Luang Prabang With Kids: 16 Things to Do + Travel Tips

Discover family-friendly activities and essential travel tips for exploring Luang Prabang with your kids.

You’re planning—or perhaps just considering—a trip to Luang Prabang with kids and wondering if there’s enough to keep them amazed. The answer? A resounding yes!

By now, you’ve probably come across plenty of “must-do” lists featuring the Kuang Si Waterfall, rescued bears, and maybe even the Laos Dairy Farm. But is there more? Absolutely.

We fell in love with our time in Luang Prabang with our own daughter, not just for the famous sights but also for the hidden gems that made our trip even more special.

In this guide, we’ll go beyond just the usual itinerary, sharing tips to make your family-friendly adventure both memorable and practical. After all, being adventurous parents means planning for both fun and convenience—ensuring your experience in Luang Prabang with kids is as smooth as it is unforgettable.

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Quick List: Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang With Kids

• 1. Visit the Kuang Si Waterfall
• 2. Watch Wildlife at Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre
• 3. Enjoy a Sunset Boat Ride on the Mekong River
• 4. Pay Respects at the UXO Museum
• 5. Eat and Shop at Luang Prabang Night Market
• 6. Take a Smoothie Happy Hour Break
• 7. Ride a Tuk Tuk
• 8. Rent a Scooter
• 9. Stay at a Hotel With a Pool
• 10. Eat Lao Khao Soi
• 11. Ride the Train 
• 12. Take a Pottery Class
• 13. Visit the Big Brother Mouse School buy books
• 14. Tour the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm
• 15. Walk Through the Heuan Chan Heritage House
• 16. Hike to Phousi Hill

How to Visit Luang Prabang With Kids

👙 If you can swing it, book a hotel with a pool or a playground for the kids. It’ll make a world of difference during downtime when the kids want to stay active, but you just want to relax.

🍜 Finding kid-friendly food in Laos is pretty easy since it’s not as spicy as Thailand. Lao Khao Soi, a tomato-based noodle soup, is a huge crowd-pleaser—even for kids with more sensitive taste buds.

🗒 Pack a small notepad and some colored pencils in your day bag or purse. This simple trick can help keep kids entertained while waiting at a restaurant or while traveling.

🌞 Be mindful of the heat, especially if you’re visiting during the hotter months. Plan your activities for early in the morning or in the evening to avoid cranky kids in the midday sun.

💧The Kuang Si Waterfall may be the most popular attraction in Luang Prabang, but it’s not centrally located, so it may not be obvious how to get there. It’s best to plan it as a half-day trip, so adjust your itinerary accordingly.

🚐 For transportation or arranging tours, check with your hotel first. They’re often your best resource for booking activities in Luang Prabang, as they almost always have connections or solutions and it’s convenient.

16 Family-Friendly Activities in Luang Prabang With Kids

1. Visit the Kuang Si Waterfall

Located about 30 km from Luang Prabang, Kuang Si is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Laos. The waterfall is steeped in local significance, with its beautiful turquoise pools believed to be a sacred site by the local communities.

Historically, it has been a place of reverence and a gathering point for villagers, who have long used the water for rituals and ceremonies. The falls cascade through lush jungle, creating a series of striking pools that are perfect for swimming, making it an ideal spot for families visiting Luang Prabang with kids.

While the area is now a popular tourist destination, it remains a peaceful and serene spot, offering visitors a chance to connect with the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

Know before you go:

Although a natural outdoor attraction, the waterfalls aren’t free to visit. You must purchase an admission ticket at the parking lot below, then take a trolley up the hill to the entrance. Even if you choose to hike (and omit the trolley ride) from the parking lot, you’ll still need to pay the entrance fee.

The walk from the trolley drop-off to the actual waterfalls is less than 10 minutes along a well-marked path through the woods. Note that this hike is not suitable for strollers and your family should be COVERED in bug spray.

