Laos FAQs

Thinking of travelling to Laos?

Laos is a landlocked, mountainous and jungle-dense nation in Southeast Asia. The destination’s colourful temple-lined streets and fascinating caves overlooking the Mekong River are often underappreciated compared to its popular neighbouring destinations like Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia. 

Whether Laos is the main focus of your trip or you’re looking to combine it with some neighbouring destinations, these FAQs will answer the most common queries visitors have when they are planning a trip or while they are on holiday. You can have a look at our Laos holidays here, including popular options like the Grand Tour of Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Laos from the UK?

A: Yes. There are two main options for visitors from the UK to Laos.

The first is applying for an eVisa in advance, which costs around US$50 via the official Laotian government portal here and takes around three working days to process. The eVisa is valid for entry at most major ports of entry into Laos, and is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. An eVisa is the recommended option to avoid potential delays upon arrival or lengthy processing times.

The other option is to secure a visa on arrival. Those cost around US$50, must be paid for in cash upon arrival. Visitors must bring two passport-sized photos to apply on arrival.

All visitors are required to have at least six months of validity left on their passport from their date of entry, and should have at least two blank pages left in their passport.

Whichever option they choose, visitors must submit an electronic arrival and departure form online within three days of arrival and exit from Laos, respectively.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for Laos?

A: While there are not currently any specific vaccine mandates in place for visitors from the UK to Laos, it is always recommended to consult your GP or refer to travel advice like that provided by the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) here.

It is always recommended that travellers are up-to-date with their routine vaccination courses.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in Laos?

A: Packing for a holiday to Laos does not look much different to other tropical destinations. The main consideration is to pack light, breathable clothing that will keep you cool. Generally, the dress code will be fairly relaxed across Laos. When visiting temples, however, modest dress is recommended. Tops should cover the shoulders, and shorts or trousers should extend below the knee.

A light jacket or fleece may be necessary during the cooler dry season in Laos (between November and February) or while travelling on air-conditioned buses and shuttles.

Comfortable footwear for exploring towns or light trekking is recommended. Sturdy hiking boots are required for multi-day treks or jungle stays.

Insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and therefore protect against Malaria or Dengue is essential. Sunscreen is also strongly recommended, as well as sunglasses and a brimmed hat to protect against the potentially harsh sun.

The availability of specific or prescription medications and toiletry products is not guaranteed across Laos, so it is recommended to pack an adequate supply of them for the duration of your holiday.

Practical Information

Q: Where is Laos, and which part will I be visiting?

A: Laos is landlocked in the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, bordered by China to the north, Vietnam to the east and southwest, Cambodia to the south, Thailand to the west and southwest, and Myanmar to the northwest. Laos is the only country in the region without access to the surrounding ocean.

Llama Travel tours visiting Laos include a stay in Luang Prabang, the former capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom. The city is now revered for its thousand-year-plus legacy influenced by French colonialism and key spiritual movements, including Theravada Buddhism.

Our tours also visit the Kuang Si Falls, just outside the city. The tiered waterfalls reach heights of around 60 metres and flow into turquoise pools surrounded by lush jungle.

Q: What is the population of Laos?

A: The population of Laos is around 8 million people. Over half of those live in rural areas, making it one of the more sparsely populated nations in Southeast Asia.

Q: What is the capital city of Laos?

A: Vientiane is the capital of Laos. The city sits on the banks of the Mekong River, near the southern border with Thailand.

Q: What is the time difference between the UK and Laos?

A: During Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) from late October to March, Laos is 7 hours ahead of the UK. During British Summer Time (BST) from late March to October, Laos is 6 hours ahead.

Most Llama Travel tours of Laos take place during the UK winter (GMT), so you will likely be 7 hours ahead of the UK during your time in Laos.

Q: How long does it take to fly from the UK to Laos?

A: There are no direct flights from the UK to Laos, so flight time will depend on where (and how long) an indirect flight’s layover is. Generally, this can be between 15 and 22 hours.

Most visitors to Laos opt to fly via Bangkok, which takes approximately 11.5 hours, and either spend time in Bangkok and travel on by bus or a flight taking around 1 hour or so to Laos. Options via Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh or Singapore are also available.

Q: What language is spoken in Laos?

A: Lao (also known as Laotian) is the most commonly spoken language across Laos. Lao is closely related to Thai, with speakers of either language generally able to understand each other.

Q: What is the currency in Laos?

A: The official currency of Laos is the Lao Kip, a currency comprised entirely of banknotes due to its relatively low value. Exchange rates can fluctuate dramatically, but £15 is equivalent to around 440,000 Lao Kip.

