Laos Travel FAQ's

PASSPORTS AND VISAS

If you want to travel to Laos, your passports must be valid for at least six months prior the departure date from Laos and has a blank page for visa stamp. All foreign visitors to Laos need a Laos visa to enter the country, except for citizens of Japan, The Republic of Korea, Russia, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and ASEAN member countries. Passport holders of these countries are eligible to enter Laos and stay for 15-30 days without a visa.

A 30-day Tourist visa for Laos can be obtained at embassies or general consulates of the Lao PDR in foreign countries. It is also available at International airports in Laos and International border crossing points. One identity photograph and one application form are required. The stamping fees will be paid directly on spot.

International airports in Laos:

Wattay International Airport, Vientiane Capital
Luang Prabang International Airport, Luang Prabang province
Pakse International Airport, Champasak province
Savannakhet International Airport, Savannakhet province

International border crossing points:

1. Cambodia – Laos: Dong Kralor - Veun Kham

2. Thailand – Laos:

Chiang Khong - Houy Xai (Chiang Rai Province to Bokeo province)
Nong Khai - Vientiane (Thai-Lao Freindship Bridge No. 1)
Bungkan - Pakxan (Nong Khai prov to Bolikhamxai prov.)
Nakon Phanom - Thakhaek (Nakon Phanom prov to Khammouane prov.)
Mukdaharn - Savannakhet (Mukdaharn prov to Savannakhet prov via Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge No.2)
Chong Mek - Vangtao (Ubon Rathchathani Prov. to Champassak Prov.)

3. Vietnam - Lao:

Tay Trang- Sobhoun (Dien Bien, Vietnam to Pongsaly Province)
Na Meo - Banteui (Thanh Hoa to Huaphanh province)
Nam Can – Nam Kanh (Nghe An to Xiengkhuang province)
Keo Nua (Cau Treo) – Nam Phao (Ha Tinh to Bolikhamxai province)
Cha Lo – Tong Kham (Quang Binh to Khammoun province)
Lao Bao - Dansavanh (Quang Tri prov to Savannakhet prov)
Bo Y - Phukeua (Kon Tum prov to Attapeu prov)

The cost varies between US$30 and US$42 depending on nationality.

CURRENCY

The official currency is the Kip, although US dollars, Euros and Thai Bath are welcome. The exchange rate is at present time:

1 $ = 8,000 Kip
1 € = 10,000 Kip
1 Bath = 275 Kip

Major credit cards are accepted at some international hotels and tourist orientated establishments. Travellers cheques can be cashed at most banks in Vientiane and major towns, though have limited acceptance. ATMs are becoming increasingly common in the larger cities in Laos, including Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Luang Namtha and Pakse.

We suggest you get Kip Lao (KLA) for your spending in Laos. Any remaining Lao currency can be exchanged with the exchange desk at the airport or the borders when leaving the country.

CLIMATE

Laos has a hot and humid tropical climate. There are two distinct seasons. The wet season lasts from May until October while the much more pleasant dry season lasts from November until April. During the wet season, averaging around 33°C during the day and around 24°C at night, makes this time the worst for a visit. The dry season is much more pleasant with days still close to 30°C and nights from 15°C to 18°C. Daytime in the period of March until May can be very hot in large parts of the country, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. Mountainous areas, especially in the north, can get rather chilly during northern hemisphere winter, when northern winds blow from China.

CLOTHING

Light clothes are the most appropriate, and don't forget rain gear! Long trousers are best in the evening to avoid mosquito bites, and bug repellent is recommended. Since the sun can be very strong in the tropics, good sunglasses, a hat and sun-block cream are essential items to bring with. It can get quite cold in the mountains and northern Laos in December and January, so try to pack a sweater or windbreaker of sorts. Remember that Laos is still a very traditional Buddhist country and it is best to wear modest clothing, so avoiding shorts, tank tops or short skirts is recommended.