Best Laos tour packages for 2025 - 2026 customized by Vietnam Exploration Booking Tours™

Vietnam Exploration Booking Tours has designed a number of new Laos tours for 2024 - 2025 travel seasons revealing the wonders of this enchanting, secretive land to those seeking a unique cultural adventure.Laos is considered an authentic Asian country, where many traditions that have disappeared in the industrial age still exist. If you want to find peace and tranquility, come to Laos, and you will be surprised to see stilt houses and rice fields in Vientiane, or hundreds of monks in saffron robes walking the streets of Luang Prabang to collect alms in the morning.
Tour Route: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Vientiane – Luang Prabang 10 Days/ 9 Nights
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Vientiane - Pakse - Don Khong - Luang Prabang 10days
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Vientiane-Vang Vieng-Luang Prabang 7days
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Discover Luang Prabang 3days
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Explore Luang Prabang 5days
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Vientiane / Vang Vieng / Pak Ou cave / Kuang Sy waterfall / Luang Prabang 7 days 6 nites
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Luang Prabang / Pak Ou cave / Kuang Sy waterfall 4 days 3 nites
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Highlights

  • The ancient capital of Luang Prabang is the mix of French architecture with aquamarine waterfalls and Buddhist temples.
  • Vientiane, Laos’ national capital, mixes French-colonial architecture with Buddhist temples.
  • Pak Ou Caves: One of Luang Prabang’s most popular sites, these limestone caves are well-known for several Buddhist sculptures.
  • Xieng Khouang: a flat highland plateau which is famous for a unique archaeological landscape ‘The Plain of Jars’.
  • Khong Island (Don Khong): the largest of the Mekong islands with a peaceful town Muang Khong.
  • Don Khon and Don Det: smaller islands with picturesque landscapes, beautiful waterfalls and local distinctiveness.

Tips

  • The best time to visit Laos is from November to January when the weather is cool. Avoid March and April when it is the peak time of summer.
  • Keep some cash: Credit card is accepted in some hotels and restaurants. The local currency of Laos is Kip, and have some US dollar just in case.
  • If you want to use your mobile phone in Laos, buy a prepaid phone card from mini-marts or phone shops at around US$10. The major providers are Tango and Laotel.
  • Dress appropriately, never wear shorts and skirts and take off your shoes when visiting religious sites.
  • Show respectful manners to the monks. Remember that women are not allowed to touch the monks.

Laos Tours GUIDE

General information about Laos Tours travelers may need to know before your tour start

 

Basic information

  • Population: 6.9 million (2016)
  • Capital: Vientiane city
  • Ethnic group: 47 minorities
  • Main language: Lao
  • Currency: Lao Kip (K)
  • Time zone: GMT+7
  • Country phone code: + 856

Basic information

  • Population: 6.9 million (2016)
  • Capital: Vientiane city
  • Ethnic group: 47 minorities
  • Main language: Lao
  • Currency: Lao Kip (K)
  • Time zone: GMT+7
  • Country phone code: + 856

 

Overview

Laos is a land-locked country in mainland Southeast Asia. It shares the border with Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and China. The recorded history of Laos goes back to the 14th century when the independent Kingdom of Lan Xang (one million elephant) was formed. In 1893, it became a territory of France until declared its own independence in 1953. Its population remains lowest in Asia (approximately 6.9 million). At present, despite a limited infrastructure, Laos is a wonderful country to visit. Travelers will surely enjoy the country rich culture and history, natural beauty, Buddhist customs, and the gentle and friendly Lao people …

 

Major cities

Population-wise, the top 5 cities largest cities of Laos are Vientiane, Pakse, Savannakhet, Luang Prabang and Xam Nua.

 

Transportation

Transportation in Laos consists of two main vehicles, which are Tuk-tuk (three-wheeled car) and taxi. Since there are fewer vehicles outside of the large centers, travelers could book rental car with driver provided and operated by local tour operators. Railroad in Laos is not a popular option because many routes are still under construction. Domestic flights to smaller airports in Laos frequently get cancelled due to fog, so it would be wise for travelers to confirm the flights one or two day before departure.

 

Money

The official national currency in Laos is the Lao kip (K). According to the law, only kip is legal for everyday transactions in Laos. But in reality, Lao kip, Thai baht and US dollars are usable for commerce as well. On tip, tipping is not known as a culture in Laos except in tourist-oriented restaurant, where 10% of the bill is appreciated.

