If you are wondering what to do in Laos for a week, the key is choosing experiences that match the country’s slow rhythm. Laos rewards travelers who focus on fewer places, deeper cultural moments, and time in nature. This article shows how a smart 7-day plan can blend historic cities, waterfalls, river life, and local villages without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. You will find practical itineraries, destination highlights, travel tips, and planning advice to help you make the most of one meaningful week in Laos.
What to Do in Laos for a Week: Top Places and Experiences
A week in Laos is best spent moving slowly between a handful of carefully chosen places. The destinations and activities below highlight where to go and what to do, helping you balance culture, nature, and local life without overloading your itinerary.
Visit the Temples of Luang Prabang, Laos’ Spiritual Heart
When planning what to do in Laos for a week, visiting the temples of Luang Prabang should be high on your list. As the former royal capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city offers a rare mix of traditional Lao architecture and French colonial charm. Luang Prabang is home to 34 historic temples, and each one reflects the country’s deep spiritual traditions and cultural identity.
Many travelers start at Wat Xieng Thong, known for its mosaics, gilded carvings, and the famous tree of life mural. Wat Mai is another must-see, with its five-tiered roof and gold bas reliefs depicting the Buddha’s past lives.
Early risers can witness the Tak Bat, where monks collect offerings at dawn, creating a peaceful, reflective atmosphere. As the day ends, a climb up Mount Phousi rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Mekong River, jungle hills, and a stunning sunset over the old town.
Practical tips
- Visit temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light.
- Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
- Perform the nop (prayer-like gesture) to greet monks, but avoid touching them; this is strictly forbidden for women. Do not point your feet at Buddha images.
Cruise the Mekong River for Culture and Scenic Landscapes
Cruising the Mekong River is a must-do in Luang Prabang, offering a relaxed, authentic glimpse into Laos. The Mekong stretches 4,350 kilometers through Southeast Asia, and here, it feels timeless, integral to local life.
Many travelers take a 2-hour boat cruise upstream to the Pak Ou Caves, where thousands of wooden Buddha statues are left by pilgrims. En route, the boat often stops at Ban Xang Hai, a village known for Lao Lao rice whiskey, which visitors can taste.
For a full day, pair the cruise with a visit to the Kuang Si Waterfalls, 29 kilometers south of the city. The stunning turquoise pools and 50-60 meter drop make it one of northern Laos’ most beautiful spots. Don’t miss the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre nearby, a worthy stop for animal lovers.
Practical tips
- November to March offers the best weather, calmer water, and vibrant turquoise waterfalls.
- Bring modest clothing for the caves and swimwear for Kuang Si.
- Book a combined caves and waterfalls tour to save time and avoid logistical hassle.
Explore Vientiane’s Key Attractions and Historic Landmarks
Vientiane feels different from most Southeast Asian capitals, and that is exactly the appeal. When travelers look for a calmer stop during a week in Laos, this riverside city delivers history, culture, and a refreshingly slow pace. Life here moves gently along the Mekong, and sightseeing never feels rushed.
Most visits start at the Patuxai Monument, a 50-meter-tall landmark built between 1957 and 1968 to honor Laos’ independence. The 5 towers reflect Buddhist symbolism, and climbing to the top rewards visitors with wide views over the city, especially at sunset.
From there, many travelers head to Buddha Park, located 25 kilometers southeast of town. Created in 1958, the park features more than 200 surreal sculptures, including a 40-meter reclining Buddha and the famous three-level giant pumpkin.
Back in the city center, Pha That Luang stands as Laos’ most sacred monument at 44 meters tall, while Wat Sisaket showcases over 10,000 Buddha images. The COPE Visitor Centre adds essential context to Laos’ modern history.
Practical tips
- November to February brings cooler temperatures and the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing.
- Tuk-tuks and motorbikes make it easy to explore the compact city without wasting time.
- Take Bus 14 to reach Buddha Park in 45 to 60 minutes for a simple and budget-friendly option.
- Visit the Mekong River night market in the evening for local food, souvenirs, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Adventure in Vang Vieng: Kayaking, Caves, and Viewpoints
Vang Vieng sits between Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and it has quietly reinvented itself as the outdoor capital of Laos. The party’s reputation has faded, but the adventure has stayed. Towering limestone karsts, the slow-moving Nam Song River, and easy access to caves and viewpoints make this one of the best stops on a one-week Laos itinerary.
