Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang
Vang Vieng
Tue, Dec 23
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Destination Reviews

TW
Nobody told me that pocket knifes, first-aid scissors or any spray cans are not allowed and taken off after x-ray inspection 😳. I never experienced this in an ordinary train- redicilous! I refused the journey.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Dec 19, 2025
JG
My tickets weren’t booked as promised, I was offered to go almost 5 hours later. Or go three hours earlier and uppay more than double for business class. Just all on the night before leaving. While I had booked four days ahead. Very poor service.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class, Laos Group Tour, Dec 19, 2025
AS
You need to book at least 48 hours before, the boarding is a mess, be prepared.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Dec 18, 2025
JG
I did not receive my QR code from the operator so I was unable to carry out my trip. I have also been struggling to get my refund.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Dec 18, 2025
AS
On internet: Start time 7:30, arrival 12:30. In real life: pick up from hotel 07:30, than went to bus station waited for other people untill 9:00, we was driving with 20 people inside (only 13 seats), also on minivan roof a lot of stuff + motorbike. Came in vieng vang at 16:00 (7hours driving like potatoes because there is no normal road at all. + all the time in the dust. Car broke in the middle of the road. Not safe - Not recommend at all!
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Van, RG Adventure (RG Adventure), Dec 18, 2025
SW
The station didn’t accept the qr code as a ticket so I had to queue in the office to get a paper ticket. It took over 30 minutes and I almost missed my train. Wouldn’t recommend.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train First Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Dec 18, 2025
CH
They crammed 21 people into a 14-seater van... Five of us sat on a row with three seats, which was obviously extremely uncomfortable. Even the driver shared his seat with a passenger because there were so many people sitting in the front row, which is extremely unsafe. The whole trip then took 10 hours instead of the advertised 6 hours. Worst bus trip I've ever had the pleasure of experiencing.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Regional 14pax, Vieng Chaleune (เวียงเจริญ), Dec 15, 2025
DD
First, the tickets we bought on 12Go were not the correct tickets, so our driver had to go buy new ones. Then we had to wait 2h30 to get the next bus, and the trip took 8 hours instead of 5, which was written on the original ticket.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Minivan, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Dec 9, 2025
GM
Seemless operation, ticket was waiting at train station .. check through baggage .. on allocated train seat .. done 😊
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Dec 6, 2025
EZ
We booked our train departure at noon, which was confirmed. One day before our trip it was postponed to 6pm and we had to change our travel plans
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train First Class, Laos Group Tour, Dec 3, 2025
4.4
409 customer reviews
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
RG Adventure
SUV 4pax
Any time
+4h
$152.72
Van
Laos Luxury Travel
Minivan
06:30
12:30
$15.00
Van
Luang Prabang Holiday Travel
Minivan
07:00
12:00
$15.45
  2.5
Van
Vieng Chaleune
Regional 14pax
07:30
13:30
$15.00
  3.1
Van
Vieng Chaleune
Regional 14pax
08:00
14:00
$15.00
  3.1
Van
Naluang
Regional 14pax
08:30
14:30
$16.23
  3.3
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
09:30
11:30
$17.50
Van
Luang Prabang Travel
Tuk Tuk + Van
10:00
15:00
$15.00
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
10:30
11:30
$14.50
  4.5
Van
Vieng Chaleune
Regional 14pax
11:00
17:00
$15.00
  3.1
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
11:22
13:22
$17.50
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
11:50
13:50
$17.50
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
12:22
13:28
$14.87
  4.6
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
12:50
13:42
$14.87
  4.5
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
13:30
15:49
$17.58
  4.8
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
13:58
15:58
$17.50
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
14:49
15:40
$16.39
  4.5
Train
Laos Railway by Naluang
Hard Seat
15:30
18:52
$12.57
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Hard Seat
16:37
17:52
$12.17
  3.9
Train
Laos Railway by Naluang
Second Class Reserved Seats
17:00
19:59
$15.18
  4.3

Is Vang Vieng safe to visit?

Vang Vieng is generally considered safe for travelers, but it is important to take standard precautions. Petty theft can occur, so keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas. For transportation, tuk-tuks and rental scooters are popular, but ensure you wear helmets and drive cautiously. The local roads can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.

When engaging in outdoor activities like tubing or hiking, follow safety guidelines and use reputable tour operators. The Nam Song River is popular for tubing; however, it is crucial to be cautious of water levels and currents, especially during the rainy season.

Tap water in Vang Vieng is not recommended for drinking. Use bottled water, which is widely available, or ensure you have a reliable filtration method.

