Laos

Laos

Laos, often referred to as the “Land of a Million Elephants,” is a Southeast Asian gem that beckons travellers with its tranquil landscapes, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between Thailand and Vietnam, Laos offers a serene escape for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Laos’ historical significance, featuring well-preserved temples, French colonial architecture, and vibrant night markets. The revered Pha That Luang in Vientiane, a golden stupa considered a national symbol, showcases the country’s spiritual depth.

Nature enthusiasts find solace in Laos’s untouched beauty. The Mekong River, flowing gracefully through the country, presents opportunities for river cruises and encounters with traditional riverbank life. The Kuang Si Falls, with its cascading turquoise waters, is a picturesque spot for a refreshing dip. Adventurers can explore the dramatic limestone karst landscapes in Vang Vieng or trek through the lush Bolaven Plateau, known for its coffee plantations and ethnic villages.

Laos is also celebrated for its diverse ethnic groups, each contributing to the country’s rich tapestry. From the Hmong people in the mountainous regions to the laid-back atmosphere of the 4,000 Islands in the south, visitors can immerse themselves in the warmth and authenticity of Laotian hospitality.

Essential Information

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The dry season is through our winter (October to March), with their official rainy season in our summer. Can get hot in the dry season.

FLIGHT TIME

Flight time will be around 15-16 hours, as flying indirect through Bangkok is the most standard route.

TIME ZONE

GMT/BST +1

CURRENCY

Kip

IDEAL FOR

For those looking for an authentic Asian experience, which is off the beaten track.

HOW TO GET THERE

The easiest way to get to Laos is through the major international Asian hubs – especially Bangkok and Singapore. There are also flights to Vietnam.

LANGUAGE

Lao

IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH

Perfect to combine as part of a longer tour with nearby Thailand, Cambodia or Vietnam.

Our Favourite Places in Laos

Suggested Itineraries

Luang Prabang, Laos

Discover Laos

11 day holiday

Vientiane, Pakse, Vat Phou Cruise, Luang Prabang

This compact 11-day journey through Laos offers a rich mix of culture, nature and river life, beginning in the tranquil capital of Vientiane. You’ll explore its colonial charm, ornate temples and relaxed riverfront atmosphere before heading south to Pakse and the lush Bolaven Plateau, known for its cool climate and dramatic waterfalls. A real highlight follows with a two-night cruise aboard the Vat Phou, sailing along the Mekong through the 4,000 Islands region to the evocative, jungle-fringed ruins of Vat Phou – a pre-Angkorian temple complex with a haunting beauty.

The adventure continues with a short flight north to Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting towns. With its tree-lined streets, golden temples and old French villas, it’s the perfect setting to wind down. You’ll visit local monasteries, cruise the Mekong to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, and have time to explore at your own pace. With river journeys, remote archaeological sites and a deep sense of tranquillity throughout, this tour offers a wonderfully immersive taste of Laos in under two weeks.

Luang Prabang, Laos

Explore Laos

21 day holiday

Luang Praband, Muang La, Nong Khiaw, Phonsavan, Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Champasak

This 21-day overland adventure through Laos covers the country in remarkable depth, beginning in the enchanting former royal capital of Luang Prabang. After soaking up its golden temples and riverside charm, travel north to Muang La and Nong Khiaw, where you’ll stay in scenic lodges and explore minority villages, rice fields, and jungle-covered hills on foot and by boat. Return briefly to Luang Prabang before continuing east to the mysterious Plain of Jars in Phonsavan. From there, head south to the riverside town of Vang Vieng, with its dramatic limestone peaks and caves, then on to Vientiane, where temples and colonial architecture line the Mekong.

Further south, the journey becomes increasingly remote. After a day of wildlife-spotting in the Phou Khao Khuay National Protected Area, fly to Pakse and travel overland to Champasak. Here, explore the temple complex of Vat Phou, cruise among the 4,000 Islands and visit the lush Bolaven Plateau, home to coffee plantations and striking waterfalls. With time split between cultural gems, natural wonders and peaceful countryside, this route offers an incredibly varied and immersive experience of Laos from north to south.

 

 

Laos Mekong

Pandow: Cruising The Mekong

13 day holiday

Vientiane, Pak Lay, Xayabouri Dam, Kuang Si Waterfall, Luang Prabang, Pak Ou Caves, Nam Ou River, Dan Ton, Pak Beng, Chiang Khong, Chiang Mai

This 13-day journey with Pandaw offers a rich and varied exploration of the Upper Mekong, combining cultural immersion, natural beauty and comfort aboard a handcrafted river vessel. Beginning in Vientiane, Laos’ relaxed capital, the cruise winds its way upstream towards the Thai border, stopping en route at remote riverside villages, the Xayabouri Dam, and the glorious Kuang Si waterfalls. A real highlight is the three-night stop in Luang Prabang, where time is spent discovering its dazzling temples, local crafts, and spiritual traditions. Visits to social enterprises and hands-on experiences like pottery workshops and traditional weaving deepen your understanding of daily life in Laos.

