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The country of Laos in Southeast Asia, due to its central location, often ends up on many an itinerary, almost by accident. Laos borders tourism giants Thailand and Vietnam, as well as Myanmar, Cambodia (also a hot spot, and China (talk about giant!).
But is Laos worth visiting on its own, or is it better as just a stopover?
While you definitely can add Laos to any itinerary—you won’t regret it!—Laos is a little gem of a spot in its own right. The relatively untouched and lesser-traveled Laos will make you feel as if you’re time-traveling.
Of course, Laos does have some challenges that might deter a traveler or two. I’ll cover those, then jump right into 14 reasons you really should consider visiting this underrated spot in Southeast Asia!
Table of Contents
Why some travelers avoid Laos
1. It’s lacking infrastructure
I’ll be real with you—Laos is definitely off-the-beaten-path. Not many travelers go here (at least compared to the rest of Asia) and therefore, the infrastructure that makes traveling easier just…isn’t there.
It’s hard to get there, it’s hard to get around, and it’s hard to stay connected to the outside world!
Of course, this also means you get to arrive in a longboat or a tuk-tuk, and that much of Laos remains outside the reach of Western influences, which makes it a very unique spot. Still, these are definitely things to keep in mind!
2. It was heavily bombed during the war
Laos was very heavily bombed during the war, and unfortunately still has many land mines. It’s estimated that around 30% of these mines are undetonated.
Sounds frightening (and it is!), so stay on marked trails or go with a local guide when you’re exploring.
3. It’s rural and underdeveloped
Now, the rural nature of Laos is part of its great charm. However, this means the roads are pretty dusty or bumpy, the transportation on said roads is unreliable, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find things like major hospitals or shops for certain needs (or even movie theaters!).
This doesn’t mean you should avoid Laos—but do your research before you go.
4. Scamming and begging exist
Any experienced traveler is well-versed in the sad facts of scamming and begging. This is particularly present in Southeast Asia, and Laos, despite its air of “unreachability,” is not immune.
I always tell people visiting the region: prepare to be scammed. Prepare to have your heart wrenched by begging children.
The people of Laos are, overall, incredibly warm and friendly people. It is also a poor country, and who could blame them for wanting to get an extra buck or two from a rich traveler?
Speaking of—pickpocketing is common, so watch your valuables. Otherwise, Laos is a very safe country and safe for solo travelers!
Why is Laos worth visiting?
1. Luang Prabang is one of the most beautiful cities in the world
Yep, you heard me! The UNESCO Heritage Site of Luang Prabang, with its beautifully preserved architecture, stunning views of the Mekong, and undeniable French influence, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world! And it’s definitely a must to visit when in Laos.
I recommend arriving via longboat on the Mekong River for an unforgettable arrival. It’s also worth joining a
2. For the affordability
Southeast Asia is still fairly cheap to travel, despite the many backpackers and tourists that traverse the area. And Laos is one of the most affordable of all! So, if you’re trying to stick to a budget, your dollar will go much further in Laos.
Depending on your travel style, you can expect to spend around $30 USD a day, if not much less.
3. For some of the best night markets in Southeast Asia
For souvenirs, handicrafts, local crafts, food, and culture when in Southeast Asia, you MUST visit a night market! And some of the best can be found right in Laos.
The night market in Luang Prabang is one of the best in all of Southeast Asia if you ask me. It runs most evenings from 5 pm to 10 pm, and in addition to the excellent shopping, it’s also a great place to try some traditional Laotian cuisine.
4. For the incredible scenery
Laos is full of stunning—and varied—landscapes. There’s the ubiquitous jungle, of course, and the lazy Mekong, but also limestone karsts, striking rice paddies, turquoise lagoons, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Scattered throughout the gorgeous and rural countryside, you’ll find small indigenous villages and charming towns.
5. For some incredible outdoor adventures
If you’re on the hunt for an adrenaline spike or two, Laos has some options for you! Pretty much any adventure activity you wish to try, you can try while visiting Laos.
You can choose to hike in the jungle, rise above it all in a hot air balloon ride, cruise the Mekong River, swim in hidden lagoons, go chasing waterfalls (totally recommended in Laos!), try boating, kayaking, or cave tubing in Vang Vieng, zipline through the forest, and so much more.