Overall, staying informed and cautious will contribute to a safe and enjoyable visit to Vang Vieng.

Can you walk around Vang Vieng with a drink?

Walking around Vang Vieng with a drink in hand is generally acceptable, particularly in the tourist areas where nightlife is prominent. However, it is important to be respectful of local customs and avoid disruptive behavior. Public drinking is more tolerated in designated areas like bars and night markets, but exercise discretion in less tourist-centric zones. Bars often offer drinks in plastic cups for easy carry.

Keep in mind that local authorities periodically enforce stricter regulations, so staying informed about current rules is advisable. Always dispose of waste responsibly to help maintain the area's natural beauty.

Is it possible to rent a car in Vang Vieng?

Car rentals are available in Vang Vieng, with several local agencies offering vehicles for hire. Prices typically range from 300,000 to 500,000 LAK per day ($15 to $30). It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Most rental agencies require a valid international driving permit along with your home country driver's license.

Additionally, be aware that roads can be challenging, with some unpaved or poorly maintained, so ensure you are comfortable with local driving conditions. For those looking for alternatives, scooters and bicycles are also popular options for exploring the area.

Transportation from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Facts about the transport from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Cheapest Transport$16
Fastest Transport50m
Earliest Departure12:00 AM
Latest Departure7:22 PM
Departures per day74
Distance42 kilometers
Transport CompaniesBook Best Travel and Services, Laos Group Tour, Laos Luxury Travel, Laos Railway by Family Service, Laos Railway by RG Adventure, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Naluang, RG Adventure, Vieng Chaleune

How to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Travelling between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng is possible by Bus, train, van and taxi. Train guarantees the fastest travel on this route. Van is the slowest option.

The most expensive ticket will cost you USD 366.65 if you go by taxi; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a train which will set you back mere USD 15.90.

How long does it take to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng?

It can take you anywhere between 1 and 7 hours to travel between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng depending on the means of transport you choose.

Train is the fastest way to travel between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. Train will bring you to your destination in 50m. Van does a much slower job and take about 6h 30m to reach Vang Vieng.

How much does it cost to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng?

Travelling between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng can be as cheap as USD 15.90 if you opt for a Laos Railway by Family Service train and as expensive as USD 366.65 if you buy a RG Adventure taxi ticket.

Here is the list of how much you can expect to pay travelling by each means of transport available for this route.

How many trips per day are there between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng ?

  • 26 from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 10:12 Luang Prabang Railway Station until 19:22 Luang Prabang Railway Station
  • 20 from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:00 LP Holiday Travel Office until 14:00 Luang Prabang Southern Stop
  • 18 by taxi+Train from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 09:12 Luang Prabang Transfer until 19:22 Luang Prabang Railway Station
  • 3 by taxi+Van from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • 7 from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 00:00 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer

Check above for a bus, train, flight and ferry timetable from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng.

What mode of transportation is the best one for my route?

Taxi

Some travellers consider taxi to be the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.

Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.

Companies offering charters between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng

Book Best Travel and Services, Laos Group Tour, RG Adventure

Train

Train is a often a great choice for long-haul travel especially if you opt for a night sleeper train with berths which will allow you to sleep all your journey through. To make the most of your train journey, choose the class of your ticket wisely.

Note that there are air-conditioned and fan-only carriages; private compartments for 2 or 4; hard and soft seats.
Though the upper class you get the smoother is your journey, often second class air-conditioned or fan-only sleepers are a good money saving alternative.

Van

Vans are a great alternative - or, in many cases - your only option - if you need to travel overland within one and the same province or neighbouring provinces or states. Vans ply the roads between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng, too.

Things to remember: When travelling by van with huge luggage buying a separate seat for your suitcase or backpack is a good idea. Do not expect there is a roomy luggage compartment in a van - there is actually none and your fellow passengers are unlikely to appreciate your luggage stuck under their feet, alas.

Companies operating vans between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng

Book Best Travel and Services, Laos Group Tour, Laos Luxury Travel, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Naluang, Vieng Chaleune (เวียงเจริญ)

What is the most popular transport to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng?

There is a choice of transportation means any time of the day with Train remaining the most popular option due to their reasonable pricing and comfort.

Out of 1000 travellers who bought tickets for this route

  • 39% took a train
  • 32% chosen taxi+Train
  • 13% took a van
  • 7% bought a taxi ride
  • 6% chosen Bus+taxi
  • 2% chosen taxi+Van
  • 1% Other