 

Household electricity

Laos has the standard voltage of 230 Volts. If the standard voltage in ones country is in between 220 – 240 V (as is in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa), they can use their electric appliances in Laos. Otherwise, it is recommended for travelers to use all-in-one travel adapter when travelling to Laos or any South-east Asia countries.

 

Phone and internet

Lao Telecom, ETL, Beeline (ex Tigo) and Unitel are the major phone and 3G services providers in Laos. Wi-Fi is available at hotels, guest houses, cafes … in Laos, all visitors need to do is ask the employees for Wi-Fi password.

Laos is a great destination to travel any time all-year round since the country has no coastline that influences the weather. Laos weather is a tropical climate with two seasons which are dry and wet season. Each season are different in average temperature and humidity. Below is the guide for travelers to decide when to go to Laos.

 

May and June in Laos is the early wet season. The temperature is very hot (average of 27 degree C or 81 degree F). On the bright side, the rainfall is often short, which cleanses the air and cools off the atmosphere.
July to September in Laos is when the rain becomes more constant and could get very heavy, especially in the northern and central part of the country. Generally, the higher the destination, the more rain it gets. So the towns along the Mekong River get the least rain. During this time, the average temperature is 24-25 degree C or 75-76 degree F.
October to February in Laos is the cool dry season. During this time, the average temperature is 21-24 degree C (68-76 degree F) while the humidity is not high and the night remains cool. Another great thing is that during this time frame, the rivers are high enough to make river travel easy and flexible. However, this is the most popular time for travelers to visit Laos, so do expect to see more people than other time of the year. During this time in the far south, winter is even warmer and someday could get hot, while the weather gets colder when moving north to the higher aptitude.
March to April in Laos is the hot dry season. The average temperature is 30/32 degree C (86/90 degree F). Even though this period seems short but the intensity of the heat makes up for that. On April, the temperature could get to 35 or 40 degree C. Especially, from March to May, farmers here set fire to rice stubble to fertilize the soil for a new crop season, which results in layers of smoke covering the air and irritating the eyes.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Laos is from November to February which is the coolest part of the dry season.

Located in exotic Southeast Asia, Cambodia can be distinguished itself from other countries by its UNESCO heritage site Angkor Wat. This country is praised by the name ‘the Kingdom of Wonders’ and a trip to Cambodia is like a journey to its tumultuous past. Not only is the history a highlight of Cambodia, but idyllic landscapes, romantic beaches and magnificent mountains are also worth spending time. Dominated by Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake, this country is a dreamland for those who are interested in natural biodiversity.

Vientiane

Vientiane is the capital as well as the largest city of Laos. Despite that this is the largest city in Laos, it gives visitors an impression of calmness and tranquility. The city has many significant Buddhism icons of Laos such as That Luang monument, Haw Phra Kaew temple, Wat Sisaket temple, Wat Simuang monastery … Beyond the temples, there are many other attractions such as Victory Gate Patuxai, Buddha Park, Lao Revolutionary Museum …

 

 


Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is the former capital of Laos from the 14th to 16th century and again in 19th century. Visiting Luang Prabang, tourists will have the opportunity to explore the monasteries, monuments, traditional costumes, collections of old French house since colonial era, and beautiful scenery. Luang Prabang is also where many traditional Lao wooden-structured houses remain. In 1996, Luang Prabang was voted as the World Heritage site.

 


Savannakhet

Savannakhet means “Golden Land” due to its history as a trading post for the French colonialists, Vietnamese and Chinese merchants in 1920s. At present, the province is focused on mining natural resources like copper, gold, and producing tobacco products. Currently, it has a less interest in developing in tourism resources and facilities. However, there are many attractions for tourists to visit such as the French colonial architectures, Wat Sayaphum, Tad Ing Hang Stupa, Savanxay Market …

Sihanoukville

 


Kampot – A laid-back attraction

Kampot is a place for those who seek for a chilled out atmosphere where you can visit local markets, fishing villages and unique pepper farms. Kampot Province is well-known for Bokor National Park which takes one or two hours’ driving. Used to be an abandoned French hill station, Bokor National Park is now suitable for trekking trips to mighty mountains and waterfalls and seeing the ruins of many palaces which were once used by French officers to get away from the sultry weather of Cambodia.

Bokor National Park

 


Pakse

Pakse is usually regarded as the far South’s biggest town in Laos. The city was an administrative outpost of the French in 1905. Comparing to Luang Prabang or Savannakhet, Pakse does not bring visitors a sense of nostalgic because that there are not many historic architectures remaining here. Furthermore, the tourism infrastructure is not very developed. However, this is becoming a popular starting point in Laos explore because of its excellent road link system to other cities.

