The Ultimate Laos Travel Itinerary   Recently updated!


Laos Travel itinerary
A Vagabond Life
Laos Travel Itinerary

Embark on a Journey Through Laos

Welcome to your ultimate Laos travel itinerary! From the historic charm of Luang Prabang to the vibrant streets of Vientiane and the rugged beauty of the Plain of Jars, these carefully crafted 5-day, 7-day, and 14-day plans immerse you in Laos’s rich heritage, serene landscapes, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, cruising the Mekong, or trekking in the highlands, your adventure awaits. Choose your journey below and let Laos captivate your spirit!

Top Tips for Visiting Laos

When to Go

November to February offers cool, dry weather (15–25°C). March to May is hot (25–35°C+), while June to October is the rainy season with monsoons. Avoid Pi Mai (April) for crowds.

Weather

Luang Prabang and Vientiane average 15–30°C in the cool season, 25–35°C in the hot season. Rain is heaviest June–October, especially in the south.

Transportation

Book flights or buses via 12Go Asia (e.g., Vientiane to Luang Prabang: 8–10 hrs bus, ~$10–$15; Luang Prabang to Pakse: 20–24 hrs bus, ~$20–$30). Use tuk-tuks or songthaews (~$1–$5).

Culture

Learn "Sabaidee" (hello) and "Khop jai" (thank you). Remove shoes before entering temples, cover shoulders and knees, and avoid public displays of affection. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated (5–10% for good service).

Budget Tips

Eat at local markets for cheap meals (~$1–$3). Stay in guesthouses or hostels (~$10–$20/night). Book tours and transport early for better rates.

Safety

Beware of scams in tourist areas like Luang Prabang Night Market. Keep valuables secure, avoid late-night solo travel, and use licensed transport.

Luang Prabang (Days 1–3)

A historic town with stunning temples and French colonial charm.

History: A UNESCO World Heritage site, once the royal capital of Laos.

Highlights: Wat Xieng Thong, Kuang Si Falls, Night Market, Mount Phousi.

Best Time: November–February for cool weather.

Transport: Fly into Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) or bus from Vientiane. Use tuk-tuks (~$1–$3).

Food to Try: Tam Mak Hoong, Khao Niew, Mok Pa, Lao Sausage.
Day 1: Morning – Wat Xieng Thong; Afternoon – Mount Phousi; Evening – Night Market.
Day 2: Morning – Kuang Si Falls; Afternoon – Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre; Evening – Local dinner.
Day 3: Morning – Alms Giving Ceremony; Afternoon – Bus to Vang Vieng (6–7 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Vang Vieng (Days 4–5)

A laid-back town with limestone karsts and adventure opportunities.

History: Known for its tubing and natural beauty, once a backpacker haven.

Highlights: Blue Lagoon, Tham Phu Kham Cave, Nam Song River, Organic Farm.

Transport: Bus from Luang Prabang (6–7 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Food to Try: Khao Soi, Lao BBQ, Fresh Fruit Shakes.
Day 4: Morning – Blue Lagoon; Afternoon – Tham Phu Kham Cave; Evening – Riverside dinner.
Day 5: Morning – Nam Song River tubing; Afternoon – Depart Vang Vieng.

Luang Prabang (Days 1–3)

A cultural gem with ancient temples and natural beauty.

History: A royal capital and trading hub, now a UNESCO site.

Highlights: Wat Xieng Thong, Kuang Si Falls, Pak Ou Caves, Night Market.

Transport: Fly into Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ).

Food to Try: Tam Mak Hoong, Mok Pa, Khao Jee, Lao Coffee.
Day 1: Morning – Wat Xieng Thong; Afternoon – Mount Phousi; Evening – Night Market.
Day 2: Morning – Kuang Si Falls; Afternoon – Traditional Arts Centre; Evening – Local dinner.
Day 3: Morning – Pak Ou Caves (boat trip); Afternoon – Bus to Vang Vieng (6–7 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Vang Vieng (Days 4–5)

A scenic town with limestone karsts and outdoor adventures.

History: Famous for tubing and natural landscapes, once a backpacker hotspot.

Highlights: Blue Lagoon, Tham Phu Kham Cave, Nam Song River, Organic Farm.

