Transportation

ByTrain:

You can now get a train from Vientiane that will take you across the Friendship Bridge to destinations in Thailand. It does not go anywhere else in Laos.

By Bus:

Buses are an excellent means of transportation in Laos, a great way to get around and meet the local people. They are economical and practical and cover pretty much the entire country. Local buses are not up to Western standards, but the VIP buses are second to none in terms of comfort and class.

By Car:

Laos has a decent system of roadways, especially in the southern half, although main roads in northern Laos are good as well. If you plan on getting off the beaten path, a 4-wheel drive or a dirt bike would be most appropriate.

By Plane:

If air travel is more to your liking, there are several daily flights linking Vientiane – Luang Prabang – Pakse. From these three hubs, provincial capitals can be reached several times per week. Lao Airlines is the national carrier. International airlines include: Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Air Asia, Vietnam Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines. International destinations include:  Bangkok, Kunming, Chang Mai, Phnom Penh, Sieam Reap, Hanoi, and Kuala Lumpur.

By Boat:

The Mekong River is navigable all year round. It’s usually a pleasant journey, but not for those in a hurry. For example, it’s one hour by air from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, 12 by bus, or as long as a week by boat. Therefore, if time is not important, but seeing the countryside and meeting Lao people are, head for the river and take a boat trip.