Koh Tonsay

 

From religious pilgrimage, historical discovery and cultural exploration to beach vacations and fantastic cruises, Cambodia is an awe-inspiring destination for your trip to Indochina.

Discover Angkor Wat – one of the world’s most spectacular temple complexes

Whenever you think about Siem Reap, Angkor Wat will be the first thing that comes up on your mind. Angkor Wat is the highlight of every visit to Cambodia with classic Khmer architecture using sandstone. Built on a site of 1.6 million meters, Angkor Wat was originally a Hindu center of worship in the 12th century and then transformed into a Buddhist site. With its five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters into the sky, it is truly a monumental, and awe-inspiring sight. You can discover more ruins of this site in Angkor Archaeological Park.

 


Learn about Cambodian history in Phnom Penh

With the system of temples, museums and royal architecture, Phnom Penh is the best place for tourists to learn about the history of this country. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh are two must-visit sites where you can see the traumatic genocide under Khmer Rouge reign. Led by Pol Pot, Khmer Rouge had killed and starved two million people from 1975 to 1979. Over 14,000 prisoners were inhumanely tortured in Tuol Sleng before being sent to the Killing Fields. Choeung Ek is now served as a memorial site with a Buddhist stupa containing 8000 human skulls.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

 


Spend time on some romantic beaches

Cambodia is famous with numerous pristine beaches and islands which are currently not affected by mass tourism. Those places are a perfect getaway from bustling cities and stressful workplace. You can immerse yourself in sunshine, cool water, snorkeling, kayaking and even just sunbathing on the shores. Sihanoukville is the recommended destination for first-time travelers to Cambodia. There are five beaches in the city and two islands (Koh Rong and Koh Russei) here, which are abundant for a beach vacation. For an off-the-beaten-track option, Kep is where you can enjoy the most tranquil atmosphere.

Sihanoukville

 


Trek through spectacular trails

If you are seeking a trekking destination in Southeast Asia, head to Cambodia. This country is filled with rugged mountains, winding rivers, spectacular waterfalls, and emerald rice paddies. Tropical rainforests in this country are abundant with the diverse number of rare plants, flowers and wild animals. The infrastructure in Cambodia is still developing, thus, the trails will be quite a challenge for even the most avid trekkers or hikers. Some popular spots for trekking in Cambodia are Kulen Mountain in Siem Reap, Kalai Jungle in Ban Lung, and Cardamom Mountains in Koh Rong Province.

Cardamom Mountains

 


Relax on a cruise

Surrounded by Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake, taking a cruise is a stimulating activity to do in Cambodia. You can take a tour to some floating villages, take some photos of stilted houses, discover local life and sample some foods on boats. Watching sunset on the deck is the best way to complete your cruise. You can start your cruise trip from either Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Contact us for high-quality Cambodia Cruises.

Tonle Sap

 

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Helpful Articles and Tips for Laos Tours

ABOUT LAOS

05/27/2022

Landlocked Laos is one of Asia's most enchanting destinations. Stunning natural beauty--think mist-shrouded mountain peaks flanked by jungle-clad valleys--combine with a fascinating Buddhist culture to make Laos a superb destination for backpackers and independent travellers, while luxury tourists a

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LAOS VISA

05/27/2022

Laos eVisa Application The Laos visa online application form simplifies the process of obtaining permission to visit the country . Applicants are able to complete their online Laos visa form from the comfort of their home or office. Travelers will need an Internet connection and a computer, laptop,

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LAOS CURRENCY & EXCHANGE

05/27/2022

Exchange rates, Credit Cards, ATMs, Western Union and MonyGram in Laos On this page you will find information about money maters including Laos currency exchange info, ATM, Credit cards and so on. The official Lao currency is Lao Kip, denoted by the ISO code LAK . Currencies that are good to carry t

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05/27/2022

Currency Lao currency is called kip (LAK). The exchange rate is around 8,000-9,000 to US$1. US cash and Thai baht is commonly used for larger purchases. Kip is a non-convertible currency, meaning once you have left Laos, it's useful only as wallpaper. Banks outside Laos will not accept nor exchange

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Weather in Laos

03/30/2023

Wet season in Laos The wet season in Laos runs from around May to October, and as with many Southeast Asian countries, the monsoon is characterised by a downpour for a few hours each day, rather than all-day torrential downpours. While the rainy season tends to strike Laos pretty much uniformally, t

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