Group trips to Laos

Find out the entry requirements for Lao People's Democratic Republic (the), and, if needed, apply for your visa through our partner Sherpa.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Lao People's Democratic Republic (the) – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

The Lao People's Democratic Republic is in the Indochina Time Zone, which is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7). This means if it is 12 pm in the UK, it will be 7 pm in Laos. If you're in the USA, for example, New York, and it is 12 pm, it will be 12 am the next day in Laos. Laos does not observe daylight saving time, so the time difference remains constant throughout the year.

The currency used in the Lao People's Democratic Republic is the Lao Kip (LAK). As of the latest rates:

• 1 GBP is approximately 25,000 LAK
• 1 USD is about 20,000 LAK
• 1 EUR is roughly 22,000 LAK

You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Always check for the best rates and possible fees when exchanging your money.

Cash is widely used in the Lao People's Democratic Republic, but credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops in bigger cities like Vientiane and Luang Prabang. ATMs are available in urban areas for withdrawing cash. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller towns and markets. Always check if there are any transaction fees when using cards.

In Laos, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, you can leave a small tip, around 10 percent, if service is not included. For porters or housekeeping, a small amount is customary. In taxis, rounding up to the nearest whole number is a nice gesture. While tipping is not expected, it is a kind way to show gratitude if you feel the service was exceptional.

In Laos, internet connectivity can be spotty, especially outside major cities. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in urban areas, but the speed might not be the fastest. If you need reliable internet access during your trip, buying a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan is a good idea. You can find SIM cards from providers like Unitel, Lao Telecom, and Beeline at the airport or in local shops. Make sure your phone is unlocked so you can use a local SIM.

In the Lao People's Democratic Republic, the official language spoken is Lao. Here are some useful colloquial expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Sabaidee
• Thank you: Khawp jai
• How much?: Tao dai?
• Yes: Jao
• No: Bo

In the Lao People's Democratic Republic, they use Type A, B, C, E, and F plugs. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. Since these plugs might not match the ones used in the UK, USA, or some European countries, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to keep your devices charged during your trip.

The main religion in the Lao People's Democratic Republic is Theravada Buddhism. It plays a significant role in the cultural and spiritual life of the people. Important religious holidays include:

• Lao New Year, known as Pi Mai, usually celebrated in mid-April
• Boun That Luang, a festival held in November

Monks are highly respected, and temples, called wats, are central to community life.

For your trip to the Lao People's Democratic Republic, you'll want to be prepared for tropical weather and cultural experiences. Here are some essentials to pack in your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight, breathable shirts
  • Long pants or skirts for temple visits
  • Light jacket for cooler evenings
  • Swimwear for swimming spots
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Flip-flops for casual wear
  • Sandals for the beach
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses and a hat
  • Power bank and charging cables
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Common travel medication like pain relievers and anti-diarrheal pills

Packing these items will ensure you're ready for both the cultural sites and the natural beauty Laos has to offer.

The weather in the Lao People's Democratic Republic varies by region and season. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Northern Laos: Cooler temperatures, especially from November to February. Rainy season from May to October.
• Central Laos: Hot and humid year-round, with rains from May to October.
• Southern Laos: Warm and tropical with similar rainy season as the rest of the country.

The best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier.