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Trip overview from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
To make trip planning super easy and fast, we created a step-by-step guide to find the best way to travel from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang.
To start with, use the slider to compare the different options:
How to get from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
Located north of Vientiane on the Nam Song River in Laos is Vang Vieng. It is set in the midst of towering cliffs and lush paddy fields. A hub for thrill-seekers and adventure junkies, Vang Vieng has a lot to offer: from rock climbing and hiking to tubing (the most popular activity!) and swimming in the famous Blue Lagoon.
Luang Prabang lies at the confluence of Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. The quaint town in north-central Laos is inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List for its well-preserved architectural and cultural heritage. Here you will find 33 majestic Buddhist temples, vibrant night markets, French-influenced architecture, Indochinese villas, and exquisite food.
Distance from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang is about 185 kilometers by land and taking a van is the only travel option. Travel times vary depending on the bus company but the journey normally takes between 5-6 hours and costs $16.
Your options at a glance
| Transport mode | Duration | Costs | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Van | 5 hours | $16 | Check van tickets |
Are you a fast decision-maker? Simply use the links above to book your tickets!
If you haven’t found your best transport option yet, no problem. This was just the intro. Below we share our step-by-step guide of how to get from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang.
Van from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
5 hours
Costs: $16
Since Luang Prabang is not far from the picturesque town of Vang Vieng, most companies operate this route with vans.
This route has a lot of winding roads. If you’re prone to motion sickness, make sure you take an anti-sickness tablet before the trip. Also, keep in mind that landslides are common during the rainy season.
Despite the potential motion sickness caused by twisting roads, the route has amazing views of rural life. You get a glimpse of how the locals thrive on having a simple lifestyle.
To serve as your guide in planning your trip, we’ve provided you with an overview of the trips operated along this route:
| Bus company | Schedule | Duration | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naga Travel | 09:30-15:00 13:30-19:00 | 5h 30m | $20 |
| Laos Group Tour | 09:00-14:00 12:00-17;00 15:15-20:15 | 5h | $16 + free pick-up |
| Thavisouk | 09:00-15:00 | 5h | $18 + free pick-up |
| Naluang | 08:30-13:30 09:00-14:00 10:00-15:00 14:00-19:00 15:00-20:00 | 5h | $18 |
Naga Travel
-
- Departs from Malany Hotel, Vang Vieng city center
- Arrives at the Southern Bus Terminal, a little south of the city center
Naga Travel is more expensive but in return, you also get a higher level of comfort.
Laos Group Tour
- Departs from Chillao Youth Hostel in the city center
- Arrives at the La Poste Post Office in Luang Prabang, within the city center
Laos Group Tour is relatively new. However, they seem to be doing well when it comes to being a good transport company.
Thavisouk
- Departs from any hotel within Vang Vieng city center
- Arrives at the Southern Bus Terminal in Luang Prabang, north of the city center
Not much has been said about this company but they do provide good service through this route.
Naluang
- Departs from the Vang Vieng North Bus Station, north of the city center
- Arrives at the Southern Bus Terminal, a little south of the city center
Naluang provides multiple trips on this route. However, they’re not known for having the best customer service.
Explore the best places to stay in Luang Prabang
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