Laos Country Facts
- Capital CityVientiane
- Official languageLao (but English is widely spoken and understood)
- CurrencyKip (1 USD = approximately 8,865 Lao Kip, Dec’19)
- Time zoneUTC / GMT + 7:00 hours
- Country Code+856
- Population7.2 million
Laos Country Facts
- Capital CityVientiane
- Official languageLao (but English is widely spoken and understood)
- CurrencyKip (1 USD = approximately 8,865 Lao Kip, Dec’19)
- Time zoneUTC / GMT + 7:00 hours
- Country Code+856
- Population7.2 million
Laos, An Authentic and Beautiful Hidden Gem
Laos is a country filled with cultural and magnificent sights. The perfect country, ready to explore for the curious group of travelers seeking a serene and laid-back experience rich with history. Laos’ nature is relatively untouched leaving plenty of exciting places to discover and it has huge potential for MICE events. It’s the perfect destination for engaging in ecotourism, experiencing the traditional living of the Lao people, and enjoying the spectacular natural scenery along the country’s rivers. Beyond those experiences, you will be surprised by the options for meetings like the Champassak Grand for 2,400 guests or smaller intimate venues. Both boutique accommodations and modern venues located in the surroundings of stunning historical landmarks.
Laos, An Authentic and Beautiful Hidden Gem
Laos is a country filled with cultural and magnificent sights. The perfect country, ready to explore for the curious group of travelers seeking a serene and laid-back experience rich with history. Laos’ nature is relatively untouched leaving plenty of exciting places to discover and it has huge potential for MICE events. It’s the perfect destination for engaging in ecotourism, experiencing the traditional living of the Lao people, and enjoying the spectacular natural scenery along the country’s rivers. Beyond those experiences, you will be surprised by the options for meetings like the Champassak Grand for 2,400 guests or smaller intimate venues. Both boutique accommodations and modern venues located in the surroundings of stunning historical landmarks.
Key Destinations and Major Cities
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is dedicated to preserving and protecting the wonderfully antique city as it is today. Pearly frangipani trees, the burnt sienna robes of hundreds of monks, splendid gold and ruby temples and a French–provincial heritage describe this romantic city and ancient royal capital. This laid-back atmosphere is surrounded by magnificent mountain peaks and two life-giving rivers, the Mighty Mekong and the Nam Khan. This all contributes to making Luang Prabang an unforgettable experience even while the Luang Prabang International Airport creates convenience for all groups and travelers.
Vientiane
Many people are surprised that Vientiane is in fact a capital city as it emanates a relaxed atmosphere of a small town. The city retains a colonial heritage with a mix of French colonial mansions, quaint streets and ancient temples along with colorful markets. One of the best things to do is to wander along the riverside, relax with a cold Beer Lao during sunset and observe the locals and the peacefully winding Mekong River. At the same time, it has luxurious accommodations with complete conference and meeting facilities, golf courses and shopping.
Savannakhet
Savannakhet is the country’s most populous province and also where most of the national rice production takes place. The city was built during the French colonial period as an important socio-political center of Laos and the roads still showcase many buildings with French-influenced architecture. In the rural areas, the farming villages are among the most authentic Laos in the country.
Pakse & Champassak
Founded as an administrative outpost by the French in 1905, Pakse as the capital of Champassak province retains much of its colonial legacy. The province encompasses the Wat Phu temple area and the Bolaven Plateau, which is home to a number of the ethnic minorities. To the south is Si Pan Don (4.000 islands), a scenic 50km-long stretch of the Mekong where the river reaches up to 14km wide during the rainy season and flows around hundreds of islands. The largest islands offer fascinating insights of tranquil river-oriented village life, offering an authentic and pure experience for visitors.
Key Destinations and Major Cities
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is dedicated to preserving and protecting the wonderfully antique city as it is today. Pearly frangipani trees, the burnt sienna robes of hundreds of monks, splendid gold and ruby temples and a French–provincial heritage describe this romantic city and ancient royal capital. This laid-back atmosphere is surrounded by magnificent mountain peaks and two life-giving rivers, the Mighty Mekong and the Nam Khan. This all contributes to making Luang Prabang an unforgettable experience even while the Luang Prabang International Airport creates convenience for all groups and travelers.
Vientiane
Many people are surprised that Vientiane is in fact a capital city as it emanates a relaxed atmosphere of a small town. The city retains a colonial heritage with a mix of French colonial mansions, quaint streets and ancient temples along with colorful markets. One of the best things to do is to wander along the riverside, relax with a cold Beer Lao during sunset and observe the locals and the peacefully winding Mekong River. At the same time, it has luxurious accommodations with complete conference and meeting facilities, golf courses and shopping.
Savannakhet
Savannakhet is the country’s most populous province and also where most of the national rice production takes place. The city was built during the French colonial period as an important socio-political center of Laos and the roads still showcase many buildings with French-influenced architecture. In the rural areas, the farming villages are among the most authentic Laos in the country.
