Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang
Vang Vieng
Mon, Jan 19
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Destination Reviews

MH
Tried to buy tickets and it didn’t go through. Shows that our trip was cancelled twice and then we got charged for the same train/time. We ended up taking the evening van/bus crammed full of people, 23 of us in a 15 seat van. We are traveling with a baby and it took seven hours to get to our location at 330 am. There were other people in our van that had train tickets as well but when they got to the train station they said the train was full and had to go to the bus station. They over sold the bus tickets and it was a fight to even get a seat but we were lucky enough to be packed into the van.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Jan 14, 2026
SO
The minivan was late, pick up at 8pm instead of 5pm. The road was inconvenient and we were more people than the minivan should have. Not confortable. They should stop overbooking.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Regional 14pax, Vieng Chaleune (เวียงเจริญ), Jan 13, 2026
PS
Lao train service are precise. You could need to wait a bit to get this ticket, mine arrived the night before the trip. Just be patient. Train is new.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Jan 8, 2026
RJ
Good value. Very comfortable first class and uncrowded. Train was 15 mins late but otherwise perfect.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train First Class, Laos Group Tour, Jan 7, 2026
CB
No one is able to drive this distance in the time, you say!!! I do not understand, why you don’t adapt the arrival time! No one can reach this!!! And I can‘t think of any reason, why they drove 2h!!!! in Luang Prabang to collect the people and drive multipel times the same roads!!!
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Van, RG Adventure (RG Adventure), Jan 1, 2026
OB
Got no ticket, could not travel, bad support
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Dec 26, 2025
JD
Good, we were late as we got a flat (not surprising considering the state of the roads) but they fixed it and the roads were cr*p but they handled them skilfully and safely and prioritised safety over rushing there… the drivers were very good, stops were decent and there were enough, the air con was… basically working 😅 the minivan was full but ok. The private transfers to and from my hotels were very good for the price and very appreciated.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Van, RG Adventure (RG Adventure), Dec 23, 2025
HM
It was a comfortable and pleasant journey.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class, Laos Group Tour, Dec 22, 2025
PK
Trainride was great, but to get the ticket on 12go was a nightmare.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Dec 20, 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
4.4
436 customer reviews
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48%
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
RG Adventure
SUV 4pax
Any time
+4h
$152.77
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
$14.88
  4.6
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
12:50
13:42
$14.88
  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.

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 366.18 if you go by taxi; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a train which will set you back mere USD 15.88.

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 15.88 if you opt for a Laos Railway by Family Service train and as expensive as USD 366.18 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
  • 18 by taxi+Train from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 09:12 Luang Prabang Transfer until 19:22 Luang Prabang Railway Station
  • 14 from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:00 LP Holiday Travel Office until 14:00 Luang Prabang Southern Bus Terminal
  • 3 by taxi+Van from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • 5 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, 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, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Naluang

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

  • 38% took a train
  • 37% chosen taxi+Train
  • 12% took a van
  • 8% chosen Bus+taxi
  • 2% bought a taxi ride
  • 2% chosen taxi+Van
  • 1% Other

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 day66
Distance42 kilometers
Transport CompaniesBook Best Travel and Services, Laos Group Tour, Laos Railway by Family Service, Laos Railway by RG Adventure, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Naluang, RG Adventure