Things to Do in Laos

Hiking

Trekking

Laos is a fantastic destination for hikers. With stunning landscapes, enriching encounters with local communities, and routes suited to just about everyone—including off the beaten track—there’s plenty to enjoy.

For discovering villages and local cultures, head to Luang Namtha. This small town on the border with China and Myanmar is well-known for this. You’ll usually set off with a guide for a few hours or several days to explore nature and meet the people.

Other spots around the country are also renowned. Whether it’s Bolaven Plateau, near Pakse, for waterfalls, Vang Vieng for its karst formations and caves, Phongsali, also called the "Tibet of Laos" for its mountainous landscapes and strong local cultures, or the area around Luang Prabang, which also offers some great hikes. In short, plenty of great options...

Cycling

While cycling is practical in cities and tourist sites, those looking for more "substantial" mountain biking will find opportunities. Some of the same regions where you can hike—like Vang Vieng (the best), the area around Luang Prabang, and the Bolaven Plateau—also offer great cycling. Another unique destination for biking is the 4,000 Islands, a region along the Thai border where the Mekong flows. Here, you ride between islands, rice fields, remnants of the French railway, and waterfalls. It’s beautiful, peaceful, and flat enough for everyone.

Outdoor and Adventure Activities

Swimming and Water Activities

Since Laos has no coastline, swimming happens in waterfalls or even in the Mekong around the 4,000 Islands. Then there’s Vang Vieng, the go-to spot for young travellers, mixing (often excessive) parties with outdoor activities, including water-based ones. In designated areas along its river, you can go tubing down the current on a large inner tube, kayaking, zip-lining over the water, or simply swimming in turquoise lagoons set up for the occasion.

Other Activities

Most of these take place in Vang Vieng, with hot-air ballooning, paramotoring, rock climbing on the surrounding cliffs, and a few other activities.

Cultural Life and Activities

While not intense, cultural life in Laos revolves around discovering its many temples with stunning architecture, several Khmer sites, and a few museums that recount the country’s history. Then there are the festivals and events that mark the rhythm of local life. And of course, it’s by meeting the people that you’ll truly experience the diverse cultures and traditions of one of the region’s most endearing countries.

Nightlife and Going Out

As expected, Vang Vieng is the place to be for nightlife, with its reputation for lively—sometimes even wild—parties...