Pakse & Champassak
Founded as an administrative outpost by the French in 1905, Pakse as the capital of Champassak province retains much of its colonial legacy. The province encompasses the Wat Phu temple area and the Bolaven Plateau, which is home to a number of the ethnic minorities. To the south is Si Pan Don (4.000 islands), a scenic 50km-long stretch of the Mekong where the river reaches up to 14km wide during the rainy season and flows around hundreds of islands. The largest islands offer fascinating insights of tranquil river-oriented village life, offering an authentic and pure experience for visitors.
International Airports
Laos has four international airports deserved by regional airlines:
- Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
- Luang Prabang International Airport
- Savannakhet International Airport
- Pakse International Airport
Air connections with regional countries include Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, China and South Korea. The most convenient international gateway to Laos is Bangkok.
VISA
Nowadays Laos offers visa free stays for passport holders of ASEAN countries, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and Switzerland. For most other countries, including European and North American, 30 days visa on arrival is easily obtained in international airports and at most border crossings. The Terraverde Team is always ready to check the requirements and help you with the process.
International Airports
Laos has four international airports deserved by regional airlines:
- Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
- Luang Prabang International Airport
- Savannakhet International Airport
- Pakse International Airport
Air connections with regional countries include Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, China and South Korea. The most convenient international gateway to Laos is Bangkok.
VISA
Nowadays Laos offers visa free stays for passport holders of ASEAN countries, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and Switzerland. For most other countries, including European and North American, 30 days visa on arrival is easily obtained in international airports and at most border crossings. The Terraverde Team is always ready to check the requirements and help you with the process.
Preferred Hotels
Always high-end and boutique, our accommodations also reflect the destinations. In Laos, we might stay in a luxury resort surrounded by numerous gorgeous tropical gardens, a sophisticated and infinitely charming 25-suite hotel next to one of the oldest temples in the country or a beautiful resort perched on a rocky cliff with a 360 panorama view of the Andaman Sea.
Rosewood Luang Prabang * 3 Naga * Sofitel Luang Prabang * Victoria Xienthong * Belmond Phouvao * Avani Luang Prabang * Mekong Riverview Hotel
Preferred Hotels
Always high-end and boutique, our accommodations also reflect the destinations. In Laos, we might stay in a luxury resort surrounded by numerous gorgeous tropical gardens, a sophisticated and infinitely charming 25-suite hotel next to one of the oldest temples in the country or a beautiful resort perched on a rocky cliff with a 360 panorama view of the Andaman Sea.
Rosewood Luang Prabang * 3 Naga * Sofitel Luang Prabang * Victoria Xienthong * Belmond Phouvao * Avani Luang Prabang * Mekong Riverview Hotel
Sample Program
An incentive trip in Laos offers travel off the beaten path and back in time. The only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, Laos has much more to offer than the typical traveler would imagine. From the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, over Vientiane – the current capital city to the Don Khone archipelago in the south, one can discover hill tribes, elephant sanctuaries, go trekking, hike through pristine rainforest, explore ancient temple sites and visit the relaxed islands of Don Khone, enjoying a touch of luxury everywhere you go.
This is a sample program. Your program will be tailor-made to fit your vision. Let us know what has triggered your interest so we can create the perfect experience for you.
Day 1: Champagne Sunset Reception at Mount Phousi
When arriving at Luang Prabang you’ll be picked up at the airport and transported to you exclusive hotel. For the afternoon, a city tour helps you explore the picturesque highlights of the city. For this tour you’ll experience the Royal Palace – which is now the National Museum, Wat Visoun, Wat That Luang, Wat Xieng Thong. At Mount Phousi enjoy a champagne sunset reception with the beautiful panoramic view across the Mekong and Khan rivers.
Day 2: Spiritual Experience with City Monks & Well-Wishing Ceremony
In the early morning you have the opportunity to have an authentic and spiritual experience of observe – or take part in – offering alms among hundreds of the city’s monks. After the offering alms proceed to the local Phosi Market before returning to the hotel for a late breakfast. Later you can enjoy a trip to the Asian Bear Rescue Center as well as the beautiful Kuangsi Waterfall. For pre-dinner event, transfer to a local village to participate in the Baci ceremony – a tradition practiced for years to give well-wishing for the person the ceremony is intended for. After the engaging ceremony, you’ll return to Luang Prabang for dinner.
Day 3: Picnic Lunch by Wat Phou Temple, UNESCO World Heritage Site
On the third day you will be transferring to Pakse. After having settled in at your hotel in Pakse, it’s time for a visit to Wat Phou temple and a Picnic Lunch. The temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being an outstanding example of the integration of symbolic landscape of great spiritual significance to its natural surroundings. On this location there is an option to climb the staircase to admire the beautiful scenery surrounding the temple. A lated back dinner by the river front will conclude that day.
