Laos is often called Southeast Asia’s hidden gem — a land of misty mountains, gentle rivers, and timeless traditions. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and find joy in simple, meaningful experiences. My husband and I visited Laos in November as a joint trip to Thailand and Cambodia. There was something very different here, much more calm, unspoiled and authentic. That is always something I deeply appreciate – less touristy places, genuine and wild.
If you’re planning a trip to SE Asia, don’t overlook Laos. Here is a list of unforgettable experiences you will most definitely have in this precious hidden gem.
1. 🌳 Sleep in the Highest Treehouse in the World
In northern Laos, just over the border with Thailand, you’ll find an eco-lodge and jungle experiences where you can sleep in a treehouse high above the forest floor. The company is called The Gibbon Experience (https://www.gibbonexperience.org/)
Your journey begins in a small town of Houayxay. In the early morning you take a local 4WD to the Nam Kan National Park and the drive itself is already an adventure – you cross rivers an a lot of bumpy roads. And then the fun part – you hike through the jungle to get to the tree house you are staying at. Because the jungle is so vast, you don’t just walk – you zipline from tree to tree! In between treehouses you take tours with the local guides to try and spot the elusive gibbons. We were lucky and managed to see a family of these endangered monkeys.
Then in the evening after dinner you are left alone on your treehouse (depending on the size). You can take a cold shower overlooking the tree tops (WOW!). Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong, watching the mist rise over the canopy, and your guide ziplining between treetops to reach your room and bring you breakfast.
It’s adventure and serenity rolled into one — a way to truly disconnect from the busy world and reconnect with yourself and nature. These treehouses really are the highest in the world and you can book experiences with the company lasting from 2 to 3 days. This was one of the most memorable parts of our trip!
2. 🐘 Visit an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
Laos is known as the “Land of a Million Elephants,” but sadly, not all elephant tourism is ethical. Choose carefully and visit a sanctuary that prioritizes rescue and care — where elephants roam freely, are never ridden, and are treated with love and respect.
We found such a sanctuary in the town of Luang Prabang – where we fell in love with the town. Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage gem where golden temples, French colonial villas, and morning alms-giving ceremonies create a timeless charm. If I could change anything looking back – I would be staying here longer.
We visited MandaLao Elephant Conservation where we firstly observed elephants bathing in the river, proceeded to feed them bananas and ended up taking them for a walk (no harnesses or ropes, just walking among these gentle giants)! Spending a day alongside these amazing creatures and learning their stories is a humbling and unforgettable experience.
3. 🚤 Cruise the Mekong River
The Mekong is the lifeline of Laos, winding its way through jungle, villages, and sacred caves. A Mekong River cruise offers a peaceful way to experience the country’s soul. There are multiple ways you can navigate the river – either going from point A to point B in a quick and touristy filled boat or you can take a more relaxing two day tour upstream. We decided to take the longer one which included stops in local villages, sleeping in lovely jungle stays and exploring the country life – from rice harvests with the help of an ox to searching for golden nuggets in the shallow waters.
Alternatively you can take a slow boat from Luang Prabang upstream to the Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues (this was included in our longer cruise).
No matter what kind of boat or cruise you choose, you will enjoy the shifting landscapes — limestone cliffs, golden temples, and riverside life unfolding at its own gentle pace. There’s something deeply calming about drifting along the Mekong: it’s a journey that feels less like travel and more like meditation. The light breeze and served coffee or tea are just another cherry on top.
🌸 Final Thought
Laos isn’t about rushing through checklists — it’s about immersing yourself in nature, culture, and quiet wonder. Sleep among the trees, walk beside elephants, and let the Mekong carry you into its timeless flow.
With an Ikigai mindset, every experience in Laos becomes more than just travel — it becomes a spark of meaning to carry with you long after you leave.
For more travel inspiration you can visit my Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ikigaimind/ or navigate my blog under the category: Travel.