If you wish, you can swim in the waterfall pools, as there are no rules prohibiting swimming, which is surprising for such a sacred site. The water is calm, but of course, you’ll want to ensure that your kids know how to swim safely.

There are multiple pools to enjoy, so don’t stop at the first one. Hike up the hill to reach the start of the terraced waterfalls, and find a quieter spot to relax with fewer people around.

For those planning to swim, keep in mind that this is a completely natural spot, meaning there are no facilities, changing rooms, or bathrooms. Bring snacks, water and all your gear for swimming like plenty of towels if your family is taking a dip.

2. Watch Wildlife at Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre

The Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, located near the Kuang Si Waterfall, is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of Asiatic black bears, also known as moon bears. The center was established to provide a safe haven for bears that have been rescued from illegal wildlife trade, poaching, or captivity.

Visitors can learn about the important conservation efforts being made to protect these bears, as well as the challenges they face in the wild. The center provides a natural environment for the bears, with large enclosures and a sanctuary-like atmosphere.

It also educates the public on the importance of wildlife protection and the need to preserve Laos’ biodiversity. Contrary to what it may initially look like, it’s not a “zoo” environment; everything is designed for the well-being of the animals, not just as an exhibit for tourists.

Know before you go:

The Bear Rescue Center is located along the walking route to the waterfall, and there’s no need to buy a separate ticket to visit—it’s all included in your entrance fee.

There are several separate enclosures for the bears, so you can try to spot them from different angles, as they don’t all live together.

To see the bears active (since they tend to sleep most of the time), plan your visit around feeding time. This is the best chance to see them moving around.

From our experience, we recommend getting there around noon when lunchtime begins. During this time, the trainers hide food around their enclosures, encouraging the bears to work a bit for their treats. Our daughter loved watching the bears stand on their back legs, reaching for the food and climbing up trees—it was definitely a highlight for her!

If you’re unsure of the feeding time, just ask at the information desk.

3. Enjoy a Sunset Boat Ride on the Mekong River

The Mekong River is crucial to both Laos and Southeast Asia as a whole. Flowing through six countries, it supports agriculture, transportation, and fishing, making it essential to the livelihoods of millions.

In Laos, the river plays a key role in the economy and culture, providing resources for rural communities and supporting a rich biodiversity with many unique species. Across the region, the Mekong is vital for food security and economic activity, symbolizing life and connection throughout Southeast Asia.

It flows directly through Luang Prabang, offering visitors a great opportunity to experience its significance firsthand—whether by taking a boat cruise or watching the sunset along its banks.

Know before you go:

There’s no shortage of river cruises along the Mekong in Luang Prabang. The moment you’re spotted as a tourist, you’ll be slapped with offers from every direction. If you’re on a budget or simply don’t want to spend too much on this experience, never accept the first price, and don’t be afraid to bargain—as long as you’re being fair. Walk along the riverfront and speak directly with operators to compare options.

If you’re looking for a nice experience, make sure you understand what package or tour you’re booking and what’s included (dinner, drinks, karaoke, etc.). These are often best arranged through your hotel or a reputable agency, rather than a random guy holding a handwritten sign (which is exactly what we booked).

We weren’t after anything fancy—just a simple sunset cruise for some nice photos, plus our daughter loves any excuse to be on a boat. Our tour was the very definition of “budget,” as we stepped onto a rickety wooden longboat with repurposed old bus seats, sipping our own drinks from the mini-market.

4. Pay Respects at the UXO Museum

The UXO Museum in Luang Prabang sheds light on the devastating impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos, a legacy of the Vietnam War. Laos remains the most heavily bombed country per capita in history, with millions of unexploded bombs still posing a threat to communities, especially in rural areas.

The museum provides an eye-opening look at the ongoing dangers of UXO, the efforts to clear them, and the support provided to victims. Through interactive displays, personal stories, and educational exhibits, visitors gain a deeper understanding of this hidden but critical issue.

A visit to the museum offers a sobering yet important perspective on Laos’ recent history and the resilience of its people.

