18-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Laos
Laos is often called the 'Land of a Million Elephants,' but for modern families, it is a land of gentle rivers, golden spires, and incredibly welcoming locals. This 18-day epic journey is designed to sweep you across the country from north to south, focusing on the most accessible destinations while keeping travel times manageable and the pacing relaxed.
We have carefully curated this route to ensure you experience the cultural heart of Luang Prabang, the natural playgrounds of Vang Vieng, and the tranquil southern reaches of Si Phan Don. With the arrival of the high-speed train and improved domestic flights, traversing Laos with children has never been more comfortable or rewarding.
Day 1: Luang Prabang - Arrival & Sunset Serenity
Check-in at My Dream Boutique Resort
Arrive at Luang Prabang International Airport and take a short, air-conditioned transfer to your family-friendly resort. Settle into the garden-surrounded rooms and let the kids have a quick splash in the pool to shake off the flight.
Stroll the Mekong Riverfront
Enjoy a gentle walk along the stroller-friendly riverside path. Watch the longtail boats drift by as the sun begins to dip behind the mountains.
Luang Prabang Night Market
Explore the vibrant but low-pressure night market. It is the perfect place to pick up soft silk blankets or hand-painted wooden toys for the little ones.
Dinner at Indigo Cafe
Enjoy an organic meal at this centrally located cafe, which offers plenty of Western-friendly options for picky eaters and a rooftop view of the market.
Day 2: Luang Prabang - Temples and Living History
Wat Xieng Thong
Visit the most beautiful temple in Laos. The 'Tree of Life' mosaic is a visual treat for children, and the spacious grounds allow for easy walking.
Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC)
An educational and air-conditioned stop where kids can learn about the diverse ethnic groups of Laos through colorful costumes and interactive displays.
Royal Palace Museum
Explore the former residence of the King. The garage housing the royal car collection is usually a big hit with children.
Phousi Hill Sunset
Carry small children up the steps to see the 360-degree view of the city. It's a bit of a climb, so take plenty of breaks!
Day 3: Luang Prabang - Waterfalls and Bears
Kuang Si Falls
Take a private minivan to these turquoise multi-tiered falls. The lower pools are safe for supervised family swimming.
Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre
Located right at the waterfall entrance, this sanctuary for Asiatic Black Bears is always a highlight for kids.
Lunch at Carpe Diem
Enjoy lunch at this restaurant located right on the falls' stream, featuring high chairs and a great kids' menu.
Lao Buffalo Dairy
Stop by on the way back to town to feed the buffalo and try some delicious buffalo milk ice cream.
Day 4: Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng - The High-Speed Train
Morning Alms (Tak Bat)
Observe the silent morning procession of monks from a respectful distance. It is a peaceful way to start the travel day.
LCR High-Speed Train
Travel from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng in just about an hour. The train is modern, air-conditioned, and much more comfortable than the old mountain roads.
Check-in at Riverside Boutique Resort
Relax at this beautiful resort located on the banks of the Nam Song River with breathtaking views of the karst mountains.
Riverside Walk
Take a gentle stroll across the wooden bridges of Vang Vieng as the limestone peaks turn purple in the twilight.
Day 5: Vang Vieng - Blue Lagoons & Caves
Blue Lagoon 1
Visit the most famous lagoon. While it gets busy, the family area is great for a refreshing dip and some light jumping for older kids.
Tham Chang Cave
Accessible via a scenic bridge, this cave is well-lit and has paved paths inside, making it one of the most accessible caves in the region.
Picnic Lunch by the River
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the riverside huts where you can watch the tubers float by.
Hot Air Balloon Watching
Vang Vieng is famous for its balloons. Even if you don't fly, watching them rise against the sunset is a magical experience for children.
Day 6: Vang Vieng - Farm Life and River Fun
Vang Vieng Organic Farm
Visit this community project where kids can learn about mulberry tea and see how organic silk is produced.
Lunch at the Farm Restaurant
Taste the famous mulberry shakes and goat cheese salad while overlooking the lush fields.
