🇱🇦 Laos Travel Itinerary

Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated gems. With its ancient temples, lush landscapes, and laid-back lifestyle, it feels like stepping back in time. On my recent trip, I started in Luang Prabang, then traveled to Vang Vieng, continued to Vientiane, and finally flew south to Pakse. Here’s my full itinerary for exploring Laos from north to south.

✈️ Getting to Laos

I flew from Bangkok to Luang Prabang, which was an easy 1.5-hour flight. Laos shares borders with Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and China, so it’s well-connected — but flights save a lot of time compared to land borders.

🛕 Stop 1: Luang Prabang (3 Days)

A UNESCO World Heritage city filled with golden temples, saffron-robed monks, and French colonial charm.

Highlights

• Sunrise alms-giving ceremony with monks.

• Visit Kuang Si Waterfall – the turquoise pools are magical.

• Explore the night market for handicrafts and street food.

• Sunset at Mount Phousi overlooking the Mekong River.

Travel Tip: Everything is walkable or you can hire a tuk-tuk. Don’t miss trying Laos’ famous coffee.

🏞 Stop 2: Vang Vieng (2 Days)

Once famous for its wild backpacker parties, Vang Vieng is now an adventure paradise surrounded by limestone mountains and the Nam Song River.

Highlights

• Hot air balloon ride at sunrise for breathtaking views.

• Kayaking or tubing down the river.

• Blue Lagoon & Tham Phu Kham Cave.

• Chilling in riverside cafés with epic mountain backdrops.

How I got there: Took the new Laos-China high-speed train from Luang Prabang — only about 1 hour and very comfortable.

🏙 Stop 3: Vientiane (2 Days)

The capital of Laos feels more like a big town than a bustling city — relaxed, friendly, and full of hidden gems.

Highlights

• Pha That Luang – Laos’ most sacred monument.

• Patuxai Victory Monument – the Arc de Triomphe of Laos.

• Riverside night market and evening stroll by the Mekong.

• Try larb (Laos’ national dish) with sticky rice.

Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the temples and streets at your own pace.

🌴 Stop 4: Pakse & Southern Laos (3–4 Days)

From Vientiane, I took a short domestic flight to Pakse, the gateway to southern Laos and the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don).

Highlights

• Bolaven Plateau – waterfalls, coffee plantations, and lush green landscapes.

• Vat Phou – ancient Khmer temple ruins (UNESCO site).

• Boat trip to the 4,000 Islands, especially Don Khon and Don Det.

• Relaxed island life: hammocks, cycling, and stunning sunsets.

Travel Tip: Southern Laos is slower-paced and less touristy. It’s the perfect way to end the trip.

📅 Suggested Duration

• Luang Prabang – 3 days

• Vang Vieng – 2 days

• Vientiane – 2 days

• Pakse & 4,000 Islands – 3–4 days

➡️ Total: About 10 days (perfect for a two-week trip if you like to travel slower).

💡 Final Thoughts

Traveling from Luang Prabang to Pakse shows the very best of Laos — from temples and waterfalls in the north, to adventure in Vang Vieng, culture in Vientiane, and tropical bliss in the south. Laos may not be as touristy as its neighbors, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.