Thai Baht is accepted in most places (especially those near the Thai border) due to the strong ties between both countries, and US Dollars are accepted for on-arrival visa fees.

Cash is still much more commonly accepted than card payments, so it is recommended to carry cash to cover spending.

Q: What’s the weather like in Laos?

A: Laos enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, with a distinct dry season from November to April, generally recording cooler temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C in the early months, heating up to 30°C to 35°C by March and April. May to October, the wet season, tends to bring higher humidity and afternoon showers. The heaviest rains generally occur between July and September.

Q: What should I know about local customs and etiquette in Laos?

A: Laos’ strong Buddhist population means its culture appreciates politeness and courtesy. Local culture is guided by a principle called ‘Heet-Khong’, which values respect, social etiquette and duty, and hospitality.

Respectful greetings, like a polite smile and nod, are perfectly acceptable. The ‘nop’, a traditional greeting involving a slight bow and putting hands in a prayer-like gesture at chest level, may be commonplace, and reciprocation can be appreciated.

In Buddhist culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body, while the feet are seen as the least sacred. As such, it is deemed incredibly offensive to touch anyone’s head or point your feet at a person or religious site/statue.

At temples or religious sites, everyone should cover their shoulders and knees. Shoes and sunglasses should be removed before entering a temple. Buddha statues should be respected: selfies, touching or climbing on the statues may not be acceptable depending on the site.

Q: Do people speak English in Laos?

A: People in major tourist destinations like Luang Prabang and Vientiane tend to speak English. At the very least, English comprehension will be strong. In the more rural areas, English speakers are rare.

Locals may appreciate visitors picking up a few local phrases, like ‘Khop chai’ for ‘Thank you’.

Q: What is the tipping culture in Laos?

A: Tipping is less mainstream in Laos than in many other tourist destinations. As always, it will be appreciated, and due to the relatively low wages, international visitors often feel inclined to tip.

Western or tourist-focused restaurants across the more mainstream tourism spots in Laos may be more accustomed to receiving tips; between 5% and 10% is a generous gesture.

One area where tipping has become more mainstream in Laos is for guides and drivers. There are no mandatory guidelines for tipping, but tour guides and drivers may appreciate anywhere from around 20,000 to 50,000 Kip a day, the equivalent of a couple of British pounds.

Always tip in paper banknotes regardless of currency.

Health & Safety

Q: Is Laos safe to travel to?

A: Laos is considered incredibly safe for tourists. The nation’s courteous and respectful culture means tourists rarely encounter violent crime or safety threats.

As ever, busy areas increase the likelihood of petty crime. It is sensible to avoid carrying valuables in open bags or displaying obvious signs of wealth, as this can make you a target for theft.

It is always recommended to check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s travel advice for Laos before travelling there, as it regularly updates the advice based on current events.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in Laos?

A: For minor sicknesses or injuries, pharmacies in most well-developed areas like Luang Prabang are well-stocked with basic essentials like antibiotics, painkillers or rehydration salts.

For major sicknesses or injuries, private clinics in Vientiane or Luang Prabang can provide basic care, but severe cases may require evacuation by air or road to Thailand, where hospitals offer a better standard of care.

Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment or potential repatriation is essential. When booking with Llama Travel, our booking conditions require all guests to have an adequate level of insurance. 

Q: Do I need travel insurance for Laos?

A: Yes. Travelling abroad without a decent level of coverage from travel insurance is incredibly risky and, in the case of medical care or emergency repatriation, could result in hefty bills.

Connectivity and Communication

Q: What are the options for mobile data and SIM cards in Laos?

A: Your UK mobile plan may include roaming in Laos, so it is worth checking this before considering other options. If not, you can stay connected with a local SIM card or an eSIM.

Unitel and Lao Telecom are the two mainstream providers; both will provide a reliable signal in most areas. Purchasing a SIM card will likely be the cheapest option, and SIM cards are available at airports and shops in major cities.

Setting up an eSIM will allow you to get connected as soon as you arrive. Providers like Airalo, Nomad and Roafly offer dedicated options, likely connecting you to Lao Telecom or another major provider’s towers. Not all phones are eSIM compatible, so it is worth checking this before purchasing one.

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in Laos?

A: On our group tours in Laos, guests share a minibus with fellow Llama Travel passengers. This is a comfortable option, with the air conditioning often appreciated in the humid climate! The convenience of pre-arranged transfers helps keep a holiday on schedule and ensures visitors are never stuck trying to arrange alternative routes.

