18-Day Ultimate Budget Backpacking Route in Laos
Laos is a paradise for budget travelers, offering a slow-paced lifestyle and breathtaking natural beauty that remains remarkably affordable. This 18-day route is designed for those who want to see the best of the country while living on an ultra-lean budget of under $7 a day, focusing on street food, public buses, and free cultural experiences.
By prioritizing the new LCR train for long distances and shared tuk-tuks for local hops, you can cover the entire length of the country without breaking the bank. Embrace the hostel life and the simple joy of a sunset over the Mekong River.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Vientiane, Laos - Arrival & Capital Sights
Patuxay Victory Monument
Climb to the top of this arch, inspired by the Arc de Triomphe, for a panoramic view of the capital's wide boulevards.
That Luang Stupa
Visit the most important national monument in Laos, a gold-covered large Buddhist stupa that is a symbol of Lao sovereignty.
Chao Anouvong Park
Walk through this riverfront park and see the statue of the former king before the night market begins.
Vientiane Night Market
Browse the red-roofed stalls for cheap clothing and souvenirs, followed by a 20,000 Kip meal at a nearby street food stall.
Day 2: Vientiane, Laos - Culture & History
COPE Visitor Centre
A free and moving exhibition about the history of UXO (unexploded ordnance) in Laos and the work done to support survivors.
Wat Sisaket
The only temple in Vientiane that survived the Siamese occupation, containing thousands of tiny Buddha statues.
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
Take the local #14 bus for a few cents to see this bizarre park filled with giant concrete Buddhist and Hindu sculptures.
Mekong Riverside Sunset
Join the locals for public aerobics and a sunset view across the river to Thailand.
Day 3: Vang Vieng, Laos - Karst Landscapes
LCR Train to Vang Vieng
Take the new high-speed train for a fast and affordable journey north into the mountains.
Nam Song River Walk
Explore the banks of the river and cross the wooden bridges for iconic views of the limestone karsts.
Tham Chang Cave
Walk to this historic cave used as a bunker against marauding Chinese bandits in the 19th century.
Earth Bar Meetup
Connect with other backpackers at this eco-friendly spot known for its budget-friendly happy hours.
Day 4: Vang Vieng, Laos - Lagoons & Peaks
Blue Lagoon 1
A short bicycle ride from town, this natural pool offers a refreshing swim and a chance to watch locals jump from the trees.
Tham Phu Kham Cave
Located right next to Blue Lagoon 1, this massive cavern houses a reclining bronze Buddha.
Nam Xay Viewpoint
Hike up to the summit to find a motorbike bolted to the rocks and the most famous 360-degree view in Laos.
Vang Vieng Walking Street
Grab a famous 'Vang Vieng Sandwich' or a pancake for an ultra-cheap dinner.
Day 5: Vang Vieng, Laos - River Adventures
River Tubing
The quintessential Vang Vieng experience. Rent a tube and float down the Nam Song while enjoying the scenery.
Kaeng Nyui Waterfall
Cycle to the eastern side of town to find this 30-meter waterfall tucked away in the jungle.
Rice Field Sunset
Find a quiet spot at a local cafe bordering the rice paddies for a peaceful evening.
Tipsy Goat Hostel
Join the social vibe at one of the town's most popular budget-friendly hostels.
Day 6: Luang Prabang, Laos - The Spiritual Heart
Train to Luang Prabang
A short 50-minute train ride takes you further north to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang.
Wat Wisunarat
The oldest operating temple in town, featuring the unique 'Watermelon Stupa'.
Bamboo Bridge
Pay a small fee to cross this seasonal bridge that is rebuilt every year after the rainy season.
Mount Phousi Sunset
Climb the 300+ steps for a legendary sunset view over the Mekong and the gilded rooftops of the city.
Day 7: Luang Prabang, Laos - Monks & Markets
Alms Giving Ceremony
Wake up early to witness the silent tradition of saffron-robed monks collecting offerings (observe respectfully from a distance).
Morning Market
Wander through the narrow alleys to see exotic local produce, jungle herbs, and fresh fish from the Mekong.
Royal Palace Museum
Explore the former residence of the Lao royal family, showcasing traditional Lao and French Beaux-Arts architecture.
Hmong Night Market
The best place in the country for high-quality textiles and cheap 'buffet' stalls where you can fill a bowl for $2.
Day 8: Luang Prabang, Laos - Nature's Masterpiece
Kuang Si Falls
Share a tuk-tuk with other travelers to reach these stunning turquoise multi-tiered waterfalls.
Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre
Located inside the waterfall park, see rescued Asiatic Black Bears being rehabilitated.
Kuang Si Butterfly Park
A short walk from the falls, this lush garden offers a peaceful break with hundreds of butterflies.
Utopia Bar
Relax on floor cushions overlooking the Khan River and soak in the 'Zen by day, Groovy by night' atmosphere.
Day 9: Luang Prabang, Laos - River Life
Pak Ou Caves
Take a slow boat up the Mekong to these caves filled with thousands of small Buddha images left by pilgrims.
Ban Xang Hai (Whiskey Village)
Stop at this village on the way back to see how traditional Lao-Lao rice whiskey is distilled.
Wat Xieng Thong
Visit the 'Temple of the Golden City', featuring a magnificent 'tree of life' mosaic on its rear wall.
Garavek Storytelling
A small theater where you can hear local legends and myths accompanied by live traditional music.
