Laos, known as the "sleeping beauty" of South-East Asia, has long remained isolated from the influx of tourists in the region. The country's traditional way of life and laid-back atmosphere have preserved its authenticity, making it a hidden gem for those seeking an escape from the fast-paced world. With tourism still in its infancy, Laos offers a unique opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty without the crowds often found in more popular destinations. In this article, we will delve into the allure of Laos and discover why it is worth exploring for those looking to experience Southeast Asia in all its authentic splendor.
The government is instigating a green approach to the country's development, with the intention of keeping Laos’ pristine ecological system as nature intended – set off on one of our tailor-made Laos tours and we’ll take you to the most beautiful bits.
The country’s welcoming charm invites you to immediately immerse yourself in the culture and natural beauty. Unmissable highlights are the stunning temples of Luang Prabang, the Bolaven Plateau and – somewhat surprisingly for a land-locked country - the sleepy 4,000 islands of Si Phan Don, which are surrounded by the mighty Mekong River as it flows through southern Laos. The Plain of Jars in the north-east makes for a mysterious diversion into one of Laos’ least-visited regions.
There are also plenty of opportunities to get off that proverbial track, with some of South-East Asia's best trekking opportunities to be discovered in Laos north-eastern Phongsali region. Elsewhere, you can live in the tree tops, travelling over the canopy on a zip wire, or perhaps spend a night in a rainforest treehouse... the ultimate way to get closer to nature!
Our tailor-made Laos holiday specialists have travelled extensively throughout Laos and across Asia, researching the best hotels, sites and activities. Book a tailor-made holiday in laid-back Laos and discover the true meaning of getting away from it all.
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Ideas for your trip to Laos
- Delve into Laos’ rich history
- Enjoy in-depth city and temple tours
- Taste Vientiane on a streetfood tuk-tuk safari
- Discover the Vietnam War's impact on Laos
- Immerse yourself in laid back Si Phan Don
- Cruise the Mekong River to secluded idylls
- Feel the buzz of Bangkok on tuk-tuk safari
- Snack on streetfood at a Chiang Mai nightmarket
- Meet rescued elephants in their natural habitat
- Cruise downstream on the mighty Mekong River
- Learn all about rice at a community project near Luang Prabang
- Explore Angkorian temples with an expert guide
- Weave through Siem Reap’s streets on the back of a Vespa
- Learn all about rice at a local community project
- Wonder at the mysterious, UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars
- Learn about Laos' struggle with unexploded ordnance
- Immerse yourself in rural Vietnamese village culture
- Cycle to beauty spots that cars can’t reach
- Contrast ancient and modern in Hanoi
- Visit the temples of Vientiane
- Cruise beneath stalactites in a quarter-mile long cavern
- Follow an old rail route deep into the forest
- Sail to the far corners of Si Phan Don
- Connect with coffee farmers on the Bolaven Plateau
- Escape from the crowds in mellow Done Daeng
- Sample street food flavours in Vientiane
- Learn about the country’s struggle with unexploded ordnance
- Soak up the mysterious atmosphere of the Plain of Jars
- Cruise along the waterways of Nam Et National Park to spot unusual wildlife
- Take sunset-infused photos from Nong Khiaw Mountain View Point
- Bask in inland beachside bliss on Si Phan Don’s serene sands
- Be inspired by local community projects in Luang Prabang
- Cruise the backwaters of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers
- Connect with tribal communities in remote rural regions
- Soak in thermal hot springs surrounded by limestone hills
- Swim in waterfall pool deep in the northern forests
- Kayak along the mighty Mekong
- Delve into Laos’ rich history
- Immerse yourself in laid back Si Phan Don
- Criss-cross the 4000 Islands by bike and boat.
- Catch a glimpse of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin
- Explore Angkorian temples with an expert guide
- Meet and eat with a local family in their own home
- Learn how Cambodians are recovering from their horrific recent history
- Discover the fabled Angkor temples
- Enjoy in-depth city and temple tours
- Watch the sunrise over Halong Bay from the deck of a junk
- Weave between Ho Chi Minh's streetfood spots on the back of a Vespa
- Immerse yourself in the beach life and vibrant culture of Hoi An
