Laos

Laos is a destination untouched by mass tourism. The landlocked mountainous nation features misty mountains, beautiful French colonial towns, and Buddhist stupas. With an estimated population of nearly 7 million, Laos is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Asia. Natural landmarks include the Annamite Mountains close to the border with Vietnam, as well as the Mekong River, which flows from China and along the border with Thailand. Saffron-robed monks, emerald covered hills, and a myriad of spectacular waterfalls await. Aptly named the Land of a Million Elephants, Laos is also home to extraordinary wildlife like elephants and black bears. 

Vientiane, the capital, is a postcard of French colonial villas and golden-spired temples on the majestic Mekong River. While Luang Prabang boasts UNESCO-acclaimed architecture, Vang Vieng captivates with its 'Jurassic' panorama of towering limestone karsts and expansive caves. Still untouched by the rapid development sweeping across neighboring nations, tranquil Laos offers a peek into an authentic, bygone Asia.

Most foreigners can easily procure a 30-day visa upon arrival at most border checkpoints or secure a 30-day visa from a Laotian embassy without prior authorization. You can also apply for an e-visa, which is applicable for many nationalities but only valid upon arrival at Vientiane's Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, or Pakse International Airport.

Given the tropical climate, loose-fitting clothing is recommended, with a light jacket for cooler months, particularly in Northern Laos. The people of Laos embrace modesty and conservatism, so it's important to be mindful of your attire. 

Laos is the busiest during the dry period from November to March. The heat peaks between April and July, with April marking the start of the rainy season. August and September are typically the wettest months. There are also post-rice harvest burns in March and April, which may cause smoky conditions and impact air quality.

While no specific vaccinations are required to enter Laos, we recommend Hepatitis A/B and also being current on Tetanus. Malaria and Dengue Fever are present in Laos, so taking preventive measures, particularly if you're planning to travel in more dense jungle terrain, is recommended. Medical facilities in the country can be basic, so it's crucial to have comprehensive medical insurance in case an evacuation to a larger city is needed.

What do you hope to see and experience during your trip? Our destination specialists will make recommendations based on your travel preferences. We also recommend viewing our sample Laos tours for destination inspiration.

Laos is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, certain regions remain restricted due to past wars. As a tourist, you are potentially a target for theft, so take necessary precautions. Keep your passport and other valuables securely concealed. 

Lao is the official language, bearing a close resemblance to Thai. Despite having five primary dialects, all are mutually intelligible, reinforcing the belief among Laotians that they speak variations of one language. In tourist hotspots like Luang Prabang and Vientiane, you'll find that English is widely spoken, making communication quite easy.