Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Laos's capital city and ease into the relaxed pace with a gentle exploration of central monuments and riverside parks.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at Wattay International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in the city center. Take time to settle in, freshen up, and orient yourself with the neighborhood. Exchange currency and pick up a local SIM card if needed. The morning is intentionally light to account for travel fatigue and varying arrival times.
2-3 hours
$5-10 (airport transfer)
Lunch
Lao cuisine (sticky rice, laap, tam mak hoong)
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Chao Anouvong Park and That Dam Stupa
Stroll through Chao Anouvong Park along the Mekong River, a popular gathering spot for locals especially in the late afternoon. Watch the sunset over
Thailand across the river. Visit the mysterious That Dam Stupa, the 'Black Stupa,' which according to legend houses a seven-headed dragon that protected the city. The relaxed atmosphere provides a perfect introduction to
Vientiane's gentle pace.
2-3 hours
Free
Evening
Riverside dinner and evening walk
Dine at a riverside restaurant along the Mekong promenade, then take an evening stroll through the night market area to browse handicrafts and local snacks
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Vientiane near the riverfront (Mid-range guesthouse or boutique hotel)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and restaurants, perfect for your first days exploring the capital
Vientiane operates on a very relaxed schedule - many attractions close by 5pm and the city quiets down early, so plan your sightseeing accordingly
Day 1 Budget: $45-65
Discover
Vientiane's most important religious and cultural landmarks, from the golden stupa of Pha That Luang to informative museums.
Morning
Visit Pha That Luang and Patuxai
Begin at Pha That Luang, Laos's most sacred Buddhist monument and national symbol. The golden stupa, dating from the 16th century, is stunning in morning light. Explore the temple complex and learn about its significance to Lao identity. Then visit Patuxai,
Vientiane's Arc de Triomphe, built to commemorate those who fought for independence. Climb to the top for panoramic city views and admire the intricate Lao decorative motifs inside.
3-4 hours
$3-5 (entry fees)
Lunch
A local noodle shop near the monument area
Lao noodle dishes (foe, khao piak sen)
Budget
Afternoon
COPE Visitor Centre and Wat Si Muang Temple
Visit the COPE Visitor Centre, an essential stop to understand Laos's UXO (unexploded ordnance) legacy from the Secret War. The free exhibition is moving and educational, showing rehabilitation efforts for bomb victims. Afterward, visit Wat Si Muang Temple, the city's guardian spirit shrine and most popular temple among locals. Observe devotees making offerings and witness authentic religious practices.
2-3 hours
$0-2 (donations welcome)
Evening
Traditional Lao dinner and cultural show
Attend a traditional dance performance while enjoying Lao cuisine at a cultural restaurant, or explore the evening food stalls near the river
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Vientiane (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Staying in the same location allows you to explore Vientiane efficiently without changing hotels
Visit Pha That Luang early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds, and to capture the best photographs in soft morning light
Day 2 Budget: $50-70
Delve into Lao art and culture through museums, then venture to the quirky Buddha Park for an afternoon of surreal sculptures.
Morning
Ho Phrakeo Museum and Lao Textile Museum
Start at Ho Phrakeo Museum, the former royal temple now housing religious art and artifacts. The building itself is beautiful, showcasing traditional Lao architecture. Then visit the Lao Textile Museum to understand the country's rich weaving traditions. Learn about different ethnic groups' textile patterns, natural dyes, and see weavers demonstrating their craft. The museum shop offers authentic textiles to purchase.
2-3 hours
$5-8 (entry fees)
Lunch
A cafe in the museum district with fusion cuisine
Western-Lao fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khouane Luang)
Take a tuk-tuk or local bus 25km southeast to Buddha Park, one of Laos's most unusual attractions. This sculpture garden features over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues created by a mystic priest-shaman in 1958. Climb inside the giant pumpkin structure for unique views, photograph the enormous reclining Buddha, and wander among the surreal concrete figures. The park's eccentric atmosphere makes it unforgettable.
