Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang
Vang Vieng
Fri, Nov 28
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Destination Reviews

FA
The Taxi and driver to the Van was great the rest horrible. There is literally no road so it's driving throug the dirt. Then I guess they overbook the Vans/Minibuses to make more money. This ends up that you get squeezed between other people, you have to put your feets on backpacks or have one in your neck so your head gets pushed from behind. They even put extra stools to get more people in. And all that for a price higher than the train.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Van, RG Adventure (RG Adventure), Nov 24, 2025
EE
The disorganisation at the station was down to the fact - they do not accept 12go tickets unless they are converted to another QR code from a different app or are printed - this is not made clear on 12gos part. I had to buy a second ticket at the station because of all this confusion.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Nov 24, 2025
W
I booked a First Class ticket, but you gave me a Second Class ticket. And even worse — the QR code you issued did not work. The staff at the station said the ticket couldn’t be issued from your voucher at all. I had to shout for help at the station and deal with a huge mess because of 12Go’s mistake. The station staff took photos of my passport and your voucher and even advised me to file a police report. How are you going to take responsibility for this? Your system failed, your ticket type was wrong, and the QR code was invalid. I need a clear explanation and a solution immediately — not more generic replies.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train First Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Nov 23, 2025
MD
2 stars provided because ultimately I did get my train ticket, but really the experience was 1 star. I only managed to work out how to get the ticket from reading other reviews. I booked the tickets with 12Go 3 days in advance of travel but did not receive any kind of confirmation until 8pm the night before travelling (at 12.50). This meant there were many days of confusion and multiple emails to 12Go which only yielded generic email replies. I opted to travel to the station with the hope of get my ticket there. As with other reviews I spoke with a group of local ladies in the corner of the ticket office and did not join the official ticket queue. The ladies were helpful and told me to wait until 12pm. I then saw the ladies waiting at a ticket window for it to open, at 11.50 many many tickets were purchased by the ladies and by some miracle I did get my tickets from them as promised. The whole ticketing system of LCR is clearly under a scam with those within the ticketing office part of it too. I say this because on the official LCR booking app the tickets were sold out immediately when the tickets sales went live at 6.30am 3 days prior to travel date. Overall this experience was extremely stressful and confusing and I would not like to repeat it. If you are reading this as a prospective purchaser then please be forewarned!
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train First Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Nov 20, 2025
N
Bus was overfilled with people, we had a delay of about 4h. Breaks were not well communicated. In advance there was a wrong communication that our train was cancelled although we booked a van.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Minivan, Laos Group Tour, Nov 20, 2025
LS
Streets are horrible (we had 3.5h longer than expected)
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Minivan, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Nov 20, 2025
EM
We waited at office for pickup for 20 minutes, then spent over an hour picking uo from all around the city, only to circle back past our pickup point twice again.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Minivan, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Nov 19, 2025
SG
It was the most bumpy ride I’ve ever had. We sat in a crowded van—more than allowed. The trip took 9 hours instead of 5, and it was my impression that it couldn't be done faster than 7 hours, so 5 is very misleading.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Van Minivan, Laos Luxury Travel, Nov 14, 2025
SH
Absolutely shocking experience.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Nov 13, 2025
A
No room for our lugadges
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Nov 10, 2025
4.4
375 customer reviews
5
48%
4
20%
3
12%
2
19%
1
1%

Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
RG Adventure
SUV 4pax
Any time
+4h
$148.19
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
$15.75
  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
$14.43
  4.6
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
12:50
13:42
$14.43
  4.5
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
13:30
15:49
$17.06
  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
$15.90
  4.5
Train
Laos Railway by Naluang
Hard Seat
15:30
18:52
$12.20
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Hard Seat
16:37
17:52
$11.81
  3.9
Train
Laos Railway by Naluang
Second Class Reserved Seats
17:00
19:59
$14.73
  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$15
Fastest Transport50m
Earliest Departure12:00 오전
Latest Departure7:22 오후
Departures per day79
Distance42 kilometers
Transport CompaniesAqua De Bamboo, Book Best Travel and Services, Laos Group Tour, Laos Luxury Travel, Laos Railway by Family Service, Laos Railway by Naluang, Laos Railway by RG Adventure, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Naluang, RG Adventure, Vieng Chaleune

How to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

When you want to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, you have a few options to consider. Traveling between these destinations is possible by different means of transport:

  • Bus
  • Train
  • Van
  • Taxi

If you’re looking for a quick trip, it’s recommended that you use Train. However, if you’d rather take your time with a slower, more affordable travel option, you can book a Van ticket.

