let beauty take over.

Pack your bags, and get ready to uncover one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets! From here you can book directly to get to your dream vacaction spot.