The 3 Best Dining Experiences in Laos

1.Mekong Sunset Cruise & Lao Tasting Dinner

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 27 reviews · 2 hours · from $44Our pick

Spend two hours on a solar-powered wooden boat drifting along the Mekong near Luang Prabang. You’ll receive a Lao mojito or non-alcoholic drink, sample seven local dishes, watch the sunset, and join a simple ritual involving written wishes, burdens, and fish release. Hotel pickup from Luang Prabang Old City is included.

“Great to have the option to be picked up from hotel as I am not very mobile at the moment. The staff on the boat were very friendly and welcoming. Entertainment was fun, a few rituals to keep us entertained along the way. The food was really nice and good variety. i really enjoyed it even though, sadly, it was cloudy but I can imagine on a clear day the sunset must be beautiful.”

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2.Home-cooked dinner & Baci ceremony with Villagers in Ban Nasang

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 12 reviews · from $68Top rated

From Luang Prabang, visit a fresh market with a Hmong guide, help prepare a traditional Lao meal, and join villagers in Ban Nasang for a Baci blessing. You will eat together in traditional Lao style and watch a khen performance. The group is limited to eight, with pickup offered.

“Extremely satisfied after s close and personal culinary and cultural experience. Our whole family with kids loved this experience which gave us an unique insight into Lao traditional ceremonies and food culture. Highly recommended!.”

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3.Luang Prabang Mekong Sunset Cruise and Hot Pot Dinner

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 9 reviews · from $55

Ride a tuk-tuk to Luang Prabang’s Mekong jetty, then spend about two hours on a slow boat as the sun drops behind Luang Prabang and Chompet. Your private guide explains river life, takes photos, and helps you order SinDat hot pot at a local restaurant. Snacks, bottled water, and local beer are included.

“What a great evening. Our guide, Mr Tid, was very informative & explained many things about the Mekong River.”

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