Discover Sustainable Travel in Laos

Laos is known as a hidden gem of Southeast Asia. Often overshadowed by neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam, Laos boasts lush green mountains, ancient temples, and a unique cultural heritage. Laos is committed to sustainability despite facing climate change challenges, particularly in tourism. Many hotels, tour operators, and businesses in Laos adopt “green” practices to minimize the negative impact on the environment and local communities.

However, sustainable travel is collaborative, requiring businesses and travelers to make responsible choices. Here are five tips for sustainable travel in Laos:

1. Stay at Certified Sustainable Accommodation 

We suggest you choose accommodations certified by Travelife, a leading sustainability system for the tourism industry. Travelife certification covers environmental, social, and economic criteria, ensuring properties adhere to high sustainability standards. In Laos, consider staying at:

Maison Dalabua resort, Laos

Maison Dalabua, a sustainable accommodation in Luang Prabang, Laos
Maison Dalabua is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled amidst tranquil lotus ponds, the hotel offers a serene retreat with beautifully appointed rooms and suites that blend traditional Lao architecture with modern comforts.

2. Take Scenic Train Journeys 

Experience the natural beauty of Laos by train. The Boten–Vientiane railway, part of the Lao-China Railway, runs between Vientiane and Boten, offering stunning countryside views. The journey from Vientiane to Luang Prabang takes about two hours. The railway provides stunning views of the Lao countryside, allowing travelers to experience the country’s natural beauty uniquely and sustainably.

3. Enjoy Authentic Lao Cuisine 

Lao cuisine, influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese flavors, is known for its fresh ingredients and unique tastes. Be sure to try local dishes such as laap (minced meat salad) and khao niew (sticky rice) with jeow (sauces). Recommended restaurants include:
Kualao Restaurant
Khob Chai Deu Restaurant
Manda de Laos

4. Engage in Sustainable Travel and Tours  

Participate in tours and activities that minimize environmental impact and support local communities. Examples include:

– Lao Pottery House 

Learn traditional Lao pottery-making and try it yourself.
At the Lao Pottery House, you can learn about traditional Lao pottery-making techniques. This hands-on activity not only teaches you the intricacies of this ancient craft but also allows you to create your own pottery, offering a unique and engaging way to connect with Lao culture.

Lao Pottery House

– Living Land Farm – Sustainable travel experiences

Living Land Farm: Discover traditional Lao farming practices through hands-on activities.
For those interested in agriculture, the Living Land Farm tour provides an in-depth look at traditional Lao farming practices. Participate in various hands-on activities, such as planting rice and using traditional farming tools, to gain a deeper appreciation of Laotian agriculture and sustainable farming methods.

Be a farmer in Living Land Fam, Laos

5. Buy Eco – Friendly Souvenirs 

Travellers can support local artisans and sustainable practices by purchasing eco-friendly souvenirs. Look for businesses certified by Lasting Laos, which promotes sustainable practices. Notable places for eco-friendly souvenirs include:

– Lao Textile Museum 

Lao Textile Museum, Vientiane

Lao Textile Museum: Offers traditional textiles like scarves, sarongs, and blankets.
It is an excellent place to find traditional textiles such as scarves, sarongs, and blankets. This museum not only showcases the rich textile heritage of Laos but also provides a platform for local weavers to sell their handcrafted products. Buying from the Lao Textile Museum ensures that your money directly supports the preservation of traditional Lao weaving techniques and the livelihoods of the artisans.

– Ock Pop Tok: 

Another noteworthy place is Ock Pop Tok, a social enterprise that sells a variety of handicrafts made by local artisans. Ock Pop Tok, which means “East Meets West” in Lao, was founded to empower women through the art of weaving. By purchasing products from Ock Pop-Tok, you support fair trade practices and contribute to the economic empowerment of women artisans in Laos. The enterprise offers a range of items, from beautifully woven textiles to unique handmade accessories, each reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Ock Pop Tok textile center

By following these tips, you can reduce the negative impact of your travels and support local communities. Look for Travelife and Lasting Laos certifications to ensure you are choosing sustainable options. The SUSTOUR Laos Project, funded by the European Union and implemented by Plan International Laos, helps create a sustainable and equitable tourism industry. Supporting sustainable businesses in Laos contributes to a greener and more responsible travel experience.

About Lux Travel DMC – Sustainable Travel Company 

Lux Travel DMC is the first luxury tour operator and DMC in Vietnam, expanding to Asia for both inbound and outbound tourism, and is noted for its commitment to sustainable development and ESG practices (environmental, social, and governance). In 2023, LuxGroup met 150 criteria to become a sustainable partner of Travelife Europe and is striving to achieve 250 criteria for Travelife Certified status this year. Lux Travel DMC is one of the first organizations in Vietnam committed to zero plastic waste, aiming for “net zero” by 2030. Since 2005, Lux Travel DMC has won numerous national and international awards for sustainability and excellence in tourism.