In Laos, the bus is the most common means of transport. Often used by locals and backpackers, it nonetheless remains quite daunting given that roads are largely in poor condition. Which, problem turned on its head, can fuel the spirit of adventure. Indeed, in the north of the country for example, only 10% of the road network is paved, leaving room for numerous obstacles, particularly during harvest season. If you have the means, you can however take a flight to reach several provincial capitals throughout the country. The bus remains the ideal alternative for tight budgets and "explorers".

A Picturesque Appeal

The authentic character stands out greatly from these journeys, particularly when taking National Road 13, which literally crosses the territory from north to south, ultimately linking China to Cambodia while passing through Paksé, Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Here is a guide to distances and travel times between the country's capital, Vientiane, which has numerous bus stations, and the largest city in each of the country's 16 other provinces. Enough to cover the entire territory. Plan to arrive early at the bus station, as some buses depart before their scheduled time... You can never be 100% certain of exact travel times as buses and coaches may stop unexpectedly, but this will give you an idea of distances between major cities. You'll find a route map link each time.

• From Vientiane to Luang Prabang, in Luang Prabang province: 340 kilometres, 7 hours and 10 minutes of travel. (40 minutes by plane.)
• From Vientiane to Paksé, in Champasak province: 670 kilometres, 10 hours and 20 minutes of travel. (1 hour 15 minutes by plane.)
• From Vientiane to Phongsaly, in Phongsaly province: 760 kilometres, 17 hours and 15 minutes of travel. (1 hour 40 minutes by plane.)
• From Vientiane to Luang Namtha, in Luang Namtha province: 640 kilometres, 14 hours and 15 minutes of travel. (55 minutes by plane.)
• From Vientiane to Houei Say, in Bokeo province: 806 kilometres, 17 hours and 35 minutes of travel.
• From Vientiane to Muang Xay, in Oudomxay province: 525 kilometres, 11 hours and 30 minutes of travel. (50 minutes by plane.)
• From Vientiane to Xayaboury, in Sayaboury province: 350 kilometres, 7 hours and 30 minutes of travel.
• From Vientiane to Sam Neua, in Houaphan province: 590 kilometres, 12 hours and 35 minutes of travel. (1 hour 10 minutes by plane.)
• From Vientiane to Phonsavan, in Xieng Khouang province: 350 kilometres, 7 hours of travel.
• From Vientiane to Thathom, in Xaisomboun province: 235 kilometres, 4 hours and 20 minutes of travel.
• From Vientiane to Paksane, in Borikhamxay province: 150 kilometres, 2 hours and 30 minutes of travel.
• From Vientiane to Thakhek, in Khammouane province: 335 kilometres, 5 hours and 15 minutes of travel.
• From Vientiane to Savannakhet, in Savannakhet province: 460 kilometres, 7 hours and 20 minutes. (1 hour by plane.)
• From Vientiane to Saravane, in Saravane province: 675 kilometres, 10 hours and 30 minutes of travel.
• From Vientiane to Sékong, in Sékong province: 750 kilometres, 12 hours of travel.
• From Vientiane to Attapeu, in Attapeu province: 830 kilometres, 13 hours and 10 minutes of travel.