Laos

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Southeast Asia, Laos beckons travelers with its captivating blend of natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil ambiance. From the serene landscapes of the Mekong River to the vibrant tapestry of ethnic traditions, Laos offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Indochina.

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Is Laos safe to travel to?

Yes, Laos is generally a safe travel destination for tourists. Locals are friendly and the crime rate is low.

When is the best time to visit Laos?

November - April
The best time to visit Laos is during the dry season, from November to April. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with little rain. The shoulder seasons, May to June and September to October, can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

What is the current political situation in Laos?

Laos is currently a socialist republic governed by the Lao People's Revolutionary Party. The country has experienced economic growth in recent years but continues to face various challenges, including poverty, corruption, and limited political freedoms.

What currency is used in Laos?

The currency of Laos is the Lao kip (LAK). Always have some cash on you (especially in smaller towns), as credit cards aren't widely accepted and ATMs can be scarce.

Visa Process for Laos

Most nationalities will need a visa to visit Laos. In most cases, people are eligible to get an eVisa in advance (it will take around 3 business days for it to be approved). This single-entry tourist visa will allow people to stay in Laos for 30 days.

Many nationalities are also eligible to get a visa on arrival (though you’ll need to check your point of entry to make sure they have VOAs there), which is usually cheaper than the eVisa. All you’ll need for this is a form that you’ll fill out on the plane/at the border and a small passport sized photo (though if you don’t have this, they’ll likely just charge you 1 Euro for a photo).

Check your eVisa Eligibility Here

How to Get Around Laos

Laos is actually pretty easy to get around. The country has a high speed train that runs from the Chinese border through the north of Laos to Vientiane. This is the quickest and easiest option if you’re traveling in the north, with stops in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane.

If you’re traveling elsewhere, you’ll want to take buses. Laos is pretty well connected, both domestically and internationally, with buses running from Vientiane all over the place. Vientiane has three major bus stations: Northern, Central, and Southern/International. The bus schedules can be hard to find online (and even more difficult to purchase), so I recommend going to the bus station before your travel day to figure out what bus you want to get on. For the Southern/International bus station (and I imagine the others as well), you can only buy tickets one hour before departure.

Check your Bus Route on 12Go