Laos in 5 Days: 2 Recommended 5-Day Itineraries to Laos

- Wendy T.
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- Wendy T.
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- Nicole D.
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Laos 5-Day Itinerary Options
Contemplating the best way to plan your Laos itinerary of 5 days? Our thoughtfully designed itineraries offer a captivating mix of iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Explore them for inspiration and make the most of your journey.
Itinerary #1: Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Vang Vieng Highlights

Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Arrive in Vientiane and visit Wat Si Saket, Haw Pha Kaeo, and Patuxai Monument | City sightseeing | Vientiane |
Day 2 | Explore Vientiane's Morning Market before you travel to Vang Vieng for a Nam Xong River cruise and visit to Tham Chang Cave | Market visit and cruise | Vang Vieng |
Day 3 | Take a scenic train ride to Luang Prabang, visit the former Royal Palace, Wat Xiengthong, and climb Phousi Hill for sunset views | Sightseeing | Luang Prabang |
Day 4 | Cruise the Mekong River to Pak Ou Caves, then visit the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall | River cruise and waterfall visit | Luang Prabang |
Day 5 | Relax in Luang Prabang before your transfer to the airport for departure | Leisure and departure |
This 5-day Laos tour takes you through the country’s top three must-see destinations, combining cultural treasures with stunning natural wonders. Start your tour in Vientiane, exploring its historic Wat Si Saket, with over 8,000 Buddha statues, and marvel at the golden That Luang Stupa. In Vang Vieng, cruise the serene Nam Xong River and discover the mystic Tham Chang Cave. A quick train ride brings you to the Unesco-listed Luang Prabang, where the former Royal Palace and the stunning Wat Xiengthong await. Don’t miss a cruise to the sacred Pak Ou Caves and a refreshing visit to the cascading Kuang Si Waterfall to make the most of your 5 days in Laos.
Itinerary #2: Southern Laos Exploration


Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Start the tour in Pakse and explore the Bolaven Plateau, including Tad Fane Waterfall | Scenic exploration | Pakse |
Day 2 | Discover the historical Wat Phou temple and immerse in Champasak’s local culture | Cultural and historical visits | Champasak |
Day 3 | Venture into the 4,000 Islands, including a visit to Khone Island | Island adventure | Si Phan Don |
Day 4 | Experience the grandeur of Khone Phapheng Falls and seek out Irrawaddy dolphins | Waterfall and wildlife viewing | Si Phan Don |
Day 5 | Return to Pakse for a relaxing morning before your departure | Leisure and departure |
Southern Laos, often skipped by hurried travelers, is a treasure trove of hidden wonders waiting to be explored. This five-day itinerary reveals the secrets of Southern Laos, from the serene Bolaven Plateau with its cascading waterfalls to the ancient, mystical Wat Phou temple, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Discover the enchanting 4,000 Islands, where the Mekong River forms a tranquil maze of islands and waterways. Marvel at the breathtaking Khone Phapheng Falls, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia, and spot elusive Irrawaddy dolphins. With fewer tourists and a wealth of cultural and natural gems, this journey offers an intimate experience of Southern Laos’ unique charm.
Planning an 5-Day itinerary of Laos?
Whether you're captivated by ancient temples, river cruises, or stunning waterfalls, our 5 days in Laos itineraries offer a rich mix of experiences. Explore Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang, or uncover the hidden gems by booking one of our Laos tours. If you’re looking to tailor experiences to your own needs, contact our local experts for a customized Laos trip. Explore more duration options in our guide on how many days to stay in Laos, or delve into our comprehensive Laos travel guide for additional information.
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