Travel to Laos
Hello! My name is Lauriane, and I’ve been living between Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam for the past 10 years. Over the course of those 10 years, I’ve travelled extensively along the roads of these countries. And I’ve been working in the hospitality industry for over 20 years.
Why Asia? To visit the unmissable temples and colonial architecture, or to go on a multi-day trek and stay with local families. Or perhaps to cruise down the Mekong and see the elephants, and cycle on an island.
Are you on your honeymoon, travelling with your family, or retired? Come on in! And we’ll create your trip together. And I hope to make it as exciting and rewarding as you imagine!
Travelling to Laos, in my opinion, is a unique opportunity to be captivated by its unspoilt nature and its authentic people. Cruise along the Mekong as it flows through the country from north to south, discovering enchanting natural landscapes.
Explore the lush jungles of Laos in search of gibbons and observe the wide variety of stunning tropical birds. Hikers enjoy trekking through the coffee plantations of the Bolaven Plateau, the rice paddies and the jungle within Asia’s largest cave system. A tour of Laos would not be complete without meeting its people. The people of Laos are divided into a multitude of ethnic groups, each as generous as the next. For a tailor-made trip to Laos, contact me and let’s create the perfect trip together.
| The climate in Laos | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temperature in C° | 21 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 21 |
| Sunny days per month | 20 | 22 | 24 | 20 | 18 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 20 | 22 |
A trip to Laos: everything you need to know to plan your perfect tour
A trip to Laos: 7 good reasons to go
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Cruise along the Mekong
Embark on charming traditional boats for an unforgettable cruise on the Mekong. Marvel at the vast karst and verdant landscapes that line this legendary river. A unique escape for any tour of Laos. -
The colonial heritage of Luang Prabang
Stroll through the streets of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover its colonial houses and majestic temples, which bear witness to the fascinating history of this must-visit city on any trip to Laos. -
Hiking in the Bolaven Plateau
Set off on an adventure on the Bolaven Plateau, in the heart of unspoilt nature. Enjoy peaceful hikes in an enchanting setting, surrounded by waterfalls, coffee plantations and an atmosphere of absolute tranquillity. -
Relaxing in the 4,000 Islands
Unwind in the idyllic setting of the 4,000 Islands, situated in the Mekong River’s inland delta. These peaceful islets offer a stay in Laos perfect for relaxation and exploring authentic villages. -
Meeting the ethnic groups of Laos
Experience genuine encounters with the local ethnic groups. Set off to discover their ancestral cultures and unique way of life, enriching your tour of Laos with unforgettable moments. -
The monks’ alms round
In the early morning, witness the alms-giving ceremony to the monks dressed in their orange robes. This iconic spiritual ritual reflects the deeply Buddhist soul of Laos and adds a rich cultural dimension to your trip to Laos. -
Laos, still unspoilt
Escape mass tourism and discover an authentic journey through South-East Asia. Laos captivates with its authenticity, unspoilt landscapes and the warmth of its people, offering a memorable experience far off the beaten track.
Laos: travel with a local agency
Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Laos is landlocked by its neighbours. For this reason, the “Land of a Million Elephants” is often overlooked by the rest of the world. The result? Laos is a land untouched by time, unspoilt and authentic.
Tailor-made holidays and tours in Laos
Laos is one of the few countries still untouched by mass tourism. A tailor-made trip to Laos is therefore an authentic journey that promises unforgettable memories, exceptional encounters and adventures off the beaten track. Don’t hesitate any longer! Immerse yourself in an ancient culture with a rich colonial heritage and marvel at the lush natural beauty along the Mekong River. With the team at Shanti Travel, a local agency in Laos, create your tailor-made tour today.
Experiential trip to Laos
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual hiker, you’re setting off on an adventure trip to Laos, which, with its Annamite mountain range, offers you unrivalled landscapes. During your stay in Laos, discover the Bolaven Plateau, the Plain of Jars or Phou Bia. Culture is not to be outdone, with the many temples and ruins that enhance your tailor-made trip to Laos. From Wat Xieng Thong, the most beautiful temple in Laos, to the famous site of Vat Phou (also known as Wat Phou or Wat Phu) or Champassak, there is something to satisfy all enthusiasts of Asian religions. Built in the same architectural style as Angkor Wat, Vat Phou is just as impressive. It is, in fact, nicknamed the ‘Little Angkor of Laos’.
Tour of Laos and cultural exploration of its treasures.
Set off to meet the ethnic groups of Laos: the famous Lao Tai along the Mekong, the Khmu of the northern plateaus, and the nomadic Hmong, Akha and Mien peoples high in the mountains. Whether you’re keen on intercultural exchange or seeking genuine experiences, the multitude of ethnic groups in Laos share one thing in common: the warm welcome and smiles they offer visitors. Encounters with the Lao Lum, Lao Theung and Lao Sung are always characterised by simplicity and friendliness.
