Ultimate Laos Family Holiday Guide: Fun & Adventure for All Ages
Searching for a family getaway that promises an exceptional mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural learning?
A family holiday in Laos delivers just that. This hidden gem of South East Asia offers a family-friendly environment brimming with activities, from gentle river cruises to exploring traditional markets and jungles.
In this guide, we’ll navigate the perfect balance of excitement and safety, making your next holiday an unforgettable Laos expedition.
Key Takeaways
- Laos is a family-friendly destination with a welcoming culture and activities suitable for children above seven, offering both cultural experiences and outdoor adventures set against scenic landscapes.
- Wildlife sanctuaries in Laos offer ethical animal encounters with elephants and rescued bears, promoting conservation, while cultural immersion is fostered through hill tribe village tours and local market visits.
- Laos provides a range of family accommodations to suit any budget, transportation modes catered to family needs, and essential health and packing tips to ensure a comfortable and safe holiday experience.
Discover Your Family Destination: Laos
Laos, often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting for families to discover.
The people of Laos cherish children, creating a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere for visiting families. This, combined with the slow pace of life and peaceful atmosphere, enhances the rewarding nature of your family holiday.
The country offers a canvas of rugged and varied landscapes, enabling a spectrum of outdoor activities set against dramatic natural backdrops, making it a haven for fantastic family fun.
From the mighty Mekong River to the UNESCO Heritage site of Luang Prabang, Laos is a destination where families can immerse themselves in the country’s enduring cultures and traditions. Ideal for children above seven or eight, Laos encourages their adventurous spirit and eagerness to learn and explore.
Exploring the Cities of Laos: Vientiane and Luang Prabang
Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, is a treasure trove of ancient temples and French colonial past. The city is home to:
- Wat Si Saket, renowned for housing thousands of Buddha images and showcasing a mix of Siamese and Laotian architectural styles
- Patuxai (Victory Gate), a symbol of Laotian nationalism
- The Presidential Palace
To further understand the city’s historical and political importance, a visit to the royal palace museum and other significant sites is a must.
Just a short trip away lies Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting a unique blend of traditional Lao architecture and European colonial styles. Here, families can enjoy:
- traditional arts and crafts lessons
- leisurely activities on the Nam Khan river
- attending the annual Blue Chair Film Festival, promoting interactive engagements with the Lao heritage.
But the exploration doesn’t stop there. Both cities offer peaceful natural settings where families can enjoy:
- tranquil riverside walks, including a sunset river walk
- leisurely Mekong cruises
- visits to Buddha Park
- visits to the Kuang Si Butterfly Park
Laos family holidays trips, located in the heart of South East Asia, are filled with memories to cherish, making it perfect for family holidays.
Adventure in the Great Outdoors
The adventure in Laos extends beyond its cities. The country offers a variety of outdoor activities perfect for families seeking excitement and fantastic family fun.
Imagine trekking through Laos’ varied landscapes, exploring hill tribe villages around Muang La, or meeting local farmers in the village of Ban Phavie. Laos’ spectacular karst limestone scenery is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable family trip.
The adventure continues on water. Family kayaking tours on the Nam Khan River and the Nam Song River offer an easy and enjoyable way to explore natural attractions, with guided excursions that are family-friendly and filled with mild thrilling sections.
And for those families seeking an adrenaline rush, why not try ziplining at the Green Jungle Park in Luang Prabang?
This thrilling experience also provides opportunities to explore caves, such as the stunning Kong Lor Cave, whilst Kong Lor Cave combines adventure with the beauty of natural surroundings. Additionally, archaeological sites like the Plain of Jars and Wat Phou in Champasak add an educational and exciting twist to the journey.
Wildlife Encounters: Elephants, Bears, and Dolphins
An exploration of Laos would be incomplete without experiencing its unique wildlife.
The country offers ethical wildlife encounters that not only entertain but also educate visitors about conservation efforts. Elephant sanctuaries, such as the Elephant Village Sanctuary and the Elephant Conservation Centre, are dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting Asian elephants.
These sanctuaries provide interactive experiences like feeding the elephants, which allow families to connect with these majestic creatures without supporting unethical practices.
But the wildlife encounters don’t stop at elephants.
The Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre and the Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary offer educational family visits to see rescued sun and moon bears, saved from bile farms and illegal trade. The Bear Care Tour, for instance, lets families participate actively in the welfare of rescued bears, illustrating how conservation efforts directly benefit from visitor support and involvement.
And don’t forget the aquatic life. In the serene Si Phan Don area, families can engage in dolphin spotting tours for the chance to observe the rare and beautiful Irrawaddy dolphins in their natural habitat.
Cultural Immersion: Hill Tribe Villages and Local Markets
Image by Sasin Tipchai from Pixabay
The cultural melting pot that is Laos provides endless opportunities for cultural immersion. One such opportunity is the ‘Hill Tribes & Highlands of Laos’ tour, which enables active exploration of Lao hill tribe culture. During the trek to hill tribe’s village location, families can:
- Stay in local hill tribe homestays
- Observe and participate in daily activities
- Gain insights into traditional Hmong villages
- Enjoy picturesque picnic spots
For those seeking an authentic local experience, Laos’ night markets offer an array of traditional food, handicrafts, and local delicacies. Places like the Morning Market in Vientiane and the Savannakhet Night Market are perfect for families to explore and engage with the local community.
It’s important, however, to ensure that your cultural immersion is respectful and enriching. Families planning to stay in hill tribe villages should choose responsible tour operators that support sustainable tourism and community engagement, guaranteeing an enriching cultural exchange that benefits both the travelers and the local community.