Most people start with tubing on the Nam Song. The ride is relaxed, scenic, and social, with jungle-covered cliffs rising on both sides. Tube rentals cost about $4, with a $3 refundable deposit, and usually include a tuk-tuk ride upriver. For something more active, kayaking tours run $23 for a full day and cover 10 to 18 kilometers, often combining caves, zip lining, and lunch.
On land, hikes deliver the best views. Nam Xay Viewpoint takes 25 to 40 minutes and rewards climbers with sweeping 360-degree scenery. Blue Lagoons offer a cooldown afterward, with Blue Lagoon 1 close to town and Blue Lagoon 3 sitting 15 kilometers away for a quieter swim. Entry and transport are easy with motorbike rentals around $4 per day.
Practical tips
- November to March offers dry weather and safer conditions for hiking, tubing, and kayaking.
- Rent a motorbike to reach viewpoints and Blue Lagoons cheaply and on your own schedule.
- Start hikes early or late to avoid crowds and slippery trails in the heat.
- Book combo tours to bundle kayaking, caves, and tubing without planning stress.
Trek through the Bolaven Plateau
The Bolaven Plateau, east of Pakse, offers a refreshing escape from Laos’ heat. At elevations of 1,000 to 1,350 meters, it provides cooler air, misty mornings, and roads that pass waterfalls and coffee farms. The plateau’s volcanic soil makes it perfect for trekking and coffee production.
Coffee lovers will appreciate the high-quality Arabica and Robusta beans grown here. During the harvest season from November to January, travelers can experience the process from cherry picking to roasting, particularly around Paksong, where several small producers offer guided tours and tastings.
The plateau is also home to stunning waterfalls, like Tad Fane, which drops 120 meters into a jungle gorge, and Tad Yuang and Tad Lo, perfect for swimming and relaxing views. Exploring by motorbike, travelers can take the Small or Big Loop, visiting quieter villages and learning about the region’s Mon Khmer communities and traditional lifestyles.
Practical tips
- November to March brings cooler temperatures, clear skies, and ideal trekking conditions.
- Renting a motorbike costs about $4 per day, with fuel averaging $0.60 per liter.
- Wear sturdy shoes and pack a waterproof bag for waterfall hikes and village treks.
- Join a guided trek from Pakse to access remote villages respectfully and safely.
Relax in the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don)
If you think Laos has no beach vibes because it has no sea, think again. Down south, the Mekong spreads wide and slow, breaking into an archipelago known as Si Phan Don. Life here runs on river time. Days are built around hammocks, bicycles, and sunsets that make you forget your schedule.
Most travelers choose between two islands. Don Det leans social and budget-friendly, with simple riverside bungalows and a relaxed backpacker scene. Staying on the sunset side delivers golden evening views, while the sunrise side stays cooler and quieter in the afternoons. Tubing here is gentle and calm, and cycling lets you loop past rice paddies or cross the old French Bridge toward Don Khon.
Don Khon is home to Li Phi Waterfalls, also called Tat Somphamit, where the Mekong crashes through rocky channels. Nearby on the mainland, Khon Phapheng Falls stands as the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia by volume. Traces of French colonial railways still cut through the landscape, adding a layer of history to the calm.
Irrawaddy dolphins are no longer found here, but boat trips along the river remain scenic and worthwhile.
Practical tips
- November to March brings dry weather, cooler evenings, and calmer water.
- Bring enough cash from Pakse or Nakasang since there are no ATMs on the islands.
- Bicycles cost about $0.60 to $1.20 per day and are the easiest way to explore.
- Travel from Pakse to Nakasang takes around 3 hours, followed by a short boat ride.
Ideal 7-Day Itineraries in Laos for Different Travel Styles
With only 7 days in Laos, smart planning makes all the difference. The 3 itineraries below break down what to do in Laos for a week, helping you balance culture, adventure, nature, and travel time without rushing from place to place.
Itinerary 1. Classic Laos
This Classic Laos Tour is built for travelers who want more than a checklist. Instead of rushing, it connects Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang through culture, nature, and real local encounters. You kayak the Nam Song, explore caves and waterfalls, join morning alms, visit coffee cooperatives, and travel by express train through the countryside. What sets this journey apart is its private, customizable pace and its focus on meaningful experiences, not mass tourism.
