16 "The Ultimate Backpacker Guide to Laos – What to See & Skip!"

Laos — a country of golden temples, slow rivers, and hidden wonders most tourists never find.

In this video, we’re giving you the ultimate backpacker guide to Laos — what’s worth your time, what you can skip, and the travel hacks to make your budget go further than you imagined.

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10. Champasak and Wat Phou

Champasak offers a glimpse into ancient Khmer architecture without the crowds of Angkor Wat. Wat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dates back to the 5th century and sits dramatically on a hillside overlooking the Mekong River. The temple complex requires a moderate hike but rewards visitors with intricate stone carvings and panoramic views. Entry costs 30,000 kip, and the site rarely gets crowded, making it perfect for peaceful exploration. The town itself is sleepy with limited backpacker infrastructure, so plan for basic accommodation and simple local food. 

9. Nong Khiaw

Nong Khiaw sits along the Nam Ou River surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains that create postcard-perfect scenery. This small town serves as an excellent base for trekking, kayaking, and experiencing rural Lao life. The Pha Tok viewpoint requires a steep 90-minute hike but offers incredible panoramas over the river valley and surrounding peaks. Budget accommodation starts at $4-6 per night, and the town has several restaurants catering to backpackers with Western and local options. The 100 Waterfalls trek is a full-day adventure through villages and jungle, ending at multiple cascading falls perfect for swimming. River tubing and kayaking provide gentler alternatives to explore the stunning landscape.

8. Savannakhet

Savannakhet often gets overlooked by backpackers rushing between Thailand and Vietnam, but this French colonial town offers authentic Lao culture without tourist crowds. The old quarter features crumbling colonial buildings, traditional shophouses, and quiet tree-lined streets perfect for cycling exploration. That Ing Hang stupa, 13 kilometers outside town, ranks among Laos' most important Buddhist sites and sees few foreign visitors. Local markets buzz with activity, selling everything from fresh produce to traditional textiles at local prices. Accommodation is basic but cheap, starting around $3-5 per night. 

7. Phonsavan and Plain of Jars

Phonsavan provides access to one of Southeast Asia's most mysterious archaeological sites - the Plain of Jars. These ancient stone vessels scattered across the landscape date back over 2000 years, and their original purpose remains unknown. Site 1 is the most accessible and impressive, featuring over 300 jars of various sizes. The area was heavily bombed during the Vietnam War, and UXO (unexploded ordnance) remains a serious concern - never venture off marked paths. The town itself is cold and somewhat grim, rebuilt after wartime destruction. 

6. Thakhek Loop

The Thakhek Loop is a 450-kilometer motorcycle circuit through some of Laos' most spectacular karst landscape and cave systems. This 3-4 day adventure takes riders through remote villages, limestone mountains, and world-class caves like Konglor Cave. The loop requires intermediate motorcycle skills and proper preparation, including spare parts and emergency supplies. Konglor Cave extends 7.5 kilometers through a mountain, navigated by boat through underground chambers and cathedral-like spaces. Tham Nang Aen cave offers easier exploration with stunning formations and underground pools. The route passes through traditional villages where homestays provide authentic cultural experiences. 

5. Pakse

Pakse serves as the gateway to southern Laos and offers excellent value for budget travelers. This commercial hub provides all necessary services - reliable internet, ATMs, good restaurants, and comfortable accommodation starting at $4-6 per night. The Champasak Cultural Landscape, accessible from Pakse, includes Wat Phou and traditional villages along the Mekong River. Local markets offer fresh produce, textiles, and handicrafts at reasonable prices, perfect for stocking up on supplies. The city's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the 4000 Islands, Champasak, and the Bolaven Plateau. 

4. Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau offers cooler temperatures, spectacular waterfalls, and authentic village experiences away from standard backpacker routes. This elevated region is famous for high-quality coffee production, and plantation visits provide insight into traditional farming methods. Tad Fane waterfall drops 120 meters in twin cascades, while Tad Yuang offers excellent swimming opportunities in natural pools. The plateau's numerous ethnic villages maintain traditional lifestyles, and homestays provide cultural immersion experiences. Paksong serves as the main town, with basic accommodation and local restaurants. The motorcycle loop through the plateau takes 2-3 days and passes multiple waterfalls, coffee plantations, and scenic viewpoints. Road conditions are generally good, making it suitable for less experienced riders. 

3. Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng divides opinion among backpackers, but its dramatic limestone scenery and outdoor activities earn it a spot in the top three. The notorious party reputation has calmed considerably, though the backpacker scene remains vibrant. Tubing down the Nam Song River through spectacular karst landscape costs around $6 and takes 3-4 hours depending on water levels and stops. Rock climbing opportunities suit all skill levels, with routes ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced challenges. Blue Lagoon provides crystal-clear swimming surrounded by jungle, accessible by bicycle or motorbike. 

2. 4000 Islands

The 4000 Islands region epitomizes the laid-back Lao experience that draws backpackers to Southeast Asia. Don Det and Don Khon islands offer the perfect combination of stunning scenery, ultra-cheap accommodation, and complete relaxation. Bamboo bungalows start at just $2-3 per night, while slightly upgraded rooms cost $5-8. The islands operate on "Lao time" where everything moves slowly, perfect for exhausted travelers needing genuine rest. Rent bicycles for $1-2 daily and explore both islands connected by a French colonial railway bridge. Li Phi Falls, known as the "trap of spirits," creates dramatic rapids where the mighty Mekong narrows and drops. 

1. Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang tops every Laos itinerary for good reason - this UNESCO World Heritage city perfectly balances culture, nature, and backpacker-friendly infrastructure. The morning alms ceremony offers a profound spiritual experience when approached respectfully. Wake at 5:30 AM, dress modestly covering shoulders and legs, and observe silently as hundreds of saffron-robed monks collect rice offerings from kneeling locals. The night market along Sisavangvong Road runs every evening, offering handmade textiles, crafts, and local snacks at reasonable prices. Kuang Si Falls, 30 kilometers south, features multiple tiers of turquoise pools perfect for swimming and photography. Entry costs 20,000 kip, and the site includes a bear rescue center caring for endangered Asian black bears. Mount Phousi provides panoramic sunset views over the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers after a 20-minute climb costing 20,000 kip. 

Backpacking through Laos is more than a trip — it’s an adventure that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Which spot in Laos would you explore first? Share it in the comments — I might just feature it in my next guide.

If this video helped you plan your route, like, subscribe, and share it with a fellow traveler. Until next time: travel light, travel smart, and keep chasing experiences, not things.