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The Perfect Week in Laos

From Ancient Temples to Turquoise Waterfalls

Trip Overview

This seven-day journey through Laos takes you from the spiritual heart of Luang Prabang to the vibrant capital of Vientiane, with a scenic detour through Vang Vieng's dramatic karst landscapes. Experience the country's rich Buddhist heritage at golden temples, witness the serene alms-giving ceremony, swim in pristine waterfalls, and explore mysterious caves. You'll discover traditional crafts, learn about Laos's recent history, and savor authentic Lao cuisine. The itinerary balances cultural immersion with natural wonders, allowing time to absorb the relaxed pace of life that makes Laos so enchanting. Perfect for travelers seeking authenticity without the crowds, this route covers the essential highlights while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries and genuine connections with local communities.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$50-80 per day
Best Seasons
November to February (cool and dry season)
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Laos, Culture and history enthusiasts, Nature lovers, Photographers, Solo travelers and couples

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Sacred Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang
Arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang and begin exploring its magnificent temples and colonial architecture.
Morning
Arrival and Wat Xiengthong
After settling into your accommodation, visit Wat Xiengthong, the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang. Built in 1560, this masterpiece of Lao architecture features sweeping roofs that nearly touch the ground, intricate gold stenciling, and stunning mosaics depicting the tree of life. Explore the various chapels and admire the royal funeral carriage housed on the grounds.
2 hours $2
Lunch
A traditional Lao restaurant near the temple district serving laap and sticky rice
Lao Budget
Afternoon
Royal Palace & National Museum and Phousi Hill
Explore the former Royal Palace, now a museum showcasing royal artifacts, traditional costumes, and the sacred Phra Bang Buddha. Then climb the 328 steps up Phousi Hill for panoramic views of the town and the Mekong River. The ascent takes you past small shrines and offers increasingly impressive vistas as you climb higher.
3 hours $5
The museum closes at 4 PM, so arrive by 2 PM
Evening
Luang Prabang Night Market and dinner
Browse the night market for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, then dine at a riverside restaurant with views of the Mekong

Where to Stay Tonight

Old Town Luang Prabang (Traditional guesthouse or boutique hotel)

Staying in the Old Town puts you within walking distance of temples and the night market, perfect for the early morning alms ceremony

Set your alarm for 5:30 AM tomorrow to witness the alms-giving ceremony. Dress modestly and observe respectfully from a distance.
Day 1 Budget: $60-75
2

Waterfalls & Wildlife Rescue

Luang Prabang
Experience the dawn alms ceremony, then escape to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall and visit rescued bears at a conservation center.
Morning
Alms Ceremony and Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre
Wake before dawn to witness hundreds of saffron-robed monks collecting alms from devotees in a centuries-old ritual. After breakfast, visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre to understand Laos's diverse ethnic groups through traditional costumes, tools, and artifacts. The museum provides essential context for understanding Lao culture beyond the lowland Lao majority.
3 hours $3
Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the waterfalls, or eat at a simple restaurant near Kuang Si
Lao/International Budget
Afternoon
Kuang Si Waterfall and Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre
Visit the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfall, where turquoise pools cascade through the jungle. Swim in the designated areas, hike to the top of the falls for different perspectives, and cool off in the refreshing water. Stop first at the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre to see Asiatic black bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, learning about conservation efforts in Laos.
4-5 hours $15 (including transport)
Arrange transport through your guesthouse or join a shared minivan to save money
Evening
Dinner and relaxation
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Old Town serving Lao fusion cuisine, then stroll along the Mekong riverfront

Where to Stay Tonight

Old Town Luang Prabang (Same accommodation as Day 1)

Staying put allows you to settle in and enjoy evening walks through the familiar streets

Bring a swimsuit and towel for the waterfalls. Arrive early (8-9 AM) to beat the crowds and have the pools mostly to yourself.
Day 2 Budget: $55-70
3

Hidden Waterfalls & Cultural Textiles

Luang Prabang
Discover a quieter waterfall, delve into Laos's rich textile traditions, and explore more historic temples.
Morning
Tat Sae Waterfalls
Take a short tuk-tuk ride followed by a boat across the Nam Khan River to reach Tat Sae Waterfalls. This multi-tiered cascade is less crowded than Kuang Si and offers a more intimate experience. The limestone formations create natural infinity pools perfect for swimming. During the dry season, you can walk between different levels and find your own private swimming spot among the cascades.
3-4 hours $12 (including transport and boat)
Best visited during wet season (July-November) when water flow is strongest
Lunch
A garden café in the Old Town serving healthy salads and sandwiches
International/Lao Mid-range
Afternoon
Lao Textile Museum and Wat Wisunarat
Visit the Lao Textile Museum housed in a beautiful colonial building to learn about traditional weaving techniques and the cultural significance of different patterns. Watch weavers at work and browse the gallery shop. Then walk to Wat Wisunarat, the oldest continuously operating temple in Luang Prabang, featuring a distinctive watermelon-shaped stupa and collection of ancient wooden Buddhas.
2-3 hours $5
Evening
Cooking class or free evening
Join an evening cooking class to learn Lao dishes, or enjoy a quiet dinner and early night before tomorrow's journey