2-3 hours
$8-12 (transport and entry)
Evening
Enjoy a final evening in the capital at a rooftop restaurant or garden dining venue, sampling Lao specialties you haven't tried yet
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Vientiane (Same accommodation)
Final night in Vientiane before heading north tomorrow
Buddha Park has minimal shade - bring sun protection, water, and visit in late afternoon when it's cooler and the light is perfect for photography
Day 3 Budget: $55-75
Travel north to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage town of
Luang Prabang, either by scenic flight or adventurous overland journey.
Morning
Depart
Vientiane for
Luang Prabang. By air, the flight takes about 40 minutes with spectacular mountain views. By road, the journey takes 9-11 hours through dramatic mountain scenery - consider breaking it into two days with an overnight stop. The flight option allows you to arrive with time to explore, while the bus journey offers authentic local travel experience and stunning landscapes.
1-11 hours depending on transport choice
$80-120 (flight) or $15-25 (bus)
Book flights in advance for better prices; VIP buses are more comfortable for long journeys
Lunch
Airport cafe or packed lunch for bus journey
Light meals
Budget
Afternoon
Check into your accommodation and begin exploring the charming Old Town peninsula. Wander the quiet streets lined with French colonial buildings and traditional Lao houses. Visit local craft shops and galleries. Stroll along the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The compact Old Town is perfect for leisurely exploration on foot.
2-3 hours
Free
Evening
Browse the famous
Luang Prabang Night Market on Sisavangvong Road for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, then dine at a traditional restaurant in a colonial-era building
Where to Stay Tonight
Luang Prabang Old Town (Charming guesthouse or boutique hotel)
Staying within the Old Town puts you at the heart of the UNESCO zone, walking distance to temples, restaurants, and the night market
The night market sets up daily around 5pm on the main street - arrive early for the best selection and less crowded browsing
Day 4 Budget: $100-140 (with flight) or $40-60 (with bus)
Immerse yourself in
Luang Prabang's spiritual heritage with visits to magnificent temples and the former royal palace.
Morning
Alms-giving ceremony and Wat Xiengthong
Wake early to respectfully observe the daily alms-giving ceremony (tak bat) where hundreds of monks collect offerings. Be respectful and follow proper etiquette. Then visit Wat Xiengthong,
Luang Prabang's most beautiful temple. Built in 1560, it exemplifies classic Lao architecture with its sweeping roofs and stunning mosaics including the famous 'tree of life' on the rear wall. Explore the various chapels and the funerary carriage hall.
3 hours
$3-5 (temple entry)
Lunch
A garden restaurant near the peninsula tip
Lao and international options
Mid-range
Afternoon
Royal Palace & National Museum and Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre
Tour the Royal Palace & National Museum, the former residence of the Lao royal family, now showcasing royal artifacts, gifts from foreign dignitaries, and the famous Phra Bang Buddha image (when not at Haw Phra Bang). Then visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) to learn about Laos's diverse ethnic groups through excellent exhibits on textiles, rituals, and daily life.
3 hours
$8-10 (entry fees)
Evening
Sunset at Phousi Hill
Climb the 328 steps up Phousi Hill for panoramic sunset views over
Luang Prabang and the surrounding rivers and mountains, then enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Luang Prabang Old Town (Same accommodation)
Continuing to stay centrally for easy temple access and atmospheric evening walks
If observing alms-giving, purchase offerings from local vendors (not tour operators), dress modestly, maintain distance, don't use flash photography, and never touch the monks
Day 5 Budget: $50-70
Escape to nature with visits to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall and the bear rescue center, with a stop at a local village.
Morning
Kuang Si Waterfall and Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre
Depart early for Kuang Si Waterfall, located 29km from town. Stop first at the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, Free the Bears, to learn about Asiatic black bear conservation and see rescued bears in natural enclosures. Then explore the magnificent turquoise cascades of Kuang Si. Swim in the refreshing pools, hike to the top of the falls for different perspectives, and photograph the stunning multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by jungle.
4-5 hours
$15-20 (transport, entry fees)
Arrive early to beat crowds and enjoy the pools before they get busy
Lunch
Simple food stalls at Kuang Si Waterfall area
Lao snacks and basic meals
Budget
Afternoon
Village visit and Tat Sae Waterfalls
On the return journey, visit a local village to observe traditional crafts. If time permits, detour to Tat Sae Waterfalls, a beautiful series of cascades accessible by boat across the Nam Khan River. Less crowded than Kuang Si, Tat Sae offers a peaceful setting with pools suitable for swimming and rope swings for the adventurous. The setting is particularly lovely in the rainy season.
