Vientiane Province Transportation

Vientiane Province Transportation mainly includes two parts, how to get in Vientiane Province and How to get around Vientiane Province. Laos is a landlocked country with relatively backward infrastructure, despite the increasing number of domestic flights and newly completed roads, it still takes time to get around the various regions.

How to Get in Vientiane Province

If you are looking to travel to Vientiane Province, which is located in Laos, there are several ways to get there depending on your starting point.

By Air

The easiest way to get to Vientiane Province is to fly into Wattay International Airport, which is located in the capital city of Vientiane. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to get to your destination within the province.

By Bus

There are several bus companies that operate routes to Vientiane Province from other cities within Laos and neighboring countries. You can check with the bus stations in your departure city or use an online booking service to purchase your tickets.

By Train

The Boten–Vientiane railway is the Lao section of the Lao–China Railway (LCR), running between the capital Vientiane and the northern town of Boten on the border with  Yunnan, China. The line was officially opened on 3 December 2021. This railway passes through Vang Vieng and the capital city Muang Phôn-Hông. Visitors can take the train to the Vientiane Province.

By Car or Motorbike

If you have your own vehicle, you can drive or ride to Vientiane Province. However, keep in mind that driving conditions in Laos can be challenging, and you will need to obtain the proper permits and paperwork to cross international borders.

By Boat

The Mekong River runs through Vientiane Province, making it accessible by boat. You can take a slow boat or a speedboat from the Thai border town of Nong Khai to Vientiane. The slow boat takes about 3 to 4 hours, while the speedboat takes around 1 to 2 hours. There are also boats that travel further up the Mekong River to other towns and cities in Vientiane Province. It's important to note that boat travel can be affected by seasonal changes and weather conditions, so it's best to check with local travel operators for up-to-date information on boat schedules and conditions before embarking on your journey.

How to Get Around Vientiane Province

Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are a fun and convenient way to get around Vientiane Province, and they're especially useful for short trips within the city. They're also a good option if you're traveling in a group or with luggage, as they can accommodate up to four people. The fare for a tuk-tuk ride varies depending on the distance and time of day, but you can expect to pay around 20,000 to 50,000 LAK (2 to 6 USD) for a short trip within the city.

Taxi

Taxis are more comfortable and safer than tuk-tuks, but they're also more expensive. You can find taxis at the airport, bus station, and major tourist attractions. Some taxis have meters, but many drivers will negotiate the fare with you. Make sure to agree on a price before starting your journey, and expect to pay around 50,000 to 100,000 LAK (6 to 12 USD) for a short trip within the city.

Motorbike

Renting a motorbike is a great way to explore Vientiane Province on your own, but it's important to be aware of the risks. Laos has a high rate of traffic accidents, and the roads in rural areas can be rough and unpaved. If you decide to rent a motorbike, make sure you have a valid driving license and wear a helmet at all times. You can rent a motorbike from a local rental shop or your hotel for around 50,000 to 100,000 LAK (6 to 12 USD) per day.

Bicycle

Cycling is a popular way to explore the countryside and rural areas of Vientiane Province. You can rent a bicycle from a local rental shop or your hotel for around 20,000 to 30,000 LAK (2 to 4 USD) per day. However, be aware that the roads in rural areas can be hilly and challenging, so make sure you're in good physical condition before setting out.

Public Bus

Vientiane Province has a public bus system that operates from early morning until late at night. The buses are usually crowded and not well-maintained. But the fare is cheap. Taking public bus to explore Vientiane Province is also a good option.