The Ultimate honest travel guide to backpacking Laos
F.A.Qs
What Language is spoken in Laos?
Lao is the official language, but you’ll find English spoken in tourist areas.
What Currency is used in Laos?
Lao kip is the official currency, but Thai baht and US dollars are widely accepted.
Should I be concerned about Safety in Laos?
Laos is generally safe, but petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas. Exercise caution. As a woman, travelling solo at the time, I felt very safe to walk around on my own.
What is the main form of Transport in Laos?
Tuk-tuks and buses are common modes of transport within cities. Amazingly, Laos has one of the nicest, and most efficient train systems in SEA.
Is Laos a budget friendly Country?
Laos is budget-friendly, but prices can vary depending on tourist demand.
Do I need to buy a Sim Card in laos?
We would recommend buying a local SIM cards when arriving in low. They are available for reasonable rates, providing essential connectivity which is needed when in Laos.
What to expect when visiting Laos
- Things move at a relaxed pace in Laos and there is certainly a Slow Pace of Travel. Don’t expect fast, efficient service everywhere. This slow pace can be charming, but it might test your patience if you’re used to faster-paced countries.
- Outside of main cities there is limited Infrastructure. Roads can be rough, and public transport options are basic. Buses can be long, uncomfortable, and often run late. However, the Lao-China Railway has made travel between certain cities much easier.
- Laos has a deep history of colonialism and you will have the opportunity to learn a lot about their history while there
- English isn’t as widely spoken as in some neighbouring countries, especially in rural areas. Having a translation app or learning a few basic Lao phrases can be helpful.
- Laos is more conservative compared to some other Southeast Asian countries. Respect local customs, especially around temples, and dress modestly.
- Laos offers stunning landscapes, from lush mountains to the Mekong River. It truly is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.
- Renting a scooter is a popular way to explore, while roads can be challenging they are far less busy than other popular destinations like Thailand or Bali. I’d say to truly see Laos, you need to be able or willing to ride a scooter.
What are the visa requirements for Laos?
Applying for a Visa on Arrival in Laos
With an Irish Passport, I was able to apply for a 30-day Visa on arrival at the Thai Boarder.
The Visa cost $40 US. If paying in US dollars, make sure your notes are crisp and don’t have any writing on them as they won’t be accepted by the Border control. There is a currency exchange and ATM available at the border but it’s good to have cash in case of big queues.
Bring some passport pictures if you can as there is a small fee for getting your photo taken at the border. In some cases, proof of accommodation and onward travel might be needed.
You will also need an Entry and Exit form which you should keep for when you leave.
To see if you are eligible for a Visa on Arrival visit the Lao Evisa website
When is the best time to visit Laos?
The ideal time to visit Laos is during the dry season (November to April). The weather is pleasant with cooler temperatures ranging from 15°C at night to 30°C during the day. This period also includes the festive Lao New Year (Pi Mai) in April, celebrated with exuberant events.
March to May can get quite hot and marks the slash-and-burn season, resulting in smoky and hazy conditions that can affect air quality and visibility, it’s generally not an ideal time to visit. I visited at the end of April 2023 and didn’t have any experience of this but friends I met who had visited just a week prior said they had the opposite experience! As an FYI, the same goes for northern thailand!
May to October brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity. For most travellers, November to February remains the best window to experience the beauty and charm of Laos.
How Long should you Stay in Laos?
The Classic North-to-South Route (7-10 days): This popular route is perfect for travelers with limited time. Start in Luang Prabang to explore temples and waterfalls, then head south to Vang Vieng for limestone karsts and outdoor adventures. End your journey in Vientiane, soaking up the mix of culture and history.
The Southern Adventure (2-3 weeks): If you have more time, head further south to Pakse and discover the Bolaven Plateau’s waterfalls and coffee plantations. Then, continue to Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands) for the tranquil charm of the Mekong River. Keep in mind that the southern regions require extra time due to the greater distances between destinations.
Is Travelling in Laos Expensive?
Laos is one of the most budget-friendly destinations you can include in your Southeast Asia itinerary. With accommodation costs typically ranging between 8-12 euros per night, it’s an ideal spot for travellers looking to stretch their budget. Many of the activities in Laos, such as exploring its stunning natural landscapes, hiking, and visiting waterfalls, are outdoor-oriented, further reducing overall expenses.
Street food and local eateries offer delicious meals at very affordable prices, often just a few euros per dish. Additionally, transportation within the country, whether by bus, scooter, or tuk-tuk, is also quite economical, making it easy to explore without breaking the bank.
How to get to Laos?
Getting the slow boat from Thailand to Laos
As a solo traveller, one of the highlights of my journey to Laos was the famous slow boat trip from Thailand. This unique experience, while not necessarily easy or entirely pleasurable, offers a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow travellers and enjoy breathtaking views along the Mekong River.
