Welcome to Lao People’s Democratic Republic

Turn back time in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, where you might witness robed monks silently making their way through the streets of Luang Prabang, learn the traditions of the hardy Hmong people in the northern mountains and savor the low-key cafe culture of sleepy Vientiane, the country’s capital.

This is where Asia slows down, a place where you can discover stilt houses and paddy fields, protected nature preserves full of unfettered wildlife and excursions for everyone, whether you want to go underground river caving or slip away to a sublime spa.

Unique Facts

• Laos – Lao People’s Democratic Republic – is one of the world’s only socialist states openly endorsing communism.
• The Mekong River flows through the river for 932 miles. It is a vital source of transportation for cargo and people, electricity at dams, water supply for crops and habitat for fish, which are a diet staple.
• The highest mountain in Laos is Phou Bia at 9,249 feet.
• The city of Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved architectural, religious and cultural heritage.
• The Vat Phou Khmer Hindu temple ruins from the 11th and 13th centuries in southern Laos are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Language

Lao People’s Democratic Republic’s official language is Lao.

When To Go

The best time to go to Lao People’s Democratic Republic is November to January.

Airports

Vientiane International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A, B, C, E and F. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Lao Kip

Getting Around

Be aware that driving conditions vary significantly from those in the United States. Road conditions may be rough and roads typically lack markings, road signs and stop lights. Avoid driving at night.

Public transportation is not readily available and very limited after sunset. There is inter-city bus, van, pickup and truck transportation. Taxis and cars-for-hire are available at major transportation hubs, such as the airport and border crossings.

Three-wheeled, open-sided “tuk-tuks” are generally available in tourist areas.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license and international driving permit are required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Vientiane
Thadeua Road, Km 9
Ban Somvang Thai
Hatsayphong District
Vientiane, Lao PDR
Telephone: +(856) (21) 48-7000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(856) (21) 48-7600
Fax: +(856) (21) 48-7040
CONSLAO@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourism Marketing Department
Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism
Lane Xang
Avenue Hatsadi
Village Chanthabouly
District Vientiane Capital
Tel: +856-21-212248
info@tourismlaos.org
www.tourismlaos.org

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 195
Police: 191
Fire: 190

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Crimes of opportunity include pickpocketing, theft of unattended property and purse snatching, particularly in tourist areas and on major Lao holidays.