Laos Travel Guide

Guidebooks

Boxed in by China, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, Laos is geographically divided into three regions, each with its chief city: northern Laos and Luang Prabang, central Laos and Vientiane, southern Laos and Pakse. About 90% of Laos is mountainous, so once you leave Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and the southern lowlands, you're in true off-the-beaten-track territory. Luang Prabang is the best base for single or multiday trekking, biking, and river-rafting expeditions.

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Laos Hotels

Fodor's local writers visit every hotel we recommend. Look for our discerning Fodor's Choice picks or search by price and location.

Fodor's Choice

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Laos Restaurants

Find the best Laos restaurants in every price category with our top picks.

Things To Do

Things To Do in Laos

Explore the best sights, entertainment, and shopping with our top choices and insider tips.

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Laos Experiences

  • Lao Festivals

    Laos has many fascinating festivals, quite a few of which are steeped in Buddhism. Be sure to book hotels in advance if you're planning on visiting... Read more

  • Laos: Then & Now

    Despite its limited infrastructure, Laos is a wonderful country to visit. The Laotians are some of the friendliest, gentlest people in Southeast... Read more

  • The Prabang Buddha

    But for a few simple facts, the Prabang Buddha image, the namesake of Luang Prabang, is shrouded in mystery. This much is known: the Prabang... Read more

  • Religion in Laos

    The overwhelming majority of Laotians are Buddhists, yet, as in neighboring Thailand, spirit worship is widespread, blending easily with temple... Read more

  • Lao: A Few Key Phrases

    The official language is Lao, part of the extensive Tai family of languages of Southeast Asia spoken from Vietnam in the east to India in the... Read more

  • Top Reasons to Go to Laos

    Natural Beauty: It may not have the sheer variety of Thailand, but Laos is a beautiful country. Take a multiday trek or bike ride, or enjoy the... Read more

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