Laos · History
Laos and the bombs: understanding UXO before you go
The most bombed country in history per person, Laos still lives with unexploded ordnance. What you need to know, and the precautions to take when travelling.
The years
1964 to 1973
The pace
One bomb every 8 minutes
Today
Millions of munitions
The rule
Stay on the paths
Behind the beautiful landscapes and gentle way of life of Laos lies a little-known history. Between 1964 and 1973, during the Vietnam War, the country was bombed for nine years. Even today, unexploded ordnance, UXO, lies buried in the ground. Understanding this history means understanding Laos better.
The history in brief
1964-1973 · nine years of bombing · consequences still today
During the Vietnam War, also called the Second Indochina War, a bomb was dropped on Laos every eight minutes, day and night. More than two million tonnes of bombs fell on the country.
“What strikes me most, living in Laos, is the resilience of its people.”
When travelling
- Tourist sites: they are safe, no need to worry
- In the countryside: stay on paths and roads
- A metal object: never touch it, tell local people
- Treks: always with a local guide
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What you need to know
The record
Laos is the most bombed country in history per person.
UXO
Millions of munitions did not explode. They remain a danger to local people, especially in fields.
Development
They still hold back farming and projects in some regions.
Understanding
In Vientiane, the COPE centre explains this history and its consequences.
Perspective
Despite this past, Lao people move forward with strength, kindness and optimism.
Do
- Stay on paths in the countryside
- Trek with a local guide
- Learn about this history
Avoid
- Touching or picking up a metal object
- Cutting across fields
- Buying items made from munitions without knowing where they come from
Travel with us
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang temples and Mount Phousi
A day in the old town with your guide, in French, English, Chinese or Thai: the day market, the Royal Palace, Wat Xieng Thong and Wat May, then Mount Phousi, by private tuk-tuk.
From 65 € / person
See the tour
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Mekong cruise and Pak Ou caves
The town in the morning, then about two hours by private boat on the Mekong to the Pak Ou cave and a village where rice spirit is distilled.
From 78 € / person
See the tour
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Kuang Si waterfall and Hmong village
About an hour's drive to the Kuang Si waterfall, a stop in a Hmong village and at the buffalo farm, then the Ock Pop Tok textile workshop before returning to your hotel.
From 72 € / person
See the tour
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Street food at the night market
A street food evening guided by our students in training: they learn French with NK Seeds and introduce you to Lao food among the stalls of Luang Prabang.
From 30 € / person
See the tour
Our tours · Luang Prabang
Sindad evening, the Lao barbecue
An evening around the sindad, the Lao barbecue you share, with our students in training: they learn French with NK Seeds and introduce you to the meal Lao people love to share with friends.
From 30 € / person
See the tour
Frequently asked questions
Why was Laos bombed?
During the Vietnam War, between 1964 and 1973, notably to cut the supply routes that ran through the country.
Is it dangerous to travel in Laos because of UXO?
Not at tourist sites or on roads. The risk is mainly in fields and rural areas that have not been cleared.
What does UXO mean?
Unexploded ordnance.
Where can I learn more in Laos?
At the COPE centre in Vientiane, which tells this story and supports victims.
A question before you go?
Write to us: we answer you ourselves, from Luang Prabang. Please book at least one week in advance.
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