Luang Prabang is a precious gem among the Southeast Asia routes. That magical little town in Laos where golden temples meet coffee shops by the river, and monks collect alms as the mist rises from the Mekong. It’s all true. Still, many people skip it. I understand the risk: you might just fall in love too hard with it. And to help you plan your perfect escape, I’ve crafted this laid-back, tried-and-true 3-day itinerary. Come check it out!
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Planning Your Trip
Best Time to Visit Luang Prabang
The sweet spot is November to February. This is the dry season in Laos, which means less chance of rain. But I personally recommend the beginning of the dry season (Nov-Dec), or the shoulder month of October, for one good reason: the waterfalls still look fuller from the rain season. March to May gets much hotter, and the rainy season (June-October) is lush but can mean sudden downpours. Also, many times the rain means muddy water on the waterfalls, which are still enjoyable but they won’t look as nice.
How to Get to Luang Prabang
Most travelers fly into Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ). You can also take a scenic (but long – around 8 hours) bus from Vientiane or a speed train (2 hours).
Or, you can choose a stunning two-day slow boat from Huay Xai on the Thai border.
Visa on Arrival in Laos
It’s available for many nationalities! Just bring around $40 USD (cash), two passport photos, and your passport with at least 6 months validity. They also give you a form to fill on the immigration area, which you need to bring when it is your turn to pay.
On my turn, they didn’t ask for the photos, but better be prepared.
If you don’t bring cash, there’s the option of withdrawing Kip (the local currency) from an atm at airport, but the conversion makes it a bit more expensive.
How to Move Around Luang Prabang
The historic center is super walkable. For temples across town, a bicycle (rent for cheap) is perfect. You can also rent a motorbike or an electric bike. The traffic here is super chill. If you are still not brave enough to ride a scooter, you can use the app Loca (more on the next session).
For waterfalls and caves, you’ll need wheels. You can either:
- Use Loca
- Hire a tuk-tuk, but agree on price first! this is usually the most pricey option
- Jump on a Songthaew: the red trucks that serve as “public transportation”, just like in Thailand
- Rent a scooter if you’re confident
- Join a tour for the most iconic activities
Apps to Download
For local transport, LOCA is Laos’ option. They don’t have grab here. Even to leave the airport or train station, it is good to have it so you can negotiate the price.
Loca also includes the Loca pay feature, which is very useful so you don’t need to pay everything is cash. They allow QR code payment. You will need to add a credit card, a Lao phone number (get a SIM card as soon as you can – I paid 5 usd for 30 days connectivity at the Vientiane airport), and do the verification step by uploading a photo of you holding your passport/ID.
If you are staying long term or just too tired to go out to eat, Foodpanda is a lifesaver for food delivery.
Where to Stay
For first-timers, aim for the peninsula between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. You will be in the heart of the historic temple district, and surrounded by charm. There are accommodations for every budget.
- Luxury & Heritage, by the river: Burasari Heritage Luang Prabang
- Cozy guesthouse: Ireenkevin guesthouse
- Budget: La Casa De Jardin
This post might contain affiliate links, which means I receive a commission if you book through them. If this guide was useful for you, I appreciate your support!
Your Perfect 3-Day Luang Prabang Itinerary
Day 1: Kuang-Si Waterfalls & Pak-Ou Caves
- Morning: Head out early to the Kuang Si Waterfalls, so you have a better chance to have them all for yourself. These iconic turquoise tiers are as stunning as the photos. Bring your swimsuit for a dip! There are plenty of places to change. Say hi to the rescued bears on the sanctuary on your way, it is housed inside the park. It also offers a zipline activity after the waterfalls, if you are feeling like some adrenaline (I wasn’t).
- Bonus: on your way to the waterfall or back, stop at the Banna Cafe. You can take a refreshment surrounded by rice fields!
- Afternoon: Cross the town to visit the Pak Ou Caves. You need to take a ferry to reach them on the other side of the river. Thousands of Buddha statues fill the grottoes, an interesting combination of spirituality and nature.