For detailed information on this journey, check out our blog post: A complete guide on getting from Chaing Rai, Thailand to Luang Prabang, Laos via Slow boat
If the slow boat isn’t for you, there are several other options to reach Laos:
From Thailand
- By Bus: You can take a bus from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai directly to Luang Prabang or Vientiane. On my return trip, I opted for a bus straight to Bangkok from Vientiane, which was convenient and straightforward.
- By Train: Trains connect the capital cities, making it easy to travel from Bangkok to Vientiane. This option is comfortable and allows you to enjoy the scenic landscapes.
On the other side, many travellers journey from Laos to Hanoi, Vietnam. Be prepared for a lengthy 25-hour bus ride if you choose this route.
- By Flight: Flying is also an option, though flights in and out of Laos can be pricey. A cost-effective alternative might be to fly to Bangkok or Northern Thailand first, depending on your schedule and budget.
How to get around Laos
If you’d like to read more about getting around Laos, this guide to transport in Laos is for you.
What Not to Miss in Laos: Must-See Destinations
Luang Prabang
Most travelers start their Laos journey in Luang Prabang, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots in Southeast Asia. The city is full of charm and offers plenty to explore. Be sure to visit Kuang Si Falls, a stunning waterfall that’s perfect for a day trip. Also, take the time to explore the Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues, and don’t miss the opportunity to climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the city at sunset. Renting a scooter to explore the surrounding countryside is highly recommended for a deeper experience.
For a detailed guide, check out our post on how to spend 4 days in Luang Prabang.
Where to stay in Luang Prabang?
You will find some of the lowest priced hostels/accommodation in Laos. In Luang Prabang, you have your pick of hostels and rooms to stay in:
Vang Vieng
Known for its vibrant backpacker scene, Vang Vieng is particularly popular with those looking to party. While my experience was more relaxed, I met many travellers who enjoyed the nightlife. This town is also the hub for various activities, including the highly recommended hot air balloon rides, which offer stunning views of the landscape. Besides partying, you can enjoy tubing down the Nam Song River, hiking up to Nam Xay Viewpoint or visiting the amazing Blue Lagoons of Vangvieng.
Where to stay in VangVieng
Known for its lively backpacker scene, Vang Vieng has numerous hostels and guesthouses catering to all travellers.
Vientiane
As the capital city, Vientiane isn’t the most thrilling destination in Laos. Spending a night or two here is sufficient to see the main attractions and enjoy the local vibe. The city’s compact size means you can cover the key sights in a day. Highlights include the Patuxai Victory Monument, the serene Pha That Luang, and the Buddha Park, which features over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues.
Where to stay in Vientane
After the excitement of Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang, Vientiane is a great place to unwind for a night or two.
Other stops in Laos to add to your itinirary
Pakse and Bolaven Plateau: For those with more time, adding Pakse to your itinerary is a great option. Pakse serves as a gateway to the Bolaven Plateau, known for its cool climate, coffee plantations, and stunning waterfalls like Tad Fane and Tad Lo. It’s a great region for trekking, exploring rural villages, and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Si Phan Don (4000 Islands): Si Phan Don, or the 4000 Islands, is another popular spot known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful riverine landscapes. Located in the Mekong River, this area is perfect for relaxing in hammocks, cycling around Don Det and Don Khone islands, and spotting the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. The waterfalls, particularly Khone Phapheng and Li Phi Falls, are must-see attractions.
Plain of Jars: For history enthusiasts, the Plain of Jars near Phonsavan is a fascinating archaeological site featuring thousands of large stone jars scattered across the landscape. The mystery surrounding these ancient artifacts adds to the allure of the region.
Nong Khiaw: Nestled amidst dramatic limestone cliffs and along the Nam Ou River, Nong Khiaw offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and visiting local villages. The viewpoint hike provides breathtaking panoramic views of the area.
Our best Tips for laos
- It might seem self-explanatory, but if you aren’t a partier, don’t stay in a party hostel (Especially in VangVieng).
- Don’t book your tours or guides online. You’ll get a much better price in person and will usually get referred to someone by word of mouth.
- To get the best experience out of the country, you probably will need to ride a scooter
Our Honest Conclusions
Laos isn’t your typical ‘backpacker’ destination like Thailand or Vietnam. Its history with tourism is relatively recent. Consequently, getting around and planning your trip might require a bit more time. Don’t come here expecting beautiful beaches or the familiar backpacker lifestyle. That said, nearly everyone who has visited Laos will sing its praises. The country offers a wealth of natural beauty and activities that make it truly special. In our opinion, it’s worth dedicating at least a week to explore this amazing and underrated destination.
![Journey on the Slow Boat to Laos: A complete guide [2025]](https://i0.wp.com/thehonesttravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Honest-Travel-Blog-8.png?fit=700%2C750&ssl=1)
