7 Days Laos Itinerary
This 7-day itinerary covers the highlights of Laos, including the cultural hub of Luang Prabang, the vibrant capital of Vientiane, and the adventure-filled town of Vang Vieng. It balances iconic landmarks with opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture, all while staying within a budget.
Duration
7 days
Budget
$350-700
Best Time
The best time to visit Laos is during the cool and dry season, from October to February
Activities
27
Daily Avg
$75/day
Cities
Luang Prabang (2d), Vang Vieng (2d), Vientiane (3d)
Pace
Moderate
Laos offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a relaxed pace of life. It's an affordable Southeast Asian destination perfect for budget travelers seeking adventure and authentic experiences.
Your itinerary covers 8 of 12 must-have experiences
Ancient Buddhist Temples & Stupas
Day 1: Visit Wat Xieng Thong
Mekong River & Waterway Immersion
Day 3: Sunset over Nam Song River
Vibrant Local Markets & Street Food
Day 1: Luang Prabang Night Market
Stunning Waterfalls & Blue Lagoons
Day 2: Kuang Si Falls
Authentic Lao Culinary Experiences
e.g., Cooking Class at Tamarind (Luang Prabang), Enjoying Khao Piak Sen (noodle soup) from a street vendor
Cultural & Historical Landmarks
Day 6: COPE Visitor Centre
Cave Exploration & Karst Landscapes
e.g., Tham Phu Kham (Blue Lagoon Cave, Vang Vieng), Kong Lor Cave (Khammouane)
Serene Coffee & Café Culture
e.g., Joma Bakery Cafe (Vientiane/Luang Prabang), Le Banneton (Vientiane/Luang Prabang)
Ethical Wildlife & Animal Encounters
e.g., Elephant Conservation Center (Sayaboury), Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary (Luang Prabang)
Adrenaline & Outdoor Adventures
Day 4: Kayaking on the Nam Song River
Traditional Handicrafts & Art
Day 2: Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre
Relaxed Nightlife & Sunset Bars
Day 3: Sunset over Nam Song River
Lao cuisine is a delightful blend of fresh herbs, spicy chilis, and sticky rice, influenced by its neighboring countries but with a unique character. Expect bold flavors and generous use of fresh ingredients, often served with a side of adventure! Be prepared to embrace the local preference for sticky rice, which is often eaten with your hands.
Must-Try Dishes
The national dish of Laos, Laap is a minced meat salad (chicken, beef, duck, or fish) flavored with fish sauce, lime juice, roasted ground rice, herbs, and chili. It's a burst of flavor and texture in every bite.
📍 Local restaurants, street food stalls, night markets
A staple in Lao cuisine, sticky rice is steamed in a bamboo basket and eaten with your hands alongside most dishes. It's the perfect accompaniment to soak up sauces and balance spicy flavors.
📍 Everywhere! Restaurants, street food vendors, markets
Similar to Thai papaya salad but with a unique Lao twist, Tam Mak Hoong features shredded green papaya, tomatoes, long beans, garlic, chili, fish sauce, lime juice, fermented fish sauce (optional), and peanuts. It's spicy, sour, and incredibly refreshing.
📍 Street food stalls, local restaurants
A hearty and flavorful stew made with various meats (buffalo, beef, or chicken), vegetables (eggplant, beans, mushrooms), herbs, and a special ingredient called 'sa kan' (a type of woody vine that gives a unique flavor).
📍 Local restaurants, especially in Luang Prabang
Food Neighborhoods
Variety of street food and local dishes.
Restaurants and cafes with river views, offering both Lao and international cuisine.
Upscale restaurants and cafes serving traditional Lao dishes with a modern twist.
Authentic Lao food stalls, offering a glimpse into local eating habits.
Vegetarian options are available, but can be limited. Look for dishes with tofu or vegetables like stir-fried morning glory. Vegan options are harder to find, so it's best to ask specifically about ingredients and avoid fish sauce and oyster sauce. Halal food is not widely available, but there are some restaurants catering to Muslim travelers in larger cities. If you have allergies, be sure to clearly communicate them to the restaurant staff.
It's customary to eat with your right hand, using your fingers to form the sticky rice into a ball and dip it into the dish. Sharing food is common, so don't be afraid to try dishes from other people's plates. It's polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate to show that you're satisfied.
Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year)
AprilNationwide water festival with closures and celebrations.
Boun Ok Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent)
OctoberRiver processions and boat racing.
That Luang Festival
NovemberReligious festival at Pha That Luang in Vientiane.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Taxi or tuk-tuk from airport to guesthouse.$10-15
1:00 PM - Check into Guesthouse & Freshen Up
Settle into your guesthouse. Look for options near the city center for easy access to attractions. Consider booking in advance, especially during peak season.
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- 🚶Walk from guesthouse to Wat Xieng Thong (10-15 minutes).$2.50
3:00 PM - Visit Wat Xieng Thong
Explore Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang's most magnificent temple with intricate mosaics and stunning architecture. A great intro to Lao temple art.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Wat Xieng Thong to Mount Phousi (15-20 minutes).$2.50
5:00 PM - Climb Mount Phousi
Hike up Mount Phousi for panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the surrounding countryside. Arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Mount Phousi to Luang Prabang Night Market (5-10 minutes).$5-10 (for dinner and souvenirs)
7:00 PM - Luang Prabang Night Market
Browse the vibrant Luang Prabang Night Market for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local snacks. Bargain respectfully for the best prices. Try the local street food.
Book on Klook
Near Luang Prabang city center (e.g., Saynamkhan River area)
Convenient access to temples, night market, and restaurants.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Laos is during the cool and dry season, from October to February. Temperatures are pleasant, humidity is low, and skies are generally clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. March to May is the hot dry season, with very high temperatures. The wet season, from May to September, brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists, with afternoon showers that rarely disrupt travel plans for long and can make river travel easier due to higher water levels.
