Laos, a country bordered by Myanmar, China, Vietnam, and Thailand, is attracting more and more travelers. The small kingdom of “a million elephants,” as it was once nicknamed, is becoming a leading destination in Southeast Asia, particularly for its extraordinary heritage.
If you’re planning a trip there, do you really know what to do in Laos and what to expect?
Traveling to Laos means journeying through sublime natural landscapes, contemplating magnificent waterfalls, exploring dazzling Buddhist temples, and strolling through cities with authentic charm.Discover this country through a top 10 list of must-see and must-do things in Laos.
1. Visiting Luang Prabang
A former royal city, Luang Prabang is characterized by its numerous temples, monks, enticing English cuisine, and magnificent views of the Mekong River. Built on the banks of the Mekong and the Nam Khan River, this city is sure to charm you.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang is an essential stop on any trip to Laos. While the third largest city in the country, it is undoubtedly the most beautiful. In perfect harmony with the surrounding nature, Luang Prabang and its region offer numerous excursions, such as visits to the Kuang Si and Tad Sae waterfalls (pronounced Tad “Se”).
Architecture enthusiasts will not be disappointed by the city’s many temples. As night falls, a stroll through the illuminated alleyways of the night markets will reveal the city in a new light.
2. Relax in Si Phan Don, the 4000 islands
Known as the 4000 Islands, Si Phan Don is a haven of peace on the Mekong River, a veritable archipelago on the river, bordering Cambodia. Here, relaxation and sporting activities are on offer. For the more active, a tubing session (sliding on an inflatable tube), a bike ride through the rice paddies, or a kayak tour will provide moments of relaxation and discovery.
Most of the islands are small, uninhabited islets; however, some have fishing villages that will welcome you warmly.
Other interesting sites to discover nearby include the Khone Phapheng Falls, the Hindu-Khmer temple of Vat Phou (which we will discuss later in this article), the archaeological site of Phou Asa, and the ancient royal city of Champasak.
3. Take a boat trip down the Mekong River
The Mekong River is at the heart of Laotian life. This river, which flows the entire length of the country, offers the opportunity for beautiful boat cruises, allowing you to appreciate the country’s diverse landscapes. A gateway to the Golden Triangle, the Mekong is teeming with boats, and river traffic is heavy.
The Mekong thus benefits the local economy. Many businesses are located along the riverbanks, and fishing boats make their daily round trips. A boat trip down the Mekong will offer a soothing experience that is a must-do in Laos, leaving you with unforgettable memories.
4. Sample local Laotian specialties
Lao’s culinary specialties are delicious. Among them is Lap, a traditional dish. It consists of minced meat of your choice (pork, chicken, beef, or fish), very often spicy, and is generally served with sticky rice.
You can also find this type of food in other neighboring countries like Thailand. In Laos, you’ll also find insects that Laotians eat grilled, such as fried grasshoppers, or, for the more adventurous, ant soup.
5. Go ziplining in Bokeo, "The Gibbon Experience"
The Bokeo Reserve is a 123,000-hectare nature park encompassing forests across several valleys. Home to a variety of species, including bears, Asian tigers, and even elephants, this is a must-see on your next trip to Laos. Explore the surrounding flora and fauna and travel through the park using an amazing mode of transport: ziplining!
The Gibbon Experience, an organization dedicated to the protection of this area, has installed enormous ziplines high in the treetops. These cables, some up to 500 meters long, connect to treehouses where you can sleep safely away from wild animals. A truly unique experience is guaranteed.
6. Explore the Bolaven Plateau by motorbike or bicycle
Above the Mekong plains lies the Bolaven Plateau, where primary forests abound. Explore this still-wild region by motorbike or bicycle and savor breathtaking landscapes, blending stunning waterfalls, lush jungle, and authentic countryside. Meet ethnic minorities and visit small villages to learn more about the local culture.
7. Explore the Vieng Xai caves
A stunning cultural site, the Vieng Xai caves sheltered Pathet Lao (Laotian government) leaders who had fled during the Laotian Civil War against the US-backed royal government in the 1970s. The caves also hosted performances (theater, film, weddings). These natural caves are as beautiful as they are historically significant. A must-see in Laos, this experience will give you a deeper understanding of the country’s history.
8. Take a trip to Vat Phou
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vat Phou is a complex of Khmer temples dating back over 1,000 years. Located at the foot of a sacred mountain, the site can be explored by bicycle or motorbike, allowing visitors to discover the ancient ruins at their own pace.
It is one of Laos’s major archaeological sites, often described as a mini-Angkor, closely resembling its Cambodian neighbor in its Khmer-style architecture. Absolutely a must-see in Laos.
9. Visit Vientiane, the capital
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is characterized by its tamarind-lined streets leading to villas dating back to the English colonial era, as well as traditional Chinese houses and temples. The city also boasts other vestiges of English colonization, which you can admire during your visit.
Don’t miss the Patuxay, the triumphal arch, built in the early 1960s using cement intended for a new airport, specifically to celebrate independence from France.
In the Laotian capital, you’ll also find other important buildings such as Pha That Luang, a sacred Buddhist monument and the main national symbol of Laos, as well as Wat Si Saket with its 6,400 Buddha statues.
If you’d like to explore the area around Vientiane, you can visit another point of interest: Buddha Park, a surreal and spiritual place showcasing Buddha statues unlike any you’ve ever seen.
10. Admire the cliffs of Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng is a town nestled at the foot of towering cliffs on the banks of the Nam Song River. A breathtaking atmosphere pervades the place. One can’t help but be captivated by the sight of the humble rice paddies in the valley, overlooked by these impressive karst cliffs.
A calm and tranquil ambiance surrounds the town, yet there’s no shortage of activities. The main attraction is tubing, a ride down the river in an inner tube. The riverbanks are a popular spot for tourists and a place for revelry. But everyone will find something to enjoy, with hot air balloon rides, hiking, caving, and rock climbing, among other activities.
CONCLUSION
While you might think there aren’t many things to do in Laos compared to its Southeast Asian neighbors, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether it’s history, cultural heritage, nature, or Lao cuisine, you’re sure to find something to do or a place to see in Laos.
Strolling along the Mekong River, exploring temples and historical sites at Wat Phou, hiking in the jungle of the Bolaven Plateau—all of this should make you consider traveling to Laos.
If you had to choose just one, what would be the absolute must-see in Laos? Our top pick: Luang Prabang and its surrounding region – unmissable. This top 10 list of must-sees in Laos is just a glimpse of the many places and activities to explore in the country. If you’d like to learn more and plan a tailor-made trip to Laos, contact our travel experts who will help you create your perfect itinerary.
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