(KPL) Laos has seen a steady increase in international tourist arrivals since 2024. Statistics for 2025 showed that more than 3 million foreign tourists visited the country during the first eight months of the year, an increase of 15% compared with the same period in 2024.

For 2026–2030, Laos has set a target of attracting 22 million tourists, or an average of around 4.5 million visitors annually. Achieving this target will require concerted efforts by the government, tourism businesses and communities.

The outlook is encouraging, with Geographic Expeditions (GeoEx), a leading global tour company, naming Laos among its seven destinations to visit in 2027 in its “Where to Travel in 2027” selection. This provides an additional opportunity to promote Laos as an attractive international destination.

To capitalise on this opportunity, however, Laos must address several challenges. Improving tourism infrastructure should be a priority, particularly roads connecting national highways with local communities and tourist attractions. The government is also advancing major transport projects, including the upgrading and expansion of National Route 13 and studies of expressway and railway connections linking Vientiane with other parts of the country and neighbouring countries.

Tourism facilities must also be upgraded to meet growing demand. Existing tourist attractions should be improved, while new destinations, hotels, restaurants and other tourism services should be developed to appropriate standards.

At the same time, Laos should make greater use of its natural and cultural assets. Protecting forests, rivers and other natural resources is essential to maintaining the clean environment and scenic landscapes that increasingly attract visitors seeking authentic experiences.

Lao culture is another major tourism asset. Traditional lifestyles, cuisine, architecture, handicrafts, performing arts, festivals and customs offer visitors opportunities to experience the country’s distinctive cultural identity.

Historically, the Lane Xang period was associated with a distinctive civilisation and rich cultural traditions. These heritage assets, together with Laos’ mountains, forests, rivers, streams and diverse landscapes, provide a strong foundation for tourism development.

Although Laos is a landlocked country, its natural and cultural wealth offers considerable potential for attracting visitors. If these resources are carefully developed, promoted and protected, they can generate sustainable economic benefits for local communities, businesses and the country as a whole while ensuring that this heritage is preserved for future generations.

KPL