Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Laos
What is the Climate Like in Laos?
How Safe and Secure is Laos
Is the Food Safe in Laos?
Pak Ou Caves in Laos
What Should I Take to Laos?
Canadian Embassy in Laos
The natural beauty of Laos is unparalleled. Although the country is often overshadowed by tourist-laden Thailand, it offers no lack of must-see sights.
From dense, lavish forests and limestone caves to jungle rivers and windy mountain roads, Laos is a paradise. Whether travellers are exploring the Nam Ha national protected area or traversing the infamous Mekong River there is adventure at every turn.
But, Laos is more than just the outdoors. With well developed cities and wonderful eateries, there is an option for every traveller.
Do I Need Vaccines for Laos?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Laos. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccines for Laos: typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, cholera, rabies, Japanese encephalitis, polio, meningitis, influenza.
| Vaccine | How Disease Spreads |
|---|---|
| Typhoid | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis B | Contaminated Body Fluids (Sex, needles, etc.) |
| Cholera | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Rabies | Infected Animals |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito-borne |
| Polio | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Influenza | Airborne Droplets |
Mosquito-borne diseases are a serious problem in Laos. Travellers should consider brining antimalarials as well as mosquito repellents and netting. Zika, dengue and chikungunya are also present in Laos.
Although there is no risk of yellow fever in Laos, the government requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the U.S.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or book online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Laos
Yes, a valid passport and vida are required for Laos.
| Is A … | A Laos Entry Requirement? |
|---|---|
| Passport | Yes |
| Passport Validity | At least 6 months from entry date |
| Blank Passport Pages | One page for entry stamp |
| Tourist Visa | Yes |
| Vaccinations | Recommended |
The export of local currency is not permitted and if travellers are carrying more than $2,500 USD, they must declare so.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What is the Climate Like in Laos?
Laos has a tropical climate characterized by regular monsoon activity. Monsoons are most common during the rainy season from March through October, but varies based on locale.
Most of Laos sees a considerable amount of sun and heavy rainfall which can lead to uncomfortable amounts of humidity. But, mountainous regions have cooler and more temperate weather year-round.
- Pakse – Located in the southern region, it has a tropical savanna climate. Temperatures are particularly high in the months before monsoon season, which begins in March.
- Vientiane – Nestled in the northern-central region of the country, Vientiane is the capital of Laos. The city’s rainy season is from May through September with drier months from November through February
- Luang Prabang – Located in the northern region of the Laos, Luang Prabang at its coldest will only drop to around 69 degrees Fahrenheit. The wettest month is in August.
How Safe and Secure Is Laos?
In recent decades, Laos has been regarded as an extremely safe place to travel. The locals are generally warm and welcoming in all parts of the country.
Although serious crime has dropped off, petty crimes such as theft still occur. Be sure to remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
Travel by vehicle throughout the country is quite safe. Roads are well built and cars for the most part are reliable. Locals in the cities should be able to provide travel advice for roads during your travel.
Is the Food Safe in Laos?
Laos boasts a large selection of unique cuisine. Most of this food is unfamiliar to the American palate, including Sai Uah (sausage) and Larb (a minced meat salad).
While most of these Asian delicacies are okay for consumption, take notice of how and where they are cooked. Diseases such as cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid spread in contaminated food and water.
Delicious-smelling street food, where meats are often cooked in the open-air, can be tempting. But, research which eateries are known for delivering high-quality options.
Pak Ou Caves in Laos
Laos is known for hundreds of years of ancient Buddhist traditions. Along the Mekong, one of the most infamous rivers in all Asia, lie the Pak Ou Caves. These Buddha caves, known as Tham Phun and Tham Ting, are accessible only by boat. The caves are carved into the side of large rock figures and are a unique way to discover of the rich religious history of Laos.
What Should I Take To Laos?
For the best possible stay in Laos and to prepare yourself for anything unexpected weather-wise, add these items to your packing checklist:
- Lightweight and light-colored clothing to reflect the sun
- Refillable water bottle
- Powerful sunscreen to protect from the sun’s intensity
- Earplugs as most places tend to be noisy during the day and into the night
- Dry pack if planning on water-based activities or to plan for spontaneous rain pour
- Wet weather coat or umbrella
Canadian Embassy in Laos
It is good to know exactly where the Canadian Embassy or consulates are located when traveling. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
Canadian Embassy Vientiane
KM4, Thadeua Road, Watnak Village,
Sisattanak District,
Vientiane, Laos
Tel: +856 (0) 21 35 38 34
Still have questions? Schedule an appointment by calling or booking online now.
