UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at Laos's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for temples, waterfalls, and experiences across Laos.
Luang Prabang Historic Centre
Discover a blend of Lao and French colonial architecture along the Mekong River, including royal palaces and over 30 temples.
Especially enchanting at dawn with alms-giving ceremonies and evening night markets.
Vat Phou and Ancient Settlements
Explore Khmer ruins and sacred Hindu-Buddhist temples on the Mekong's banks in Champasak.
A spiritual site with stone carvings and processions that draw history and architecture lovers.
Plain of Jars Archaeological Site
Wander among massive prehistoric stone jars in Xieng Khouang, a mysterious Iron Age relic.
Guided tours reveal legends and ongoing excavations in this remote, evocative landscape.
Pha That Luang, Vientiane
Visit Laos's national symbol, a gilded stupa representing Buddhist heritage and independence.
Surrounded by serene gardens, ideal for reflection and cultural festivals.
Wat Xieng Thong Temple Complex
Admire intricate mosaics and golden architecture in Luang Prabang's premier royal temple.
A peaceful haven showcasing Lao artistry and spiritual traditions.
Champasak Cultural Landscape
Uncover ancient Khmer influences and temple ruins amid lush southern forests.
Less visited, providing an intimate look at Laos's pre-Angkorian history.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Kuang Si Waterfalls
Swim in turquoise pools beneath cascading falls near Luang Prabang, with hiking trails to viewpoints.
Perfect for nature immersion and photography in a lush jungle setting.
Mekong River
Cruise the lifeblood of Laos, spotting river life and dramatic sunsets from Pak Ou Caves to the south.
Essential for scenic boat trips and village visits along its banks.
Nam Ha National Protected Area
Trek through biodiverse forests in Luang Namtha, home to ethnic villages and rare wildlife.
Guided eco-tours for birdwatching and cultural exchanges in northern highlands.
Bolaven Plateau
Explore volcanic craters, coffee plantations, and waterfalls in southern Laos's highlands.
Adventure hub for motorbiking and tasting fresh Arabica beans.
Phou Hin Poun National Park
Kayak through karst landscapes and caves near Ban Na Hin, with limestone peaks and rivers.
Remote paradise for spelunking and multi-day jungle expeditions.
Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands)
Relax on Mekong islands with Irrawaddy dolphin spotting and lazy bike rides.
Tropical escape with waterfalls and laid-back riverside vibes.
Laos by Region
đ Northern Laos
- Best For: Ancient temples, ethnic cultures, and misty mountains with sites like Luang Prabang and Oudomxay.
- Key Destinations: Luang Prabang, Muang Sing, and Nong Khiaw for UNESCO heritage and hill tribe villages.
- Activities: Alms-giving ceremonies, trekking to waterfalls, weaving workshops, and river cruises.
- Best Time: Cool season (November-February) for comfortable 15-25°C weather and festivals like Boun Ok Phansa.
- Getting There: Fly into Luang Prabang Airport, then use private transfers via GetTransfer for remote areas.
đī¸ Vientiane Capital Region
- Best For: Urban blend of French colonial and Lao traditions as the political and cultural hub.
- Key Destinations: Vientiane for stupas and markets, nearby Buddha Park for quirky sculptures.
- Activities: Night market shopping, temple visits, Mekong sunset views, and Lao cuisine tastings.
- Best Time: Year-round, but dry season (December-April) for events like Pi Mai Lao with 20-30°C warmth.
- Getting There: Vientiane International Airport is the gateway - compare flights on Aviasales for affordable routes.
đŋ Central Laos
- Best For: Karst adventures and riverside relaxation, featuring Vang Vieng's dramatic landscapes.
- Key Destinations: Vang Vieng, Thakhek, and Savannakhet for caves and hot springs.
- Activities: Tubing on the Nam Song River, cave explorations, zip-lining, and ethnic minority homestays.
- Best Time: Dry months (November-April) for outdoor fun with mild 18-28°C and low humidity.
- Getting There: Rent a car or scooter for flexible access to rugged terrains and hidden gems.
đī¸ Southern Laos
- Best For: Mekong islands and waterfalls with a tropical, unhurried pace in Pakse and beyond.
- Key Destinations: Pakse, Champasak, and Si Phan Don for Khmer ruins and dolphin watching.
- Activities: Island hopping, coffee farm tours, waterfall swims, and boat trips to remote villages.
- Best Time: Cool dry season (November-March) for 20-30°C comfort and blooming orchids.
- Getting There: Bus or minivan from Vientiane, with Pakse Airport for direct southern access.
Sample Laos Itineraries
đ 7-Day Laos Highlights
Arrive in Vientiane, explore Pha That Luang stupa, visit Patuxai Arch for city views, and stroll the night market for local crafts.
Bus to Vang Vieng for river tubing and cave visits, then continue to Luang Prabang for temple tours and Kuang Si Waterfalls.
Deep dive into Luang Prabang with alms-giving, Mekong boat trips to Pak Ou Caves, and traditional weaving demonstrations.
Flight back to Vientiane for final shopping, spa relaxation, and departure, savoring sticky rice and fresh river fish.
đī¸ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
Vientiane city tour including Buddha Park, COPE Visitor Centre, and Mekong riverside dining with sunset views.
Vang Vieng for kayaking on the Nam Song, hot air balloon rides over karsts, and organic farm lunches.
Luang Prabang temples and waterfalls, then trek to ethnic villages in the surrounding highlands.
Travel to Xieng Khouang for jar site tours, Mulberry Farm visits, and insights into wartime history.
Back to Vientiane with a day trip south to prepare for extensions, enjoying Lao massages before departure.
đī¸ 14-Day Complete Laos
Thorough Vientiane exploration with temple circuits, market haggling, cooking classes, and Mekong boat cruises.
Vang Vieng for outdoor thrills including zip-lines and caves, then Thakhek Loop for motorbike adventures.
Luang Prabang UNESCO sites, Nam Ha treks, and boat journeys to remote northern villages.
Pakse for Bolaven Plateau waterfalls and coffee tours, Champasak for Vat Phou ruins exploration.
Si Phan Don islands for dolphin spotting and relaxation, return to Vientiane for last-minute souvenirs and departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Mekong River Cruises
Sail the Mekong from Luang Prabang to southern islands for village stops and scenic vistas.
Day or multi-day options with sunset dinners and cultural performances aboard.
Temple & Monk Blessings
Participate in rituals at Wat Xieng Thong or receive blessings from saffron-robed monks.
Spiritual experiences blending meditation and Lao Buddhist traditions.
Jungle Trekking Tours
Hike through Nam Ha or Phou Hin Poun with guides to ethnic villages and waterfalls.
Customizable paths for all levels, including overnight homestays and wildlife spotting.
Kayaking in Vang Vieng
Paddle karst-lined rivers with stops at caves and blue lagoons for swimming.
Adrenaline-pumping activity with safety gear and scenic picnic inclusions.
Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries
Observe rescued elephants at centers near Luang Prabang, focusing on observation over riding.
Educational tours on conservation and feeding sessions in natural habitats.
Night Market Bargaining
Browse handicrafts, silk scarves, and street food at Luang Prabang or Vientiane markets.
Lively evenings with live music and opportunities to support local artisans.