2-3 hours
$5-8 (entry and boat)
Evening
Relaxed evening in Old Town
After an active day, enjoy a massage at a traditional spa, then have a quiet dinner at a restaurant specializing in organic Lao cuisine
Bring swimwear, towel, and waterproof bag for valuables to Kuang Si - changing facilities are basic but functional
Day 6 Budget: $55-75
Discover traditional crafts across the river and explore lesser-known temples before preparing for your journey south.
Morning
Cross-river villages and Wat Wisunarat
Take a boat across the Mekong to visit traditional craft villages. Explore weaving communities where you can watch artisans create textiles using traditional looms. Return to the Old Town and visit Wat Wisunarat,
Luang Prabang's oldest temple with its distinctive watermelon-shaped stupa and collection of antique Buddha images. The temple's architecture differs from others in town, offering unique photographic opportunities.
3-4 hours
$5-8 (boat and entry)
Lunch
A cafe with Mekong views serving fresh salads and sandwiches
Western-Lao fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
UXO Lao Visitor Center and final Old Town exploration
Visit the UXO Lao Visitor Center to gain deeper understanding of the unexploded ordnance issue affecting Laos and clearance efforts. The small but impactful exhibition complements what you learned at COPE in
Vientiane. Spend remaining time shopping for handicrafts, visiting any temples you missed, or simply relaxing at a riverside cafe watching life along the Mekong.
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Evening
Celebrate your time in this magical town with a special dinner at an upscale restaurant in a beautifully restored colonial building, perhaps with traditional music
Ban Xang Hai village across the river is known for rice wine production - visit Ban Xang Hai - café area to taste local rice whiskey (lao lao) responsibly
Day 7 Budget: $60-80
Travel south through stunning mountain scenery toward one of Laos's most spectacular natural wonders in the Phu Hin Bun National Park.
Morning
Travel toward Kong Lor Cave
Begin the journey south toward Kong Lor Cave area, approximately 8-9 hours by road. The route passes through dramatic limestone karst landscapes and traditional villages. This is a long travel day but the scenery is spectacular. Consider hiring a private vehicle or joining a tour to make stops at viewpoints and villages along the way, making the journey part of the adventure.
8-9 hours
$40-80 (depending on transport type)
Book transport through your guesthouse or tour operator in advance; private vehicles offer flexibility for stops
Lunch
Roadside restaurant in a small town along the route
Simple Lao dishes
Budget
Afternoon
Arrive and settle in Kong Lor area
Arrive in the late afternoon at the small village near Kong Lor Cave. Check into your accommodation and relax after the long journey. Take a short walk around the village to meet locals and enjoy the peaceful rural setting surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. The area is remote and authentic, offering a glimpse into traditional Lao village life.
2 hours
Free
Evening
Village dinner and early rest
Dine at your guesthouse or a simple village restaurant serving home-cooked Lao food, then rest early in preparation for tomorrow's cave adventure
Where to Stay Tonight
Kong Lor village area (Simple guesthouse or eco-lodge)
Staying near the cave allows early morning access and supports the local community in this remote area
Accommodation near Kong Lor is basic but clean - embrace the simplicity and enjoy the incredible stargazing in this remote location with minimal light pollution
Day 8 Budget: $50-90
Experience the awe-inspiring Kong Lor Cave, one of
Southeast Asia's most impressive cave systems, with a full day of exploration.
Morning
Kong Lor Cave exploration
Enter Kong Lor Cave, a spectacular 7.5km limestone cave carved by the Hinboun River. Board a traditional long-tail boat with headlamps and journey through the mountain. The cave features massive chambers up to 90 meters high, stunning rock formations, and complete darkness interrupted only by your lights. The boat journey through the cave takes about 1.5 hours one way. On the far side, explore a small village before returning through the cave.
4-5 hours
$12-18 (boat, guide, entry)
Go early morning for the best light at the cave entrance and fewer crowds
Lunch
Simple restaurant at the cave entrance or packed lunch
Basic Lao meals
Budget
Afternoon
Countryside exploration and village activities
Explore the surrounding countryside by bicycle or on foot. Visit nearby villages to observe traditional farming, rice cultivation, and daily rural life. Some guesthouses can arrange village homestay experiences or cooking classes. The dramatic karst landscape provides beautiful scenery for walking or cycling, with opportunities to swim in the river or simply relax in this peaceful setting.
