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Laos Transport

Here you can know the international transport and domestic transport information about Laos.

: Flight

State carrier Lao Airlines has a near-monopoly on domestic flights, a dodgy safety history in the past, but a good safety record now. The fairly comprehensive network is by far the fastest way of reaching many parts of the country. As of 2009, the popular Vientiane-Luang Prabang route costs US$87 (one-way full fare for foreigners), but covers in 40 minutes what would take you at least ten to twelve hours by bus.

: Motor

Motorcycle travel in Laos is not without risks, but the rewards of truly independent travel are great. There are several rental shops in Vientiane only and bike rentals in other parts of the country are few. The quality of machines varies from shop to shop so you need to fully inspect your new friend before you head out on the road. There are many good roads and many paved ones and touring Laos is done easily.

: Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuk means a kind of small/lightweight vehicle. The vast majority has three wheels; some are entirely purpose-built, others are partially based on motorcycle components (primarily engines, steering, front suspension, fuel tank, driver’s seat). A tuk-tuk organization in Vientiane controls the prices that tourists are expected to pay for point to point destinations. The rates negotiable, and well you should clearly bargain rates prior to getting on the tuk-tuk.

: Boat

Taking boats along Mekong River and its tributaries is a useful shortcut, although it only runs in the wet season, when the Mekong floods and becomes more navigable. Huay Xai (on the border with Thailand) to Luang Prabang and travel south of Pakse are the main routes still in use. There are slow boats and speedboats that provide tourists an opportunity to travel in Laos.

: Car

Though it is more expensive, but certainly the most convenient, rented car with driver is also a good place for you to travel around Laos, even over the border to Thailand, China, Cambodia and Vietnam. It may cost around $95 USD per day. The cars can be arranged at tour agencies, tourist hotels and car rental companies. They have the bonus of your being able to stop the car at any time for photos, nosing around a village or just stretching your legs.

: Bus

As an old bus by Western standards (generally retired Chinese tour buses), VIP Bus in Laos usually have more leg room that can make a long journey much more comfortable. VIP buses also include a bottle of water, a snack and a stop for lunch/dinner. Both types are usually air-conditioned (though it doesn't always work).