Laos is probably one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia. There aren’t many scams or reported crimes, which makes it an ideal country for travel. There are, however, a few things even the most experienced traveler should know. Before you decide to book your trip, here is some Laos travel advice:
Avoid All Travel to Xaisomboun Province
In Canada, the U.S. and the U.K., there are travel advisories warning against all but essential travel to Xaisomboun province. There have been reports of a couple of shooting incidents that took place in November and December 2015 that left three soldiers and three civilians dead. As well, there was an incident in January 2016 where a bomb was detonated at a construction site, killing two Chinese officials and injuring one more.
Landmines Are a Risk
Unfortunately, landmines – also known as unexploded ordnance (UXO) – still pose a risk in Laos. Large areas in the eastern part of the country, including Xiengkhouang Province and the Laotian-Vietnamese border areas, are still contaminated. Travelers in Laos should exercise caution. Stick to marked paths and never touch an object that may be a UXO.
There Is a Nation-Wide Curfew
Laos has an official midnight curfew and bars tend to close around 11. There are, however, places in Vientiane that stay open later and a bowling alley in Luang Prabang that opens just as everything else is closing.
Travelers in Laos Should Not Drink the Tap Water
Do not drink the tap water in Laos. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere. If you want to minimize the amount of plastic waste, you can refill your bottle for less than it costs to buy another one. While some people choose to use the tap water in Laos to brush their teeth, it is not recommended. Even the locals don’t drink the water.
Beware of Street Crime
While Laos is generally pretty safe, street crime is prevalent in places like Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. Travelers should beware of thieves on motorcycles who will grab bags from pedestrians, other motorcycle drivers and their passengers. When out, make sure that your personal belongings are secure at all times. Also, avoid showing any signs of wealth and don’t travel late at night.
Watch Out for Money Scams
Money counting scams can be a concern for travelers in Laos. This type of scam will typically happen at a currency exchange kiosk. One way to avoid this is by not exchanging large sums of money in one transaction. Travelers can also go to the bank or an ATM to get local currency instead of a currency exchange kiosk.
Road Travel in Laos Can Be Hazardous
Getting around Laos can be time-consuming and potentially hazardous. Vehicles are often poorly maintained, and the overall condition of roads is poor. Also, drivers don’t always abide by traffic regulations and may not follow safe driving practices. Livestock sometimes strays onto the roads and can cause an accident. Travel in Laos should be done during the day and not after dark.
Motorbike Accidents Are on the Rise
While renting a motorbike in Southeast Asia is popular among tourists, in Laos, the number of motorbike accidents is on the rise. Also, on a motorbike, you could potentially earn a “Thai tattoo,” which is a scar on the calf caused by a burn from a hot exhaust pipe on the bike.
Avoid Speedboat Travel in Laos
In Laos, river travel is common; however, safety standards are minimal. Speedboat travel during the dry season (November to May) can be especially dangerous. You should avoid all speedboat travel unless absolutely necessary and make sure to wear a lifejacket. Also, avoid traveling along the Mekong River after dark. The Laotian military has been known to shoot at boats after dark.
There Has Been Occasional Banditry on Route 13
For more than 20 years, there has been sporadic violence along Route 13 in Laos, which connects popular tourist destinations, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. In February 2003, a bus was attacked by more than 20 heavily armed men, which resulted in 10 tourists being killed, including two Swiss cyclists who just happened to be in the area when the attack occurred. In April of 2003, another bus was attacked and left at least 13 dead and more wounded. Three more shootings occurred in 2016.
Only Do Adventure Sports with Reputable Companies
If you’re interested in adventure sports such as ziplining and rock climbing make sure that it is with a reputable company. Also, check with your travel insurance to make sure that these outdoor activities are covered and that helicopter rescue and medical evacuation are included in your coverage.
Keep in mind that there have been ziplining accidents in Laos. In 2017, an American died while ziplining at the Gibbon Experience forest camp, and in 2019, a Korean died while ziplining in Vang Vieng after a tree that was attached to the zipline collapsed suddenly.
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