Laos’s best-kept secrets: A Complete Guide to Beautiful Laos.

Are you wondering where Laos’s best-kept secrets are? Then join us on this journey through Laos, where I share all my top tips, secret destinations, and more.

Beyond the beaten (but still beautiful) tracks of Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang, we wanted to get more out of this incredible country, and boy, did it provide!

From secret, lush local villages hidden in the depths of the mountains to isolated islands, majestic mountains, endless meandering rivers, and some of the best sunsets in the World, Laos is the hidden gem of Southeast Asia!

When I set foot in Laos, I was captivated by its natural beauty, spiritual ambience, and warm hospitality. As a spiritual traveller, I was drawn to the country’s ancient temples, lush landscapes, and tranquil villages.

In this blog, I will share Laos’s best-kept secrets, from its hidden temples to its off-the-beaten-path destinations. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, or cultural immersion, Laos has something to offer every traveller.

Where Is it Located?

Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Laos is bordered by Thailand to the west, Myanmar to the northwest, China to the north, Vietnam to the east, and Cambodia to the southwest. Its central location makes Laos easily accessible from neighbouring countries, making it an ideal destination for travellers exploring the region.

How to Travel to Laos:

Travelling to Laos is relatively easy, with several options depending on your starting point. If you’re coming from neighbouring countries like Thailand, Cambodia, or Vietnam, you can opt for overland travel via bus or train.

Alternatively, you can fly into one of Laos’ international airports, such as Wattay International Airport in Vientiane or Luang Prabang International Airport.

Once in Laos, getting around is convenient thanks to the country’s well-developed network of buses, minibuses, and tuk-tuks. For longer distances, domestic flights are available between major cities.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Laos?

One of the best things about travelling in Laos is that it’s affordable, offering excellent value for money. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

• Flights: A round-trip flight to Laos from neighbouring countries can cost between $100 and $300, depending on the time of booking and the airline.
• Accommodation: Accommodation options in Laos range from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Depending on your preferences and the location, you can expect to pay between $10 and $100 per night.
• Food: Laos is known for its delicious and affordable street food. A meal at a local eatery can cost as little as $1 to $5, while dining at a mid-range restaurant may set you back $10 to $20.
• Tours and Activities: The cost of tours and activities in Laos varies depending on the type and duration of the experience. For example, a full-day trekking tour may cost around $30 to $50, while a half-day cooking class can range from $20 to $40.

Best Time of Year to Travel Laos:

The best time to visit Laos is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain, consider visiting during the green season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the countryside is lush and green, and you’ll find fewer tourists and lower prices. Just be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially in the afternoons.

Laos Itinerary – Laos’s best-kept secrets

I’m going to start the journey to Laos in Luang Prabang. If you’re coming from Northern Thailand, there is a longboat trip that I wrote about in my other blog, Ultimate 1 Month Thailand Itinerary, which is a must when travelling from Pai. It’s called the Mekong River Cruise, from north Thailand to Laos!

LUANG PRABANG

Luang Prabang is a beautiful little town surrounded by jungle. It has a fantastic night market, one of the best in Asia, selling incredible local artwork, jewellery, clothes, and food.

The nightlife here is wild and memorable. UTOPIA is a backpacker bar covered in fluorescent lights, and there’s also the famous bowling alley, which most people end up in. It was definitely one of the most random places I ended up on my travels.

Luang Prabang is where you will take a short drive and see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Asia… Kuang Si Falls. (Pictured Above)

NONG KIAW

From here, it’s your real chance to venture into the unknown. An extremely bumpy four-hour minivan ride will take you to Nong Kiaw, a picturesque riverside village away from the standard backpacking Laos route.

It’s a perfect rest spot before heading Via boat up the jungle, even further into the heart of Laos, to Muang Ngoy.

MUANG NGOY

Practically off the grid to the normal backpacker, this tiny riverside village has maybe two or three bungalow hostels to choose from. Make sure you stay on the river, as this is where you will see the most dramatic, unreal sunset you will ever see.

This village is for laziness, so make sure you have your books! When I came in 2016, there was no Wifi up here, this may have changed however. Muang Ngoy my favourite of Loas’s best-kept secrets.

It’s a strange village for sure. The people were not the friendliest and my friend got here money stolen out of her room! But the views are just stunning.. I mean look at the picture below. So I still believe it is worth a trip, just have your wits about you and don’t leave money around or give money to locals for tours the next day! (They wont happen)

VANG VIENG

From here, you need to travel back down to Vang Vieng, known as the tubing capital of the world. This ‘party town’ is very touristy, but you can easily escape the crowds if you know where to stay.

To escape the party scene, stay at Simons Riverside Hotel, which is excellent value for money and quieter. It has a private swimming pool with one of the most beautiful views I have ever seen. They offer clean, modern double and twin rooms with the choice of Aircon.

From here, it’s a short ride to Vientiane, the capital, which has an airport for onward travel throughout Southeast Asia.

THE PLAIN OF JARS

Located in the Xieng Khouang Province, east of Vang Vieng, the Plain of Jars is a mysterious archaeological site shrouded in legend and folklore. Here, you can explore the ancient stone jars scattered across the landscape and marvel at their sheer size and craftsmanship.

According to local legend, the jars were used to brew rice wine for an ancient king, while others believe they were used for burial rituals. Whatever the truth may be, the Plain of Jars is a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

WAT PHU CHAMPASAK

We are on our way to our final destination, Don Det. In the Champasak Province, Wat Phu Champasak is an ancient Khmer temple complex that predates Angkor Wat.

Be sure to stop off here and explore the ruins and discover intricate carvings, serene courtyards, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside! For an unforgettable experience, visit the annual Wat Phu Champasak Festival, where locals gather to celebrate the temple’s rich history and cultural significance.

BOLAVEN PLATEAU:

Another stop off on the way down south is the Bolaven Plateau. Escape the crowds and discover the hidden waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau, a lush and verdant region known for its stunning natural beauty!

Here you can explore hidden gems like Tad Fane, Tad Yuang, and Tad Champi, where you can swim, hike, and picnic amidst the breathtaking scenery. For the ultimate adventure, embark on a multi-day trek through the plateau’s remote villages, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life.

DON DET

DON DET. One of 4000 islands in Laos. It’s not touristy, and it’s beautiful. Stay at Easy Go Backpackers for a relaxed vibe. You can travel to other islands on the archipelago, and make sure you hire a bike to explore the island’s coastal pathways!

If you enjoyed this travel guide, check out our other Asian travel Guides below!

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