The adventure continues north with excursions to sacred Pak Ou Caves, a whisky-making village, and an elephant sanctuary that supports conservation and former mahouts. As you sail further into the hills, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering cliffs, jungle-fringed riverbanks, and small tribal settlements. Evening barbecues on sandbanks and lantern-lighting ceremonies add a touch of magic. The voyage concludes at Chiang Khong in Thailand, with a final overnight in Chiang Mai and the chance to visit the Golden Triangle – a fitting end to this immersive river expedition through one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting and little-visited regions.

Ankor Wat, Cambodia

Laos and Angkor Wat

14 day holiday

Luang Praband, Vientiane, Pakse, Vat Phou Cruise, Siam Reap

This two-week journey links the cultural treasures of Laos with the majestic temples of Cambodia. Beginning in Luang Prabang, time is spent exploring gilded temples, colonial architecture and the sacred Pak Ou caves before heading south to the capital, Vientiane, for a tour of its monasteries, markets and grand monuments. From there, you fly to Pakse and travel to Champasak for a two-night river cruise aboard the Vat Phou – a charming converted barge – gliding past jungle-fringed riverbanks, ancient Khmer sanctuaries, and island villages. The cruise includes a visit to the pre-Angkorian Vat Phou temple and a chance to spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins in the ‘4,000 Islands’ region.

Returning to Pakse, the journey continues to Cambodia, where three nights in Siem Reap allow for a deep dive into the wonders of Angkor. Highlights include the vast Angkor Wat complex, the enigmatic faces of Bayon, the jungle-clad Ta Phrom, and the beautifully carved Banteay Srei. A boat trip on Lake Tonle Sap adds a peaceful contrast, offering a glimpse into daily life in the floating villages. With a blend of river cruising, historic sights and spiritual experiences, this itinerary offers a memorable cross-border experience through the heart of Indochina.

Phnom Penh

Laos and Cambodia

13 day holiday

Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Pakse, Siem Reap, Battambang, Phnom Penh

This journey through Laos and Cambodia weaves together two of Southeast Asia’s most compelling countries, each with a rich blend of cultural heritage, colonial history and stunning scenery. Starting in Luang Prabang, you’ll explore serene temples, French colonial streets and the sacred Pak Ou caves. A short flight to the capital, Vientiane, offers a glimpse of its grand monuments and historic monasteries before continuing south to Pakse and the laid-back 4,000 Islands region. Here, visits include the impressive Khone Phapheng waterfalls, pre-Angkorian Vat Phou temple and a chance to spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins in their natural habitat.

Crossing into Cambodia, three days in Siem Reap provide an immersive introduction to the Angkor complex, from the giant stone faces of Bayon to the jungle-clad Ta Phrom and intricately carved Banteay Srei. A boat trip on Tonle Sap offers a look into floating village life, followed by an evening at the acclaimed Phare Circus. From there, travel overland to Battambang to ride the quirky bamboo train, then onward to Phnom Penh. In the capital, you’ll visit royal landmarks and the sobering Genocide Museum and ‘killing fields’, rounding off a deeply enriching and thought-provoking itinerary.

Hanoi

Discover Indochina

18 day holiday

Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City

This comprehensive journey through Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam begins in Phnom Penh, where you’ll explore the Royal Palace, ancient temples, and the sobering Genocide Museum. From there, head to Siem Reap to explore the mesmerising Angkor temples, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Banteay Srei, with time to enjoy a local circus performance and boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake. In Luang Prabang, discover elegant temples, French colonial charm and the sacred Pak Ou caves before flying to Hanoi to experience Vietnam’s capital, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Old Quarter.

Cruise overnight through the striking limestone karsts of Halong Bay before travelling south to Hue to explore imperial tombs and the Perfume River. The journey continues by road to Hoi An, a beautifully preserved trading town, and then to bustling Ho Chi Minh City. Highlights here include the Cu Chi Tunnels, a walk through Chinatown, and visits to the Reunification Hall and Notre Dame Cathedral. The final leg takes you deep into the Mekong Delta to explore floating markets, orchards and traditional riverside life – a fitting end to an epic Indochina adventure.

CALL US

We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).

01442 879787

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Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.

254 HIGH STREET, BERKHAMSTED

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