- Sunset: Back in town, head to the pier and find a Mekong River cruise for sunset (around 250,000 Kip/person.
Day 2: Royalty, Views & Market Magic
- Dawn: wake up with the roosters to witness the giving of alms. Buddhist monkeys usually go out every morning to receive food offers, which citizens give away as a form of spiritual practice. But it is specially beautiful in Luang Prabang! Just be respectful and don’t interfere with the ceremony.
- Morning: Visit the Royal Palace Museum to learn about the history of the old kingdom. Unfortunately, pictures inside are not allowed. The rooms are stunning, all covered with the colorful mosaics which are the reference for the patterns you see on some of the craft works on the markets. Remember, dress respectfully (covered shoulders/knees).
- Afternoon: Head to Mount Phousi (just accross the street) for the 360-degree panoramic view. It costs 30,000 LAK. You will have to climb 300 steps to the top – just pace yourself. If possible, time your hike to reach the top for sunset.
- Night: Time for some Night Market fun! You can find it on Sisavangvong Road. It’s a feast for the senses and the best place for souvenirs, from silks to paper lanterns.
Day 3: Hidden Falls & Local Wanders
- Morning: Most people skip the Tad Sae Waterfall, which is a big mistake. This place out of the beaten path is totally stunning! A large waterfall, wedding cake style, that feels like they pilled several pools. It’s quieter than Kuang Si, but lacks infrestructure: there is no place to change, and you will have to sneak into the woods. How to get there: You will need either a motorbike, or to hire a tuk-tuk or songthaew to the Tad Sae landing (about 30 mins from the city). You will find a beautiful temple there. Then, there’s a short boat ride to the falls.
- Afternoon: This is your time to explore the city without a plan. Get lost down alleyways, visit temples you missed (Wat Xieng Thong is a must), sip in a coffee shop. I highly recommend the Saffron Coffee by the river.
More Days in Luang Prabang
With more time, you can try some activities to learn more about local life, like a cooking class and a day at a rice farm.
An Important Note: Elephant Activities in Luang Prabang
You’ll see many offers for elephant camps. I recommend avoiding these, or at least do some careful research first. Unfortunately, most are not ethical sanctuaries. I’ve seen elephants kept on chains from the road. Many of these places make them give rides, leading to a poor quality of life. The best way to love elephants here is to admire them from a respectful distance and support true conservation efforts elsewhere.
Stay Safe in Laos
Unfortunately, many cases of methanol poisoning happened in Laos (not so much in Luang Prabang specifically, but still). Avoid drinking any alcohol that is not from a closed bottle or can. I would also totally skip the handmade whiskey bottles with scorpio and other animals, which they might offer you in some souvernir shops.
Travel Insurance
You never know when something gonna happen, and being covered is the best way to prevent bad surprises on your trip budget! Don’t know which insurance to cover? Take a look at my Genki vs SafetWing evaluation!
Luang Prabang FAQ (Your Quick Fire Questions!)
Q: What is the best month to visit Luang Prabang?
A: November to February offers the best all-around weather—dry, sunny, and cool.
Q: Do I need a visa for Laos?
A: Most travelers can get a Visa on Arrival at the airport or border. Have $40 USD, two passport photos, and your passport ready.
Q: Is Luang Prabang walkable?
A: Absolutely! The historic center is perfect for walking. For farther sites, you can use a bicycle, a motorbike, an electric scooter, the Loca app, or join a songthaew ride.
Q: What apps should I have?
A: Download LOCA for taxis (cash payment works) and to allow payment with QR code, and Foodpanda for food delivery.
Q: Where is the best area to stay?
A: The peninsula between the two rivers is ideal—you’re in the middle of all the magic.
Q: Can I visit an elephant sanctuary?
A: Be very cautious. Most local “camps” offer riding or shows that are harmful to elephants. Currently, it’s best to skip elephant interactions in Luang Prabang.
Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol in Luagn Prabang?
A: As Laos has many cases of methanol poisoning, avoid drinking alcohol or only drink from closed botles or cans.
