Things to Do in COPE Visitor Centre, ປະເທດລາວ

The COPE Visitor Centre in Vientiane, Laos, serves as a powerful educational facility dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos and the ongoing rehabilitation efforts for survivors. Located in the capital city, this center provides visitors with a sobering yet important understanding of how Laos became the most heavily bombed country per capita in history during the Vietnam War era, and showcases the remarkable work being done to clear dangerous explosives while supporting those affected by UXO accidents. The center features compelling documentary films, interactive exhibits, and displays of prosthetic devices and mobility aids manufactured locally. Visitors gain insight into both the historical context of the Secret War and the contemporary humanitarian efforts to make Laos safer for its people. The experience is both educational and emotionally moving, offering a unique perspective on modern Laotian history and the resilience of its people in overcoming tremendous challenges.

Top Things to Do in COPE Visitor Centre

COPE Visitor Centre Tour

Explore the comprehensive exhibits detailing the impact of unexploded ordnance in Laos and rehabilitation efforts. The center features powerful documentary screenings, interactive displays, and examples of locally-made prosthetics and mobility aids.

Booking Tip: Entry is free but donations are welcomed and directly support COPE's work. Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience, and plan 1-2 hours for the full experience including documentary viewing.

Vientiane Temple Visits

Explore the sacred Buddhist temples of Vientiane, including the golden Pha That Luang stupa and the beautiful Wat Si Saket with its thousands of Buddha images. These temples represent the spiritual heart of Laotian culture and offer peaceful respite for reflection.

Booking Tip: Temple visits are typically free or require small donations of 5,000-10,000 kip. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees, and visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.

Mekong River Sunset Viewing

Experience the tranquil beauty of the Mekong River at sunset from Vientiane's riverside promenade. The golden hour provides stunning views across to Thailand while locals gather for evening exercises and socializing along the waterfront.

Booking Tip: Free activity best enjoyed between 5:30-6:30 PM. Bring a camera and consider purchasing snacks from riverside vendors. The area can get busy on weekends, so weekday visits offer a more peaceful experience.

Traditional Lao Cooking Experience

Learn to prepare authentic Laotian dishes like larb, tam mak hoong (papaya salad), and sticky rice in hands-on cooking classes. These experiences often include market visits to select fresh ingredients and provide insight into Lao culinary traditions.

Booking Tip: Classes typically cost $25-40 USD and last 3-4 hours including market tour. Book in advance through guesthouses or online, and specify any dietary restrictions. Morning classes often include market visits.

Buddha Park Day Trip

Visit the quirky Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) featuring over 200 concrete Buddhist and Hindu sculptures in a riverside meadow. This unique attraction combines spiritual imagery with surreal artistic expression, creating an otherworldly atmosphere perfect for photography.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 15,000 kip plus 3,000 kip for cameras. Located 25km from Vientiane, rent a motorbike ($8-12/day) or join a tour ($15-25). Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.

Getting There

The COPE Visitor Centre is located in central Vientiane, easily accessible from Wattay International Airport via taxi (20-30 minutes, $8-12) or tuk-tuk ($5-8). From other parts of Laos, Vientiane is reachable by bus from major cities like Luang Prabang (8-10 hours), Vang Vieng (3-4 hours), or Pakse (10-12 hours). International visitors can also arrive overland from Thailand via the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge or by train on the new China-Laos railway from Kunming.

Getting Around

Vientiane is a compact city best explored on foot, by bicycle, or tuk-tuk for longer distances. The COPE Visitor Centre is within walking distance of many central attractions and restaurants. Bicycle rentals cost $2-5 per day and provide an eco-friendly way to navigate the flat terrain. Tuk-tuks are readily available for short trips ($1-3) or half-day tours ($15-25), while motorbike taxis offer quick point-to-point transport for $0.50-2.

Where to Stay

Chanthabouly District

Sisattanak District

Sikhottabong District

Saysettha District

Xaysetha District

Hadxayfong District

Food & Dining

Vientiane offers excellent opportunities to sample authentic Lao cuisine alongside international options. Street food stalls and local markets serve traditional dishes like larb, som tam, and grilled fish for $1-3 per meal. Mid-range restaurants offer refined Lao cuisine and regional specialties for $5-12 per dish, while upscale establishments provide fusion cuisine and international fare. The riverside area features numerous restaurants with Mekong views, and the morning market (Talat Sao) area has excellent food courts serving local favorites at budget prices.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the COPE Visitor Centre and Vientiane is during the cool, dry season from November to February when temperatures are comfortable (20-28°C) and rainfall is minimal. March to May can be very hot (up to 40°C), while June to October brings the rainy season with high humidity and afternoon downpours. The center operates year-round with air conditioning, making it a good indoor activity during hot or rainy weather.

Insider Tips

Purchase COPE merchandise or make a donation to directly support their life-changing work with UXO survivors and clearance operations

Combine your COPE visit with nearby attractions like Wat Si Saket or the National Museum for a comprehensive cultural morning

The center's documentary films provide essential context - arrive with enough time to watch them as they enhance understanding of the exhibits significantly

Things to Do in COPE Visitor Centre