Laos is a beautiful and diverse country to explore, from it’s old-world cities to it’s unique countryside and islands. And although you could spend a lot longer discovering all of Laos’s secrets, 2 weeks is definitely enough to get at least a taste of what this country has to offer – so here’s my ultimate Laos itinerary on how best to spend your time there.
Table of Contents
2 Week Laos Itinerary: Day 1 – 3 Luang Prabang
The laid-back vibe and old-world feel of Laos’ ancient capital make it the ideal first stop on your 2 week Laos itinerary. Here you can spend your days exploring the city’s spectacular temples and lively night markets. Watch the sunrise at Morning Alms and the sunset from Mount Phousi. Then once you’ve filled your boots with all that, head further out of town to discover the stunning Kuang Si Falls and beautiful countryside beyond.
Read my full guide to top things to do Luang Prabang here
2 Week Laos Itinerary: Day 4 – 7 Vang Vieng
There’s no easy way to get to from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. Whether you choose a bus or minivan, expect to spend around 5 – 7 hours being hurtled around mountain roads. Despite the arduous journey, Vang Vieng is certainly not one to miss off your list. This little Laos town makes an excellent base for exploring some of the country’s most stunning countryside. Think blue lagoons to swim in, limestone mountains to climb and rice fields to whizz through. And although Vang Vieng’s notorious party days may be in the past, you can still experience their famous tubing on the river today, there are just slightly less bars and madness.
Read my guide to tubing in Vang Vieng in 2018 here
2 Week Laos Itinerary: Day 8 – 10 Vientiane
After Vang Vieng, your next place to head to should be Vientiane. It might be dubbed boring by some travellers, but you’ll still easily fill a couple of days exploring Vientiane’s attractions. Don’t miss the capital’s most iconic building: the Patuxai Victory Monument along with the COPE Visitor Centre to learn all about Laos’ part in the Vietnam War. For those looking for something a little more off the beaten path, make sure to visit Buddha Park. It’s set slightly further out of town and holds an interesting and slightly bizarre collection of statues from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, some are even large enough to climb inside!
Read my full guide to top things to do in Vientiane here
2 Week Laos Itinerary: Day 11 – 14 4000 Islands
After Vientiane, head south to your final destination in your Laos itinerary, the 4000 Islands. This archipelago of little islands scattered across the Mekong river are the most wonderful places for both adventure and relaxation. Most travellers stay on either Don Det or Don Khon which are conveniently connected by a bridge. From these islands, you can explore a lot of what the area has to offer. Highlights include the rare Irrawaddy dolphins, roaring waterfalls, kayaking and tubing. Yet if you want, you can just as easily while away the days in a hammock with a good book.
Read my full guide to the 4000 Islands here
