In Laos, they are not yet open to foreign countries but they started to promoting about flights inside Laos and some railway lines of Lao Airline.
Update: this article records the entry rules Laos applied in early 2022, before tourism restarted. Laos reopened to vaccinated international travellers in May 2022, and the COVID-19 testing, quarantine and tracing-app steps listed below no longer apply. For today’s situation, see “Travelling to Laos today” further down.
1. Who can allow into Laos for foreigners?
- Holders of diplomatic and official passports
- Experts and technicians
- Other foreign labour is important in large projects
- Foreigners authorized by National Task Force Committee for Prevention, Controls, and Response when absolutely necessary and urgent
2. Must To Step
2.1. Pre-arrival:
- Visa
- Certificate of negative COVID 19 test updated within 72 hours
- Confirmation of reservation at a designated quarantine facility/hotel
2.2. Arrival:
- According to “Laos Green Zone Plan”, all tourists need to be fully vaccinated
- Download the contact tracing app “LaoStaySafe”
- PCR test upon arrival. Go to a “LaoSafe” certified hotel while waiting for the results. If negative, you can freely explore “green zones”.
2.3. During Stay:
- Wear masks in public places including outdoor areas
3. Notes:
- Destinations will likely open in April and July as vaccination rates increase inside Laos
- Laos completed the construction of the railway, so when tourism opens and tourists return, this will be an advantage and an upgrade in Laos.
4. Travelling to Laos today
Laos has long since welcomed tourists back, and it remains one of the calmest countries in Southeast Asia to visit: little traffic, gentle Buddhist culture, the Mekong River and green mountains. It is a good choice for families with older children and for couples who prefer a slower rhythm than in Vietnam or Thailand.
4.1. Entry and visas
Most nationalities need a visa for Laos, which can be obtained as an e-visa before travel or, for many passports, on arrival at the main airports and border crossings. Rules and eligible entry points change from time to time, so check the current requirements for your nationality on the official Lao e-visa portal (laoevisa.gov.la) or with the nearest Lao embassy, and make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
4.2. The Laos–China Railway
The railway mentioned in our 2022 notes opened in December 2021 and has changed travel inside the country. Fast, modern trains now link Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang, turning what used to be a long day on mountain roads into a comfortable journey of a few hours. Seats sell out at busy times, so it is wise to book in advance; we can reserve tickets as part of your itinerary.
4.3. When to go
The cool, dry months from November to February are the most comfortable for sightseeing. March to May is hot, and the rainy season from about June to October brings lush landscapes, full waterfalls and fewer visitors, with short heavy showers rather than all-day rain in most places.
4.4. How Metta Voyage can help
Metta Voyage is a licensed international tour operator running private, tailor-made trips in Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. We can arrange your train tickets, private guides and drivers, and combine Laos with its neighbours in one smooth journey. Browse our Laos tours, explore Luang Prabang tours, or see the Indochina tour of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.
Frequently asked questions
Is Laos open to tourists now?
Yes. Laos reopened to international tourists in 2022, and the COVID-era quarantine and testing rules described in this article have been lifted.
How many days do I need in Laos?
Four to five days is enough for Luang Prabang and Vientiane by train; allow a week or more if you also want to visit Vang Vieng, the Plain of Jars or southern Laos.
Can I combine Laos with Vietnam or Cambodia?
Yes. There are regular flights between Luang Prabang or Vientiane and Hanoi, and Laos fits naturally into a longer Indochina itinerary.
Contact us:
Website: mettavoyage.com
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