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Venture off the beaten track on this 11 Day Laos tour packed full of adventure, mind blowing scenery, local culture and history. Travel stress-free with accommodation, activities and transport all included, with an experienced local Tour Leader to guide the way.
This immersive 11-day adventure whisks you away from the ordinary, offering a taste of Laos' captivating charm, from the bustling markets of Vientiane to mysterious 7km long Kong Lor Caves, and river tubing in the turquoise waters of Vang Vieng. Your tour ends in Luang Prabang, a town surrounded by serene rice paddies, with an old world feel that gives you the sense you've stepped back in time.
Thinking of travelling to the neighbouring countries of Cambodia and Vietnam after Laos?
Check out how our 35-day combined itinerary of all three tours could work for you!
Tour Highlights:
Vientiane: Explore the riverside city of Vientiane, the sleepy capital of Laos.
Vientiane: Grab a bargain at the Vientiane Night Market on the Mekong Riverfront.
Kong Lor Cave: Have boatloads of fun on a trip through the impressive 7km Kong Lor Caves.
Kong Lor: Enjoy the incredible mountain landscapes as you drive off the beaten track to the secluded rural areas of Kong Lor.
Vang Vieng: Vang Vieng is a remote oasis surrounded by limestone mountains and caves. Famous for river tubing, this town has so much more to offer than just partying!
Vang Vieng: Vang Vieng is filled with towering mountains, caves and lagoons. Prepare to have your breath taken away by the lush landscapes!
Vang Vieng: Go with the flow and do some tubing in Vang Vieng or swim in the Blue Lagoons of Vang Vieng.
Luang Prabang: Swim in the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls, some of the most impressive waterfalls in Asia.
Luang Prabang: Immerse yourself in Laos culture. See the saffron robed monks strolling through Luang Prabang in their vibrant orange robes - they love wearing those Stray colours!
Luang Prabang: Enjoy a rice day out at the rice paddies on the outskirts of Luang Prabang.
What's included in your Laos tour:
All Laos Transport
Whether you're travelling on our air-conditioned minivans, buses, fast train or boat, all your transport on our Laos trips is included and organised for you.
Local Stray Guide
Knowledgeable Stray Tour Guides provide invaluable support and insider insights. Travelling with a guide makes navigating your Laos trip a stress-free experience. Guides can translate for you and book optional activities on your behalf.
Laos Accommodation
Your Laos accommodation includes 10 nights 4-star twin share accommodation, with the option to add-on an upgrade to a private room.
Meals
Your Laos tour includes 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 welcome dinner so you can taste local delicacies and fresh tropical fruits.
Top-rated Laos Activities
From temples, to waterfalls, to nature encounters there are heaps of awesome activities included to make sure you experience the highlights of Laos:
- Kong Lor Cave Entry Fee
- Kong Lor Cave boat tour
- Vientiane City Tour
- Fast Train ticket Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang
- Pha Souk Gardens Lao Banquet
- Kuang Si Falls Entry
- Wat Prabat Phonsone Entry
- Vang Vieng Orientation Tout
- Luang Prabang City Orientation Tour including Mt Phou Si at sunset
- Blue Lagoon Visit
2024 Laos Tour Dates:
- 04 & 25 November 2024
- 09 & 23 December 2024
2025 Laos Tour Dates:
- 06 & 20 January 2025
- 03 & 17 February 2025
- 03, 17 & 31 March 2025
- 14 April 2025
Why Go the Stray Way?
Authentic Southeast Asia Travel
Stray are the experts in taking you off the beaten track in Southeast Asia.
We’re all about seeking out secluded destinations and one-of-a-kind experiences.
Responsible Travel
At Stray we operate a sustainable travel network, prioritizing responsible exploration. From protecting our natural environment to supporting animal welfare, we strive to leave a positive impact wherever we go. We're Enviro-Gold accredited from Qualmark in New Zealand, which is the highest accolade for quality, sustainably operated tourism operators.
Join us and discover incredible destinations, all while being inspired to make the world a better place.
Supporting Local Communities
We believe we have a responsibility to make a positive impact on the communities we visit. Supporting local operators and hiring local guides means that you can learn more about the culture and get more out of your trip.
In Laos, Stray makes an annual donation to the Lone Buffalo non-profit school. Unexploded bombs (UXO) from the Vietnam War make it hard for farmers and people wanting to build on land in Phonsavan, Northeast Laos, hindering development and increasing poverty.
Lone Buffalo empowers young people from underprivileged backgrounds in rural Laos by providing free English classes, a crucial skill for future success. The school offers football coaching, filmmaking/photography classes, and free Internet access, monitors students throughout their university journey and connects them with potential employers.
