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Laos is one of the key stops along Canadians’ travels in Southeast Asia.

The landlocked country’s capital, Vientiane, takes its name from the day’s of French colonialism. That legacy is still evident today, and French colonial architecture mixes with the impressive appearance of several golden Buddhist temples and monuments. The most famous is Pha That Luang, a large stupa and national symbol.

The second most visited spot in Laos is Luang Prabang, a city made up of dozens of tiny villages. Many of those spots are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the city is a spot to visit Buddhist temples and a royal palace museum. Luang Prabang is also home to some fantastic natural attractions, including walks to waterfalls and mountain biking.

The major transportation artery for travellers in Laos is not road, but rather the famous Mekong River. The river extends up the western edge of Laos, and is the ideal transportation route for those wanting a unique way to traverse several countries in the region.

Heading south before entering Cambodia or Vietnam, travellers should stop at Si Phan Don. The name translates to “four thousand islands,” and the archipelago is a glimpse into rural life along the Mekong.

What Vaccines Do I Need for Laos?

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recommends travellers see a travel medicine specialist at least six weeks prior to travel in order to discuss the following:

• Hepatitis A– This disease of the liver is spread by eating food or water that has been contaminated by feces. Travellers should be wary of shellfish and uncooked vegetables.


• Hepatitis B– This contagious liver disease is most commonly spread to travellers through unprotected sex and unclean piercing and tattoo tools. Travellers should also ensure acupuncture needles are sterile.


• Typhoid Fever– This bacterial infection spreads through unclean food practises. Vaccination is recommended, especially for those travelling to rural areas or planning to eat street food.


• Japanese Encephalitis– This virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. An endemic in most Asian countries, vaccination is recommended for travellers spending time in rural areas or participating in outdoor activities.


• Rabies– The viral infection is present in Laos. Travellers should be vaccinated if they will be taking part in many outdoor activities or coming into close contact with animals.

Travellers should take precaution against insect bites. Dengue fever occurs in Laos and the insects carrying the viral disease are most likely to be out at sunrise and sunset. The risk of contracting malaria is low, but travellers should still speak with their travel medicine specialist to see if antimalarials are recommended. The capital city of Vientiane has no malaria-infected mosquitos. There is no risk of yellow fever in Laos, but proof of vaccination is required if travelling from a country where the disease occurs.

Medical facilities are sparse and sub-standard in Laos, and serious conditions will likely be evacuated to Thailand. Ensure any travel health insurance purchased covers out-of-country evacuation.

For more details on any of the above vaccinations, visit the detailed Passport Health specialty vaccination pages or make an appointment with your local Travel Medicine Specialist by calling or book online now.

What Is the Climate Like in Laos?

Here’s what to expect in a few key destinations in Laos:

• Vientiane– Laos’ capital city is hot and humid throughout the year, whether it is dry or monsoon season. Temperatures are slightly cooler during the dry season, with days ranging between 23º Celsius and 30º Celsius. The temperature can reach the high 30’s during the rainy season, and August is the wettest month with an average 21 days of rain.


• Si Phan Don– This archipelago is in the part of Laos that receives the heaviest rainfall. The southern parts of Laos are generally cooler, with daily temperatures between 20º Celsius and 28º Celsius. Nighttimes are much chillier. During rainy season half of the islands may be submerged.


• Luang Prabang– Those disliking warm weather are best to visit Luang Prabang in December or January when the average daily temperature is around 19º Celsius. The rest of the year is hot, with temperatures ranging between 24º Celsius and 27º Celsius. August is the rainiest month.

Rainy season in Laos runs from May to October. Monsoons occur during this period and generally happen at the same time in different parts of the country. This time of year may vary.

How Safe Is Laos?

Street crime is a threat to all travellers in Southeast Asia, including those visiting Laos. A frequent form of theft is grab-by robbery from thieves riding motorcycles. Common items to steal include handbags as well as phones or cameras as travellers take photos. Carry handbags over one shoulder and avoid using them at night. Avoid signs of affluence. These thefts occasionally involve violence, and items should always be handed over to assailants without struggle.

Women should be cautious, especially if hiking solo. They should also avoid travelling alone after dark in cities such as Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vang Vieng. Both women and men should watch their drinks to ensure they’re not spiked. The Government of Canada says travellers should also be wary of “happy pizzas” and “special shakes” that may contain enough opium that travellers can overdose.

Follow local rules and avoid wandering off path, since there are unexploded landmines across many parts of the country.

Laos’ mountainous terrain and undeveloped infrastructure means travelling by road is particularly risky. Boat travel along the Mekong River is common, though travellers should try and ensure they’ve purchased a ticket with a reputable boating company.

What Should I Pack for Laos?

Here are a few essentials you should bring to Laos:

• Two passport photos– These will be required for travellers intending to get a visa on arrival. Carrying extra passport photos is never a bad idea.


• Light scarf– Laos is a predominantly Buddhist country. Having a scarf will ensure you can cover your shoulders when appropriate. This is also good for warmth during chilly evenings.


• Extra cash– There aren’t many ATM machines in rural Laos, nor do businesses frequently accept credit cards. Carrying extra US dollars or Thai baht is good in the case of emergencies.


• Rainy weather gear– This is especially important if you’re planning to travel during the monsoon season of May to October. High winds may cause umbrellas to turn inside out, and a proper rain jacket is recommended.


• Adequate health insurance– Health facilities in Laos leave something to be desired. Travellers with serious ailments are often sent to Thailand for treatment. Ensure the health insurance you buy covers out-of-country evacuation.

Consular Services for Canadians in Laos

All Canadians visiting Laos should register online with the Office of the Embassy of Canada in Laos before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out to you in the case of an emergency or evacuation. If you plan to purchase a local SIM card you can also enter your phone number to receive SMS updates from the office.

Main consular services for Canadian travellers in Laos are managed through the Embassy of Canada to Thailand in Bangkok. There is an Office of the Embassy of Canada in Vientiane.

Office of the Canadian Embassy in Laos
c/o Australian Embassy
KM4, Thadeua Road, Watnak Village
Sisatanak District, Vientiane Capital
Lao PDR
Telephone: (+856 (0) 21) 35 38 34
vntne@international.gc.ca

Hours of Operation (consular section)
Tuesday to Thursday: 13:00 to 14:00

Visit the Office of the Canadian Embassy in Laos website prior to your departure to confirm correct contact details for the offices in Vientiane and Bangkok.

The Government of Canada also operates a 24 hour Emergency Operations Centre. The collect call number to reach the centre while abroad is +1-613-996-8885.

Entry and Exit Requirements for Laos

Canadian travellers require a tourist visa to visit Laos. Visas can be obtained on arrival at three airports: the Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, and Pakse International Airport. Official overland border points can also issue visas.

To apply for a tourist visa, Canadian passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of departure. Visas cost $42 USD and travellers should bring two passport photos.

If you have any questions about travelling to Laos or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment today by calling or book online now.