Day 4: Private Boat Trip Through the 4000 Islands
For the 4th day of your journey you can take a day-trip to the place known as 4000 islands. On the way you will experience the Khone Phapheng Waterfall, which is considered the largest waterfall by volume in SouthEast Asia, an impressive and breathtaking sight of the Lao-Cambodian border and teeming wildlife. After taking in the impressions continue to Ban Nakasang to board a long-tailed boat to Donekhone island – the largest island in the South Mekong River region known as the 4000 islands. Lunch will be served at the island of the Liphu Waterfall. Returning to Pakse you can make a stop at an old local motive railway, the villages nearby, and colonial houses before returning to the hotel.
Day 5: Bolaven Plateau, a Day Filled With Natural Marvels
Today, we are going to explore the breathtaking and beautiful nature even further. In the morning you will transfer to the stunning scenery of the Bolaven Plateau. The plateau is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular waterfalls including Tad Fan and Dong Hua Sao. You’ll continue to the Tad Fane twin falls which falls 100 meters down the steep cliffs and into a gorge. Lunch can be enjoyed surrounded by the rich vegetation of this beautiful area. Continuing to the Tad Yeung Waterfall before ending the day at a local tea and coffee plantation where you will learn about the impressive area and why it’s the ideal location to produce some of the best coffee and tea in the country as well as being the biggest agricultural export from Laos. Farewell Gala Dinner with live entertainment.
Day 6: Free Leisure Time & Departure
Today is free at leisure to enjoy until transferring to Pakse airport to fly back home or connect to the next destination of your journey.
Impressions:
Sample Program
An incentive trip in Laos offers travel off the beaten path and back in time. The only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, Laos has much more to offer than the typical traveler would imagine. From the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, over Vientiane – the current capital city to the Don Khone archipelago in the south, one can discover hill tribes, elephant sanctuaries, go trekking, hike through pristine rainforest, explore ancient temple sites and visit the relaxed islands of Don Khone, enjoying a touch of luxury everywhere you go.
Day 1: Champagne Sunset Reception at Mount Phousi
When arriving at Luang Prabang you’ll be picked up at the airport and transported to you exclusive hotel. For the afternoon, a city tour helps you explore the picturesque highlights of the city. For this tour you’ll experience the Royal Palace – which is now the National Museum, Wat Visoun, Wat That Luang, Wat Xieng Thong. At Mount Phousi enjoy a champagne sunset reception with the beautiful panoramic view across the Mekong and Khan rivers.
Day 2: Spiritual Experience with City Monks & Well-Wishing Ceremony
In the early morning you have the opportunity to have an authentic and spiritual experience of observe – or take part in – offering alms among hundreds of the city’s monks. After the offering alms proceed to the local Phosi Market before returning to the hotel for a late breakfast. Later you can enjoy a trip to the Asian Bear Rescue Center as well as the beautiful Kuangsi Waterfall. For pre-dinner event, transfer to a local village to participate in the Baci ceremony – a tradition practiced for years to give well-wishing for the person the ceremony is intended for. After the engaging ceremony, you’ll return to Luang Prabang for dinner.
Day 3: Picnic Lunch by Wat Phou Temple, UNESCO World Heritage Site
On the third day you will be transferring to Pakse. After having settled in at your hotel in Pakse, it’s time for a visit to Wat Phou temple and a Picnic Lunch. The temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being an outstanding example of the integration of symbolic landscape of great spiritual significance to its natural surroundings. On this location there is an option to climb the staircase to admire the beautiful scenery surrounding the temple. A lated back dinner by the river front will conclude that day.
Day 4: Private Boat Trip Through the 4000 Islands
For the 4th day of your journey you can take a day-trip to the place known as 4000 islands. On the way you will experience the Khone Phapheng Waterfall, which is considered the largest waterfall by volume in SouthEast Asia, an impressive and breathtaking sight of the Lao-Cambodian border and teeming wildlife. After taking in the impressions continue to Ban Nakasang to board a long-tailed boat to Donekhone island – the largest island in the South Mekong River region known as the 4000 islands. Lunch will be served at the island of the Liphu Waterfall. Returning to Pakse you can make a stop at an old local motive railway, the villages nearby, and colonial houses before returning to the hotel.
Day 5: Bolaven Plateau, a Day Filled With Natural Marvels
Today, we are going to explore the breathtaking and beautiful nature even further. In the morning you will transfer to the stunning scenery of the Bolaven Plateau. The plateau is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular waterfalls including Tad Fan and Dong Hua Sao. You’ll continue to the Tad Fane twin falls which falls 100 meters down the steep cliffs and into a gorge. Lunch can be enjoyed surrounded by the rich vegetation of this beautiful area. Continuing to the Tad Yeung Waterfall before ending the day at a local tea and coffee plantation where you will learn about the impressive area and why it’s the ideal location to produce some of the best coffee and tea in the country as well as being the biggest agricultural export from Laos. Farewell Gala Dinner with live entertainment.
Day 6: Free Leisure Time & Departure
Today is free at leisure to enjoy until transferring to Pakse airport to fly back home or connect to the next destination of your journey.
Impressions:
This is a sample program. Your program will be tailor-made to fit your vision. Let us know what has triggered your interest so we can create the perfect experience for you.
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