If you only have limited time to travel in the country, these are the three best places to visit in Laos. They’ll provide you with an overview of city life, a picturesque village, and the natural wonders of the country. They’ll also serve as an enticement to explore other areas of the country on your return visit.
Vientiane
The capital city of Laos lies in the south, right along the majestic Mekong River. This bustling city has many excellent restaurants that excel at preparing traditional Lao food. Vientiane is also home to many monuments that reflect both the ancient and recent history of Laos. The city is easy to get around in, and you can see many of the most worthwhile sights in a couple of days if you’re ambitious.
Luang Prabang
This charming and picturesque village is located in the country’s northern-central area and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town is surrounded by stunning mountains and sits along the shores of both the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Exploring the small streets and alleys of the town can be a rewarding way to spend the day. Just be sure to bring your camera along as you’ll want to take pictures of the beautiful and leisurely way of life.
Bokeo Nature Reserve
For visitors who don’t mind a little adventure and hiking, one of the best places to view Laos’s natural wildlife is in this nature reserve in the Bokeo province in the country’s northwest area. Reaching the base camp will require a three-hour drive from the town of Huay Xai, plus a one-hour trek through the jungle. But you’ll be able to stay in comfortable treehouses while you’re there. And with any luck, you’ll see buffalos, elephants, endangered black-crested gibbons, Asian bears, and many other tropical species of wildlife.