Nestled between Thailand and Vietnam, in the heart of Southeast Asia, Laos is an often-overlooked oasis. From the stellar waterfalls and natural beauty of the north to the cultural icons and museums of the capital, Vientiane, Laos is full of incredible sites. Many visitors go to Vientiane just to renew their Thai visa, but the country has much more to offer than that. Some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region are found in Laos and it is definitely worth exploring them. And the local travel agency - Typic Travel offers authentic tours in this magnificent country.

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Best time to visit Laos

The most popular time to visit Laos is from November to January, when the weather is coolest. However, if you are in the far north of the country, temperatures can get very cool in the evening, sometimes reaching near freezing temperatures.

Really, you can visit Laos at any time of the year. The only times I would have really avoided are March and April, when the peak of the hot season culminates with the burning of fields, creating air as smoky as it is humid. The cool season runs from October to February. March, April, and May are the hottest months, and from May to June, the rainy season begins.

If you are traveling from May to September, be sure to wear a rain jacket or bring a poncho. Even if it doesn't rain all day, it's very likely that you will have at least afternoon showers during this period.

What to pack for traveling to Laos

What to bring… It seems impossible to decide when you are at home preparing for your trip. But honestly, you won't need as much as you think. Bring clothes suitable for the heat and humidity, but remember that Laos is a fairly conservative country. So you'll probably do better to leave your Speedos and bikinis at home. Also, remember that if you visit temples, you will need to cover your arms and legs. So make sure you have pants or a skirt and something other than a tank top.

Bring a sweatshirt or a light jacket if you are traveling during the cool season, and a rain jacket if you are traveling during the rainy season. If you are trekking or traveling to rural areas, it may be wise to bring a water filter, as the water in Laos is generally not potable.

Must-see destinations in Laos

Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, located in northern Laos, was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. In addition to the impressive architectural sites and temples, Luang Prabang has many things to do…

Pak Ou Caves

The Pak Ou Caves, 25 km north of Luang Prabang, have a history dating back thousands of years. Packed with over 4,000 Buddha icons, the caves are located in a dramatic limestone cliff at the point where the Mekong joins the Nam Ou River.

Kuang Si Waterfall

Kuang Si Falls has 3 levels leading to a 50-meter drop into shallow pools, before flowing downstream. The pools are superb swimming holes - you can put on your swimsuit in wooden huts near the entrance to the waterfall. Surrounded by lush tropical jungle, the pools feature waterfalls up to 5 meters high. If you don't want to swim, you can relax in the shade and watch others have fun jumping in and out of the water.

Plain of Jars

The Plain of Jars, one of the country's strangest sites, contains dozens of stone "jars" dating back thousands of years. Calling them jars seems a bit of an exaggeration, as they measure between 3 and 10 feet in height and weigh about 14 tons each. Although the site is becoming increasingly accessible to visitors, it is certainly not a place where you will want to wander alone, as many surrounding areas contain unexploded ordnance, which you certainly do not want to step on.

Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng sits along the Nam Song River and is probably best known for being the best place for tubing. Rent a tube and enjoy the local scenery in the lazy comfort of an inflatable river.

Vientiane

In many ways, Vientiane is the least Southeast Asian of all Southeast Asian capitals. Laos's premier city stretches along the eastern bank of the Mekong River, where it forms the Thai border, a true treasure trove of French bakeries, Buddhist stupas, wine cellars, and night markets.

Pakse

Like Luang Prabang in the north, the city of Pakse, in the south of the country, is characterized by its French colonial style. It is located at the confluence of two rivers and combines the relaxed culture of Laos with superb bars and restaurants.

Bolaven Plateau

One of the best regions to explore for all adventure lovers is the coffee and waterfall region located on the Bolaven Plateau. Best seen by renting a motorbike and completing the loop starting and ending in Pakse, you can expect a 4 to 5-day feast in this waterfall paradise of southern Laos.

Wat Phou

On the west bank of the Mekong, south of Pakse, are the ruins of an ancient Khmer temple called Wat Phou. The temple and associated settlements are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Khong Island

Khong Island or Don Khong is the largest of the 4,000 islands in the Sii Pan Don region, located in southern Laos, near the Cambodian border.

Khone Island

The island is an ideal place to rest. Some guesthouses have hammocks and the view of the Mekong, especially at sunset, is incredible.

Phou Asa Mountain

Phou Asa Mountain offers magnificent views of the valley and the pristine jungle surrounding the site. It is an ideal place for trekking enthusiasts.

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