6. To explore the ornate and beautiful temples
Laos is predominantly Buddhist and has been for centuries. This is reflected in the architecture, especially the many temples or wats.
Although the gold-tipped Pha That Luang nearly seems like a castle, and the elaborately terraced Wat Si Saket will take your breath away, I love the small temples scattered throughout the landscape even more.
7. To take a longboat cruise on the iconic Mekong River
You can’t go to Southeast Asia without cruising the Mekong River! And, one of the best places to do that? In Laos, of course.
Take a traditional longboat, for multiple days, to get the true experience of gliding along, spotting traditional villages and spectacular mountains on the way.
One of the best routes (IMHO) is from Thailand to Luang Prabang. You’ll never forget your first sight of this city slowly rising out of the mist!
8. To swim in a jungle waterfall
Although Laos doesn’t have any oceanfront beaches like much of Southeast Asia, it still has plenty of water access, mostly via rivers and streams. These rivers and streams often have gorgeous waterfalls, ideal for cooling off in the dense jungle humidity.
You can even find the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia right in Laos—Khone Phapheng Falls. A trip to the three-tiered Kuang Si waterfalls, one of the most popular waterfalls in Laos, can easily be done from Luang Prabang.
9. Around 50% of Laos is pristine jungle forests
Laos has suffered from much destruction of its natural landscape, but thanks to its recovery efforts and stringent protection measures, currently Laos is covered (by about 50%) in pristine, jungle rainforest.
These unspoiled corners of the jungle hold many different types of wildlife, including gibbons and elephants.
10. Laos is called the “Land of a Million Elephants”
Once I heard Laos’ nickname— “the Land of a Million Elephants”—I knew I had to visit! Who doesn’t love an elephant? Much less a million of them??
While I can’t say there are actually a million elephants in Laos, there are many—both wild ones that roam the land, or domesticated elephants (used for work, ceremony, and carrying goods).
To promote the welfare of these amazing animals when in Laos, make sure to visit the Elephant Village Sanctuary to support rescued and healing elephants.
11. Laos is ranked as one of the friendliest countries in the world
The best part of traveling anywhere? Meeting the people! And the people are one of the very best things about Laos. Laos often ranks as one of the friendliest countries in the world, and this will be evident from the get-go.
The pure hospitality and joy of Laotians are legendary, as is their complimentary nature. Don’t be surprised if you get invited to the occasional party or event, or if you get showered with compliments. Just don’t forget to pay one back—it’s a sign of respect!
12. For the leisurely lifestyle
The official name of Laos is Laos People’s Democratic Republic (LPDR), but some say that LPDR really stands for “Laos please don’t rush.” This laissez-faire attitude towards life definitely takes some getting used to when you come from the fast-paced, job-first Western culture.
This attitude gives the people of Laos a sense of fun and family, and work definitely comes second here! So go ahead, embrace your slower side, and luxuriate in Laos.
13. For the contrasting cultures
As Laos is so rural and underdeveloped (compared to the rest of Southeast Asia, for sure), it’s been able to retain centuries of culture and history with surprisingly little Western influence.
Of course, Laos was once a colony of France, which is clearly evident in the architecture, the food (hello crepes!), and even the occasional French word scattered in speech.
Along with the French influence, and the impact of nearby countries like Thailand, China, and Vietnam, Laos has 160 known ethnic groups and 80 separate languages.
These contrasting cultures, reflected in the houses and the food, the festivals and the languages, make Laos an incredibly diverse and rich country!
14. To sample some unique Laotian cuisine
As I mentioned above, the various ethnic groups and cultures that have shaped Laos have also shaped Laotian cuisine.
When you visit, grab a crepe (some of the best outside of actual France), sticky rice (offered any time of day), or some traditional Laotian specialties.
Larb, a unique minced meat salad, is considered the national dish, so is a must when you’re in Laos. Also try Mok Pa, fish steamed in banana leaves, or various noodle dishes at the night markets.
Conclusion
Even with the cons of visiting Laos, the many pros more than make up for the downsides. Laos has some of the best of Southeast Asia to offer, such as night markets, gorgeous handicrafts, golden temples, jungles full of elephants, and long cultural and religious history.
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Southeast Asia, Laos is definitely for you! Although Laos is pretty much for everyone—everyone that enjoys unspoiled nature, authentic traditions, and some of the friendliest people around, that is.
