0%
Four young monks on top of the Reclining Buddha statue at Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khuan), Vientiane, Laos.

Laos Holidays


asia
Laos holidays captivate visitors with beautiful landscapes, friendly people and a relaxed ambiance. One of Asia's best kept secrets, discover shimmering temples, cascading waterfalls and emerald-hued rice fields as you explore this wonderful country.

Luang Prabang is a charismatic town with an astonishing depth of tradition which is still evident in everyday life; from the monks in their distinctive amber robes serenely collecting alms at dawn to the beautiful Baci (or 'calling of the soul') ceremonies which are integral part of Lao culture.

Outside of Luang Prabang lies an astonishing diversity of geography and culture - cruise along the Mekong or head north to encounter remote hill tribes and forested hills, or travel to the south of Laos to discover jagged limestone mountains and serene islands. Life here is about taking your time, so slow your pace and soak up the kaleidoscope of colour and culture Laos has to offer.

Trailfinders offers a wide range of Laos holidays and we have a dedicated team of specialists who are mines of information about the country, often with first-hand travel experience. Whether you want to explore on a private tour with an expert guide, take a sociable small group tour, or are looking for advice on a multi-centre holiday – they are the perfect people to ask..
Speak to a Laos Holidays Expert
01 881 4977
Expert Travel Consultants

Order your Asia brochure

order a brochure
3

Sorry no address found, click here to enter manually

newsletter signup TF's Bulletin

Sign up for TF's Special Offers & Travel Articles

HOW TO GET AROUND LAOS

With so many fascinating historical sites and incredible landscapes to discover, exploring Laos with a private driver and guide is very popular. Follow one of our classic itineraries or ask our expert travel consultants to tailormake your perfect Laos holiday.

Alternatively, why not join a sociable guided group tour, or slow the pace and take a river cruise along the waters of the Mekong River? Lastly, don't forget Lao's fascinating neighbours. It's easy to combine a trip to Laos with Vietnam, Cambodia or Thailand, to create an exciting multi centre holiday.

OUR HOLIDAYS TO LAOS

Nobody offers more ways to explore Laos than Trailfinders.

Here’s a snapshot of some of our most popular Laos holidays. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, click on the link below them to see our complete range of holidays and tours in the destination.
Treasures of Laos
Laos
Private Tour
6 days / 5 nights

This private tour takes in the highlights of this fascinating destination, from charming Luang Prabang and the Mekong to laidback Vientiane.

Guide Price: €929 pp

Guide Price: £765 pp

VIEW MORE ❯
Secrets of Southern Laos
Laos
Private Tour
10 days / 9 nights

Explore the hidden gems of this captivating country, from the breathtaking Kong Lor Caves to unspoilt Bolaven Plateau and tranquil Si Phan Don.

Guide Price: €2,559 pp

Guide Price: £2,099 pp

VIEW MORE ❯
Hill Tribes & Scenic River Cruise
Laos
Private Tour
4 days / 3 nights

Discover some of Laos’ most spectacular scenery, explore fascinating hill tribe villages and enjoy a tranquil river cruise while staying in two lovely lodges.

Guide Price: €1,215 pp

Guide Price: £1,009 pp

VIEW MORE ❯

WHERE TO GO IN LAOS

Step back in time as you discover the narrow streets and gilded temples of UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang, or the colonial grandeur of Vientiane. Beyond the cities head north to experience remote hill tribe communities, dense jungle and excellent trekking or to central Laos, which boasts the stunning landscapes of Vang Vieng. To get truly off the beaten track travel south to the tranquil Bolaven Plateau, home to misty rivers, cascading waterfalls and pre-Angkorian ruins.

Click on the tiles below the map for more details on each Laos holiday destination. Alternatively, if you are looking for some inspiration, give us a call and speak to one of our expert travel consultants
Laos map
Luang Prabang
With a beautiful riverside setting and a laidback charm, this UNESCO listed city is an enchanting place to spend a few days exploring the cobbled streets, friendly cafes and many temples.
The Mekong River
One of the world’s great rivers, the mighty Mekong snakes from Lao’s northern border with Thailand through to Cambodia in the far south.
Northern Laos
This remote region of Laos is home to dramatic mountainous landscapes, undiscovered national parks and colourful hill tribe communities.
Vang Vieng & Phonsavan
Visit this region to discover the mysterious Plain of Jars and to explore Vang Vieng's winding rivers and huge cave systems.
Vientiane
Laos’ once sleepy capital is fast developing into a modern Asian city, but evidence of its French ruled past can still be seen in the faded colonial architecture and Laos' own Arc de Triomphe, the central Patuxai Monument.
Southern Laos
Boasting impressive waterfalls, peaceful islands and many coffee plantations, this little visited region of Laos offers beautiful scenery and a has a relaxed ambience.

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN LAOS

We feature a great range of accommodation in Laos, with something to suit all budgets. Maybe you're looking for a boutique hotel in the heart of Luang Prabang or a riverside resort surrounded by towering limestone mountains? Or perhaps it's a remote eco-lodge that can only be reached by boat?