Kid-Friendly Lao Cuisine
One of the best ways to immerse in a new culture is through its cuisine. Luckily, Lao cuisine is not only flavorful but also kid-friendly. Children can enjoy familiar dishes such as:
- Sticky rice
- ‘Khao nom kok’ (coconut pancakes)
- ‘Ping gai’ (grilled chicken)
- Lao-style chicken nuggets
Fresh tropical fruit shakes are also a hit among younger children, keeping kids hydrated and packed with vitamins.
But the culinary exploration doesn’t stop at tasting. Lao cuisine also offers an educational opportunity.
The Lao Food Festival in Vientiane, for instance, provides a three-day culinary experience for families to sample a wide range of kid-friendly Lao dishes. And for a hands-on experience, cookery classes can engage kids in the preparation of local foods they can enjoy, making their Laos family holiday a truly immersive experience.
Comfortable Accommodations for Families
After a day of exploration and adventure, a comfortable place to rest is essential. Laos offers a variety of family-friendly hotels, with prices ranging from approximately $12 USD per night to more comfortable options with amenities like air-conditioning and swimming pools for at the higher-end.
Many family hotels in Laos feature amenities such as swimming pools and balconies with scenic views, adding to the enjoyment of your stay. Free parking is often available at family resorts, offering convenience for families who opt for car rentals.
For those seeking more luxury, high-end family resorts such as The Namkhan provide additional services such as a spa for parents to relax and assorted activities from tubing to yoga. No matter your budget or preference, you’ll find a place to call home during your Laos family holiday.
Navigating Laos with Kids: Transportation Tips
Getting around in Laos with kids is a part of the adventure.
The most common ways to travel long distances are by buses, while in cities, taxis and tuk-tuks are easily available for families to explore the area.
However, safety can be a concern with tuk-tuks as they do not have seatbelts, so families with young children might find these rides intimidating.
For intercity travel, air-conditioned minivans are a comfortable and affordable option.
A serene way to immerse in the local lifestyle with kids is by taking a Mekong River cruise, which allows families to observe riverside communities while enjoying the natural scenery. No matter the mode of transportation, navigating Laos with kids is sure to be an exciting part of your family trip.
Stay Safe: Health and Safety Precautions for Families
Safety is always a priority, especially when traveling with kids. Before traveling to Laos, families should consider the following:
- Vaccinations for various diseases as advised by a healthcare professional
- Practice strict mosquito bite avoidance to prevent diseases like Malaria and Zika virus
- Consider taking antimalarial tablets
Due to Laos’ lack of adequate healthcare facilities, ensuring comprehensive travel insurance and preparedness for medical treatment is advised. Additionally, using a DEET-based repellent and wearing protective clothing can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue Fever.
Traveling in Laos often involves navigating winding and hilly roads, which can lead to motion sickness. Preventive steps include sitting at the front of vehicles, looking ahead at fixed points, and breaking up long journeys for fresh air.
Various remedies can help manage motion sickness in children, such as using sickness bags, motion sickness tablets, acupressure bands, and ginger-based products.
Packing Essentials for Laos Family Holidays
Packing for a Laos family holiday involves more than just clothes and toiletries.
Given the climate in Laos, it’s crucial to pack appropriate clothing and protection items. Loose-fitting and lightweight clothing made from natural fabrics is essential for managing the heat and humidity, along with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection against the sun.
In addition to clothing, a well-stocked medical kit, including children-specific medication and rehydration solutions for diarrhea, should be packed to address any potential health issues.
And don’t forget the electrical adapters! To ensure compatibility with the 220V electrical system and Type F plugs in Laos, travelers must bring appropriate adapters for their electronic devices.
Best Time to Visit Laos with Kids
Planning the right time for your family holiday can make a significant difference to your experience.
The ideal time to visit Laos with kids is between October and April, during the country’s dry season. However, the ‘green season’ from late May to October provides lush landscapes and strong water flows in natural attractions, despite being characterized by short, sharp showers.
For enjoyable boat trips, the months from December to January are better due to the replenished rivers offering optimal travel conditions.
Trekking with children is best in the cooler months of December and January. Families can also experience local culture by planning their visit around local events, such as the elephant festival in Sayaboury, which occurs mid-February.
The Perfect Getaway for the Whole Family
In essence, Laos offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, wildlife, and cuisine that makes it a rewarding destination for a family holiday. With its welcoming people, diverse landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences, Laos promises a family trip filled with unforgettable family fun, learning, and adventure.
So why wait? Start planning your Laos family holidays today, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Laos family friendly?
Absolutely! Laos is a friendly and welcoming place for families, offering activities like caving and cookery lessons. It’s a great place for families to explore and enjoy together.
Is Laos a good place for a holiday?
Yes, Laos is a great place for a holiday, with its rich history, serene natural beauty, and laid-back atmosphere. Plan a visit for a unique experience.
What is the best time of year to visit Laos?
The best time of year to visit Laos is between October and April when the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for exploring the country and enjoying river travel along the Mekong River.
Is Laos a cheap country to visit?
Yes, Laos is a very affordable destination to travel, and you can expect to spend around $25-$50 per day per person, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
What are some kid-friendly dishes in Laos?
Laotian cuisine offers several kid-friendly options such as sticky rice, coconut pancakes, grilled chicken, Lao-style chicken nuggets, and fresh tropical fruit shakes. Kids are sure to enjoy these delicious dishes!