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Day 1-3: Vientiane – Laos’ Quiet Capital
Fly into Vientiane and start your Laos journey in the country’s capital. Spend your first few days soaking in the peaceful vibes of this city.
Top Things To Do in Vientiane
- Pha That Luang: Laos’ most important religious monument.
- Patuxai: Laos’ version of the Arc de Triomphe, offering good city views.
- Night Market: Located by the Mekong River, perfect for street food and shopping.
How Long to Stay: 3 Days
Spend three days to explore the main sights, get a feel for the local culture, and relax before heading off to your next destination.
Day 4-6: Vang Vieng – Adventure Time
Just a 4-hour bus ride away is Vang Vieng, the adventure hub of Laos. Tubing and natural beauty are what it’s known for, making it a favorite among backpackers.
Top Things To Do in Vang Vieng
- Tubing: Float down the Nam Song River, stopping at riverside bars.
- Blue Lagoon: A perfect place to cool off and explore nearby caves.
- Hot Air Ballooning: Want a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful landscape? Hop on a hot air balloon!
How Long to Stay: 3 Days
Make sure to take three days off your calendar to experience tubing, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Itching for more adventures? Use this article as your guide to discover more activities you can explore.
Day 7-11: Luang Prabang – Culture and Waterfalls
Luang Prabang is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia and is just a 6-hour bus ride away from Vang Vieng. It is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its French colonial architecture, temples, and waterfalls.
Top Things To Do In Luang Prabang
- Kuang Si Waterfalls: Be mesmerized by the beauty of this waterfall and spend a full day here swimming and hiking. Check out this full guide to the beautiful waterfalls in Luang Prabang.
- Alms Giving Ceremony: Immerse yourself in the culture by witnessing this traditional Buddhist ceremony at dawn.
- Mount Phousi: Climb up for sunset views over the city and Mekong River.
How Long to Stay: 5 Days
Five days is enough time to explore the city’s cultural spots, visit the waterfalls, and take in the peaceful vibe. It’s a must-do on your itinerary in Laos.
Got more time to explore? Make sure to check out this guide for other exciting experiences in Luang Prabang.
Day 12-15: Nong Khiaw – Scenic Mountain Town
Head further north to Nong Khiaw (about 4 hours by bus). If you enjoy being surrounded by mountains, then this is the place. It’s perfect for trekking and relaxing.
Top Things To Do In Nong Khiaw
- Trekking: Discover rice fields and jungles to remote villages.
- 100 Waterfalls Trek: A challenging but rewarding trek with multiple waterfalls.
- Boat Ride on the Nam Ou River: Enjoy the beautiful scenery from the water.
How Long to Stay: 4 Days
Four days lets you trek, explore, and unwind in this peaceful, scenic part of Laos.
Day 16-19: Muang Ngoi – Remote Village Life
From Nong Khiaw, take a short boat ride to Muang Ngoi, a small remote village with no roads or cars. It’s a perfect place if you want to slow down and experience rural Laos.
Top Things To Do in Muang Ngoi
- Trekking: Explore nearby caves and waterfalls.
- Kayaking: Rent a kayak and paddle along the Nam Ou River.
- Relaxing: Spend time by the river and enjoy the quiet.
How Long to Stay: 4 Days
Spend four days just disconnecting and enjoying the slow pace of life in this off-the-beaten-path spot. It’s a key stop in your itinerary in Laos.
Day 20-23: Champasak – Temples and Waterfalls
Fly from Luang Prabang to Pakse in the south, then take a short bus ride to Champasak. This region is known for its ancient temples and stunning waterfalls.
Top Things To Do in Champasak
- Wat Phu: An ancient Khmer temple complex older than Angkor Wat.
- Bolaven Plateau: Famous for its waterfalls and coffee plantations.
- Tad Fane and Tad Lo: Discover two of the best waterfalls in the region.
How Long to Stay: 4 Days
Four days lets you explore the temples, chase waterfalls, and take in the natural beauty of the area. It’s a peaceful but interesting stop on your itinerary in Laos.
Day 24-30: 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don) – Relaxation Mode
4,000 Islands, located in the Mekong River, is the perfect spot to finish off your 30-day itinerary in Laos. It’s the ideal place to relax and reflect on your trip.
Top Things To Do in 4000 Islands
- Kayaking: Paddle out to see the Irrawaddy dolphins and nearby waterfalls.
- Khone Phapheng Falls: The largest waterfalls in Southeast Asia.
- Hammock Life: Just chill by the river and enjoy the slow pace of island life.
How Long to Stay: 7 Days in 4000 Islands
Spend your final week on the islands. After a month of adventure, you’ll appreciate the laid-back vibe and natural beauty.
Travel Tips for Backpackers in Laos
- Currency: Lao Kip, but US dollars and Thai baht are accepted in some places.
- Getting Around: Buses and mini buses are the best options for long-distance travel, while tuk-tuks are great for shorter trips.
- Visa: Most nationalities can get a 30-day visa on arrival.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier.
- Language: Learning a few Lao phrases goes a long way.
- Hello! – Sà-bai-dee!
- Thank you! – Khòp jai!
- How are you? – Sà-bai-dee baw?
- Do you speak English? – Pôot paa-săa ang-grìt dâi măi?
- Have you eaten yet? – Kin khâo lɛ́ɛo baw?
- I cannot eat spicy. – Mâi kin pet dâi.
- This is very delicious. – Aroi mak!
- How much is this? – Ani tâo thâo-lai?
- Go straight – turn left/right – stop/go – Dtrong dûai – liaw sư̄̂ng/kan – yoot/dtrong
- I do not understand. – Mâi khâo jai.
Ready, Set, Explore
If you enjoy a slow pace when traveling, Laos is the place to be. This 30-Day Itinerary in Laos ensures you see the highlights without rushing. From the capital city to remote mountain villages, and from ancient temples to chilled-out islands, this route is the most convenient way of making the most of your time.
More Information on a 30-Day Itinerary in Thailand
30-Day Laos Itinerary: Unveiling Southeast Asia’s Hidden Gem – by The Lavender Travelers
One month in Laos: Our Itinerary – by Meet Us on the Road
Laos Itinerary – 30 Days Backpacking the Highlights! – by Southeast Asia Backpacker
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