Transport: Bus from Luang Prabang (6–7 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Food to Try: Khao Soi, Lao BBQ, Fresh Fruit Shakes.
Day 4: Morning – Blue Lagoon; Afternoon – Tham Phu Kham Cave; Evening – Riverside dinner.
Day 5: Morning – Nam Song River tubing; Afternoon – Bus to Vientiane (3–4 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Vientiane (Days 6–7)

A relaxed capital with historical landmarks and riverside charm.

History: Established as the capital in 1573, influenced by French colonialism.

Highlights: Pha That Luang, Patuxai, Mekong Riverfront, Talat Sao Market.

Transport: Bus from Vang Vieng (3–4 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Food to Try: Larb, Khao Poon, Or Lam, Sticky Rice.
Day 6: Morning – Pha That Luang; Afternoon – Patuxai; Evening – Mekong Riverfront.
Day 7: Morning – Talat Sao Market; Afternoon – Depart Vientiane.

Luang Prabang (Days 1–4)

A cultural and natural treasure with a rich heritage.

History: A former royal capital, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights: Wat Xieng Thong, Kuang Si Falls, Pak Ou Caves, Phousi Market.

Transport: Fly into Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ).

Food to Try: Tam Mak Hoong, Mok Pa, Khao Jee, Lao Sausage.
Day 1: Morning – Wat Xieng Thong; Afternoon – Mount Phousi; Evening – Phousi Market.
Day 2: Morning – Kuang Si Falls; Afternoon – Traditional Arts Centre; Evening – Local dinner.
Day 3: Morning – Pak Ou Caves (boat trip); Afternoon – Alms Giving Ceremony.
Day 4: Morning – Tad Sae Waterfall; Afternoon – Bus to Vang Vieng (6–7 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Vang Vieng (Days 5–7)

A scenic town with limestone karsts and outdoor adventures.

History: Famous for tubing and natural landscapes, once a backpacker hotspot.

Highlights: Blue Lagoon, Tham Phu Kham Cave, Nam Song River, Organic Farm.

Transport: Bus from Luang Prabang (6–7 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Food to Try: Khao Soi, Lao BBQ, Fresh Fruit Shakes.
Day 5: Morning – Blue Lagoon; Afternoon – Tham Phu Kham Cave; Evening – Riverside dinner.
Day 6: Morning – Nam Song River tubing; Afternoon – Organic Farm tour.
Day 7: Morning – Kayaking; Afternoon – Bus to Vientiane (3–4 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Vientiane (Days 8–10)

A laid-back capital with historical landmarks and riverside charm.

History: Established as the capital in 1573, influenced by French colonialism.

Highlights: Pha That Luang, Patuxai, Mekong Riverfront, Buddha Park, Talat Sao Market.

Transport: Bus from Vang Vieng (3–4 hrs, ~$5–$10).

Food to Try: Larb, Khao Poon, Or Lam, Sticky Rice.
Day 8: Morning – Pha That Luang; Afternoon – Patuxai; Evening – Mekong Riverfront.
Day 9: Morning – Buddha Park; Afternoon – Talat Sao Market.
Day 10: Morning – Xieng Khuan; Afternoon – Bus to Pakse (8–10 hrs, ~$15–$20).

Pakse (Days 11–14)

A gateway to southern Laos with waterfalls and highlands.

History: A trading hub with French colonial influences and proximity to the Bolaven Plateau.

Highlights: Tad Fane Waterfall, Bolaven Plateau, Wat Phu, Champasak.

Transport: Bus from Vientiane (8–10 hrs, ~$15–$20).

Food to Try: Tam Mak Hoong, Sai Oua, Sticky Rice, Coffee.
Day 11: Morning – Tad Fane Waterfall; Afternoon – Bolaven Plateau; Evening – Local dinner.
Day 12: Morning – Wat Phu; Afternoon – Champasak exploration.
Day 13: Morning – Coffee plantation tour; Afternoon – 4000 Islands planning.
Day 14: Morning – Free time or 4000 Islands day trip; Afternoon – Depart Pakse.

Your Laos Adventure Awaits

Laos has enchanted you with its ancient temples, serene rivers, rugged landscapes, and warm culture, from the historic Luang Prabang to the waterfalls of Pakse. Whether you explored for 5 days or 2 weeks, you’ve savored Lao cuisine, history, and natural beauty. Ready to plan your trip? Book your flights or buses at 12Go Asia and start packing for an unforgettable adventure. Sabaidee!

*Disclaimer: Travel plans and prices are subject to change due to weather, availability, or local conditions. Check updates before departure.