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Discover Laos

The Essence of Laos

Languid, lovely Laos has perfected a pace of life which allows time to appreciate the serenity of its Mekong River islands, the spirituality of its many temples, the beauty of its forests and waterfalls, and the age-old traditions of its culture.

Why choose a tour in Laos?

To spend time in Laos is to step off the treadmill of everyday life, turn down the tempo, and take time to smell the incense. Landlocked between its Indochina neighbours, Laos is less busy, more blissful; less hyper, more hypnotic; an authentic, exotic enclave of calm.  

The country’s capital, commercial hub, and largest city is Vientiane; an elegant blend of colonial boulevards, contemporary cultural buildings, and colourful Buddhist monuments, most notably the much photographed, multi-turreted, gold-laden, Pha That Luang temple, dominating the cityscape.   

The old Royal capital, Luang Prabang was a well-kept secret for centuries. The beguiling little town opened to tourism only in 1989. With more than 30 gleaming temples at its heart, it was UNESCO listed just six years later. Steeped in a sense of timelessness, it is home to an Arts and Ethnology Centre, street-food stalls in Hmong market, the daily Tagbat ceremony of 2,000 Buddhist monks, and the country’s most sacred Buddha image, in the last palace of Laos kings, the Royal Palace Museum.

The town’s surrounds are equally enchanting, a luxuriant mountainous landscape, where the beautiful, three-tiered, Kuang Si Waterfall cascades into its natural pool; there are fabulous views from the summit of Phousy Hill; and a cruise on the Mekong carries visitors to the hundreds of Buddha statues in the Pak Ou caves.

Jules Verne’s journeys in Laos are teamed with touring in neighbouring Cambodia and Vietnam.

When to go on Laos holidays

In general, Laos has a hot, rainy season from May to mid-Oct, and a slightly less hot, dry season from late October to April; but there are variations between the tropical climate of the southern regions, where temperatures frequently peak above 35°, and the more temperate, sub-tropical north, around Luang Prabang, ranging from 28 to 33° in the dry season.

Avoiding the heat and humidity of the monsoon months, Jules Verne’s journeys are planned for the most comfortable times to tour.

Who are Laos tours suited to?

Laos is one of the loveliest places for a perfectly peaceful interlude, its welcoming people enhancing an unhurried, immersive experience of the country’s creed and culture, natural beauty, and mystical monuments.

On a Jules Verne journey, you will always be travelling in a small group of like-minded people.

Why book Laos tours with Jules Verne?

With a passion for creating extraordinary adventures, Jules Verne takes you to iconic landmarks and lesser-known sites, with expert tour guides who share their local knowledge, and show you hidden gems. Highlights on our journeys in Laos could include a short river crossing to a typical traditional village or a dinner cruise on the Nava Mekong; experiencing a ‘Baci’ ceremony of music and dance; or enjoying a ballet performance at the Royal Palace of Luang Prabang.

Our guided tours to Laos are ABTA and ATOL protected, and we offer a 100% price guarantee, so you can book with complete confidence.

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