Where to Stay Tonight

Old Town Luang Prabang (Same accommodation as previous nights)

Final night in Luang Prabang before heading south tomorrow

The Lao Textile Museum offers high-quality textiles in their shop - more expensive than the night market but authentic and supporting local artisans.
Day 3 Budget: $60-80
4

Journey to Karst Country

Vang Vieng
Travel south through stunning mountain scenery to the adventure town of Vang Vieng, surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks.
Morning
Travel to Vang Vieng
Depart Luang Prabang on a scenic bus journey south to Vang Vieng. The route winds through mountains and valleys, offering spectacular views of rural Laos. The improved road makes this a comfortable journey, typically taking around four hours. Watch the landscape transform from lush mountains to the dramatic karst formations that surround Vang Vieng. Arrive by early afternoon and settle into your accommodation.
4-5 hours $10-15
Book bus tickets a day in advance through your guesthouse
Lunch
Stop at a roadside restaurant during the bus journey, or eat upon arrival in Vang Vieng
Lao Budget
Afternoon
Blue Lagoon 3 and Tham Chang
Visit Blue Lagoon 3, a natural swimming hole with rope swings and a relaxed atmosphere away from the more touristy lagoons. The crystal-clear water is perfect for cooling off after your journey. Then explore Tham Chang, a cave overlooking the Nam Song River with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Climb to the cave entrance for panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape.
3-4 hours $8 (including transport)
Evening
Riverside dinner and sunset
Dine at a riverside restaurant with views of the karst peaks turning golden at sunset, then explore the compact town center

Where to Stay Tonight

Vang Vieng town center (Guesthouse or small hotel near the river)

Central location provides easy access to restaurants and tour booking offices for activities

Rent a bicycle or scooter for tomorrow - it's the best way to explore the countryside at your own pace.
Day 4 Budget: $50-65
5

Caves & Countryside Exploration

Vang Vieng
Explore mysterious caves, float down the river, and cycle through rice paddies beneath towering limestone cliffs.
Morning
Tham Chang and countryside cycling
Rent a bicycle and pedal through the stunning countryside surrounding Vang Vieng. Follow dirt roads through rice paddies, cross bamboo bridges, and stop at small villages. Visit additional caves along the route, some requiring headlamps to explore. The flat terrain and incredible scenery make this one of Southeast Asia's most scenic cycling routes, with karst peaks rising dramatically from the plains.
3-4 hours $5 (bike rental)
Lunch
A simple restaurant in a village along your cycling route serving noodle soup and fried rice
Lao Budget
Afternoon
Tubing or kayaking on Nam Song River
Float down the Nam Song River by tube or kayak, enjoying the stunning karst scenery from the water. The current is gentle and the experience is now more relaxed than its former party reputation. Stop at riverside spots to swim, relax, or grab refreshments. The journey downstream takes about two to three hours depending on water levels and how often you stop.
2-3 hours $8
Start by 2 PM to ensure you finish before dark
Evening
Farewell dinner in Vang Vieng
Enjoy a final meal at a restaurant with river views, sampling Lao specialties like orlam stew or mok pa steamed fish

Where to Stay Tonight

Vang Vieng town center (Same accommodation as previous night)

Convenient for early departure to Vientiane tomorrow

Bring waterproof bags for valuables during tubing, and wear shoes that can get wet - flip-flops are not ideal.
Day 5 Budget: $45-60
6

Capital City Culture

Vientiane
Travel to Vientiane and explore the capital's golden stupas, French colonial architecture, and sobering war history.
Morning
Travel to Vientiane and COPE Visitor Centre
Take a morning bus to Vientiane, arriving by midday. After checking in, visit the COPE Visitor Centre to learn about unexploded ordnance left from the Secret War and the organization's work providing prosthetics and mobility devices to survivors. The powerful exhibits provide crucial context for understanding modern Laos and the legacy of conflict. This moving experience is essential for responsible travelers.
4 hours total (3 hours travel, 1 hour museum) $12 (bus and donation)
Lunch
A French-Lao bistro in the city center serving baguette sandwiches and coffee
French-Lao fusion Mid-range
Afternoon
Pha That Luang and Patuxai
Visit Pha That Luang, the golden stupa that's Laos's most important national monument and symbol of Buddhist faith. The gleaming gold-covered structure dates to the 16th century and is especially photogenic in afternoon light. Then head to Patuxai, Vientiane's Arc de Triomphe-inspired monument. Climb to the top for city views and appreciate the Lao decorative elements that distinguish it from its Parisian inspiration.
2-3 hours $5
Evening
Mekong riverside promenade and night market
Stroll along the Mekong at sunset, then browse the night market for handicrafts and street food along the riverfront

