Wedged between a number of larger neighbouring countries, Laos is often overlooked in favour of tourism giants such as Thailand and Vietnam. But these travellers are missing out on an extraordinarily scenic and culturally rich destination. Laos boasts a reputation as the least visited, least Westernised, and most untouched of all Indochinese nations. Only time will tell how long this will last, but while it does, visitors who choose to explore this nation’s remote areas will be richly rewarded. Laos’ primary drawcard is undoubtedly the mighty Mekong River which traverses the length of the country and is considered the second most biodiverse river in the world. In the north, the landscape is characterised by little-explored jungle-clad mountainous areas where visitors can witness the intriguing cultures of the various hill tribes that populate this region. Travellers on the hunt for cultural interest should head for the bustling capital of Vientiane, with its innumerable temples and Buddhist monuments. It is this variety of exotic wildlife, remote wilderness and remarkable cultural treasures that make Laos a truly unique and unforgettable holiday destination.
Cradled by emerald mountains near the borders of Vietnam and China, Muang Xay is northern Laos’s largest city and a true crossroads of cultures. Its bustling markets overflow with fragrant spices, handwoven textiles and everyday Lao life, while a hilltop pagoda provides sweeping views across the misty valley. Just beyond town, dense forests conceal some of the region’s most striking natural wonders: the Nam Kad Waterfall, tumbling into a cool, crystalline pool, and the vast Chom Ong Cave, where glittering calcite formations illuminate cavernous chambers. Scattered through the surrounding hills are remote villages where ethnic minority communities continue to weave vibrant textiles, cultivate terraced fields and wear traditional attire—offering travellers an intimate glimpse into the enduring cultural soul of northern Laos.
Surrounded by mist-draped limestone karsts, tranquil rice paddies, mysterious caves and ancient ruins, Vang Vieng is a vibrant jungle town set amid some of Laos’s most breathtaking scenery. Although the once-infamous river party scene has been reined in by new regulations, the town remains a premier hub for soft adventure—offering cycling, caving, tubing, rafting, kayaking, zip-lining and countless hiking trails through cinematic landscapes. Between excursions, travellers can unwind in the town’s growing collection of boutique hotels and international restaurants, which make it a comfortable base for exploring the region’s natural wonders. Sunset Hill offers one of Vang Vieng’s most striking viewpoints, while the area’s aquamarine lagoons and spring-fed swimming holes invite dreamy, refreshing dips. Combining raw natural beauty with just the right amount of comfort and charm, Vang Vieng continues to captivate visitors seeking adventure framed by extraordinary scenery.
A charming town with elegant historical architecture and a distinctly French flavour, Luang Prabang in northern Laos is filled with interesting museums, bustling markets and traditional shops. 33 Buddhist temples dot the city.; the Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum and Wat Xieng Thong temple give travellers some background on and history of the Laotian people. Beyond the city, breathtaking nature and ancient sites await. Those who visit the Pak Ou Caves can see hundreds of Buddha statues accumulated there through the ages. The 180-foot Kuang Si Waterfalls, an hour’s drive out of the city, is one of the region’s natural highlights, with its layer upon cascading layer of turquoise pools and torrents.
