Domestic Air Transport

Lao Aviation's domestic destinations are shown below.  Please note that it is difficult to book a domestic flight from outside Laos, unless you book a tour programme.  Lao Aviation does not have a computer reservation system and all flights must be reconfirmed in advance. 

In Vientiane, the Lao Aviation office is situated in Thanon Phangkham, in between the fountain and the Mekong.  We suggest that to save time waiting, you book flights with a local travel agent in Vientiane rather than deal with Lao Aviation directly.

Lao Aviation flies to the following town and cities. Lao Aviation has a small fleet, and as such, detinations will change according to the time of year and aircraft availability.

Northern Airports: Houayxai,   Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxai, Samneua, Sayabouli.

Southern Airports: Pakse, Savannakhet

At the time of publication, Lao Aviation were revieving their timetable, however, published timetables cannot be relied on.  A published early morning flight may depart several hours later - so please be flexible.

For air transport within the Mekong region, ie to Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and Yunnan Province of China, please take a look at the visit-mekong.com website:

Boat - Mekong Ferries

Ferry boats run from Vientiane to Luang Prabang and back as well as from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai and back.  Journeys can take several days, depending on the time of year - and whether travelling up or down river.  This kind of travel is for the experienced only!  Whilst cramped, hot and lengthy - it is one of the most interesting ways of touching the Lao lifestyle.

Ferries usually depart early in the morning.  Times, prices and just about everything else will change according to season.

On tributaries of the Mekong, ferries may run daily, or when there are enough people to run the trip.

Speed Boats

Speed boats run between Vientiane to Luang Prabang and Luang Prabang to Huay Xai and the journey takes about eight hours per leg.  The cost is considerably more than the ferry.   Speed boats can accomodate up to six people. Fares quoted are for example only.

Travelling by boat:

Bus

Taking a bus in Laos is an experience not to be missed.  Expect to share this form of public transport not only with Laotians, but also what they are taking and bringing to market - that means all kinds of vegetable produce, and live animals as well.  Every time a bus stops, children will board with all kinds of interesting things to eat - not the kind of food that you would expect to find on restaurant menus!

Buses travel between all major towns and cities - the type of bus may vary between a converted pickup truck, a flat bed truck with benches or a more modern traditional bus,  Fares are always reasonable - but times of departure and travelling times will vary a lot.   Be patient, and allow plenty of time when travelling by bus.  Please note that the prices below may change without notice.

Travelling from Luang Prabang to:

Cars - Taxis

Vientiane has a number of rather old taxis. They can be found at Wattay Airport, the Friendship Bridge and at the Morning Market.  Taxi drivers will be quite happy to let you charter their cars for the day.  Fares will vary, but the cost from the Bridge to Vientiane, and from the city centre to Wattay Airport is fairly standard. Your hotel can arrange a taxi for you - but this will usually be more expensive than hiring one yourself.

There are also a few metered cabs in Vientiane - they are not so cheap, but at least the fare is regulated.

Cars - Rentals

Laos has no established car rental business as found in most tourist destinations.  Cars, more specifically, quality 4x4s can be rented, usually with a driver, from a few companies in Vientiane.

Asia Vehicle Rentals Co., Ltd - a joint Lao-Western venture can help you with your car and other vehicle rental needs