Communication routes connecting Vang Vieng, Vientiane and Luang Prabang have improved considerably in recent years. There is now a beautiful highway between Vientiane and Vang Vieng, and a railway linking Vientiane to the Chinese border via Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.

Thanks to the recently built highway, it takes about ninety minutes to reach Vang Vieng by minibus or car from Wattay airport, and up to two hours from the center of Vientiane (140 km). Some visitors may prefer the 60-minute train ride. However, they should be aware that the train station is about thirty minutes away from the Vientiane center by car.

While driving from Vientiane to Vang Vieng is a good option, we strongly recommend taking the train between Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. The 230 kilometers road is indeed in bad condition and very sinuous. The journey can take up to five hours. By contrast, the train ride takes less than one hour and is very comfortable.

Train transfers

If you wish to take the train, there are many travel agencies in Vang Vieng, Vientiane and Luang Prabang that will be able to book train tickets for you. There is also a very convenient Laos-China Railway Ticketing Application available online. You can use it to check the train schedules but also to buy tickets directly if you can provide a Thai or Lao mobile phone number. Please note that train tickets can only be purchased 3 days in advance.

At the train station, Riverside Boutique Resort can arrange a private 4WD or minivan transfer to pick you up. This service will be charged USD 16 per trip, for a maximum of 6 passengers, luggage included.

Car or minibus transfers

If you prefer to travel by road, Riverside Boutique Resort can arrange transfers to and from the Resort upon request, provided arrangements are confirmed 48 hours in advance.