Getting There & Getting About

International Airports

• Vientiane (VTE): 4 km from the city.
• Full list of airports in Laos with associated airport codes >

Internal Transport

There are domestic flights in Laos that connect Vientiane to Pakse and Savanakhet in the south, and to Luang Prabang, Sam Neua, Houayxai, Oudomxai, Luang Nmatha and Sayabouti in the north. Private charter flights are also available.

Rivers such as the Mekonng are a vital part of the country's transportation system. Visitors may choose between fast (and somewhat dangerous) speedboats and the slow, irregular ferries to travel from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai or from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. Speedboats take approximately eight hours for each leg of the journey, whilst ferries can take several days. Boats can also be hired privately.

Many roads in Laos have been paved in recent years, but few are all-weather. There is a road link between Vientiane to Nam Dong and Tran Ninh, Vientiane and Luang Prabang and from the Thai border at Savannakhet to the Vietnamese border. Car hire can be made through hotels, although this is not recommended due to the low driving standards in Laos. Vehicle may also be hired with a driver through hotels or tourist agencies.

Buses link all major towns and cities, and may vary from converted pickup trucks to air-conditioned traditional vehicles.

Travel within Vientiane may be carried out using the taxis located at Wattay Airport, the Morning market and the Friendship Bridge. They may also be hired for the day (approximately US$20), as can bicycles and motorbikes. Converted motorbikes, known as jumbos or tuk-tuks, are perfect for shorter journeys around town and are available in all major towns and cities. Bargaining is expected.