Introducing Laos

Seeing the real Laos with Exotissimo...

Thank you for choosing Exotissimo Travel Laos to organize your travel arrangements in the Laos People’s Democratic Republic (PDR). This document will give you some more information about the country, the different destinations within Laos, useful information for travelers, and a listing of the Exotissimo preferred hotels.

Our dedicated team at Exotissimo Laos are experts at what they do. Knowledgeable, passionate, and enthusiastic, there is no request too big or too small for our staff. Since opening our first office in Laos in 2001, our team has learned all of the hot spots, hidden gems, and everything in between. We will of course show you the highlights of this spectacular country but also are pleased to show you lesser known sites.

Where to go in Laos?

Most visitors travel to the capital city Vientiane and then head north to enchanting Luang Prabang. With plenty of sightseeing, activities, and traveler facilities it is no wonder that these two cities continue to draw the most visitors. However, the rest of the country should not be left unnoticed! 

The size of Laos and the poor quality of roads in the rural areas mean travel time is long, but those who venture out will be well rewarded! Not only is the landscape beautiful at the destination, but there is not a single stretch of road in rural Laos that does not have stunning views. 

The country is best described by its geographic divisions: the mountainous north, the flat plains in the center, and the water-filled south. 

Northern Laos is home to the majority of Laos’ ethnic minorities and is a trekker’s paradise. The town of Luang Nam Tha is a popular starting point for adventure travel. In the southern part of the country, a wealth of natural wonders await - the cool highlands of the Bolavan Plateau, the 4000 Islands of the Siphandon region, and magnificent waterfalls. 

Spending a few weeks in the laid-back atmosphere of Laos is sure create a lifetime of memories. Our staff have an in-depth knowledge of the country, the hotels, and activities on offer and are more than happy to plan a journey perfectly suited to your needs. Likewise, our guides are enthusiastic about their home and will stop at no length to ensure that you have a fantastic holiday.

When to go to Laos?

From November to February the weather in Laos is cool and dry while March to June sees temperatures soaring in to the high 30s (Celsius).  July to October tend to be very rainy, washing out some roads thus making rural areas inaccessible. The Lao are very sociable and if you happen to be in the country during one of their festivals, you are sure to get caught up in the lively atmosphere!

Pii Mai, Lao New Year, is in April and the celebrations include parades and water fights.  The magnificent That Luang Festival falls in November and thousands of people and monks travel from remote villages to participate in the religious celebration.  Several times a year Vientiane has boat racing competitions, where long wooden boats are raced up and down the Mekong River.


This is a guide to the best of the best of Laos. Ideas for travel, sightseeing and accommodation with a few insider tips along the way.