Make Stray Mates
Travel is about creating lasting connections and sharing experiences. Stray travellers are open-minded adventurers who make the most of every moment. Over 75% of our passengers are travelling alone, so don't be afraid to jump on the bus solo, you'll be surrounded by fun-loving friends in no time! (By the end of your Laos trip you'll be planning which tour to meet up on next!)
Book with Confidence
We'll keep you safe and stress-free, with guidance and support on every step of your Laos trip. We do the organising, you come along for the ride. You can read more about our fee-free, flexible tour booking in our Booking Your 11 Day Laos Tour section below.
Booking your 11 Day Laos Tour
To book your tour, select any upgrades and click "Book your travel". On the next page, select the number of travellers you're booking for, and confirm your start city, pickup location, and start date (tour start dates are circled in orange on the booking calendar). Pop in your travel and payment details and you're all set!
We’ll send you a booking confirmation and all the important details for your tour.
Book Now, Pay Later
Secure your trip for $200 TODAY
Lock in your adventure for less! Book your tour with a low $200 deposit today and spread the remaining cost across convenient installments on our website. Full payment is due 31 days before departure.
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Breathe easy and book your dream trip! At Stray, we take the pressure out of planning adventures. With our flexible tour dates and fee-free booking changes, you can book your trip with confidence knowing we'll look after you from start to finish.
Flexible Booking & Fee-Free Changes -
- Flexible Start Dates - Need to adjust your travel plans? No problem! We offer unlimited free reschedules on your trip start date. Just give us at least 31 daysadvance notice and choose a new date with availability that departs within 24 months of your initial purchase.
- Want To Swap to Another Tour? - If you've fallen in love with a different tour destination, don't panic. You can easily swap your Stray Vietnam tour for another incredible adventure in any of our destinations – explore New Zealand, Australia, or Southeast Asia!
- Wave Goodbye to Booking Fees - At Stray, booking your adventure is booking fee-free and hassle-free. Feeling overwhelmed by options? Don't sweat it! Message our travel experts today, and let's plan your unforgettable escape together.
For total peace of mind, check out Stray's flexible booking options and our full terms and conditions.
Travelling Solo?
No travel buddy? No problem. Stray travellers are a friendly bunch, and you'll make amazing friends on your Laos tour. If you've chosen twin share accommodation, we’ll allocate you a room with someone of the same gender (they might just be your new BFF). If you'd prefer a private room, you can select this as an add-on when booking your tour.
Itinerary
Starts: Vientiane
Finishes: Luang Prabang
Meet-up Time: Check into your accommodation anytime after 2pm, then meet your Tour Leader and group at 6pm (local time) on the Vientiane Arrival Day.
Please note: Given the spontaneous nature of our trips, what we do each day might occasionally vary.
Arrive Vientiane
Your adventure kicks off in the capital of Laos, Vientiane. If you arrive early in the day, feel free to spend time exploring the city, get a massage, go shopping or people watch at one of the local restaurants by the river. At 6pm you'll meet your Tour Leader for a Welcome Night introduction. We'll cover how Stray works and answer any questions you have about travelling on our Laos tours. Afterwards, make the most of your first night by getting to know each other over a delicious dinner and a few cold beverages.
Vientiane to Kong Lor
An early escape this morning takes us away from the crowds to Kong Lor in the Phu Hin Bun National Park. Along the way we'll visit Wat PrabatPhonsone, the ‘Buddha's Footprint,' a popular and important pilgrimage site for local communities. Arriving in remote Kong Lor with the afternoon sun, you'll feel a sense of peace as you drive through the sleepy rural villages lined with crop fields and rice paddies and surrounded by stunning limestone karst mountains. Relax after the drive by popping down to the river for an afternoon swim, swinging in a hammock at your accommodation or sampling a delicious Lao meal at one of the little restaurants in the village.
Kong Lor
Today you'll partake in the must-do activity in Kong Lor and explore the underground river that winds its way through a mountain! This guided boat trip will take you deep into the abyss of the stunning 7km long Kong Lor Cave where you'll discover impressive columns, stalagmites and stalactites illuminated and protruding from the limestone rock. You'll travel by motorboat through this colossal cave system which is a photographer's paradise and a great place to get out and go trekking or just kick back to soak up the views over a cold Beer Lao.
Kong Lor to Vientiane
We'll make our way back to the capital today and on arrival in Vientiane your Tour Leader will take you on a tour of the city's main attractions including Putaxai, Pha That Luang, That Dam, the Presidential Palace, and the COPE centre – a non-profit organisation that educates visitors and raises awareness for victims of UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) and the Secret War.