What you won't find here are thousands of Laos hotels to wade through. We've done the hard work for you and selected the best places to stay and our travel consultants are on hand to help, often with first-hand experience.
Sofitel Luang Prabang
5 star

Luang Prabang

This stylish luxury hotel is situated within a restored French fort and offers a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Maison Dalabua
4 star

Luang Prabang

Several large lotus ponds and lots of lush tropical greenery create a tranquil ambience at this intimate retreat.
Riverside Boutique Resort
4 star

Vang Vieng

Located on the banks of the Nam Song River, this delightful resort is set within peaceful gardens overlooking the limestone karst mountains.
Amari Vang Vieng
4 star

Vang Vieng

This delightful modern hotel is nestled along the banks of the Nam Song River and is centrally located within Vang Vieng.
Settha Palace Hotel
4 plus star

Vientiane

This grand boutique hotel has been beautifully restored in a French colonial style and is centrally located with the city’s shops, restaurants and sights within easy reach.
La Folie Lodge
3 plus star

Champasak

This secluded lodge has an unbeatable location beside the Mekong and opposite the pre-Angkorian site of Wat Phou.

WHAT TO DO IN LAOS

As well as some awe-inspiring sights, Laos is also home to unforgettable experiences. These provide a unique insight into the local culture that sightseeing alone simply can't replace.

One day you might be trekking to the stunning Kuang Si Falls before sampling Lao cuisine on a foodie adventure, the next taking a therapeutic trek with elephants. Experiences can be as serene as getting in touch with your spiritual side in a Baci ceremony or as exciting as a day exploring the rivers and caves of Vang Vieng!

Whatever you choose, our collection of unmissable experiences will really help bring your Laos holiday to life.
Spiritual Awakening in Luang Prabang
4 hours
  • Connect with the spiritual side of Laos
  • Meet with monks to discuss Buddihism & meditation
Therapeutic Trek with Elephants
4 hours
  • See elephants in their natural environment
  • Interact with these majestic creatures in an ethical way
Vientiane's Street Food by Night
3.5 hours
  • Sunset experience
  • Sample street food
  • Vibrant markets
Vang Vieng Caves & Kayaking
8 hours
  • Beautiful karst scenery
  • Kayak the Nam Song River
  • Explore Tham Sim Cave
Trek & Hill Tribe Discovery
8-9 hours
  • Beautiful scenery
  • Challenging trek
  • Visit hill tribe villages

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LAOS?

Laos has two main seasons, with dry season running from November to May and wet from May to October (with the heaviest rainfall between August and September, especially in the south). Dry season generally is the most popular time to travel however Laos is at its most beautiful during and just after rainy season, when the countryside is verdant and the rivers and waterfalls are at their fullest.

See the graphs below or speak to one of our travel consultants for more information.

JAN

27
6h  2cm

FEB

30
7h  2cm

MAR

32
7h  3cm

APR

33
7h  11cm

MAY

33
6h  16cm

JUN

32
5h  26cm

JUL

31
4h  24cm

AUG

31
5h  30cm

SEP

31
6h  18cm

OCT

30
6h  12cm

NOV

28
6h  4cm

DEC

26
6h  1cm

JAN

29
8h  1cm

FEB

32
8h  1cm

MAR

35
8h  3cm

APR

36
8h  9cm

MAY

34
7h  24cm

JUN

33
5h  27cm

JUL

32
5h  24cm

AUG

32
5h  33cm

SEP

32
5h  28cm

OCT

31
8h  8cm

NOV

30
8h  1cm

DEC

29
8h  0cm

Laos Top Tips From Our Travel Experts

Robbie O'Brien - Laos expert
Robbie O'Brien

If you have the time, add a couple of nights exploring Vang Vieng, Right on the river it’s the perfect place to relax and see the incredible scenery with the limestone cliffs in the background.

Beth Ellison - Laos expert
Beth Ellison

Get off the beaten track and visit southern Laos. With beautiful scenery, laidback villages and atmospheric temples that are believed to pre-date Angkor Wat, this is the perfect place to escape the crowds.

Abbi Harris - Laos expert
Abbi Harris

For the perfect introduction to laid back Laos, take a two day boat journey along the Mekong from the Thai border to charming Luang Prabang. You can't help but relax as you cruise by lush mountains and isolated hilltribe communities.

Laos Fast Facts

Time Zone: Laos is 7 hours ahead of GMT and does not observe daylight savings

Flight Time to Laos: Flight times to Laos average at between 15 to 17 hours depending on the airline and route

Currency: Lao Kip (LAK) is the official currency but US Dollars (USD) are also widely accepted. ATM's are available in cities and large towns

Tipping: Tipping in Laos isn't expected but is appreciated. A 10% tip for service staff is usually sufficient

Language: The national language of Laos is Lao, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Visa: For stays over 30 days only (Irish passport holders). Visit our visa pages for more information.


Tales from the Trail

Top tips and travel inspiration from the Trailfinders team

Speak to a Travel Expert

We believe booking online is no substitute for one-on-one service. Between them our expert travel consultants have travelled to over 96% of the world's countries. As a result the service and advice they offer is second to none.

headset_mic

Your travel plans on the go

Viewtrail phone example
  • View your up-to-date travel plans
  • Book online & manage your account
  • Flight details including baggage & seating
  • Update your contact information
  • Check visa & travel health requirements
  • Access to E-Vouchers
  • Trip Hub
Watch ViewTrail in Action viewtrail
ViewTrail - Your travel plans on the go

Additional Features in the App:

  • 365/24/7 emergency contact quick links
  • Location related features
  • Offline access to your travel plans
Order a Brochure

Our full range of 2024 - brochures and the latest edition of the Trailfinder magazine are out now - get ahead of the rest and start planning your next escape.

Order Now
Get In Touch
Contact Us
ie.destination.asia.south-east-asia.laos