Looking for a family-friendly trip to Laos? Traveling Laos with kids could be one of the most rewarding travel experiences in Southeast Asia. Discover our top things to do below.
While the country may not have the most modern infrastructure or facilities, it more than makes up for it with its stunning natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, flavorful cuisine, and the genuine kindness of its people. Laos invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace a simpler, more meaningful way of travel.
Traveling in Laos with kids is surprisingly easy, especially when following the tried-and-true route of Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang. Flights between these major cities help you avoid long bus journeys, keeping the trip comfortable for little ones. In each of these key destinations, you’re never far from quality medical facilities, ensuring peace of mind in case of any emergencies.
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Travel Laos with Kids on family vacation
Laos is a country that truly welcomes children, showing special affection for babies. If you’re traveling with little ones, expect plenty of friendly attention. It’s never overwhelming, just embrace their interest and you might make some new friends along the way!
Laos is generally safe to travel with kids. The country is known for its relaxed pace, friendly locals, and low levels of violent crime. Popular destinations like Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang have accessible medical facilities and family-friendly accommodations.
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Laos people are so welcoming with kids
However, it’s essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies as healthcare services outside major cities can be limited. With proper preparation and precautions, families can enjoy a smooth and rewarding journey through Laos.
Here’s a list of family-friendly activities in Laos that make traveling with kids not only fun and educational but also safe and enjoyable for all ages
Always the first one, a capital city, Vientiane is pleasantly compact and easy to explore. Hop on a tuk-tuk and wind through charming streets where colonial architecture blends seamlessly with modern life. With the Mekong River flowing alongside, it’s a perfect spot for a peaceful sunrise or sunset stroll.
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Vientiane is the must-go destination when traveling Laos with kids
Families can visit Patuxai Victory Monument, the city’s iconic landmark; explore sacred temples such as Ho Phra Kaew, and Wat Si Saket; or learn more about the country’s rich history at the Lao National Museum.
If you’re not familiar with the destination, simply book a guided tour, a friendly English-speaking guide will help you uncover the best of Laos capital.
When visiting Laos, you’ll find a country where daily life flows much as it has for centuries, and many hidden corners remain untouched by mass tourism. Here, you can immerse yourself in the authentic culture of each ethnic community and feel the warmth of local hospitality. Your kids will love interacting with local families, their natural curiosity and friendliness often bridge any language gap with ease.
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Kid is feeding elephants
Living as a local, trying new and fulfilling educational activities, cooking, and being hosted by a local family is a unique experience.
This unique adventure offers families an unforgettable mix of nature, wildlife, and sustainability. The journey takes you deep into Nam Et–Phou Louey National Park, a remote and pristine area in northeastern Laos. Traveling by boat and on foot, you’ll discover the park’s incredible biodiversity, from rare bird species to deer, otters, and civet cats.
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There are many nature activities to travel laos with kids
At night, enjoy an exciting night safari at an eco-lodge, local guides will share stories about their efforts to protect endangered wildlife, including the elusive tiger. As the day ends, gather by a campfire along the riverbank for a cozy outdoor dinner.
In southern Laos, where the Mekong River becomes the widest, you’ll find Si Phan Don, also called the 4,000 Islands. Even though Laos has no beaches, this peaceful area feels like one. Small colorful bungalows sit along the river, surrounded by coconut and banana trees, a perfect place for sightseeing.
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Relaxing in the cruise on Mekong River
You can rest in a hammock, swim in the river, and enjoy the calm atmosphere. Don’t miss a boat trip to see the Irrawaddy dolphins, a special highlight that makes your travel laos with kids truly unforgettable.
Read more: Laos Cruise 5 Days: Explore Luang Prabang & Mekong River
Laos is full of family-friendly places, from lively towns to peaceful countryside spots and also famous for its beautiful waterfalls. These natural attractions are great for visitors of all ages to explore and have fun together.
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Kuang Si Waterfall near Luang Prabang
One of the most famous is Kuang Si Waterfall, about 20 miles south of Luang Prabang. Here, families can swim in the cool turquoise pools or hike to the top for amazing views of the forest. Nearby, you can also visit a bear rescue center, where rescued animals are being cared as a fun and educational stop for kids.
Learning to cook the local food is always a fun and memorable experience when travel Laos with kids . In a traditional Lao cooking class, you’ll start by visiting a local market to pick out fresh ingredients and herbs. Then, with guidance from a professional chef, you’ll learn how to prepare and cook a variety of delicious Lao dishes.
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Cooking class for children to learn some traditional dishes in Laos
After finishing, you’ll get to enjoy your own creations. And when you return home, you can impress your friends by recreating the flavors of Laos in your own kitchen.
Travel Laos with Kids can’t miss to explore the culture. Get hands-on and dive into the vibrant world of Lao culture with a natural dyeing workshop. Learn how local people have used plants and other natural materials for generations to create beautiful, colorful textiles.
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Learn natural dyeing method from the Laos artist
Learn traditional Hmong embroidery while discovering the rich culture of the Hmong people. A master artisan, along with a translator, will guide you step by step, giving you hands-on experience and insights into this beautiful craft and its cultural significance.
Keep your itinerary slow and relaxed, avoiding the temptation to visit too many places in a single day. Take rest days or stay indoors if the weather is bad or your children need a break. For older kids or teenagers, you can plan more activities, but still include rest days to recharge their energy.
If traveling with another family, Discuss expectations, interests, and responsibilities with the other family before the trip. Agree on how to share meal costs, and time together versus time apart to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
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Travel tips for travel Laos with kids
The sun in Laos can be strong even in winter (December to February), so wear sunscreen and a hat, stay hydrated, and plan downtime at waterfalls or pools. Nights can get cold, so pack layers, socks, and a jacket.
Take advantage of low season rates from May to October, and check with hotels in advance for requests like extra beds.
Travel Laos with Kids can be both rewarding and memorable. The Lao people have a special fondness for children, often showing warmth and attention. Kids can easily make friends and use their natural curiosity as a way to connect with local communities. If you need help planning a kid-friendly itinerary, explore our handpicked Family Tours in Laos for the best plan to make your journey unforgettable.