Laos Walks & Cycle Tours

Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting and least hurried destinations, known for its relaxed pace of life, gentle hospitality and striking natural beauty. The country is dominated by mountains, forested hills and the broad flow of the Mekong River, which shapes daily life for many communities. Towns and villages often feel timeless, with wooden houses, local markets and strong traditions that have remained largely intact despite growing modern influences.

Buddhism plays a central role in Laotian culture, reflected in the golden temples, saffron-robed monks and morning almsgiving rituals that travellers will encounter, especially in Luang Prabang—a UNESCO-listed town considered the cultural heart of the country. Across Laos, visitors will notice a quiet spirituality woven into everyday life, combined with a warm, understated hospitality that makes travel here especially rewarding.

Although still developing, Laos offers a mix of simple rural accommodation and small, character-filled urban stays. Roads and infrastructure can be basic in remote areas, but this slower pace is part of the country’s charm. With its blend of natural landscapes, cultural depth and unhurried rhythms, Laos provides a refreshing contrast to its busier neighbours and remains a highlight for travellers seeking an authentic Southeast Asian experience.

Buddha statue in Vientiane | Peter Walton

About Laos

FAQs

Cruise or kayak down the Mekong River alongside lush forested mountains and dramatic karst outcrops

Don your boots and trek into the remote northern mountains or join one of our superb cycle journeys through scenic back roads and ethnic minority villages

Visit the 4,000 Islands of southern Laos and keep an eye out for the rare Irrawaddy dolphin

See the ancient Hindu Khmer ruins of Wat Phu and walk among the mysterious stone megaliths of the Plain of Jars

Tour splendid temples and handsome colonial architecture in Vientiane and unwind in the tranquil river city of Luang Prabang, with its saffron-robed monks and vibrant night markets

Local boys in Laos - <i>Photo: Peter Walton</i>

Laos has a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: A rainy/monsoon season from May to October, a cool dry season from November to February, and a hot dry season from March to April. April is the hottest month. The dry season is generally considered the best time to travel, with warm days, lower humidity and clearer skies, especially from December to February when temperatures are most comfortable. During this period, daytime temperatures usually range between 20–28°C (68–82°F), with cooler mornings and evenings in the northern highlands. From March to April, temperatures rise sharply, and the country can feel hot and humid, particularly in lowland areas along the Mekong. The wet season (May to October) brings higher humidity and regular afternoon showers, which refresh the landscape and fill the rivers. Rain is typically heavy but brief, and rural trails may become muddy or slippery. Conditions vary by region: the mountains in northern Laos are cooler year-round, while southern areas experience consistently warmer temperatures. Regardless of the season, travellers should be prepared for the possibility of sudden showers and pack lightweight, breathable clothing along with a waterproof layer.

Getting off the boat in Ban Xienglek - <i>Photo: Kylie Turner</i>

Laos is +7 hours ahead of UTC/GMT

Lao (official), French, English, various ethnic languages

Laotian Kip

Thai Baht and USD are the best currencies to exchange although AUD, GBP, NZD are also accepted.

Banks and exchange facilities are found in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane.

Visa cards and ATM are available in most major centres, however it is not recommended to rely on these solely.

If you are purchasing items of over US$50 it is best not to change this into Lao kip as you will require a small back pack to carry all the notes!

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Electricity in Laos is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The pin type varies but is most commonly types A and C. We recommend taking a universal adapter.

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.

People and Culture First

We place local communities at the heart of our each trip.

By working with experienced local guides, operators and suppliers, we help support livelihoods, encourage skills development and foster long-term partnerships.

Our active journeys are designed to promote respectful cultural exchange and ensure the benefits of tourism are shared within the communities we visit.

How we stay sustainable