The cost of travel will depend on the means of transport you choose for your trip. A taxi ticket is the most expensive option - it will cost you about USD 356.04. If you want to save on transportation, it’s better to take a train as a train ticket costs as low as USD 14.63.

How far is Luang Prabang from Vang Vieng?

If you’re traveling by land, it’s important to know the distance from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. Your trip will be a total of 27 miles (42 km). The flying distance is 27 miles (42 km).

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

The travel time from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take from 1 to 7 hours.

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

The cost of the trip from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng varies according to what means of transport you choose for your journey. The most affordable operator is Laos Railway by Naluang: travelling by train expect to pay as low as USD 14.63 for your ticket.

However, if you’re after more upscale travel . The most expensive variant is to opt for a taxi - a one-way taxi ticket can cost as much as USD 356.04.

Here is a chart of the average ticket prices and transportation options available from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng:

  • Train tickets - USD 14.63 to USD 27.50;
  • Van price : USD 18.00 - USD 25.00;
  • taxi+Van price: USD 19.79. From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • taxi+Train price: USD 20.00 - USD 31.25. From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 11:00 Luang Prabang Transfer until 19:22 Luang Prabang Railway Station
  • Bus+Van price: USD 31.49. From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang until 14:00 Luang Prabang
  • Bus+taxi price: USD 198.87 - USD 209.61. From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 00:00 Luang Prabang Airport until 00:00 Luang Prabang Airport

You can order a taxi, too - an estimated cost of the ride is from USD 19.79 to USD 356.04.

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

Depending on your choice of transportation, the number of daily trips varies.

  • Trains always run on a set schedule - there are 25 trains per day.
  • Vans from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng depart during the day - there are approximately 22 departures a day.
  • 17 by taxi+Train from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 11:00 Luang Prabang Transfer until 19:22 Luang Prabang Railway Station
  • 5 by Bus+Van from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang until 14:00 Luang Prabang
  • 3 by taxi+Van from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • Taxis are a good option to consider for this route, too. Book a cab to take you from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng any time of the day.

Which means of transport is the best for the route?

Taxi

Catching a cab is the easiest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. It allows you to tailor-make your trip, plan all the detours and see all the places you want. You can choose the type and the size of your car as well to be as comfortable as you'd like to.

Depending on the route, it might cost as much as USD 19.79.

Things to remember: It's a good idea to follow the route on Google Maps or any other GPS navigator.

Trains

Things to remember while choosing a train ticket:
Consider everything carefully while choosing the class of your train travel. In most cases, the second class is comfortable enough – it features 2 or 4 berths in each compartment and is often air-conditioned.

If you’re in for a premium experience, consider getting a first class ticket. The price of first class tickets may include Wifi, and a choice of snacks and drinks.

Vans

A shared van is another means of transport for traveling from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. As far as travel time is concerned, it’s basically equal to a taxi ride, while price-wise it’s way more affordable. The majority of tourists book a van online in advance.

Sometimes, when trains or buses aren’t available, a van is your only way to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng.

Things to remember: while traveling by van, you might not have as much space for luggage as you would on a train or a plane. It’s a good idea to pack only the most useful things for a van trip and put them in a backpack that will be easy to carry around..

The most popular transport from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

How to choose the most convenient way of travel from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng? In order to make your choice of transportation easier, we asked 1000 users to range their preferences for this route. Here are the results of the poll:

  • 41% users enjoyed a train ride.
  • 32% chosen taxi+Train
  • 13% opted for a van.
  • 7% decided to catch a taxi.
  • 5% chosen Bus+taxi
  • 1% Other