Nam Song River Kayaking
Take a gentle guided kayak trip down the river. The water is calm, and it is a safe way for children to see the scenery from the water.
Outdoor Cinema Night
Many local cafes show family-friendly movies or documentaries in the evenings—a great way to wind down.
Day 7: Vang Vieng - Leisure and Local Flavors
Morning Pool Session
Enjoy a slow morning at the resort pool. Traveling for 18 days requires these 'recharge' blocks to prevent travel fatigue.
Laotian Cooking Class
Participate in a family-friendly cooking class where kids can help smash papaya salad (without the chili!) and steam sticky rice.
Exploring the Local Market
Visit the morning market (even in the afternoon, some stalls remain) to see strange jungle fruits and local vegetables.
Dinner at Lotus Restaurant
A quiet, friendly spot perfect for a final evening in Vang Vieng.
Day 8: Vang Vieng to Vientiane - The Capital City
Train to Vientiane
Board the high-speed train for the final leg to the capital. The journey is under an hour, arriving just in time for lunch.
Lunch at Pimenton
Located near the city center, this restaurant offers excellent grilled meats and tapas that are easy for kids to share.
Check-in at Settha Palace Hotel
Experience the colonial charm of one of Vientiane's most historic and comfortable hotels, featuring a large, kid-friendly pool.
Vientiane Night Market
Walk the long promenade along the Mekong. There is a large children's playground and an outdoor aerobics area that kids love to watch.
Day 9: Vientiane - Buddha Park and Icons
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
Located 25km outside the city, this park is filled with giant, surreal concrete sculptures. The 'Giant Pumpkin' is a fun structure for kids to climb through.
Lunch at Lao Kitchen
A great introduction to authentic Lao food in a clean, modern setting with plenty of mild options.
Patuai (Victory Gate)
Vientiane's answer to the Arc de Triomphe. You can climb to the top for a view of the city's wide boulevards.
Pha That Luang
The great golden stupa of Laos. The surrounding park is spacious and perfect for kids to walk around safely.
Day 10: Vientiane - Education and Impact
COPE Visitor Centre
A moving but essential visit to learn about the history of Laos. It is presented in a way that is accessible for older children to understand humanitarian work.
Lunch at Common Grounds
This cafe has a dedicated indoor play area for toddlers, making it the ultimate lunch spot for parents who want a quiet coffee.
Wat Si Saket
The oldest temple in Vientiane, featuring thousands of tiny Buddha statues that will fascinate curious minds.
Mekong River Sunset
Join the locals for a walk on the riverside as the night market stalls begin to open.
Day 11: Vientiane to Pakse - Heading South
Morning Flight to Pakse
Avoid the 10-hour bus ride and take a quick 1-hour flight to Pakse, the gateway to Southern Laos.
Check-in at Pakse Hotel
Enjoy a central base with a rooftop restaurant offering great views of the city and the Mekong.
Wat Luang
Explore this beautiful temple located in the heart of Pakse, featuring a monk school where you might see students practicing English.
Sunset at the Sedone River
Watch the confluence of the Mekong and Sedone rivers as the city winds down for the evening.
Day 12: Pakse - The Bolaven Plateau Loop
Tad Fane Waterfalls
See the spectacular twin waterfalls. For adventurous families with older teens, there is a zipline; for those with younger kids, the viewing platform is easily accessible.
Tad Yuang Waterfall
This waterfall is perfect for families as it has paved steps and a beautiful area at the top for a splash in the shallow water.
Coffee Plantation Tour
Visit a local farm to see how some of the world's best coffee is grown. Kids can enjoy the lush greenery and fresh fruit juices.
Return to Pakse
Relax after a day of fresh mountain air and waterfalls.
Day 13: Pakse to Champasak - Ancient Ruins
Drive to Champasak
A short, scenic 45-minute drive takes you to the sleepy, charming town of Champasak.
Wat Phou (UNESCO Site)
Explore these ancient Khmer ruins. Electric shuttles take you from the entrance to the base of the mountain, making it very family-friendly.
Lunch at Nakorn Cafe
A beautiful wooden house offering great local food and a shaded garden for the kids to rest.