Day 1 – Arrival in Vientiane
- Arrive at Wattay International Airport, where your private guide and driver meet you and transfer you directly to your centrally located hotel for check in and rest.
- Spend the afternoon easing into Laos’ relaxed pace, with free time to stroll nearby streets or recover from your flight without rushing into activities.
- Meet your guide in the evening for a short briefing, followed by a welcome dinner at Friends Restaurant, Mini Makphet, a social enterprise supporting local youth.
Day 2 – Vientiane City Highlights
- Explore Vientiane’s spiritual core with visits to Wat Si Muang, Buddha Park with over 200 Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, and the Lao Disabled Women Development Center.
- Visit That Luang Stupa, Laos’ most sacred monument, then climb the Patuxai Monument for panoramic views over the capital and its tree lined boulevards.
- Walk along Lane Xang Avenue to Wat Sisaket and Wat Phra Keo before ending the day with sunset views along the Mekong River promenade.
Day 3 – Vientiane to Vang Vieng
- Travel north on a scenic 4 hour drive from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, passing rural villages, farmland, and limestone mountains along the way.
- Check in at your riverside resort in Vang Vieng, a small town framed by dramatic karst cliffs and the calm Nam Song River.
- Visit Tham Nangfa Cave in the afternoon, exploring limestone chambers and nearby villages while learning about local daily life.
Day 4 – Kayaking and Caves in Vang Vieng
- Begin the day kayaking down the Nam Song River from Phatang village, navigating gentle rapids and forested riverbanks toward Tham Xang Cave.
- Explore Tham Xang and Tham None caves, once used as shelters during wartime, while learning about local history and geology.
- Enjoy a riverside barbecue lunch, then paddle back toward Vang Vieng in time to catch sunset behind the mountains.
Day 5 – Train to Luang Prabang and Kuang Si Falls
- Take the morning express train from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, enjoying a comfortable ride through scenic countryside in about 1 hour.
- Visit Kuang Si Waterfalls, walking along jungle paths, swimming in turquoise pools, and stopping at the Bear Rescue Center if desired.
- Return to town to explore the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center, then climb Mount Phousi for sunset views over the Mekong.
Day 6 – Luang Prabang Heritage and Mekong Cruise
- Wake early to witness the daily alms giving ceremony, followed by a visit to the local morning market near the former Royal Palace.
- Tour the Royal Palace Museum, then cruise upstream on the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves, stopping at Ban Xanghai village to learn about rice wine making.
- Visit Wat Sene, Wat Xiengthong, and artisan villages such as Ban Xangkhong and Ban Xienglek before returning to your hotel at leisure.
Day 7 – Elephant Experience and Departure
- Visit Elephant Village Camp to feed elephants, learn about their care, and enjoy a 1-on-1 mahout experience in an ethical setting.
- Take a traditional boat ride to Tad Sae Waterfall, with time to relax or swim depending on seasonal water levels.
- Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon for rest, shopping, or onward travel planning, concluding your journey in northern Laos.
> See tour: Laos Classic Tour 8 days
Itinerary 2. Laos Cycling Trip
When planning what to do in Laos for a Week, most travelers think of temples and river cruises, but this cycling journey takes a different route. By exploring Laos on two wheels, the itinerary trades highways for back roads, moving slowly through rice paddies, limestone valleys, and ethnic villages. The focus is on active travel, local interaction, and scenic immersion, creating a more personal and grounded way to experience the country beyond the usual highlights.
Day 1 – Arrival in Luang Prabang
- Arrive at Luang Prabang Airport, where your private guide and driver meet you and transfer you directly to your hotel for check-in and rest.
- Spend the afternoon relaxing and adjusting to the slow rhythm of Luang Prabang, with free time to explore nearby streets or rest at the hotel.
- Meet your guide in the evening for a short tour briefing, followed by a welcome dinner at Friends Restaurant, KhaiPhaen, a social enterprise supporting local youth.
Day 2 – Cycling to Kuang Si Waterfalls
- Begin your cycling adventure with an easy ride through Khmu and Hmong ethnic villages toward Kuang Si Waterfalls, covering scenic rural roads.
- Enjoy time at the waterfalls, where clear turquoise pools offer a refreshing swim and a relaxed break from cycling.
