Getting There
Vang Vieng is a smooth 3-hour bus ride north on Highway 13 from Vientiane. There are numerous daily departures from the Morning Market (tel. 021/216-507), and tickets are just 25,000 kip (US$2.50/£1.40) on a regular bus and 45,000 kip (US$4.50/£2.50) on a minibus. Bus connection to Luang Prabang is a popular option, a rugged but scenic all-day ride for just 90,000 kip (US$9/£4.95). However, attacks just north of town mean that road travel must be undertaken with caution. Ask around about the current situation and do not be surprised if there is a bus-company employee toting a machine gun on board.
Visitor Information & Tours
Diethelm Travel includes Vang Vieng in many of its tours and can make any custom arrangements. The town itself is brimming with small operators. For good eco-tours, contact the local branch of Green Discovery.
Outdoor Activities
Eco-tour operators offering kayak tours now line the main road, but the folks at Green Discovery, at the main intersection in town (tel. 023/511-440; www.greendiscoverylaos.com), are your best bet for a fun day in inflatable two-man kayaks on the small rapids of the Nam Song. The trip will take you to some of the local caves, including one where you'll actually swim, wearing a headlamp. A more relaxing option is to spend a half-day tubing down the river. This is by far the most popular activity in Vang Vieng. Transportation is provided upriver -- all you have to do is let the current bring you back to town. Another good half-day excursion is a visit to Phu Kham Cave, located about 7km (4 1/3 miles) from town. Best reached by bicycle, the cave contains a bronze reclining Buddha as well as a swimming hole out front where you can cool down after the journey. The scenery along the way is spectacular.