Know before you go:

Due to the heavy nature of the subject, this museum is best suited for either very young children who are too young to comprehend it or older kids, like teenagers. It is not overly graphic, and much of the exhibit content is presented in a story format, so children won’t be directly exposed to upsetting images. This made it a suitable visit even with our toddler.

Entrance to the museum is donation-based, allowing you to pay what you wish. The video presentations in the back room are worth sticking around for, but otherwise, it’s a small museum that doesn’t require a huge chunk of time.

5. Eat and Shop at Luang Prabang Night Market

A night market in any Southeast Asian city is a whirlwind, and Luang Prabang’s is no exception. Expect bustling crowds, the aroma of sizzling street food, and colorful displays of handcrafted goods.

Stretching along Sisavangvong Road, the market is packed with vendors selling traditional textiles, handmade jewelry, and an overwhelming variety of local eats. The food section, tucked into an alley, offers everything from grilled meats to vegetarian buffets at budget-friendly prices.

While lively, it’s a great place to experience Lao culture, try authentic dishes, and hunt for unique souvenirs—all while honing your bargaining skills.

Know before you go:

For a slightly more organized dining experience, take your family to the seated area of the outdoor food market instead of the alley. There are more places to sit and a child-friendly selection of foods, making it a good option if you have a picky eater.

Cash is an absolute must when exploring the outdoor markets. While the town center of Luang Prabang is filled with ATMs, some frequently run out of cash or may not accept your card. Our strategy? We found one that consistently worked and stuck with it.

6. Take a Smoothie Happy Hour Break

Luang Prabang is packed with charming coffee shops, making it easy for parents to grab a much-needed caffeine boost while turning it into a fun outing for the kids. Many cafés offer fresh fruit smoothies, and during the lull of the day, you’ll often find happy hour deals on juices and blended drinks.

It became our go-to break, letting us recharge while our daughter happily sipped on her daily fruit smoothie. Unfortunately, it also completely spoiled her standards—now, she expects freshly juiced oranges at home, and I’m not about to start running a full-time juice bar.

7. Ride a Tuk Tuk

Tuk-tuks are a fun and easy way to get around Southeast Asia, and in places like Luang Prabang, they’re a total staple. These three-wheeled rides are perfect for zipping through narrow streets and getting you to the sights without the hassle of taxis.

In Luang Prabang, tuk-tuks are everywhere, especially around the markets and main attractions. One thing to note is that they don’t use meters, so you’ll need to negotiate the fare before you hop in.

While they might not be as comfy as a car, tuk-tuks are all about that open-air ride vibe, and let’s be honest—they’re pretty great fun for kids! It’s like being on a mini amusement park ride while you cruise through the city.

Know before you go:

Agreeing on a price before your tuk-tuk ride is essential, especially if you’re a tourist. After your first ride, make a note of how much you paid and the distance, so you have a point of reference for future rides and can avoid getting overcharged.

You might also spot truck beds with covers on them—these are essentially tuk-tuk-style transport but on four wheels. They’re usually better for larger groups or families. Surprisingly, just because they’re bigger doesn’t mean they’re more expensive, so don’t only look for the three-wheeled ones.

We often opted for tuk-tuks in Luang Prabang after a long day or if it was late in the evening and we just wanted to get back to the hotel quickly and call it a night.

8. Rent a Scooter

Laos, like many Southeast Asian countries, is filled with scooters thanks to their affordability, fuel efficiency, and ability to easily navigate congested streets.

While Luang Prabang isn’t as densely populated as cities like Bangkok (for example), scooters are still widely used. This is largely because public transportation can be limited or unreliable, making scooters a fast, flexible, and convenient mode of travel.

Their compact size makes parking hassle-free, and they offer a cost-effective alternative to cars, especially due to high fuel prices or costly vehicle taxes.

For many residents of Luang Prabang, scooters are a vital part of daily life, used for everything from commuting and running errands to transporting goods—and even animals!

