Photo: Pha That Luang, Vientiane · CC0
🇱🇦 Use CautionIs Laos Safe for First-Time Travelers?
Safety Scores / Laos
Travel verdict: A peaceful and laid-back destination with manageable risks. Never venture off marked paths in rural areas due to UXO contamination. The scores and risks below say why.
Safety Scores
Key Risks
- Unexploded ordnance (UXO) from Vietnam War-era bombing in rural areas
- Petty theft in Vientiane and Luang Prabang tourist areas
- Poor road safety; accidents common on mountain roads
Travel Verdict: A peaceful and laid-back destination with manageable risks. Never venture off marked paths in rural areas due to UXO contamination.
Never touch suspicious metal objects in rural areas: potential UXO
Medical facilities very limited; serious cases go to Thailand
Kip and Thai baht used; USD accepted in tourist areas
Emergency: 191 (police), 195 (ambulance)
Latest for Laos
Updates for Laos will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.