- Cycle back to Luang Prabang in the afternoon, with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 3 – Luang Prabang to Kiu Kacham and Kasi
- Wake early to witness and participate in the traditional morning alms giving ceremony, then return to the hotel for breakfast.
- Transfer by minivan for about 2 hours to Kiu Kacham at 1,350 meters elevation, where today’s cycling stage begins.
- Ride along highland roads between 1,000 and 1,400 meters to Phou Khoun, then descend through sweeping mountain scenery into the Kasi Valley.
Day 4 – Kasi to Vang Vieng
- Cycle from Kasi toward Vang Vieng, passing rivers, limestone formations, caves, and rural villages along gently descending roads.
- Arrive in Vang Vieng and check in to your riverside resort, surrounded by dramatic karst landscapes.
- Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, with the option to relax or explore the town.
Day 5 – Vang Vieng to Ban Keune and Lake Nam Ngum
- Continue cycling toward Lake Nam Ngum, the “Sea of Laos,” a 250 square kilometer artificial lake surrounded by hills and forest.
- Take a 2-hour boat trip across the lake to the dam area, followed by lunch at a local fish restaurant.
- Ride along quiet back roads through hidden valleys and traditional villages before arriving in Ban Keune.
Day 6 – Ban Keune to Vientiane
- Cycle through dirt roads and paddy fields in the Phou Khao Khouay mountain range, enjoying expansive countryside views.
- Continue riding toward Thangon village before entering the outskirts of Vientiane.
- Arrive in the capital city in the afternoon and check in your hotel, with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 7 – Vientiane Full Day City Tour
- Visit Patuxai Monument for panoramic city views, followed by Wat Sisaket and Wat Phra Keo to explore Laos’ religious heritage.
- Continue to Pha That Luang, the country’s most important national monument and spiritual symbol.
- Explore Wat Ong Tue, Wat Haysoke, the Lao National Museum, and Wat Si Muang, then end the day at Talat Sao and Talat Kouadin markets.
Day 8 – Departure from Vientiane
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting your private transfer for the journey to Wattay International Airport.
- Depart Laos or continue onward travel, with assistance provided for any further arrangements if needed.
Itinerary 3. Southern Laos Holiday
Not every journey through Laos needs temples at dawn or packed itineraries. This southern Laos escape is designed for travelers who prefer space, scenery, and stories that unfold slowly. Over 6 days, the route moves through coffee-covered highlands, thundering waterfalls, ancient Khmer ruins, and quiet Mekong islands where time seems to pause. It is ideal for nature lovers, culturally curious travelers, and anyone craving a calmer, more grounded experience that reveals a side of Laos many visitors never reach.
Day 1 – Arrival in Pakse
- Arrive at Pakse Airport or the Chong Mek border gate, where your private guide and driver meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Pakse town.
- Check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing after your journey or exploring the riverside area independently.
- Enjoy a quiet evening in Pakse, easing into the slower pace of southern Laos.
Day 2 – Pakse to Bolaven Plateau
- Travel about 1 hour from Pakse to the Bolaven Plateau, arriving in a cooler highland region known for coffee plantations and waterfalls.
- Visit Ban Katuu village, home to the Katu ethnic minority, where you learn about traditional coffee farming and sample fresh Lao coffee.
- Explore Tad Fane Waterfall with its dramatic twin cascades plunging 800 feet, then continue to Tad Yeung Waterfall for a refreshing swim.
- Browse Talat Dao Heung Market near the Japanese Bridge before transferring to your resort on the Bolaven Plateau.
Day 3 – Bolaven Plateau to Champasak and Wat Phou
- Depart the Bolaven Plateau and travel to Champasak to visit the UNESCO-protected temple complex of Wat Phou.
- Explore the ancient Khmer ruins dating from the 11th to 13th centuries, including a climb to the upper sanctuaries with Hindu, Buddhist, and animist elements.
- Visit the Wat Phou Museum to gain deeper insight into Khmer art and religious history.
- Continue to Champasak town and check into your riverside resort, with the evening free to explore colonial buildings or relax by the Mekong.
Day 4 – Champasak to Don Khong Island via Ban Khiet Ngong
- Travel to Ban Khiet Ngong village and join a 4-hour elephant trek through paddy fields, wetlands, and forest trails guided by a local mahout.