Know before you go:

Renting and, more importantly, driving a scooter in Luang Prabang isn’t for everyone. While we wouldn’t say it’s entirely safe, the reality is that riding a scooter always carries some risk, no matter where you are in the world. However, if you have experience (like we fortunately did), it can be an incredible experience.

Be sure to check with the scooter rental agency to see if they offer a kid-sized helmet. We initially visited a few places that didn’t have any or had run out, so it took us a little while to find one that had the “complete package”—safety first!

Believe it or not, the daily cost of scooter rental here is even cheaper than in Thailand, with most rentals costing around $10 for 24 hours.

9. Stay at a Hotel With a Pool

Tourism in Luang Prabang has grown significantly in recent years, leading to an increase in the number of high-quality hotels and guesthouses.

Many of these accommodations now feature pools, not just as a luxury amenity but also as a practical way to cool off in the intense midday heat.

This growth in tourism has made it possible to enjoy “high-end” stays at a fraction of the cost compared to similar accommodations elsewhere, providing visitors with an affordable yet luxurious experience. After all, how often do you get the chance to stay at a mid-range or luxury hotel with a pool for under $50 per night?!

When traveling to Luang Prabang with kids, it’s easy to see why poolside accommodations are a hit. Most kids love pools, so having a place to stay with one is well worth it. It provides a great way to keep the little ones entertained while you enjoy some much-needed downtime.

Tip: Our young daughter needed floaties, which we hadn’t thought to pack. After a quick walk around town, we stopped by a sporting goods store that had plenty of affordable options. So, don’t worry if you’re not fully prepared!

10. Find the Best Lao Khao Soi

Though they share the same name, the Khao Soi in Laos is distinctly different from the version found in northern Thailand—and in our opinion, it’s the more kid-friendly option. Unlike its Thai counterpart, Lao Khao Soi is tomato-based, milder in spice, and overall more subtle in flavor.

It’s still packed with taste but in a way that’s not overwhelming. The soup features a tangy and savory broth with rice noodles, a rich tomato meat sauce, and a light, clear base. The meat sauce typically includes ground pork, tomatoes, and fermented soybean paste.

Traditionally enjoyed for breakfast or lunch, this dish can be found all over Luang Prabang, from humble street stalls to upscale restaurants. It’s affordable, and many vendors offer their own unique twist on the classic recipe.

Lao Khao Soi is the type of dish you can never get tired of, which is why, as a family, you should try as many versions as possible from different places. It’s even a great option for picky eaters—many restaurants will customize the soup to make it as plain as needed for younger children.

11. Ride the Train 

The Laos-China Railway (LCR), which opened in December 2021, connects Vientiane with China as part of an infrastructure initiative between the two countries.

This high-speed train service offers a faster, more convenient way to travel across Laos, reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h (100 mph). Until recently, there hasn’t been an easy way to travel this quickly, making the railway a major benefit for travelers.

For tourists, the LCR provides a scenic and efficient way to explore the country, particularly the route between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. The railway also plays a significant role in Laos’ economic development, boosting trade and tourism by improving regional connectivity.

Know before you go:

If Luang Prabang is your base or the main focus of your trip to Laos, consider taking the train to Vang Vieng for a day trip or weekend getaway. Vang Vieng, another well-known destination in Laos, has a slightly different vibe and is famous for its caves and hiking trails.

The train ride itself is enjoyable, offering endless stunning views of the Laos countryside. Vang Vieng is less than an hour away from Luang Prabang, making it a simple and convenient journey, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

We bought our LCR train tickets through the Bookaway website (or app), which is one of the few user-friendly resources online for purchasing LCR tickets.

12. Take a Pottery Class

On the opposite side of the Mekong River from central Luang Prabang lies the perfect spot for a family pottery class—Lao Pottery House. Located in the traditional village of Ban Chan Nua, you can easily arrange a pickup from the pottery shop to take you across the river or opt for the “public ferry.”

Visitors are welcomed into an immersive experience of the ancient art of Lao pottery. This family-run studio offers hands-on workshops where guests can learn traditional techniques, create their own pieces, and gain insight into the cultural significance of pottery in Lao society.

