Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s most peaceful and captivating destinations. Landlocked between Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar and China, this beautiful country is known for its dramatic mountains, winding rivers, ancient temples and relaxed way of life. With fewer crowds and a slower pace than many of its neighbours, Laos offers a truly authentic experience for travellers looking to combine outdoor adventure, culture and nature.
For active travellers, Laos is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Much of the country remains beautifully rural, with quiet roads passing through mountains, forests, rice fields and traditional villages. Travelling by bicycle or on foot offers the opportunity to experience these landscapes at a natural pace, stopping along the way to meet local people, enjoy spectacular views and discover places far beyond the usual tourist routes.
Northern Laos is particularly impressive for cycling and trekking. The region is defined by rugged mountains, deep valleys and winding roads, offering rewarding challenges for cyclists and hikers. Routes around Luang Prabang, Nong Khiaw and Luang Namtha take travellers through stunning scenery and remote communities, where many different ethnic groups continue to preserve their unique traditions and ways of life. A journey through these areas can combine challenging climbs, peaceful descents and unforgettable encounters with local culture.
Laos is also a fantastic destination for hiking and trekking. Trails lead through tropical forests, limestone mountains and remote valleys, connecting small villages that are often surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. Trekking provides a chance to experience the country's rich cultural diversity while enjoying its unspoiled environment. Whether taking a gentle walk through the countryside or embarking on a multi-day trek into the mountains, travellers can discover a side of Laos that is rarely seen from the main roads.
The Mekong River, which flows through much of the country, is another important part of the Laos experience. Boat journeys along the river reveal dramatic scenery, traditional riverside communities and a peaceful rhythm of life that has changed little over generations. Travellers can combine cycling or hiking with kayaking and boating adventures, creating a varied and memorable journey through the heart of the country. In the south, the Four Thousand Islands region offers a completely different landscape, where the Mekong spreads into countless channels and islands close to the Cambodian border.
Laos is also rich in culture and history. The UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang is famous for its golden temples, French colonial architecture and beautiful setting between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Here, travellers can spend the morning cycling through peaceful streets, visiting ancient temples and colourful markets before heading into the surrounding countryside. In Vientiane, the relaxed capital offers another opportunity to explore Buddhist culture, local food and the unique character of modern Laos.
What makes Laos especially rewarding for active travel is its sense of tranquillity. There is no need to rush. The journey itself becomes an important part of the experience. A ride through the countryside may lead to a small village, a hike may finish beside a waterfall, and a boat trip may reveal spectacular limestone cliffs around the next bend in the river.
At AnyTrails, we believe Laos is best discovered through active and meaningful travel. Cycling, hiking, kayaking and boating allow travellers to connect closely with the landscapes, culture and people of this remarkable country. From mountain adventures in the north to peaceful journeys along the Mekong, Laos offers the perfect combination of adventure, discovery and authentic Southeast Asian experiences.
For those looking beyond the familiar and searching for a quieter, more natural side of Southeast Asia, Laos is a destination that rewards curiosity, movement and the spirit of adventure.
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Visa & Passport Information Ansova will arrange to provide you with a Visa-on-Arrival approval letter. A ‘visa approval letter’ from the government of Vietnam is the first step to the official visa. Once received, please print out two copies (one to be used and one for security). The invitation letter is required for check-in to your flight and for visa officials at the airport. Ansova will arrange for a representative to meet you once you’ve disembarked the aircraft and will escort you to the fast-tracked visa services.
What you will need: – Visa approval letter – Passport sized photo – USD $25 cash, for a single entry visa and USD $50 cash, for a multiple entry visa (ranging from one to three months) – At least 6 months validity on your passport – At least two blank pages on your passport
Visa A 30-day tourist visa is required for all visitors coming to Cambodia. Visas can be obtained on arrival for $30 in Phnom Phenh, Siem Reap and Preah Sihanouk.
The Cambodian government website also offers e-visas, so you can apply beforehand to speed up your entry into the country. They cost an additional $6 and take 3 days to process.
What you need: – $30 USD cash – two passport-sized photos (4cm X 6cm) – A passport that is valid for a minimum of six months beyond the entry date. – Your passport must have two blank pages for the visa and entry/exit stamps (Check your passport prior to leaving, to avoid being denied entry
Currency restrictions for entry and exit: – The import and export of local currency (Riel) is prohibited. When entering Cambodia, foreign currency amounts over US $10,000 must be declared. – Foreign currency can be taken out of the country up to the limit declared at customs on arrival.
Visa Tourist visas are required to enter Laos. The Lao government issues 30-day tourist visas on arrival at all international airports and most border crossings.
Make your way to the visa desk at arrivals and you will be directed through the procedure by staff. The process is quick and straight forward.
What you need: – USD $30 – $45 / CAD $40 – $60 in cash – One passport sized photo (4cm X 6cm). – Name and address of your hotel. – Your passport must have 6 months remaining validity to be allowed entry – Your passport must have two blank pages for the visa and entry/exit stamps (Check your passport prior to leaving, to avoid being denied entry) (endorsement pages are not considered blank).
Currency restrictions for entry and exit: – The import and export of local currency is not permitted. 2,500 USD or equivalent in foreign currency must be declared.
Visa Exemption Rule This rule allows tourists from 55 countries (U.S., Canada and UK included) to enter Thailand without a visa. They are granted to stay a maximum of 30 days if they are entering Thailand via an international airport or through a land border checkpoint.
Under the new provisions of the Visa Exemption Rule and Bilateral Agreement, effective December 31, 2016, passport holders of these 55 countries are entitled to enter Thailand under this rule provided they meet the following criteria:
1. Your visit must be strictly for tourism purposes.
2. You must have a confirmed return ticket to show that you are flying out of Thailand within 30 days of entry, as appropriate. Open tickets do not qualify. Traveling over land out of Thailand by train, bus, etc. to Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia (including en-route to Singapore), Myanmar, etc. may be accepted as proof of exiting Thailand. You may be asked to show your flight ticket upon entering Thailand. If you do not possess a flight ticket to show that you will be exiting Thailand within 30 days of entry, you will be most likely refused entry.
3. It will also be necessary to prove that you have funds of at least 10,000 THB or cash equivalent (about 305/USD and 410/CAD) per person during your stay in Thailand. A fee may be levied on persons entering Thailand under the VISA EXEMPTION RULE especially when entering through a land border in Southern Thailand.