In Vientiane and Luang Prabang, local ride-hailing apps Loca and Grab are widely used to get around the city.

If you are visiting independently, the Laos-China Railway is a convenient option, connecting Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay and Boten. The high-speed trains mean journeys that would require 10+ hour drives to a couple of hours’ ride on a high-speed train. Ticket sales open for these three days before departure and often sell out.

Food and Drink

Q: What’s the food like in Laos?

A: Laotian cuisine often features sticky rice, fresh vegetables, and a variety of herbs. Must-try dishes include Laap (a spicy meat salad), Tam Mak Hoong (a spicy green papaya salad), and Khao Soi (a noodle soup).

Q: Can I drink tap water in Laos?

A: Tap water is not drinkable in Laos, even in major cities like Vientiane or Luang Prabang.

To avoid potential infection and stomach illnesses, it is recommended to stick to bottled water, which is widely available across the country, not just for drinking, but for brushing teeth. Ice in drinks is likely manufactured from purified water. Avoid crushed ice as this may be made with tap water.

Q: Is alcohol available in Laos?

A: Alcohol is widely available in Laos. The national beer, Beerlao, is incredibly popular and will be on the menu in most restaurants or on sale in off-license-style shops. A traditional Laotian rice whiskey, Lao-Lao, is common in shops and supermarkets. Due to the legacy of Laos’ French colonial era, wine is more popular than in other Southeast Asian destinations.

What to See

Q: What are the highlights of Laos?

A: The destination’s cultural capital, Luang Prabang, is a highlight for many visitors and was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. As the former royal capital of Laos, it is home to over 30 stunning temples and a unique blend of traditional Lao and French colonial architecture. In the mid-19th century, French colonial rule introduced European architectural influences, which blended harmoniously with traditional Lao designs. The French era saw the construction of key buildings and infrastructure that still stand today, enhancing the city’s historic charm.

The Kuang Si Waterfalls, 29 kilometres south of Luang Prabang, are easily accessible, naturally marvellous, and host a nature reserve and a bear rescue centre, home to rescued Asiatic black bears. The main fall drops around 60 metres, and the lush jungle surroundings and turquoise waters encapsulate a uniquely peaceful beauty.

Q: How many days do I need to explore Laos?

A: If you are looking to combine a trip to Laos with stays in other nearby destinations, three nights is recommended at the very least. Laos can provide a peaceful balance to the excitement of destinations like Vietnam or Thailand, and cities like Luang Prabang offer incredibly deep histories and legacies which deserve adequate time to explore.

For a standalone, multi-centre trip to Laos, at least 7 days are necessary due to the lack of direct flights.

Q: What can I see in Luang Prabang?

A: Luang Prabang is the cultural heart of Laos and best explored on foot. Visit elegant temples such as Wat Xieng Thong, stroll through the old town’s French colonial streets, and explore the lively night market. Early mornings offer the chance to witness the traditional alms-giving ceremony, while evenings are calm and atmospheric.

Q: What can I see along the Mekong River?

A: The Mekong River is central to life in Laos and offers a scenic way to explore the country. Boat trips provide views of riverside villages, forested hills and daily life along the water. Near Luang Prabang, cruises often visit the Pak Ou Caves, home to hundreds of Buddha statues.

Q: What waterfalls can I visit near Luang Prabang?

A: The Kuang Si Waterfalls, located just outside Luang Prabang, are among Laos’s most beautiful natural sights. Cascading turquoise pools set in lush forest make it an ideal spot for walking, photography and swimming in the natural pools.

Q: What can I see at the Pak Ou Caves?

A: The Pak Ou Caves are located along the Mekong River near Luang Prabang and are home to thousands of Buddha statues left by pilgrims over centuries. Visiting by boat offers a scenic journey and insight into the spiritual traditions of Laos.

Q: What are the alms-giving ceremony in Luang Prabang?

A: The alms-giving ceremony is a daily Buddhist ritual held at sunrise, where hundreds of barefoot, saffron-clad monks walk through the streets to receive food offerings in exchange for blessings from local residents. Visitors may observe quietly and respectfully, offering a meaningful glimpse into Laos’s spiritual life.

Q: What can I see at the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre?

A: Located near the Kuang Si Waterfalls, the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre is home to rescued Asiatic black bears (moon bears). Visitors can learn about conservation efforts while observing the bears in a protected, natural environment.

Still have questions about travelling to Laos?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Laos holidays to start planning your trip.