The ultimate solo travel guide to Laos: Everything you need to know

More and more travellers are falling for the low-key pleasures of Laos, a ruggedly green and off-radar Southeast Asian gem. Crisscrossed by waterways, with the Mekong River threading its length, the “Land of a Million Elephants” specialises in the serene, offering a solo travel escape steeped in tradition, spirituality and rare natural beauty.

Vientiane is possibly the world’s sleepiest capital with tree-lined boulevards and laidback riverside cafes. To the north, Vang Vieng offers outdoor adventure against a spectacular backdrop of towering karst cliffs. But the jewel in the crown is peaceful Luang Prabang, with its spellbinding array of gilded temples and nearby Kuang Si waterfalls. 

From the dramatic topography of limestone karst mountains and caves, to blue-green rainforest pools, Laos’ wilds are not to be underestimated. Nor is the diverse culture, shaped over centuries by colonialism and neighbours (of which landlocked Laos has five). This is apparent in Luang Prabang’s mix of ornate Buddhist monasteries, traditional wooden structures and European architecture, and in the vibrant, flavoursome Laotian cuisine, with Chinese, Vietnamese and French influences.

Laos is a smart choice for solo travel, particularly if you’re looking for quiet charm and fewer crowds. It might not have the golden beaches and buzzing metropolises of other nearby countries, but herein lies its appeal. Though it has its share of rafting and caving, many solo travellers embark on a group solo trip to Laos for tranquillity and headspace. The more considered pace of life is ever-present in the rural communities, where villagers preserve hands-on arts such as silk weaving and intricate metalwork. Plus, the people of Laos are among the friendliest you’ll meet anywhere in the world.

Like the sound of drifting down the Mekong hoping to spot elephants on its forested banks, or watching saffron-clad monks perform sacred ceremonies in ancient cities? Below, we’ve put together all the must-do highlights and experiences in laid-back Laos. Learn more about group solo travel with Flash Pack.

Laos travel facts

With the 2,700-mile, six-country long Mekong River its lifeline, Laos is a land of verdant rainforest, grasslands and precious wildlife, including elephants, monkeys and riverine species, such as the endangered Mekong giant catfish. Laos’ 17 provinces, meanwhile, are home to 49 ethnic groups and more than 90 native languages. The city of Luang Prabang – one of the country’s three Unesco World Heritage Sites – showcases a remarkable blend of European colonial-era style, Lao architecture and Buddhist ritual.

From Luang Prabang, head east to the second, the Plain of Jars, an enigmatic area of giant stone urns dotted across the countryside, or south to Vang Vieng, the adrenaline sports capital of Laos. Here you can go trekking, caving, rock climbing, white water rafting, tubing and kayaking amid some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. North in the province, the quiet town of Nong Khiaw is surrounded by towering limestone peaks, and the laidback village of Muang Ngoi Neua, is accessible only by boat. The town of Luang Namtha is a top spot for visiting the villages of the Lao ethnic hill tribes. 

South in Champasak is where you’ll find the hilltop ruins of Vat Phou, the greatest Khmer temples outside of Cambodia. Scattered across the Mekong are the sleepy river islands of Si Phan Don, where you can seek out thundering waterfalls and rare Irrawaddy dolphins.

Is Laos good for solo travel?

Unhurried Laos is considerably less-travelled than its neighbouring hot spots of Thailand or Vietnam. It’s a wonderful country for solo travellers, offering a relaxed environment and excellent value for money. Less developed than other southeast Asian countries, travel can be slow but there’s plenty to discover through history, nature and outdoor adventures. It’s a zen-like green slice of Asia where solo travellers can stop and smell the roses (or orchids, rather) surrounded by waterfalls, wildlife and riverside villages. 

Those flying solo in this friendly country can explore age-old cities where intricate temples and sacred spiritual ceremonies endure, try fiery, fragrant Laotian dishes and visit caves housing thousands of stone Buddhas within their limestone walls. Group solo travel with Flash Pack promises an immersive dive into Laos and its charms, put together by local experts. So whether you’re trying your hand at ploughing the rice paddies or gently cruising down the Mekong River at sunset, cocktail in hand, an unforgettable Laotian journey awaits.

Best places to visit in Laos

What should you do on a solo trip to Laos? In a country famed for spiritual, slow-paced charms, Flash Pack’s curated itinerary soaks up some Laotian serenity. Take a leisurely slow boat down the Mekong and watch village life unfold around you; float a while in the pools of the Kuang Si Waterfall; ascend Mount Phousi for sweeping views; and explore the time-honoured royal city of Luang Prabang, with its saffron-clothed monks and ornate temples. With its art deco riverside shophouses, weathered colonial facades and saffron-robed monks strolling between ancient gilded temples, it’s a solid contender for Southeast Asia’s most beautiful city. From visiting the Tham Ting caves and their Buddha statues to cooking up some famously delicious Laotian food, Flash Pack’s laid-back adventure hits the spot.

Where to stay as a solo traveller in Laos

What are the hotels like in Laos? Whether a remote boutique lodge on the banks of the Mekong, or an historic residence nestled in tropical gardens, Laos is home to an emerging raft of accommodation options. Here you’ll find a plethora of beautiful, tranquil spots hosting eco lodges, luxury hotels and stilted bungalows, as well as the more basic overnighters in rural areas. Group solo travel with Flash Pack means you don’t have to shell out on single supplements, as you can room share with your fellow Flashpackers in boutique and unique hotels. Though should you prefer to pay extra for your own room, that’s fine too.

