Guest post by: @thatwanderlustboho
Laos, a landlocked country filled with incredible mountains surrounded by stunning mist, famed for its spectacular waterfalls and natural scenery, a place packed with adventure.
Laos is the perfect place for backpackers wanting to explore. Check out the best things to do in this guide!
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Where to stay in Laos
We have grouped together the best Hostels in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng: powered by Hostelworld!
Vientiane:
| Hostel | Note | Rating | Price (USD) | |
| Petit Espace | New hostel, good reviews | 9.2/10 | from $10 | Book now |
| Lao Lao Hostel | New hostel | – | from $10 | Book now |
| Dream Home Hostel | over 2500 reviews | 8.5/10 | from $7 | Book now |
Luang Prabang:
| Hostel | Note | Rating | Price (USD) | |
| City Central Hostel | Perfect location | 9.2/10 | from $10 | Book now |
| Mad Monkey | Pool, Party hostel | 9.3/10 | from $7 | Book now |
| Riverside Pool Hostel | Pool & free breakfast | 8.5/10 | from $7 | Book now |
Vang Vieng:
| Hostel | Note | Rating | Price (USD) | |
| Nana Backpackers Hostel | Best Party Hostel in town | 9.2/10 | from $5 | Book now |
| Rock Backpackers Hostel | Free breakfast | 8.7/10 | from $5 | Book now |
| Easy Go Hostel | Great view! | 8.5/10 | from $5 | Book now |
How to get around in Laos
Getting around Laos is relatively easy. Many things are within walking distance but hiring a scooter is so cheap to get around you should take advantage.
Enjoy the winding roads and stunning scenery while you travel to your destination.
Scooter rental for 1 day costs- 80,000- 100,000 Kip ($9-11 USD)
5 Best things to do in Laos
So here we are, find the 5 things you cannot miss in Laos
1 – Kuang Si Falls
One of the top things to do in Luang Prabang is Kuang Si falls. Head here for the day and explore this natural wonder.
Kuang Si waterfalls are situated 45 minutes from Luang Prabang Centre. Head there by scooter for a mini morning adventure as you drive along the winding road passing through villages and beautiful scenery.
INFORMATION:
Entrance fee- 20,000 Kip ($2.50 USD)
Opening time- 8am-5:30pm
LOCATION:
2 – Mount Phousi
A mountain in the middle of a small city and only a 10-minute walk from most accommodations. Mount Phousi is a religious mountain with temples at the top. Tourists head here for sunset and it’s not hard to see why: the view is breathtaking.
Go here for sunrise to enjoy the view in peace without the crowds.
INFORMATION:
Entrance fee- 20,000 Kip ($2.50 USD)
Opening times- 5:30am-6pm
LOCATION:
3 – Cave Exploring
Something Laos isn’t short on is caves. There are many caves to explore but Jang Cave is one of the most popular. A staircase leading into the mountain, as you climb to the top you’ll see the cave entrance. Inside of the cave, the walkways lead you around the cave-like a maze. If it’s a hot day take a dip in the freshwater lagoon at the entrance. It’s very serene & peaceful.
To get here is a short walk from Vang Vieng town and you must cross the orange bridge to enter.
INFORMATION:
Bridge costs- 5,000 Kip ($0.70 USD)
Entrance fee- 20,000 Kip ($2.50 USD)
Opening times- 8am-5pm
LOCATION:
4 – Nam Xay Viewpoint
A stunning 360° view of the valley below, rice fields, lush greenery and magical mist. To get to the top requires a 500m steep hike so wear sensible footwear. Once at the top, the view is mesmerising but you can also chill in the little hut made by the local farmers. Travelling there is an added bonus as the road leading to Nam Xay winds through villages and farmlands. Aim to do this for sunrise and you might catch the odd hot air balloon and fiery sunrise.
INFORMATION:
Entrance fee- 10,000 Kip ($1.20 USD)
LOCATION:
5 – Secret Blue Lagoon
Not many things remain a secret these days but the Blue Lagoons are still pretty unknown to the masses. There are 6 Lagoons in total, 1 being the closest and busiest and 6 being the furthest away and quietest. Here is Blue Lagoon 3, it’s off the beaten track and you can enjoy this place all by yourself if you head there early enough. Enjoy the peaceful scenery, have fun on the zip wire and swing or go explore the nearby caves. This place is not to be missed.
INFORMATION:
Entrance fee- 20,000 Kip ($2.50 USD)
Parking fee- 2,000 Kip ($0.20 USD)
LOCATION:
Author Bio:
Hannah Jean is a content creator & writer travelling with her partner, Max. Together they have travelled through S.E. Asia, Fiji & are now road tripping through Australia.
Hannah is passionate about travelling responsibly & mindfulness. She is intent on inspiring her followers to make mindful travel choices & to live in the moment.
To follow more of Hannah’s adventures check out her:
Website: http://thatwanderlustboho.com/
Instagram: @thatwanderlustboho