3-4 hours
$5-10 (bicycle rental if needed)
Evening
Sunset and traditional dinner
Watch the sunset over the karst mountains from your guesthouse, then enjoy a traditional Lao dinner with locally sourced ingredients
Where to Stay Tonight
Kong Lor village area (Same accommodation)
Another night in this peaceful area before continuing south
Bring a waterproof bag for cameras and valuables - you will get wet from splash in the boat, and the cave is humid
Day 9 Budget: $45-65
Travel south to the historic town of Champasak, gateway to the ancient Khmer temple ruins of Vat Phou.
Morning
Travel to Champasak
Depart Kong Lor for the long journey south to Champasak, approximately 7-8 hours. The route takes you through changing landscapes from karst mountains to the broader Mekong River valley. Break the journey with stops at local markets and viewpoints. Alternatively, some travelers fly from
Luang Prabang to Pakse and drive 40 minutes to Champasak, though this requires backtracking.
7-8 hours
$30-60 (depending on transport)
This journey is challenging - consider breaking it into two days or arranging private transport for comfort
Lunch
Roadside stop in a market town
Lao noodles and snacks
Budget
Afternoon
Arrive in Champasak and riverside relaxation
Arrive in the sleepy riverside town of Champasak in the late afternoon. Check into your accommodation and unwind after the journey. Take a leisurely walk along the
Mekong riverfront, watching the sunset and observing local life. Champasak retains a quiet, colonial-era charm with French-style buildings and a very relaxed pace. Rent a bicycle to explore the compact town.
2-3 hours
Free
Evening
Riverside dinner
Dine at a guesthouse restaurant with Mekong views, enjoying fresh river fish and cold Beer Lao while watching boats pass by
Where to Stay Tonight
Champasak town center near the river (Riverside guesthouse or small hotel)
Champasak's riverside location is charming and provides easy access to Vat Phou tomorrow
Champasak is very small and quiet - embrace the slow pace and use it as a chance to recover from travel days
Day 10 Budget: $45-75
Explore the magnificent pre-Angkorian temple complex of Vat Phou and discover the surrounding countryside.
Morning
Vat Phou temple complex
Visit Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of
Southeast Asia's most atmospheric temple ruins. This Khmer temple complex predates Angkor Wat and sits dramatically at the base of Phu Kao mountain. Explore the lower pavilions, climb the steep stairs to the upper sanctuary with panoramic views, and discover ancient carvings and lingas. The setting, with mountain backdrop and Mekong plains below, is breathtaking. Early morning offers the best light and fewer crowds.
3-4 hours
$5-7 (entry fee)
Lunch
Restaurant near Vat Phou or return to Champasak
Lao cuisine
Budget
Afternoon
Countryside cycling and village exploration
Cycle through the beautiful countryside surrounding Champasak, passing rice paddies, traditional villages, and ancient temple ruins. Visit local weaving villages where women create traditional textiles. The flat terrain is perfect for cycling, and the rural scenery provides insight into agricultural life in southern Laos. Alternatively, arrange a boat trip to explore the Mekong islands and fishing communities.
3-4 hours
$3-5 (bicycle rental)
Evening
Sunset boat trip and dinner
Take a sunset boat ride on the Mekong, then enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant specializing in southern Lao cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Champasak riverside (Same accommodation)
Final night in peaceful Champasak before heading to the Bolaven Plateau
Vat Phou gets very hot midday - visit early morning, bring sun protection, water, and wear shoes suitable for climbing steep ancient stairs
Day 11 Budget: $40-60
Journey to the coffee-growing Bolaven Plateau to discover spectacular waterfalls and cool mountain air.
Morning
Travel to Bolaven Plateau and Tad Fane Waterfall
Travel to the Bolaven Plateau, a highland region known for coffee plantations and dramatic waterfalls. Visit Tad Fane Waterfall, where twin streams plunge 120 meters into a deep gorge surrounded by lush jungle. The viewpoint offers spectacular vistas, and the cooler mountain climate is refreshing. Learn about coffee cultivation at nearby plantations and sample some of Laos's excellent coffee.