How to get to Laos

Most flights from outside Asia involve a stop in Thailand or Vietnam (there are direct flights from China and Cambodia, too) en-route to Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) or Wattay International Airport (VTE) in the capital, Vientiane. Many travellers like to travel to Laos via bus, boat or train across its land borders with neighbouring countries China, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam. Private air-conditioned buses are the best way to do this, or there are trains from Thailand and China (you can book tickets online). With Flash Pack, you’ll start in Thailand and travel through the famed Golden Triangle region into Laos.

How to get around Laos

Laos’ transport can be famously tough-going but is slowly improving. A high-speed rail line opened in 2021, linking Vientiane and Luang Prabang in as little as two hours, while domestic flights also connect the major cities. Various passenger boats traverse the Mekong River and its offshoots, while roads remain inconsistent, with many in poor condition, especially in the rainy season. Allow yourself plenty of time to get from A to B on your solo travels in Laos, particularly in the mountains. Timetables are notoriously unreliable, resulting in the nickname ‘Lao PDR’ (Please Don’t Rush). 

Between destinations, minibuses, public buses and overnight sleepers operate at a range of prices and comfort levels. Away from the Mekong Valley, songthaews (converted pick-up trucks) are ubiquitous and can be privately hired. Within towns, samlaw (motorised three-wheeled tuk tuks) and bicycles are the most common form of transport for solo travellers. Flash Pack takes the stress off your hands, with all private transfers and scenic river travel arranged in advance.

Best time to visit Laos

Laos has a tropical monsoon climate with a rainy season from May through to October. It’s harder to get around during this time, but the flora bounces back to a vibrant emerald green and the waterfalls are in full cascade. The average summer temperature in Laos is 34C (93F) and the average winter temperature is 28C (82F). The cooler, dryer months between November and February are peak tourist season. Temperatures are pleasant, and the roads are in better condition. 

From March to May, the temperature rises quickly, as does the humidity; however, it also sees the fun of Laos New Year in April. In October, the magical lantern-filled Boun Ork Phansa festival lights up the country. Though with Laos’ spiritual rituals and farming cycles, you’ll find celebrations and festivals somewhere pretty much year-round.

Laos travel itineraries

The towns of Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang form the traditional solo traveller itinerary and can be covered in just over a week. Flash Pack’s trip centres around the peaceful Mekong River, starting with a two-day boat voyage through mountainous, forest-filled landscapes. You’ll stop off at a riverside village, cook local dishes, and explore the limestone Pak Ou caves packed with Buddha statues.

Arriving in Luang Prabang, there’s time enough to wander the markets, gilded temples and intriguing architecture, or climb Mount Phousi for 360-degree vistas. You can try ploughing rice paddies, swim the blue-green pools of the Kuang Si Waterfall and sip cocktails on a sunset cruise. What’s more, Flash Pack’s 10-day adventure also takes in Thailand for full immersion into a slower-paced Southeast Asia.

What to pack for solo travel in Laos

As credit cards are only accepted in larger hotels and restaurants in the cities of Laos, you’ll need cash: local currency is the kip (LAK), though Thai baht and US dollars are often accepted. Make sure your passport doesn’t expire within six months of your trip and that it has at least two blank pages at time of travel. Additionally, you’ll need to show your return ticket. 

Clothes-wise, don’t forget a sunhat and sunscreen as the sun is strong all year round. Bear in mind that shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples and religious sites, and bring swimwear for waterfalls and pools. If you’re travelling in the rainy season, an umbrella or light poncho is better than a raincoat. You’ll need clothing and repellent to reduce mosquito bites, and it’s worth noting that the use of e-cigarettes is illegal.

Solo travel advice for Laos

Solo travel in Laos is a quieter slice of Southeast Asian life. Calming, grounding and suffused with wild beauty, its cities offer gilded temples and ancient monasteries, while rural adventure beckons with stunning caves, lush forested mountain scenery and charming villages on the banks of the Mekong. It’s an excellent choice for solo travellers, with friendly people and delicious local food. Coffee-lovers will also be in heaven – there’s some of the best coffee in Southeast Asia here. Family-style cuisine is based around sticky rice and flavouring from fish sauce, lime juice, chilli and palm sugar.

Visitors love former royal capital Luang Prabang, with the daily alms-giving ceremony at dawn a highlight, as well as vivid night markets and discovering the country’s many cascading waterfalls (and perhaps even spotting an elephant or two). Group travel with Flash Pack gives solo explorers the benefit of local knowledge and all the finer details arranged in advance.

Is it safe to travel solo in Laos?

No trip can be guaranteed trouble-free and it’s always advisable to check out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (for UK solo travellers), the Department of State Travel Advisories (for US solo travellers), or your country’s local government guidelines for the latest advice before travelling. Laos is generally a very safe place to travel. The main religion is Buddhism and locals are kind, gentle and hospitable. Laos has basic healthcare, especially outside the capital, and petty crime is reported in tourist areas, so take sensible precautions, follow official advice and be aware of your surroundings. With Flash Pack, you have the security of group travel with an experienced pack leader, and all accommodation and travel arranged in advance.

Ready for your next adventure? Try group solo travel to Laos with Flash Pack – designed exclusively for people in their 30s and 40s, seeking the independence of solo travel within the safety of a group.

A cool 98% of Flashpackers arrive solo to join our group adventures. So, you’ll be in good company – whether you’re a first-time solo traveller or a seasoned pro looking for like-minded new friends.