COPE Visitor Centre

A Profound and Unforgettable Experience in Vientiane This museum is an essential stop for anyone visiting Vientiane. The exhibits provide a powerful and deeply moving account of the impact the war had and continues to have on the people of Laos. We were stunned to learn that the country endured the equivalent of a plane full of bombs being dropped every eight minutes, around the clock, for nine consecutive years. Be sure to watch the documentary. The legacy of this devastation persists today, as many unexploded “bombies” still remain buried across the countryside. Entry is donation-based, and we were glad to support further by purchasing handmade goods crafted by survivors. A truly excellent and eye-opening visit.

A must visit if you’re coming to Vientiane. A deep insight into the countries history and a good cause to help the victims of this tragedy. No entrance fee but there is opportunity for donations

In the Vietnam war, the US dropped more bombs on Laos than were dropped by both sides combined in WW2 - even though the US weren't at war with Laos - making them the most bombed country per capita in history. The legacy of this continues to this day with millions of unexploded ordnance still littering the Laotian countryside, posing a risk to children playing and farmers working.  COPE not only works to clear those remaining bombs but also helps with the rehabilitation of those seriously wounded by them. As you can guess, this isn't the most cheery place but is a reminder that the effects of war long outlast the wars themselves. With USAID recently withdrawing the crucial funding that helped charities like COPE mitigate America’s aftermath the centre relies on visitor contributions more than ever. Visit the centre to learn more about America’s “secret war” and help save a life with a donation.

A harrowing experience in an unassuming place, this is an important place which details Laos as the unfortunate victims of a war they weren't a part of. The front looks like a small school compound, but walking in you see small buildings housing the exhibition of the Laos bombings. Small, but significant enough to sicken your stomach. There is a small exhibit, also a small movie room. Immerse yourself in this place. I think 40 minutes is more than good enough. Entrance is free, I suggest spending some time if you're in Vientianne, to know more about the history of the place.

Sombre and sad experience. Excellent educational experience. Highly recommend watching documentaries in the cinema room. Entry free, donations encouraged. Small gift shop also.

An absolute must visit if you are in Vientiane. It is free but a donation is appreciated. They also have a gift shop with interesting and educational products. I bought a book all about a boy with an artificial limb. The museum gives you lots of information about the history of the bombings throughout Laos and how it effected the population. Every exhibit was fascinating. The most harrowing was of a video of woman, a mother, describing the events that led to her son's death. He was affected by a pair of cluster bombs that other children were playing with. His life also could have been saved had the hospitals in the area had blood or oxygen. It was heartbreaking. I think the scale of the bombings across Laos is not widely known - and COPE help to shed light on this and how it still affects local people everyday.

Laos is the most bombed country, thanks to American imperialism. This museum tells the history of unexploded devices, and how they still make victims in Laos. It's really moving, and tense, but at the same time a must see in Laos.

Free entry and accept donation. The exhibition shows you an unseen side of Laos and to reflect on the severe and long term impact of wars. Quite a shocking and impressive exhibit. Didn’t know that Laos is still suffering from the unexploded bomb until today. Sad to see how some kids lost their limbs innocently yet still smiling while doing rehab. Entrance is from a rehab center by something like Department of Health. Tuktuk driver did not know where this is and spent 15 mins circling the area.