The weather is generally sunny and dry with low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Temperatures are comfortable during the day and cooler at night.
The cool and dry season (October to February) is the most popular time to visit Laos due to pleasant weather.
Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) in April can affect travel due to closures and celebrations.
Getting Around
Tuk-tuks and songthews; Laos-China Railway opened recently
The new Laos-China Railway connects Vientiane to Luang Prabang in 2 hours.
Travel
$50-100 (for buses and tuk-tuks)Accommodation
$70-140 (7 nights x $10-20 per night)Food
$140-210 (7 days x $20-30 per day)Activities
$90-250 (entrance fees, tours, activities)Eat at local street food stalls and markets. They offer delicious, authentic, and incredibly cheap meals, often costing just a few dollars per plate.
Utilize local public transport like songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) or tuk-tuks for shorter distances, but always agree on the price before starting your journey to avoid inflated fares.
Opt for guesthouses or family-run bungalows over larger hotels. They often provide excellent value, local charm, and opportunities to connect with the community.
Indulge in a traditional Lao cooking class, especially in Luang Prabang. It's a fantastic way to learn about the local cuisine and enjoy a delicious meal.
Consider a multi-day Gibbon Experience in Bokeo Province for a unique jungle adventure, ziplining, and staying in treehouses – it's a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime splurge.
Always carry small denominations of Lao Kip (LAK). Many smaller vendors and street stalls cannot break large bills, making transactions smoother and fairer.
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees). Always remove your shoes before entering homes and temples.
- Bargain politely: For market purchases, tuk-tuks, and guesthouses without fixed prices. Do so with a smile and good humor.
- Carry cash: Lao Kip (LAK) is the official currency. ATMs are available in major towns, but credit cards are not widely accepted outside of high-end establishments. Always have smaller denominations for street vendors and small shops.
- Stay hydrated and sun-safe: The climate is hot and humid. Drink plenty of bottled water, use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
- Be mindful of the unexploded ordnance (UXO) legacy: Especially in rural areas, stick to marked paths, and never touch any suspicious metal objects you might encounter.
- Learn a few basic Lao phrases: 'Sabaidee' (hello) and 'Khop jai' (thank you) will be greatly appreciated and can enhance your interactions with locals.
- Embrace slow travel: Transport in Laos can be slow and take longer than expected. Factor in extra time and enjoy the scenic journeys.
- Scooter safety: If you rent a scooter, ensure you have appropriate licensing and insurance, and always wear a helmet. Roads can be challenging, and accidents are common.
- 1Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen) for hot and humid weather.
- 2Modest attire (long pants/skirts, shirts covering shoulders) for temple visits and showing respect.
- 3Comfortable walking shoes or sandals that are easy to slip on and off (for temples and homes).
- 4Insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin, especially for evenings and rural areas.
- 5Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for strong tropical sun.
- 6Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste; refill stations are becoming more common.
- 7Basic first-aid kit including anti-diarrhea medication, pain relievers, and bandages.
- 8Small backpack or daypack for daily excursions.
- 9Light rain jacket or poncho, particularly if traveling during the rainy season (May-September).
- 10Portable power bank for charging electronics on the go.
Visa for Laos
Most nationalities require a visa. Obtain a visa on arrival at international airports/border crossings, or pre-arrange an e-visa or traditional visa from an embassy/consulate. Check your specific country's requirements.
International Flights
Book well in advance, especially during peak season (Oct-Feb) or around major festivals like Lao New Year (April), for better prices and availability to Wattay International Airport (VTE) or Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ).
Accommodation
Book essential stays in advance, especially in popular tourist hubs like Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng during peak season, to secure preferred options and prices.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation/interruption, and lost luggage. Essential for all travel.
Slow Boat from Huay Xai (if applicable)
If entering Laos from Thailand via Chiang Khong/Huay Xai and planning to take the slow boat to Luang Prabang, consider booking this transport option through a guesthouse or travel agent a day or two in advance, especially during busy periods.
eSIM / Physical SIM
Research eSIM options compatible with your phone or plan to purchase a local physical SIM upon arrival at the airport or in major cities for immediate connectivity.
Key Tours / Experiences
For popular activities like the Kuang Si Falls half-day trip, a Gibbon Experience tour (Bokeo Province), or specific cooking classes, it's wise to book a day or two in advance, especially during high season, as spots can fill up.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Unitel stores at airports and in city centers, authorized resellers
📍 LTC stores at airports and in city centers, authorized resellers
📍 Airalo app or website (download before arrival)
WiFi is readily available in most hotels, guesthouses, and cafes in tourist areas. However, the speed and reliability can vary. Don't expect blazing-fast internet, especially in rural areas. Some restaurants also offer free WiFi to customers.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport for the most convenient and affordable connectivity. Download offline maps and translations before your trip. Be aware that internet speeds can be slow and unreliable, especially outside of major cities. Consider a power bank for your phone, as outlets may not always be easily accessible.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
Two round pins (Europlug)
Two round pins + round ground hole
Two round pins + side earth clips (Schuko)
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% at tourist restaurants
Round up
10,000–20,000 LAK per bag
Tipping is not traditional but appreciated in tourist areas.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Laos is generally a safe country for tourists. Exercise caution against petty theft, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in rural areas and stick to marked paths.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
191
195
190
Emergency services limited; contact hotel for help
Payments
Cash essential — LAK and USD accepted
Limited to hotels and some restaurants in Vientiane
Very limited
Carry cash (LAK or USD). ATMs available in major towns.
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How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit Laos is during the cool and dry season, from October to February. The weather is pleasant, humidity is low, and skies are clear, perfect for exploring the country.
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