The village has been known for its pottery craftsmanship for centuries, and Lao Pottery House is dedicated to preserving and promoting this rich heritage. In addition to workshops, they offer half-day pottery experience tours that cover the entire pottery-making process, from clay preparation to the final product.

Know before you go:

Prices for these activities range from $15 to $45 per person, with discounts available for children. The half-day experience is definitely worth it, as it includes hotel pickup, travel by boat, a hands-on workshop, and even a homemade lunch.

Be sure to make a reservation in advance, whether you’re opting for the half-day activity or the less expensive workshop. Alternatively, Lao Pottery House is also open for shopping, where you can browse and purchase some of their pottery pieces for sale.

13. Visit the Big Brother Mouse School

Big Brother Mouse is a school created with a mission to improve literacy in Laos, particularly for children in rural areas. By providing culturally relevant books in the Lao language, they aim to make reading enjoyable and accessible.

The program focuses on creating an environment where kids can engage with educational materials and develop language skills, while also encouraging community involvement. It offers an opportunity for young learners to strengthen their reading abilities in an informal setting, supporting both their academic and personal growth.

We visited Big Brother Mouse after signing up for an hour of conversational time with the students, where we helped them practice English. The cool thing about this program is that the kids aren’t required to attend—it’s an afterschool initiative for those truly interested in improving their language skills.

If you’re a native English speaker or just really good at it, anyone can volunteer their time to help out. It’s a rewarding way to get involved and support local literacy efforts!

Know before you go:

We visited Big Brother Mouse with our three-year-old daughter, and they had no issues with her joining in. There are plenty of books and even games available, so if your child isn’t keen on chatting with the students, they can still stay entertained.

If you’re unable to volunteer your time, we still recommend stopping by to purchase some of their locally published books. They’re lightweight and easy to pack, making for a unique souvenir from Luang Prabang.

For those interested in the English conversation sessions, it’s best to go after school hours, around 4 or 5 p.m., when more students are around.

14. Tour the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm

In most European countries, a dairy farm might not be considered a “must-visit attraction,” but in Laos, it certainly is! Dairy products are not traditionally part of Laos’ heritage or history, which makes the introduction of buffalo-based products a unique and exciting development.

Buffaloes in Laos have long been used for their strength in farming, particularly for pulling plows. The Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm partnered with local villages to produce cheese, create jobs, and offer a sustainable way to involve families in dairy production while also promoting buffalo health and well-being.

For those visiting Luang Prabang with kids, this is a fantastic stop. Not only will you learn about the farm’s mission, but you’ll also get the chance to interact with some adorable animals—rabbits, buffalo, goats, and sheep. It’s a fun, educational, and hands-on experience for the whole family.

Know before you go:

The pricing and admission process is a bit more complicated than it needs to be. Visitors must choose from a tiered selection of tours, which, to be honest, are quite similar to each other, though they differ in length. You cannot purchase admission-only and it must be a guided tour.

While you don’t need to make a reservation to tour the farm, be prepared to wait a bit before starting. If there are a lot of visitors, the guides may group you with others.

The farm also has an ice cream shop at the entrance. So, if you’re short on time, at least make sure to stop by for some ice cream!

15. Walk Through the Heuan Chan Heritage House

Heuan Chan Heritage House in Luang Prabang is a historic site that showcases traditional Lao architecture with French influences. Built in the 19th century, it was once home to a prominent local family and now serves as a cultural landmark.

We even witnessed people taking photograph portraits throughout the property in traditional clothing—that’s how picture-perfect it is!

The house provides insight into the daily life and customs of the past, reflecting the rich heritage of Luang Prabang. Visitors can explore its preserved design and learn about the city’s history, making it a valuable stop for those interested in Laos’ cultural traditions.

Know before you go:

You don’t need reservations and can purchase tickets right at the door. There are a few ticket options, all with a minimal price difference.