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Vientiane near the Mekong (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse)

Central location allows easy exploration of the compact city on foot

Visit Pha That Luang during the late afternoon for the best light for photography and fewer tour groups.
Day 6 Budget: $55-70
7

Temples, Parks & Departure

Vientiane
Explore Vientiane's remaining highlights including mysterious stupas, riverside parks, and unique Buddha parks before departure.
Morning
Buddha Park and riverside
Take a local bus to Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khouane Luang), a fascinating sculpture park filled with over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues created by a mystic shaman-priest. The surreal concrete creations include a giant reclining Buddha and a three-story structure representing hell, earth, and heaven. The quirky park offers unique photo opportunities and insight into the syncretic religious traditions of the region.
3 hours $5 (including bus)
Lunch
A riverside restaurant near Chao Anouvong Park serving Lao and Thai dishes
Lao/Thai Budget
Afternoon
Chao Anouvong Park, That Dam Stupa, and final exploring
Relax in Chao Anouvong Park along the Mekong, watching locals exercise and socialize. Visit the mysterious That Dam Stupa, a crumbling black stupa in the city center said to be inhabited by a seven-headed dragon. Spend remaining time visiting Wat Si Muang Temple, the city's most popular temple where locals come to pray and make offerings, or browsing shops for last-minute souvenirs.
2-3 hours $2
Evening
Departure preparations or farewell dinner
Enjoy a final Lao meal at an upscale restaurant, or head to the airport for evening flights

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

Most travelers depart in the evening or continue their Southeast Asia journey

Keep some kip for the airport - the exchange rate there is poor, so only change money if absolutely necessary.
Day 7 Budget: $50-65

Practical Information

Getting Around

Domestic travel between cities uses comfortable buses or minivans, bookable through guesthouses. In Luang Prabang and Vientiane, walking covers most attractions, with tuk-tuks available for longer distances. Vang Vieng is best explored by bicycle or scooter. Shared songthaews (converted trucks) and local buses serve outlying attractions. Download offline maps as GPS works well. For Kuang Si and other day trips, shared minivans offer the best value. Always confirm prices before boarding tuk-tuks.

Book Ahead

Book accommodation during peak season (November-February) at least 2-3 weeks ahead, especially in Luang Prabang. Bus tickets can usually be purchased 1-2 days in advance. No advance booking needed for most attractions, though cooking classes and some tours fill up. International flights should be booked well in advance for best prices.

Packing Essentials

Modest clothing for temples (covering shoulders and knees), comfortable walking shoes, swimsuit and quick-dry towel, headlamp for caves, sunscreen and hat, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, light rain jacket (even in dry season), small daypack, photocopies of passport

Total Budget

$385-485 for 7 days (excluding international flights)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in dorm rooms at hostels ($5-8/night), eat exclusively at local markets and street stalls ($2-4/meal), take local buses instead of tourist minivans, skip entrance fees for museums and stick to free temples, rent bicycles instead of hiring transport, and book everything directly rather than through tour agencies. Total budget can drop to $30-40/day with these adjustments while still experiencing the highlights.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at heritage boutique hotels and riverside resorts ($80-150/night), hire private drivers and guides for personalized experiences, take scenic flights instead of buses, book spa treatments and massage sessions, dine at upscale restaurants featuring refined Lao cuisine, arrange private boat trips on the Mekong, and include wine tastings at Vang Vieng vineyards. Add overnight stays at eco-lodges near Kong Lor Cave or Bolaven Plateau. Budget $200-300/day.

Family-Friendly

Reduce travel days by flying between cities instead of taking buses. Focus on interactive activities like elephant sanctuaries (ethical ones only), waterfall swimming, and cave exploration. Skip the COPE Centre with young children. Stay in family rooms or bungalows with pools. Choose restaurants with varied menus including familiar options. Add extra rest time and reduce daily activities. The Gibbon Experience near Huay Xai offers an unforgettable zipline and treehouse adventure for families with older children.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Laos

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Laos

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Laos

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Laos

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Laos

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