Where to stay in Laos

Hotels

Laos offers a wide range of accommodation options, from riverside guesthouses and boutique hotels to eco-lodges and luxury resorts. In Vientiane, visitors will find international hotels, serviced apartments and business-oriented properties, while Luang Prabang is home to beautifully restored colonial villas and charming boutique stays that reflect its UNESCO heritage. Budget travellers are well catered for, with hostels and family-run guesthouses offering simple comfort and warm hospitality.

In smaller towns such as Vang Vieng, Pakse and Savannakhet, accommodation is more modest but often scenic, with rooms overlooking rivers or mountains. The south of Laos, including the 4,000 Islands, features rustic bungalows and eco-resorts ideal for those seeking tranquillity. During festivals and peak travel periods, advance booking is recommended, especially in Luang Prabang, where accommodation fills up quickly.

Camping

Camping in Laos is possible but not widespread, and it tends to appeal more to adventure travellers or those joining organised eco-tours. Some national parks and remote areas, such as Nam Et–Phou Louey and the Bolaven Plateau, allow camping in designated spots, often arranged through local guides. Wild camping without permission is discouraged, particularly near villages, temples and farmland.

For those who prefer comfort, eco-lodges and homestays in rural communities offer an alternative close to nature, often including meals and cultural experiences. Campers should bring all necessary gear and be prepared for basic conditions. During the rainy season (May to October), leeches, mosquitoes and muddy trails can make camping more challenging.

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Visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing. You should verify critical travel information independently with the relevant embassy before you travel.