Make sure to choose the option that grants you access to the historical house, as that’s the main highlight of the museum. Otherwise, you’ll only be able to explore the garden and enjoy the outdoor cafe.

If you plan ahead, you can also book workshops such as basket weaving, cooking classes, or even take part in a baci ceremony.

16. Hike to Phousi Hill

Phousi Hill in Luang Prabang offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Centrally located, it’s an incredibly popular spot for sunrise or sunset, offering an iconic view of the Mekong River dotted with boats.

Visitors can climb over 300 steps, passing small shrines and statues along the way, to reach the summit, where a gold stupa sits. Given the climb, this activity is best suited for families with older kids or determined toddlers.

The view overlooks the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, providing a peaceful, cultural experience. If you take your time, it’s a relatively easy hike that offers a unique perspective of the UNESCO World Heritage city.

Know before you go:

There are two entry points to the staircase that leads to the top of Phousi Hill—one here and the other there.

Don’t underestimate the crowds that will inevitably gather at sunset, the most popular time to visit. If you’re determined to experience this renowned site in Laos, bite the bullet and aim for sunrise instead.

There are no shortcuts to the top—you’ll need to walk up the stairs unless you happen to find a private helicopter to drop you off (just kidding).

FAQs: Family Travel in Luang Prabang

Is Luang Prabang safe for kids?

Yes, Luang Prabang is generally very safe for families. The town has a relaxed atmosphere, with easy access to attractions and kid-friendly activities. Always supervise kids, especially near water or when hiking. It’s also recommended not to lose sight of them in the crowds of the night market, as it can be a recipe for disaster if parents aren’t keeping track of their wandering toddlers.

What should I know before visiting Kuang Si Waterfall with kids?

The Kuang Si Waterfall is a popular spot, but it’s not centrally located, so plan for a half-day trip. The hike to the waterfall is easy, and there are opportunities to swim in the natural pools. Just remember to pack sun protection, towels and snacks for the journey.

What’s the best way to get around Luang Prabang with kids?

The most fun and convenient way to get around is by tuk tuk, which is easy to hail, inexpensive, and an exciting ride for kids. If you want to explore further or visit places outside the city, the train is another option.

However, don’t hesitate to rent a private van. While this may sound expensive, it’s Laos, so the cost is relatively low and definitely worth the convenience when traveling with kids.

Are there any family-friendly tours or experiences?

Plenty! You can take part in fun activities like a pottery class, visit the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm to meet the animals, or go on a scenic ride along the Mekong River. Many hotels offer help arranging these activities and will give you tailored recommendations. Do not be shy and simply ask!

5 Quick Tips for Visiting Luang Prabang With Kids

1. Use bug spray all the time. Even when you don’t think you need it—just apply it day and night.

2. The streets in Luang Prabang can be very dusty, due to a mix of construction and traffic. Keep this in mind if your child is particularly sensitive to dust or has breathing challenges.

3. People may take photos of your child. This might sound odd, but it’s worth noting if you’re not comfortable with it. We often had people from Chinese tour groups take photos of our daughter, and while we don’t know the exact reason, it definitely happened frequently and unexpectedly.

4. Let your kids make friends with local children. It’s a beautiful way for them to build core memories and meaningful connections.

5. Take note of the nearest clinics or emergency rooms to your hotel. It’s always good to be prepared and know how quickly help can arrive if needed.

Where to Stay in Luang Prabang With Kids

★★★★ Countryside location, children’s playground, outdoor pool and gym: The Namkhan
Superb 9.0 · 100+ reviews

★ Budget option with high quality, free bike rentals and breakfast included: Queen’s House
Superb 9.0 · 220+ reviews

★★★★ Central location, outdoor swimming pool, family suites with balconies: Cozy An Boutique Hotel
Superb 9.3 · 470+ reviews

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Luang Prabang Travel Resources

☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage

✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner or Trip.com

🚊 TRAINS, BUSES, FERRIES: Bookaway

🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago

📞 ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo