Day 1: Arrive in Vientiane
Start your adventure in the laid-back capital of Laos: Vientiane. It’s small for a capital city, so you’ll get to explore at a slow pace. Spend your first day getting settled and walking along the Mekong Riverfront. Check out some markets and try your first bowl of Laotian noodle soup, “feu”. It’s the perfect introduction to all the delicious food to come.
Don’t miss the Patuxai Monument. It’s nicknamed the “Arc de Triomphe of Laos” and offers decent views across the city. It’s a great spot to take in the city with a bit of 1960s architecture.
Day 2: Explore Vientiane’s Cultural Highlights
Today, visit some of the must-see temples. Start with Wat Si Saket, one of the oldest temples, famous for its thousands of Buddha statues lining the walls. Then, head to Pha That Luang, the most important Buddhist stupa in Laos. It’s a symbol of both the religion and Lao sovereignty.
In the evening, grab dinner at COCO Mero or explore one of the casual street food stalls near the night market. The food here is full of local flavor, and you’ll find sweet treats alongside savory delights.
Day 3: Head to Vang Vieng
Today, you’ll leave the capital and head north to Vang Vieng. This former backpacker party town has chilled out over the years but still offers plenty of fun for outdoor lovers. The drive takes about 4-5 hours depending on road conditions so take in the beautiful scenery along the way.
Day 4: Adventure in Vang Vieng
Get ready for a day full of outdoor activities. Start with a morning of tubing or kayaking down the Nam Song River. It’s a relaxing way to see the dramatic karst mountains around you. Next, rent a scooter or mountain bike and explore nearby caves, like Tham Nam (Water Cave), where you can float inside on an inner tube.
In the late afternoon, hike up to the top of Pha Ngern Viewpoint for sunset. The view from the top is a stunning panorama of the whole region.
Day 5: Relax and Swim in the Blue Lagoon
Spend the morning chilling at Blue Lagoon, a must-see when visiting Vang Vieng. There are several lagoons to visit, but Blue Lagoon 3 tends to be less crowded. Swim, relax, and swing into the crystal-clear waters from the trees.
After lunch, you can take things slow today. Wander through the small town streets, grab a coffee in one of the riverside cafes, and watch the sunset behind the mountains.
Day 6: Travel to Luang Prabang
Time to leave Vang Vieng and head to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage City known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture and Buddhist temples. Depending on your travel choice (bus or van), it will take around 5-6 hours.
Once you arrive and get settled, take a quiet stroll through the town and maybe catch sunset at Mount Phousi. You’ll end the day with sweeping views over the town and the Mekong River.
Day 7: Explore Luang Prabang’s Temples and Markets
Start your day with a visit to Royal Palace Museum, a low-key but interesting palace offering a glimpse of the past. Then visit some of the key temples like Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important monasteries in all of Laos.
As the day cools down, visit the night market. Luang Prabang’s night market is one of the best in Laos. Here, you’ll find everything from handicrafts to spicy grilled meats.
Day 8: Trip to Kuang Si Waterfall
Today is all about Kuang Si Waterfall. This famous waterfall is about 45 minutes outside of Luang Prabang. There’s an easy trail leading to some incredible turquoise pools where you can swim and relax. The tiers of water are picture-perfect and a refresher after the Laotian heat.
In the same area, you’ll find a bear rescue center where you can watch the rescued animals in a natural setting.
Day 9: Almsgiving Ceremony and Slow Day in Luang Prabang
Wake up early for Luang Prabang’s almsgiving ceremony. This is a centuries-old tradition where monks walk the silent morning streets to collect food. Be respectful and observe quietly from a distance unless you’re fully prepared to participate.
The rest of the day is free to do as you wish: maybe a cooking class or simply some downtime in the many cafes along the river. Rest up and breathe in the tranquil vibes of the town.
Day 10: Head to Nong Khiaw
Today, head out to Nong Khiaw, which is further north. This little riverside village is set in one of the most beautiful places in Laos. The drive takes around 3-4 hours, and you’ll want to stop often for pictures of the lush cliffs and endless greenery.
Spend your afternoon checking out the town and relaxing at a bungalow by the river.
Day 11: Explore Nong Khiaw’s Caves and Villages
Take a morning hike to Tham Pha Thok, a historical cave where villagers would hide during the war. There’s a fascinating backstory here about how the locals used the caves as shelters. Then, visit some of the ethnic villages spread along the riverbanks; you can get there by hiring a boat or booking a tour with a guide who can explain more about village life.
Day 12: Hike to Pha Daeng Peak
This is the perfect day for hiking: set off early for Pha Daeng Peak. It’s one of the best hikes around, offering jaw-dropping views over the limestone mountains and the river below. The trek is challenging but worth it for the panoramic vistas.
By the time you get back, you’ll likely just want to rest up and relax at one of the chilled out riverfront cafes.
Day 13: Travel Back to Luang Prabang
In the morning, make your way back to Luang Prabang. Once you’re settled back in town, you can take it easy. Maybe do some last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite food stand at the night market. The slow pace of Luang Prabang is a great way to wind down before the trip home.
Day 14: Depart from Luang Prabang
Your two weeks in Laos has come to an end. If you have a bit of time before your flight, consider one last cafe stop along the Mekong.
Soak in the peaceful vibes and say goodbye to this beautiful country. Laos has a way of slowing everything down and making you appreciate life a little more.
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