A Scenic Bus Journey From Luang Prabang To Vang Vieng

Laos is known for its natural beauty and ancient culture, and two of its most popular destinations are Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. Vang Vieng is located halfway between Luang Prabang and Vientiane, the capital of Laos. The distance between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng is approximately 180 kilometres by road, and the journey can be made by bus, minivan, car, train, or motorbike. The journey by bus or minivan can be quite lengthy due to the winding roads through the mountains, taking around 4 to 7 hours.

The bus journey from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng takes 6-7 hours

There are two main routes that buses can take from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng: the old road and the new road. The old road is the longer route, taking about 6 hours or more by bus. This route is windier and has more curves, but it offers more scenic views. The new road has been upgraded and is wider and better paved, reducing the travel time to about 4 hours. However, this route is used by private cars and minivans, and buses are not allowed.

Naga Travel operates a VIP bus service from Luang Prabang Southern Bus Terminal to Vang Vieng, which takes about 7 hours. This bus service offers more space, toilets on board, and comfortable seats. The bus also stops along the way for bathroom breaks and food. Another bus company that provides service from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng is Soutchai Travel, with an average cost of US$18 per ticket.

The bus journey from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng offers beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains, rivers, and local life. It is a great option for those who want to take in the views and are not in a hurry. However, those prone to motion sickness may find the winding roads challenging and should consider taking motion sickness medication.

There are two routes: the new and old road

There are two routes from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng: the new and old roads. The old road is the longer route, taking around 6 hours or more by bus. It is also windier and twistier, but it offers more impressive views. The new road is shorter, taking around 4 hours, and is used by private cars and minivans. It is less scenic, and the Kasi section of the road is steep and dangerous.

The old road is a more comfortable journey for those who suffer from motion sickness, as the new road is very curvy and hilly. However, the old road is bumpier and can be dusty inside the vehicle. The new road is also prone to mudslides and blockages.

If you are prone to motion sickness, it is recommended to take motion sickness pills before your trip.

The old road is windier but offers better views

The journey from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng is a lengthy one, with the distance between the two towns being over 180 kilometres. The two options for travel between the two towns are by bus or minivan.

There are two roads connecting Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng: the old road and the new road. The old road is windier and the journey takes longer – about 6 hours or more by bus. However, the old road offers better views and is more scenic. The new road is quicker, taking around 4 hours, but it is less scenic and can be more dangerous. The new road is also very curvy and hilly, which is not ideal for people who get car sick.

If you are prone to travel sickness, the old road is a better option as it is a slower and less bumpy journey. The old road also offers beautiful scenery, from lush mountainsides to local families going about their daily lives.

The bus is a good option if you want a slower and more comfortable journey. Buses tend to travel at more sensible speeds and have more space and toilets on board. However, the journey by bus will take longer, usually around 7 hours.

If you are short on time, the minivan is a better option as it is faster and there are more frequent departures. However, the journey by minivan can be cramped and bumpy, and is not ideal if you get motion sickness.

The new road is quicker but prone to mudslides

The journey from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng is approximately 180 kilometres (114 miles) and can be made by bus, minivan, train, car, motorbike, or taxi. The new road is quicker than the old road, but it is prone to mudslides and other blockages.

The New Road

The new road is quicker than the old road, reducing travel time by one to two hours. However, it is more prone to mudslides and other blockages, especially during the rainy season. The new road is used by private cars and minivans, but not by buses. The first 30 kilometres or so from Luang Prabang is on the old windy road, then the route turns right onto the new road, which is wider and better paved.

The Old Road

The old road is the main route 13 and is used by buses. It takes about six hours or more by bus. This route is windier and cannot be driven quickly, but it offers more scenic views.

Travel Time

The total travel time from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng is between four and nine hours, depending on the mode of transportation and the road taken. The bus journey takes around six to seven hours, while the minivan journey takes about five to six hours. A private car will take around four to seven hours, and a train will take about two hours.

Travel Recommendations

The roads along the way are a little run-down, so the ride will be bumpy and uncomfortable for some. Motion sickness medication is recommended, especially for those travelling on the new road, which has more curves and hills. The bus is a good option for those prone to motion sickness, as it takes the old route, which has fewer curves, and the drivers travel at a more sensible speed.

There are several transport companies to choose from

If you opt for a VIP bus, you'll want to avoid the local buses, which can add a couple of hours to your journey and are likely to be hotter, bumpier, and more cramped. Naga Travel operates a VIP bus service from the Luang Prabang Southern Bus Terminal to Vang Vieng, which costs a little more but offers more space and toilets onboard. The journey takes around 7 hours.

If you choose to travel by minivan, you can expect a faster journey, but it will be bumpier and not ideal if you suffer from motion sickness. Minivans are also likely to be cramped, with less space than a bus, and luggage may take up legroom. Tickets can often be purchased through your guesthouse or hotel, and will include tuk-tuk transportation to the bus terminal. Minivan companies include Naluang, Thavisouk, and Laos Group Tour, with prices ranging from 170,000 to 250,000 LAK ($7.80 to $11.40).

In addition to buses and minivans, you can also consider a private car or taxi, which offers the most comfort and flexibility but is likely to be the most expensive option.

Frequently asked questions