Vientiane
You have a full free day to explore today. Sitting next to the Mekong River, Vientiane is home to lots of quirky markets, colonial buildings and museums displaying artefacts that date back as far as prehistoric times. Grab your camera and pound the pavement today because you're bound to find lots of interesting sights in Vientiane.
Vientiane to Vang Vieng (via Expressway)
Our journey today takes us to the little riverside town Vang Vieng, formerly known as the best place, to take tubing trips down the Nam Song River to visit riverside bars and indulge in cheap booze. These days you can still go tubing, but now you get to enjoy the beauty of Vang Vieng's landscape without the sound of pounding bass in the background.
Vang Vieng
With its stunning natural scenery, Vang Vieng offers ample outdoor activities to choose from. We recommend hiring a bike to explore the town and visiting the Blue Lagoon, one of the best natural swimming holes in Laos. There are also great rock climbing and kayaking options. The fun doesn't stop after an adventure filled day either! This evening, check out one of several international restaurants for a taste of home or head to one of the bars to really get the party started.
Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang ( by Fast Train)
Today we'll travel to the UNESCO World Heritage town, Luang Prabang. On arrival, we'll have a city orientation tour to fully appreciate this heritage town. Luang Prabang is home to the National Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong (the oldest monastery in town) and plenty of other ancient Buddhist temples and sacred sites to explore. We'll end our orientation at Mount Phou Si, Luang Prabang's sacred hill, where we'll watch a breathtaking sunset. This evening we'll end up at the iconic night markets which take place every evening and serve a huge variety of tasty foods, arts and crafts.
Luang Prabang
This morning we'll make our way to the iconic Kuang Si Falls, famous for their vivid turquoise waters and instagramable-ness. Afterwards, we'll stop for a Lao Banquet on the way back to town at Pha Souk Gardens, a gorgeous restaurant set amongst the rice paddies.
This afternoon is free for you to enjoy all this UNESCO World Heritage town has to offer. The fusion of French Colonial architecture with traditional Lao design set against a backdrop of misty mountains and lush green jungle makes this a truly majestic place.
Luang Prabang
Today you have a free day to explore gorgeous Luang Prabang. Get hands on by becoming an organic rice farmer for the day on the unforgettable Rice Experience. Alternatively, you can spend the day cycling or trekking to rural villages, take a cooking class or head to the night market for a hassle-free bargaining experience.
Depart Luang Prabang
Enjoy breakfast in Luang Prabang this morning before departing for your next destination. If you're not ready to go home just yet then we recommend asking your guide about our other tours in Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand. We hope you had a wonderful time on your Laos Adventure and that you made memories for a lifetime.
Laos Accommodation
After big days of exploring, you're going to need your beauty sleep! Throughout your 11-day Laos Explorer Journey, you'll spend 10 nights in carefully selected 4-star boutique premium twin-share hotels or resorts.
You'll be relaxing riverside in your jungle bungalow at Spring River Resort in Kong Lor, waking up to misty mountain views at the Silver Naga Hotel in Vang Vieng, and diving into the 31-metre-long infinity pool at the Luang Prabang View Hotel.
Scroll through the gallery to get a sneak peek at your home away from home during your unforgettable Laotian adventure.
Vientiane: Eastin Hotel
Vientiane: Eastin Hotel
Vientiane: Eastin Hotel
Kong Lor: Spring River Resort
Kong Lor: Spring River Resort
Kong Lor: Spring River Resort
Vang Vieng: Silver Naga Hotel
Vang Vieng: Silver Naga Hotel
Vang Vieng: Silver Naga Hotel
Luang Prabang: Luang Prabang View Hotel
Luang Prabang: Luang Prabang View Hotel
Luang Prabang: Luang Prabang View Hotel
Private Room Upgrade
Standard pricing is for twin-share accommodation, but you can upgrade to your own private room if you wish! Please choose a Single Room from the dropdown menu under BOOK YOUR TRAVEL when booking your tour.
Single Upgrade Fee: NZD$ 675
Travel Info
Some important info and FAQs about travelling in Laos with Stray
Laos Tour Transport
All your tour transport is included - you'll travel by bus (mostly private, air-conditioned buses with 24 seats), minivans, boat and train. Travelling by private bus allows us to take you off the standard tourist routes and into the authentic experiences and secluded destinations that make visiting Laos so incredible.
Stray Tour Guides
Stray employs experienced local Guides to ensure you get more out of your Laos trip. Hear local stories, try their food recommendations, and get insider tips and advice - our guides love showing you the best parts of Laos!