Check-in at The River Resort
This resort is designed for relaxation, with stunning river views and plenty of space for children to roam safely.
Day 14: Champasak - Village Life on Two Wheels
Family Bike Ride
Rent bicycles (many hotels have kids' bikes or seats) and cycle the flat, quiet road through Champasak village.
Don Kho Island Visit
Take a short boat ride to this small island to see traditional silk weaving and experience authentic island life.
Afternoon Siesta
Take advantage of the slow southern pace. Let the kids nap or swim while you enjoy a Lao coffee overlooking the Mekong.
Shadow Puppet Theatre
If available, catch a traditional shadow puppet performance in Champasak, a unique cultural treat for children.
Day 15: Champasak to Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands)
Drive to Nakasong
The journey south takes you to the boat pier for the 4,000 Islands.
Boat to Don Khone
A short, exciting boat trip through the maze of islands will drop you at the pier of Don Khone.
Check-in at Sala Done Khone
Stay in a refurbished colonial building or a floating studio right on the river.
Exploring the French Bridge
Walk across the historic bridge connecting Don Det and Don Khone for a great view of the river channels.
Day 16: Si Phan Don - Dolphins and Falls
Irrawaddy Dolphin Boat Trip
Head to the southern tip of the island for a chance to see the rare freshwater dolphins. It is a quiet, magical experience for kids.
Li Phi Falls (Tat Somphamit)
See the raging rapids of the Mekong. The site now features a small beach area and a safe walkway for viewing.
Lunch at The Last Frontier
A relaxed spot with great views and a very friendly atmosphere for families.
Biking the Railway Path
Follow the path of the old French railway line. It is flat and shaded by trees, making it easy for little legs.
Day 17: Si Phan Don - The Great Waterfall
Khone Phapheng Falls
Take a boat and a short drive to the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia by volume. The power of the water is awe-inspiring for all ages.
Riverside Lunch
Enjoy a long lunch of fresh Mekong fish and sticky rice at a local restaurant overlooking the falls.
Island Exploration
Spend your last full afternoon visiting local schools or watching the fishermen use their traditional nets.
Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your 18-day journey with a traditional Lao family-style dinner by the water.
Day 18: Departure from Southern Laos
Final Island Morning
Enjoy a slow breakfast and one last look at the Mekong before taking the boat back to the mainland.
Transfer to Pakse Airport
A private transfer will take you back to Pakse for your flight out or onward journey to Cambodia or Thailand.
Souvenir Shopping in Pakse
If time permits, grab some last-minute Bolaven coffee beans or Lao silk at the Pakse New Market.
Flight Departure
Bid farewell to the Land of a Million Elephants with memories to last a lifetime.
Best Time to Visit Laos
The best time to visit Laos for families is during the dry season from November to February. During these months, the weather is pleasantly cool and dry, making it much easier for children to enjoy outdoor activities without the heat becoming overwhelming. From March to May, temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F), which can be taxing for little ones. The wet season (June to October) brings lush green landscapes and full waterfalls, but heavy afternoon downpours can disrupt travel plans and make some rural roads muddy.
Currency & Money
The official currency of Laos is the Lao Kip (LAK). While major hotels and high-end restaurants in Vientiane and Luang Prabang accept credit cards (usually with a 3% fee), Laos is still very much a cash-based society. ATMs are widely available in cities but can be unreliable in rural areas like the 4,000 Islands. It is highly recommended to carry some US Dollars in pristine condition as a backup, though everyday transactions are best done in Kip. Tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for tour guides and drivers goes a long way.
Getting Around Laos
Getting around Laos has become significantly easier with the opening of the Lao-China Railway, which connects Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang in record time. For families, the train is the gold standard for comfort. Between other cities, domestic flights via Lao Airlines are the most time-efficient and kid-friendly option. For shorter distances and day trips, hiring a private air-conditioned minivan is highly recommended over public buses or songthaews (open-air trucks) to ensure safety and comfort for the children. In towns like Luang Prabang, walking or using tuk-tuks for short hops is both fun and easy.
