🛵 Transportation in Laos

How to get around, buy a motorcycle, and travel between cities.

Motorcycle (Most Common)

  • Used 100–125cc motorcycles cost $300–800
  • New ones cost $1,000–2,000
  • You can rent for ~$8–15/day while you save
  • A motorcycle is your best long-term investment for getting around
  • Bring your US driver's license — get it translated or get a Lao license

Tuk-Tuk (Short Trips)

  • Negotiate price before you get in
  • Short city trips: 15,000–30,000 LAK ($0.75–$1.50)
  • Available everywhere in cities
  • Great for getting around before you have a bike

Buses (Between Cities)

  • VIP buses connect all major cities
  • Vientiane to Luang Prabang: ~$15, 9–10 hours
  • Vientiane to Pakse: ~$15, 10–12 hours
  • Book at the Northern or Southern bus stations in Vientiane