Take advantage of the expertise of your local travel agency in Laos and enhance your stay with authentic experiences and activities to create your own tailor-made trip.
Tour of Laos and a cultural exploration of its treasures
Laos’ iconic temples
Wat That Luang, considered the country’s most revered sanctuary, is located in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Its significance lies in the fact that it is said to house a precious relic: a hair of the Buddha. Wat Xieng Thong, the country’s most elegant temple, is located in Luang Prabang. As for Wat Sisaket, it is the oldest temple in the capital (dating from 1818), and the only one to have survived the Siamese assault in 1827.
An insight into the daily lives of the people of Laos
An organised tour of Laos promises you the chance to explore majestic landscapes and enjoy memorable encounters, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in local life.
You will also have the opportunity to visit rural communities and meet the ethnic peoples of Laos, such as the Hmong or the Khmu, who will share with you their daily way of life and their unique crafts.
This is an ideal trip for families, couples or groups of friends who are passionate about nature and looking to discover the culture and make authentic encounters.
Discover local crafts
During your stay in Laos, take the time to appreciate its exceptional craftsmanship. These crafts draw their inspiration mainly from nature and sometimes even from the remnants of past conflicts, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of the Laotian people. These are largely environmentally friendly crafts that may inspire you to bring back wonderful souvenirs from your trip to Laos.
The main crafts include:
- Weaving Laotian cotton and silk.
- Basket weaving
- Bamboo work
- Saa paper-making
- Crafting jewellery from bombs and munitions from the Vietnam War
Travel to Laos and explore the country’s natural beauty
Hiking and trekking in the mountains
The northern peaks are ideal for trekking, and your guide will take you to places that can only be reached on foot. Laos can be explored not only by land and sea, but also underground, with the caves of Pak Ou and Tham Kaang. A journey through unexplored trails, bathed in a palette of greens, awaits you in Laos.
Discover Laos’s terraced rice fields and waterfalls
As well as spending a few days in the company of elephants, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Laos, with its mix of tropical forests, waterfalls, terraced rice fields, mountains and lakes. This journey through Laos offers you an unrivalled immersion in a country whose charm remains unspoilt. Don’t forget to explore the Tad Fane and Tad Yuan waterfalls during your walk on the Bolaven Plateau.
Exploring Laos’s exceptional flora and fauna
Laos is a splendid place to observe a wide variety of animal species. These include:
- The dhole, also known as the Asian wild dog. It resembles a wolf or a red fox.
- The leopard cat, a small wild feline, about the size of a domestic cat. It thrives in tropical forests and is also an excellent swimmer.
- The water buffalo, commonly found in Laos, plays a vital role in agriculture by helping farmers to work the land and is also reared in the region.
- The Sarus crane, the bird that flies highest in the world.
- The Malayan sun bear, the smallest of its kind, is found in Southeast Asia. It is an endangered species due to deforestation and hunting for its organs.
A trip to Laos: a cruise on the Mekong River
Embark on an enchanting journey along the glorious Mekong River. This majestic river, which sustains millions of people, promises a journey of discovery filled with rich cultural experiences, serene landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Cruising along the Mekong
A cruise on the Mekong is much more than just a trip; it is an immersive experience that will leave you with lasting memories. It is an invitation to embark on an adventure that combines nature, culture and history in an exquisite blend that will captivate your heart and soul. So why wait? A cruise on the Mekong awaits you!
Visiting Fishing Villages and Floating Markets in Laos
During your cruise on the Mekong, you’ll pass through breathtaking landscapes. A cruise on the Mekong River is a gateway to a whole new world. As you navigate the river’s meandering course, you’ll encounter picturesque villages dotted along the banks. These fishing villages are brimming with life and culture, offering you a unique opportunity to discover the local way of life in Laos.
Relaxation on the Mekong’s Islands and Beaches
The cruise will also take you to stunning islands, perfect for those who love exploring the wonders of nature. With sandy beaches and lush green landscapes, these islands offer a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can spend your time lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun or exploring the rich biodiversity these islands have to offer.
A taste of Laotian cuisine
Laotian cuisine is very aromatic, and you can sample dishes such as laap: a salad of minced meat or fish with herbs and spices, and tam mak hoong: a spicy green papaya salad.
Discover traditional Laotian dishes
Embark on a culinary adventure and discover the delights of traditional Laotian dishes. You’ll find a wide range of dishes, prepared using local produce. These traditional dishes, whether the fermented fish sauce known as Padaek or the popular sticky rice, bear witness to Laos’s culinary heritage.
A tour of local markets and street food stalls
Your trip to Laos will also take you to bustling markets bursting with vibrant colours and enticing aromas. There, you can mingle with the locals, haggle over handcrafted souvenirs and sample local specialities at the famous street food stalls, which will delight your senses and your taste buds.