- Share a traditional village lunch with residents, featuring sticky rice, grilled fish, and som tum.
- Drive south to Si Phan Don and arrive on Don Khong Island, one of the largest inhabited islands in the Mekong.
- Visit a local community, school, and village elders to gain insight into daily river life.
Day 5 – Si Phan Don and Waterfalls
- Explore the 4,000 Islands region, where the Mekong River spreads up to 12 kilometers wide during the rainy season.
- Visit Ban Nakasang village, then take a boat to Done Khone Island for cycling through plantations and quiet rural paths.
- Stop at Lippi Waterfall and view remnants of the French colonial railway, bridge, and old locomotive.
- Return to Don Khong Island in the late afternoon to enjoy sunset views over the Mekong River.
Day 6 – Don Khong to Khone Phapheng Falls and Pakse
- Check out and travel to Khone Phapheng Falls, Southeast Asia’s largest waterfall by volume, known for its powerful rapids and thunderous roar.
- Spend time walking along the viewing platforms to admire the scale and force of the Mekong River.
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the falls before transferring back to Pakse.
- Check into your hotel in Pakse and spend the evening at leisure.
Day 7 – Departure from Pakse
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting your private transfer for onward travel arrangements.
- Depart Pakse by flight to Siem Reap, overland transfer to Thailand via Chong Mek, or connect onward to Bangkok or other destinations.
Useful Tips for Traveling in Laos
Plan for Slow Travel
- Laos moves at its own pace, so patience matters when dealing with transport, services, and daily interactions.
- Road travel to remote areas can be slow and uncomfortable, even though the high-speed train has improved routes between major cities.
- Build extra downtime into your itinerary, especially in places like the 4,000 Islands, where doing very little is the main appeal.
Respect Local Customs
- Return the traditional Nop greeting politely, but remember monks are not expected to respond.
- Avoid touching anyone’s head or pointing your feet at people or Buddha images, as both actions are considered disrespectful.
- Women should never touch monks or their robes and should pass items through a man or place them on a cloth.
- Remove shoes and head coverings at temples, keep voices low, and avoid public displays of affection.
Best Time to Visit
- November to February offers dry weather and comfortable temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and river travel.
- November to March is the best window to see Kuang Si Waterfalls at their turquoise best.
- May to October brings lush landscapes and powerful waterfalls, but rain can make trekking and river activities risky.
Currency and Payments
- Cash is essential, especially in rural areas, islands, and national parks where card payments are rare.
- There are no ATMs on Don Det or Don Khon, so withdraw enough cash in Pakse or Nakasang beforehand.
- Carry extra Lao Kip since prices can fluctuate and exchange rates in remote areas are often unfavorable.
Packing Essentials
Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is necessary for temples and town visits.
- Slip-on shoes help when entering temples, while sturdy footwear is important for steep viewpoints and jungle trails.
- Waterproof bags protect valuables during kayaking or tubing, and headlamps are useful for caves and sunset hikes.
- Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are everyday essentials.
Language
- Learn a few basic Lao phrases, starting with Sabaidee for hello, to build better local connections.
- English is common in tourist areas, but rural regions rely more on gestures and simple communication.
- Understanding cultural terms like the Mekong being called “Mother of Waters” adds context to daily life.
Safety
- Stay strictly on marked paths in rural areas due to unexploded ordnance from past conflicts.
- Avoid drugs entirely, as penalties are severe and so-called “happy” menus can be dangerous.
- Drive defensively if renting a motorbike, always wear a helmet, and note that serious injuries may require evacuation.
- Be cautious in rivers, especially during the wet season when currents can be strong.
Planning what to do in Laos for a week is really about choosing the right pace. Laos shines when you slow down, travel shorter distances, and spend more time connecting with places rather than ticking boxes. Whether you explore temple towns, chase waterfalls, cycle through villages, or unwind by the Mekong, one well-planned week is enough to experience the country’s depth without feeling rushed.
If you want that balance handled for you, Asia Pioneer Travel can help turn these ideas into a smooth, stress-free journey. Our private, customizable itineraries are designed around real travel rhythms, local experiences, and thoughtful logistics, so you can focus on enjoying Laos instead of planning every detail.
Contact our Laos travel specialists today to start crafting a private trip that reflects the true spirit of Laos.