Are Activities Included?
It wouldn't make sense to visit Laos without experiencing the best activities! Top-rated activities are included on Stray's Laos tours and if you want to add extra activities, your Guide can provide recommendations and assist with booking.
Do I need a Visa to visit Laos?
Most nationalities, including UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, need a visa to visit Laos. You can get a single-entry visa valid for 30 days upon arrival at airports or land borders (around $40 USD, bring cash and passport photos). Multiple-entry visas require advance application.
You are responsible for obtaining the visas you require for the countries you are travelling in. Visa requirements vary depending on where you're coming from and where you are going, so we recommend that you contact the appropriate embassy in your country of origin to determine what you need.
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
You must have a travel insurance policy to cover you for the entire time you are travelling with Stray in Asia. You don't have to purchase travel insurance before booking your tour, but you will be asked to provide your policy details prior to starting travel.
Who Goes on a Stray Tour?
Our travellers are from all over the world and are mainly aged between 20-45. Stray travellers are energetic, adventurous and excited to embrace the natural beauty, culture and amazing experience Laos offers. People join our tours solo and with friends or partners, so don't be shy to join a tour alone!
How Many People are in a Stray Tour Group?
Our tours have amaximum of 24 people, and an average 12 - we keep them small enough to be personal, uncrowded and flexible, but large enough to be fun and full of new friends.
What's the Tour Accommodation Like? Will I be Sharing a Room?
Our fantastic Laos tour accommodation is carefully selected 4-star hotels and boutique bungalows. Your accommodation will be twin share, so if you're travelling solo, we'll room you with another person of the same gender. If you'd like a private room, you can select this as an add-on when booking your tour.
What Happens if I Need to Change My Travel Plans or the Tour is Cancelled?
We want planning your travel in Laos to be as easy as possible, so as long as you let us know in advance, we won't charge you any fees to swap to a different Stray tour or a different tour date within 24 months. You'll get a full refund if your tour doesn't go ahead.
Do You Offer Tour Payment Plans?
If you'd like to secure your place on the trip, but are a little bit short on cash, you can reserve a seat with a USD$200 deposit. You then have up to 6 months to pay it off - too easy! Better yet - there's no admin fee. You can make payments when it suits you using our Extra Payments page.You just need to have paid for your trip in full31 days before you start.
What Do I Need to Pack to Travel in Laos?
Check out our Essential South East Asia Packing List for what to pack, what to leave behind, and what to buy in Laos.
Want To Know More About Laos?
Why Visit Laos?
Laos is a beautiful country where ancient temples whisper secrets and lush jungles hide cascading waterfalls. Immerse yourself in a rich culture and local life, from vibrant markets to slow river cruises on the Mekong River and explore breathtaking natural wonders like the Kuang Si Waterfalls. Travelling in Laos offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.
What is the Food Like in Laos?
Lao cuisine is a vibrant explosion of flavours, relying heavily on fresh ingredients and a touch of spice. Laotians are known for their love of chillis, but the heat is usually balanced with refreshing herbs like mint and lemongrass.
Sticky rice, the national staple, is present at almost every meal, acting as both a utensil and a base for flavourful dishes. Salads, like the ever-popular papaya salad (tam makhoong), are a refreshing and healthy option. For something more substantial, Larb, the national dish, is a minced meat salad (pork, beef, or even fish) bursting with flavor. Fermented ingredients like fish sauce and sausage add a unique depth to many Lao dishes.
French influence is also present, particularly in Vientiane, where baguettes and French-style cafes can be found alongside traditional Lao fare.
Is Laos tourist-friendly?
Laos is generally considered a very tourist-friendly country. The people are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and the country is relatively safe and easy to get around - especially on a Stray tour! Laos is a developing country and infrastructure isn't always up to Western standards, but your Stray tour is designed to keep you safe, comfortable and experiencing an authentic Laos adventure without any risky business!
What is Laos best known for?
Laos is a country in Southeast Asia, known for its natural wonders and vibrant culture, from cascading waterfalls and the Mekong River to verdant jungles and hill tribe villages. Buddhist temples grace the landscape, particularly in Luang Prabang, while French colonial influence whispers in the architecture of Vientiane.
What language Do They Speak in Laos?
The official language of Laos is Lao, which includes multiple dialects spoken across different regions. It's a member of the Tai language family, which is related to Thai and other languages spoken in Southeast Asia. Don't worry, most Laotians who work with tourists can speak English, and your Stray tour guides are locals and will translate when needed!