13/05/2020
After soaking in the natural beauty and vibrant backpacker scene of Vang Vieng, your Laotian adventure continues with a journey to Vientiane, the nation's capital. While Vientiane might not be brimming with tourist attractions, a 24-hour stay is highly recommended to break up your travels further south or to relax before catching a flight. It's always prudent to arrive a day early for flights in Southeast Asia, given the commonality of travel delays. As Vang Vieng lacks a local airport, travel by road is your only viable option. However, the thought of being crammed into a minivan or enduring a local bus with frequent stops can be daunting. This guide will explore the most efficient and comfortable ways to travel between these two Laotian destinations.
Flying from Vang Vieng to Vientiane: A Non-Starter
Currently, there are no airports in Vang Vieng, making flying an impossible option, despite Vientiane having its own airport. Fortunately, the road connecting Vang Vieng and Vientiane is generally in good condition. You won't encounter challenging mountain passes or excessively winding roads. The majority of the route consists of straightforward, straight roads, albeit with rather uninspiring scenery.
The Train: A Modern Marvel
The newest and most sophisticated way to travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane is by train. This high-speed service significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to maximise your day at your destination. The journey typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, including transfers. These modern, electric, air-conditioned trains, a product of Chinese engineering, offer a futuristic travel experience that contrasts with Laos' typically laid-back atmosphere. Despite the aesthetic clash, the train is undoubtedly the best option for a swift and comfortable trip. While it comes at a slightly higher price, with tickets starting around $25.00, it's a worthwhile splurge, especially for those prone to motion sickness. You can conveniently book tickets online through platforms like Baolau, a service I've used extensively across Southeast Asia for train bookings. Be aware that you may still need to collect physical tickets in Vang Vieng, though the acceptance of electronic tickets is likely to become more widespread over time.
Understanding the Road to Vientiane
The road to Vientiane is generally well-maintained, making it suitable even for those who suffer from car sickness. Depending on your chosen mode of transport, the journey should take approximately 4 to 5 hours. While some companies advertise a 3-hour travel time, it's wise to expect longer. The 175-kilometre route will take you from the picturesque countryside through rice paddies and dry landscapes, eventually leading into the bustling city. Bus and minivan services typically include a lunch stop a couple of hours outside Vientiane. Early trips often involved small local eateries offering baguettes and snacks. More recently, many services now utilise purpose-built restaurant stops. These modern facilities offer a more comprehensive experience, featuring a restaurant with a variety of Laotian dishes and backpacker favourites like fried rice and fries, alongside an air-conditioned minimart selling a wide array of snacks and drinks – perfect for cooling down if the onboard air conditioning is lacking.
The Bus Experience: VIP vs. Local
Taking the bus from Vang Vieng to Vientiane is a good choice for travellers who value personal space and are susceptible to motion sickness. The slower pace of the bus generally leads to a more comfortable and less nauseating journey. However, opting for the bus can add an hour to your travel time compared to minivans, and local buses can take even longer. If time is of the essence, a minivan might be a better fit. You can book bus tickets from Vang Vieng to Vientiane online via 12.Go Asia, which also provides valuable reviews from previous travellers, offering insights into what to expect. I've personally found booking through them to be a hassle-free experience.
VIP Tourist Bus
When opting for a VIP tourist bus, you'll typically be picked up from your accommodation by a shuttle or directed to a specific travel agency to be taken to the bus station. This process can sometimes involve waiting for other passengers. Two primary bus companies cater to tourists on this route: Soutchai Travel and Malany Transport. It's crucial to confirm your pick-up arrangements and the exact departure point. Upon arrival at the bus station, you'll need to load your luggage onto the bus, which may not depart immediately as it waits for other passengers. In some instances, particularly during off-peak seasons or with low passenger numbers, buses might be substituted with minivans. Tourist buses usually feature air conditioning, though its functionality is not always guaranteed in Laos. The journey includes a single refreshment break, offering an opportunity to use the restroom and purchase snacks. The bus typically drops passengers a few kilometres outside Vientiane's city centre, requiring a tuk-tuk for the final leg. To avoid being overcharged by tuk-tuk drivers, it's highly recommended to have a local SIM card or an offline map application like Maps.me downloaded on your phone to verify your location and the actual distance.
