How To Travel From Siem Reap To Vientiane Like A Pro Tourist

There are some amazing things to do along the way when you travel between Siem Reap and Vientiane. You’ll see ancient Khmer heritage and the lovely culture of Laos. Vientiane will be a relaxing place to visit, with its many temples and riverside areas.

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Overview of Siem Reap To Vientiane

The trip from Siem Reap to Vientiane is an amazing experience connecting two of Southeast Asia’s cultural hot spots. Many people traveling through this part of Asia will combine these two cities to see the difference between the well-known ancient temples in Cambodia and the relaxed and spiritual atmosphere of the capital of Laos on the banks of the Mekong River.

This itinerary is especially appealing for travelers who desire a more leisurely, meaningful way to travel rather than the normal tourist route. From the ancient stone monuments and temples of Siem Reap to the golden temples, French colonial architecture, and riverside cafés of Vientiane, this destination highlights the various ways in which religion, history, and daily life all come together throughout this whole region and provides a well-rounded travel experience.

How Far Is It From Siem Reap To Vientiane?

Approximately 670 Kilometers separates Siem Reap from Vientiane with a travel time of about 10 hours and 39 minutes. However, this varies based on road conditions and border crossings. Air travel has a total flight time of about 4 hours and 23 minutes, including layover time, making it the quickest way to travel for the majority of passengers.

How to Travel From Siem Reap To Vientiane?

There are many different ways to travel from Siem Reap to Vientiane – a relatively long journey, yet each method is suited for different types of travellers with varying budgets, timeframes, and travel styles. Knowing your options can help you select the easiest and most comfortable way to get from one cultural hotspot to another!

By Flight

While air travel will provide you with the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Siem Reap to Vientiane, most often flights will stop at either Bangkok or a connecting hub before continuing to Vientiane. Air travel time for this route will range from 4-5 hours on average, including layover time, based on the airline used and flight routing.

As direct flight availability on this route is limited, there are generally many required connections; therefore, airfare can often be quite expensive, ranging anywhere from 200-500+ USD for a one-way ticket. Although prices are higher than land travel would be, flying is by far the quickest way to travel and is recommended for those who do not have the time for extended travel.

By Bus

Taking an overland bus or shared van is the most economical way to travel. Buses and vans commonly operate as a series of stages, with the first stage stopping in Stung Treng or Pakse before continuing to Vientiane. The journey will typically take anywhere from twenty hours to twenty-six or more hours to complete.

The cost of a bus or van ticket generally ranges from 60.00 to 95.00 USD, depending on the quality of the service provided. Although this method offers an opportunity to experience stunning scenery while traveling through rural areas of Cambodia and Laos, it requires multiple vehicle switches and will require extensive waiting periods due to the immigration process.

By Private Car

If you are looking for the most flexibility when traveling overland, the best option is to use your own car or taxi, where you can choose your own route and make stops according to your schedule. The duration of a private transfer is approximately 11-12 hours, but may vary according to the number of stops made and delays due to crossing borders. Fares for this type of transfer range from approximately 450 to 700+ USD for direct service, which tends to be several times more expensive than public transportation.

The comfort and convenience of a privately rented vehicle will suit groups, families, or passengers with large amounts of baggage. However, it is important to note that the cost will be higher than other methods of transport.

Tips For Traveling From Siem Reap To Vientiane

Many travelers need to cross the Lao border, and to do this, many different modes of transportation may be needed. For these reasons, preparation will be very useful, which includes following the tips that will assist travelers in making the trip quickly and without the hassle of bad experiences.

Be sure to confirm your arrival visa requirements for Laos. If you are travelling by land, you may need an on-arrival visa or an e-visa, depending on what country you are a citizen of.
If you don’t mind flying indirectly, you should look into flying via an indirect flight with short layover times, to minimise your time spent travelling and have a more comfortable trip.
If you are travelling by land, you make plans to stay overnight along the way to avoid exhausting yourself.
Bring along some cash with you in US dollars or Lao Kip, as there are not many places to use ATM services at border crossings.
Travel light and bring the essentials with you in your day pack. Since the buses and shared transport modes usually do not allow for much luggage to be carried, a small-sized day pack will be very useful.
To make your trip easier, try to travel during the early morning hours when border crossings tend to run more smoothly than during late hours.
During peak seasons for travel, book your tickets and accommodations in Vientiane ahead of time to avoid the situation of paying through the nose for last-minute bookings and the possibility of not being able to book accommodation when you arrive.

Recommended Stops Along the Way

Before the arrival in Vientiane, along the route from Siem Reap, there are plenty of interesting stops that allow visitors to experience the nature and culture of Southern Laos and the northeastern parts of Cambodia. Not only is it more comfortable traveling from place to place, but it is quite an experience too.

