Laos is Southeast Asia's hidden gem, offering ancient Buddhist temples, pristine waterfalls, and serene riverside towns. From the UNESCO-listed streets of Luang Prabang to the adventure hub of Vang Vieng and the mysterious Plain of Jars, Laos rewards travelers seeking authenticity and natural beauty.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Kuang Si Falls Swimming and Bear Rescue Centre
Laos' most iconic attraction — stunning turquoise waterfall pools perfect for swimming, with the Asiatic Black Bear rescue sanctuary at the entrance. Children adore both the swimming in crystal pools and watching rescued bears play.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Mekong River Sunset Cruise
Traditional longboat cruise on the Mekong at sunset watching the mountains glow golden. Relaxed and scenic experience that all ages enjoy. Many operators offer private charters for families with small children.
Duration: 2 hours
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) Exploration
Eccentric outdoor sculpture park 25km from Vientiane with surreal Buddhist and Hindu statues including a three-storey pumpkin you can climb inside. Children love the bizarre creatures and giant reclining Buddha.
Duration: 2 hours
Night Market Browse and Food Stall Dinner
Luang Prabang's famous night market is safe, colourful, and fascinating for children of all ages. The food stall section offers a buffet-style dinner letting children choose their own plate from dozens of options.
Duration: 2 hours
Bicycle Tour Around Luang Prabang
Cycling through the UNESCO old town temples and along the riverside paths is a perfect family activity. Flat routes suitable for most ages; child seats available at some rental shops. Temple-hopping by bicycle is memorable.
Duration: 3 hours
Elephant Conservation Experience
Ethical elephant sanctuary visits near Luang Prabang where visitors learn about elephant conservation, observe and feed rescued elephants, and may bathe with them in the river. Educational and unforgettable for older children.
Duration: Half day
Tak Bat Alms Giving Observation
Pre-dawn ceremony where monks collect sticky rice offerings is a profound cultural experience for older children. A respectful early morning wake-up teaches children about Lao Buddhism and monastic life.
Duration: 1 hour
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Sofitel Luang Prabang
Luxury colonial retreat with family suites, beautiful pool area surrounded by frangipani gardens, and outstanding restaurants. Grounds are safe and spacious. Connecting rooms and family-friendly service.
Family features: Family suites with connecting rooms, large pool, spacious gardens, excellent restaurant with children's menu
Thavonsouk Resort, Luang Prabang
Excellent value Luang Prabang resort with comfortable family rooms, a great pool, and friendly staff. Short walk to night market. Popular choice for families seeking quality without luxury prices.
Family features: Family rooms, good pool, garden, tour desk, bicycle rental, walking distance to attractions
Ansara Hotel, Vientiane
Modern hotel in central Vientiane with rooftop pool and city views. Family rooms available. Good restaurant with international menu and central location make it practical for families exploring the capital.
Family features: Family rooms, rooftop pool, international restaurant, parking, central Vientiane location
Riverside Boutique Resort, Vang Vieng
Peaceful resort outside Vang Vieng town centre with bungalows and rooms set in tropical gardens. Large pool, good restaurant, and away from the party scene. Perfect base for families exploring the karst landscape.
Family features: Family bungalows, large pool, garden, restaurant, tour desk, away from party areas
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Joma Bakery Cafe (Luang Prabang and Vientiane) offers familiar Western breakfasts and lunches with reliable hygiene — a safe choice for fussy young eaters
The night market food stall buffet in Luang Prabang allows children to choose their own plate from dozens of cooked dishes for $2-4 — a fun introduction to Lao cuisine
Sticky rice is universally loved by children — eating with hands from a shared bamboo basket is an interactive cultural experience
Most restaurants catering to tourists have English menus with familiar items like fried rice, noodles, and sandwiches alongside Lao dishes
Always choose cooked food over raw salads for young children; ask for dishes prepared without fish sauce if children have allergies
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Plan shorter travel days of maximum 3-4 hours for young children — Lao roads can be rough and tuk-tuk rides uncomfortable for small ones
Life jackets are essential on all boat trips — check they are available and correctly fitted before boarding any boat with children
Schedule activities for early morning and late afternoon; the midday heat (11am-3pm) is too intense for young children and older travellers
Temples require covered shoulders and knees even for children — pack lightweight long-sleeve shirts and lightweight trousers for the family