Local Bus
Local buses are similar to VIP tourist buses but are usually a couple of dollars cheaper. Expect frequent stops in various villages and towns to pick up and drop off local passengers. These buses are often more crowded, with extra seating sometimes provided by plastic stools in the aisle to accommodate more people. Instead of air conditioning, local buses rely on open windows for ventilation. Be prepared for dust from the roads, which might leave you feeling grimy and in need of a shower upon arrival. Local buses cannot be booked online; you'll need to arrange tickets through a travel agency in town, your accommodation, or by simply heading to the bus station. While less convenient, direct, and comfortable, local buses are a viable option if you're on a tight budget and not overly concerned about time or comfort.
For travellers who prioritise speed over comfort, shared minivans are an excellent choice. You can expect limited legroom, with 8 or more passengers and their luggage sharing the vehicle. Minivan drivers are adept at navigating traffic, often weaving in and out of vehicles, which contributes to a faster journey. You can book shared minivans from Vang Vieng to Vientiane through travel agencies in town. While online booking isn't typically available, you can secure your tickets at a travel agency or your accommodation upon arrival in Vang Vieng. Prices for shared minivans generally range from 40,000 to 80,000 LAK, with an average cost of around 55,000 LAK. I personally found a deal for 40,000 LAK by shopping around.
A Personal Minivan Experience
My own experience with a shared minivan from Vang Vieng to Vientiane wasn't ideal, primarily due to fellow passengers rather than the driver. We were among the first to be picked up, and the driver proceeded to circle the town collecting others. A significant delay occurred when one passenger was late, and the driver waited for an additional forty minutes. Furthermore, the advertised air conditioning did not function, resulting in a hot and sweaty four-hour journey. We did have one stop for a quick lunch at a roadside eatery. Unfortunately, some passengers with afternoon flights were extremely stressed due to the delay, though we did arrive in Vientiane on time. The journey itself offers little in terms of scenic views, so having a good playlist and trying to get some sleep is advisable. Upon arrival in Vientiane, we were dropped off at an intersection, a common tactic used by tuk-tuk drivers to exploit tourists. With dead phones, we were disoriented and unsure of our location relative to our hostel. The tuk-tuk driver insisted the hostel was too far to walk and quoted a price of 60,000 LAK. Suspiciously, we seemed to be driving in circles, but without proof, I couldn't contest the fare. We were eventually dropped off at our hostel, only to discover later that it was merely a block away from our drop-off point. Lesson learned: always confirm your precise location and the proximity of your accommodation.
Hiring a taxi is the most expensive way to travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane, but it offers the ultimate freedom to stop wherever you please along the route. Your hotel or a local travel agency can provide estimates for taxi costs, which typically hover around $140.00. However, it's advisable to shop around at several places to secure a reasonable rate.
Where to Stay in Vientiane?
Vientiane offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. From budget-friendly guesthouses to more comfortable hotels, you'll find places to stay that cater to your needs. Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the journey from Vang Vieng to Vientiane take by bus?
A: By VIP tourist bus, expect the journey to take around 4-5 hours. Local buses can take longer due to frequent stops.
Q: Is the train a good option from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
A: Yes, the train is the fastest and most comfortable option, taking approximately 1-1.5 hours. It is, however, more expensive.
Q: Can I book transport online?
A: Yes, you can book VIP bus and train tickets online through platforms like 12.Go Asia and Baolau. Minivans and local buses usually require booking in person.
Q: What is the cheapest way to travel?
A: Local buses are generally the cheapest option, followed by shared minivans. VIP buses and trains are more expensive, and taxis are the most costly.
Q: What is the road like between Vang Vieng and Vientiane?
A: The road is generally good, with mostly straight sections. The scenery is not particularly spectacular.
Q: Should I book my transport in advance?
A: It is recommended to book VIP buses and trains in advance, especially during peak travel times. Minivans and local buses can usually be booked closer to your travel date.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions expressed are my own.
If you want to read more articles similar to Vang Vieng to Vientiane: Your Travel Guide, you can visit the Travel category.