Stung Treng (Cambodia)

Stung Treng is a peaceful riverine town in which the Mekong and Sekong rivers meet. It is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and riverbank scenery. This is an ideal stop for those interested in slow travel experiences. This town is also an opportunity to discover local markets, riverbank settlements, and wetlands that are home to an incredible variety of birds. Riverboat cruises on the Mekong offer an understanding of rural living in Cambodia. Stung Treng also serves as an excellent overnight stop before heading into Laos.

Don Det (Si Phan Don – 4,000 Islands, Laos)

Don Det is located in the famous 4,000 Islands area in Southern Laos, where the Mekong River breaks up into many small islands. It is a perfect place for travelers who enjoy nature, want a beach destination with a backpacker atmosphere, or want a break from the more touristy parts of their journey.

It is possible to rent a bike and explore the island, or head off to explore the local French-built railway bridge, or just laze about on the beach. The sunset view from Don Det is one not to be forgotten on the Mekong. Don Det also offers the chance to see local waterfalls and go dolphin-watching.

Among the islands in Si Phan Don, Don Det is the most well-known

Wat Phou (Pakse)

Pakse is the main entry and exit point in southern Laos and offers convenient transport and accommodation. Wat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Pakse, is one of the greatest Khmer temple sites outside of Cambodia. At Wat Phou, one enjoys picturesque views over the surrounding plain and a peaceful religious environment. The visit to Wat Phou provides historical continuity from Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Pakse is also the starting point for journeys to the Bolaven Plateau, famous for waterfalls and coffee plantations.

Savannakhet

As a picturesque city located on the banks of the Mekong River, Savannakhet is an interesting place to visit. The city features both French colonial architecture and traditional Lao culture. Unlike many other tourist destinations in Laos, Savannakhet is not overrun with visitors and provides a more genuine insight into local life.

There are numerous opportunities for visitors to walk along the river, see historical temples and buildings from the past, enjoy a meal at one of the many relaxed coffee shops, and enjoy a variety of local cuisine in Laos. Visitors who are planning to visit Vientiane may want to consider spending the night in Savannakhet, as its mellow atmosphere will enable them to get into the rhythm of the capital city before arriving there.

FAQs About Traveling From Siem Reap To Vientiane

If you’re planning to visit both Cambodia and Laos, you may be wondering how to get from Siem Reap to Vientiane. As a first-time visitor, it’s natural to have a lot of questions about what to expect. Below are some of the most common questions asked by others who have made this trip.

What is the quickest way to go from Siem Reap to Vientiane?

The quickest way to travel between these two cities is by plane; however, most companies only offer direct flights that stop in another city before arriving in Vientiane. Fly times are around four to five hours, depending on the layover. Flying is probably your best bet if you don’t have several days to complete an overland trip.

quickest way to travel from Siem Reap to Vientiane is by plane

Do I need a visa when traveling from Cambodia to Laos?

Travelers from most nationalities must obtain a visa to enter Laos when traveling from Cambodia. Some travelers may apply for e-visas before arrival and also obtain visas on arrival at all international points of entry to Laos; therefore, it is recommended to review current visa requirements prior to your trip.

Is it more costly to fly than to take a bus or van?

Typically, flying costs more than using a bus or van, and the cost of a flight usually ranges between 200 – 500 USD or higher. A bus ticket usually costs less than 100 USD. However, you will save both time and enjoy greater comfort by choosing to fly instead of using a bus or van.

Are there any safety concerns in travelling from Siem Reap to Vientiane?

Yes, this route is typically considered safe for travelers, particularly with the use of good-quality transportation providers. Flying or taking a licensed bus are two of the better sources of safety. Similar to other types of long-distance travelling, perform due diligence when travelling and securing your property.

How many days should I allow for this trip?

If you are flying, you will arrive in Vientiane on the same day. If you choose to use ground transportation, it may take you up to a day or more. Even if you have a set plan, allow time for changes to plans; you don’t want to feel rushed if you are unable to complete your plans as quickly as expected.

Final Thoughts

Traveling between the two culturally significant capitals of Cambodia and Laos will give you a rewarding experience of the unique blend of ancient heritage and the relaxed lifestyle along the Mekong River. At every stop, you’ll gain insight into both the iconic temples of Angkor and the tranquil flow of the Mekong River, as well as into the everyday lives of the local people. By planning carefully, you’ll be able to appreciate the destinations of your trip as much as the journey itself. Let Seni World turn your Siem Reap to Vientiane trip into an unforgettable journey.

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