Day 10: Nong Khiaw, Laos - The Northern Frontier
Bus to Nong Khiaw
Travel by local minivan through winding mountain roads to this stunning village on the Nam Ou River.
Nong Khiaw Bridge
Take in the dramatic view of the limestone cliffs that surround the town from the main bridge.
Pha Tok Caves
Visit the caves that served as a shelter for the local population during the 'Secret War'.
Riverfront Dining
Enjoy a simple noodle soup at a small family-run shack overlooking the misty river.
Day 11: Nong Khiaw, Laos - Cloud Walking
Phu Ngern Viewpoint Hike
A steep but rewarding climb to see the clouds resting between the jagged peaks at sunrise.
Local Herbal Sauna
Relieve your hiking muscles at the traditional village sauna near the bridge.
Kayak the Nam Ou
Rent a kayak to explore the quiet stretches of the river and visit nearby fishing villages.
Village Wander
Walk through the dirt paths of the village to see local life, from weaving to children playing.
Day 12: Pakse, Laos - Heading South
Return to Luang Prabang
Take the morning minivan back to the transport hub to prepare for your journey south.
Sleeper Bus to Pakse
Board the legendary 'sleeping bus' where you get a small bed for the 12-hour journey to Southern Laos.
Bus Station Snacks
Stock up on sticky rice and grilled chicken for the long night ahead.
Rest on the Road
The bus is an experience in itself—don't forget your earplugs and an eye mask.
Day 13: Pakse, Laos - Gateway to the Bolaven
Arrival in Pakse
Drop your bags at a local guesthouse and grab a strong Lao coffee at a street stall.
Wat Luang
Visit the largest and most beautiful temple in Pakse, located right by the Se Don River.
Bolaven Plateau Day Trip
Rent a bike to see the nearest waterfalls like Tad Fane and Tad Yuang on the edge of the plateau.
Pakse Panorama
Head to a rooftop bar for a view of the sunset over the Japanese Bridge crossing the Mekong.
Day 14: Don Det, Laos - The 4,000 Islands
Bus to Nakasong
Take a local bus south to the pier village of Nakasong.
Longtail Boat to Don Det
A short boat ride through the 'Si Phan Don' (4,000 Islands) archipelago to the backpacker hub of Don Det.
Sunset Side Exploration
Check into a $5-a-night riverside bungalow and walk the 'sunset side' of the island.
Hammock Time
Embrace the island's motto: 'The slowest place on Earth'.
Day 15: Don Khon, Laos - Waterfalls & History
Biking to Don Khon
Cycle across the French Bridge connecting the two islands for a day of exploring.
Li Phi (Tat Somphamit) Falls
Witness the raging torrents of these waterfalls, believed by locals to trap bad spirits.
Old French Railway
See the remains of the only railway ever built in Laos, used to bypass the waterfalls on the Mekong.
Khon Pa Soi Falls
Hike to this more secluded waterfall via a suspension bridge for a quiet moment in nature.
Day 16: Don Det, Laos - Mekong Relaxation
Dolphin Spotting Boat
Hire a local boat to try and spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins near the Cambodian border.
Mekong Swim
Find a safe sandy beach area on the north of the island for a refreshing dip in the river.
Island Perimeter Walk
A 2-hour walk around the entire island through rice fields and past local homes.
Reggae Bar Session
Enjoy the chill nightlife of Don Det with cheap drinks and fire shows on the beach.
Day 17: Pakse, Laos - The Final Push
Boat & Bus to Pakse
Retrace your steps back to Pakse for your final night in the south.
Wat Phou Day Trip
Take a tuk-tuk to this ancient Khmer temple complex, a smaller but equally impressive cousin to Angkor Wat.
Champasak Town
Wander through this sleepy town with its crumbling colonial architecture before heading back to Pakse.
Last Lao Feast
End your trip with a huge plate of Larb (minced meat salad) and sticky rice at a local eatery.
Day 18: Vientiane, Laos - Journey Home
Flight or Bus to Vientiane
Depending on your remaining budget, take a quick flight or the long day-bus back to the capital.
Talat Sao (Morning Market)
Final chance for some tax-free shopping and cheap electronics at the 'Big Market'.
Wat Si Muang
Visit the most popular place of worship in Vientiane to receive a blessing for your safe journey home.
Final Mekong Walk
One last sunset over the river that has been your constant companion throughout the trip.
Best Time to Visit Laos
The best time to visit Laos is during the dry season from November to February when temperatures are cooler and the roads are easily passable. If you are on a budget, consider the 'shoulder' months of October or March, where prices may drop slightly, though March can be very smoky due to slash-and-burn farming. Avoid the peak rainy season (July to September) as rural roads can become impassable and trekking becomes difficult.
Currency & Money
The official currency is the Lao Kip (LAK). Due to high inflation, prices change frequently, and cash is absolutely king. ATMs are available in major towns like Vientiane and Luang Prabang but charge high fees, so it is wise to withdraw larger amounts at once. Tipping is not expected but rounding up the bill at a local restaurant or for a tuk-tuk driver is a kind gesture. Always carry small bills for markets and public toilets.
Getting Around Laos
Transportation in Laos has seen a revolution with the opening of the Laos-China Railway (LCR), which connects Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang in record time. For southern travel, the 'sleeper bus' remains the budget traveler's best friend. Locally, the most affordable way to get around is by renting a bicycle (approx $2/day) or taking the public 'Songthaews' (converted pickup trucks). For longer distances not covered by the train, shared minivans are the standard option for backpackers.