4-5 hours including travel
$15-25 (transport and entry)
Hiring a motorbike or joining a tour gives flexibility to visit multiple waterfalls
Lunch
Coffee plantation cafe with views
Light meals and excellent coffee
Mid-range
Afternoon
Additional waterfalls exploration
Continue exploring the Bolaven Plateau's waterfalls. The region has numerous cascades, each with unique character. Visit swimming-friendly waterfalls where you can cool off in the pools. The plateau's ethnic minority villages offer cultural insights, and the cooler climate and scenic landscapes make for pleasant exploration. Coffee plantations welcome visitors to learn about production from bean to cup.
3-4 hours
$5-10 (entry fees)
Evening
Settle in Pakse
Head to Pakse city for the night, check into accommodation, and enjoy dinner at a restaurant in this bustling southern hub
Where to Stay Tonight
Pakse city center (Mid-range hotel)
Pakse serves as a convenient base with better accommodation options and easy access to the Bolaven Plateau
The Bolaven Plateau can be rainy even in dry season - bring a light rain jacket, and waterfalls are most impressive during or just after rainy season
Day 12 Budget: $50-70
Travel to the laid-back river islands of Si Phan Don, where the Mekong spreads into a maze of channels and islands.
Morning
Journey to Don Det or Don Khon
Travel south from Pakse to the Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands) region where the Mekong River spreads into a vast archipelago. Take a boat to Don Det or Don Khon, the main islands for travelers. These car-free islands offer ultimate relaxation with riverside bungalows, hammocks, and stunning sunsets. Settle into your accommodation and begin exploring by bicycle the quiet paths through villages and rice paddies.
3-4 hours including travel
$10-15 (transport and boat)
Lunch
Island restaurant with river views
Lao and backpacker-friendly Western dishes
Budget
Afternoon
Island exploration and waterfall visit
Cycle across the old French railway bridge connecting Don Det and Don Khon islands. Explore the islands' interior, visiting traditional fishing villages and observing local life. If time permits, visit the Li Phi Waterfall (Somphamit) on Don Khon, where the Mekong crashes through rocky channels. The area is also known for rare Irrawaddy dolphin sightings, though populations are critically low.
3-4 hours
$5-8 (bicycle and entry fees)
Evening
Sunset watching and island dinner
Find a riverside spot to watch the spectacular Mekong sunset, then enjoy fresh fish and Beer Lao at a laid-back island restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Don Det or Don Khon island (Riverside bungalow or guesthouse)
Staying on the islands provides the full experience of this unique river archipelago and its relaxed atmosphere
The islands are extremely laid-back - there are no ATMs, limited electricity hours, and basic facilities, so bring enough cash and embrace the simplicity
Day 13 Budget: $30-50
Enjoy a final morning in the islands before returning to Pakse for your departure from southern Laos.
Morning
Sunrise and final island exploration
Wake early for sunrise over the Mekong, watching fishermen check their nets and the islands come to life. Take a final bicycle ride or simply relax in a hammock with a book. If you haven't yet, attempt to spot Irrawaddy dolphins on an early morning boat trip, though sightings are not guaranteed. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere one last time before departing.
2-3 hours
$5-15 (optional dolphin tour)
Lunch
Final island meal at your favorite riverside spot
Lao cuisine
Budget
Afternoon
Return to Pakse and departure preparations
Take the boat back to the mainland and travel to Pakse. Depending on your departure time, you may have time for last-minute shopping at the Pakse market, visiting the Lao Art Museum if you missed it, or simply relaxing at a cafe. Prepare for your onward journey, whether flying out of Pakse, continuing to Cambodia, or returning to
Vientiane.
3-4 hours
$10-15 (transport)
Evening
Departure or overnight in Pakse
Depending on flight times, either depart from Pakse International Airport or stay overnight in Pakse for an early morning departure tomorrow
Where to Stay Tonight
Pakse or in transit (Hotel near airport if needed)
Convenient for departure logistics
If flying internationally from Pakse, arrive at the small airport just 1.5 hours before departure - it's efficient and rarely crowded
Day 14 Budget: $40-60