Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, Laos

Bus is the cheapest way to travel between Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.  Minibuses are just a little more expensive, but are generally worth it beacuse they are quicker and more conformtable.  Mini-buses frop you into town, saving a tuk tuk ride from the bus station (10,000 Kip per person).   Route 13 between Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang is now sealed, but still a little lumpy in places, and still very, very twisty.  It's a memorable journey, with stunning scenary of rolling landscapes, hills and roadside village life.  You'll see great scenary seated on either side of the vehicle, but sitting on the right hand side of the vehicle, traveling from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, probably gives the best views.

At Laos festival time check and book your transport and accommodation in advance, as things get booked up, and crammed.

Bus

Private VIP buses cost 100,000Kip and leave from the bus dirt yard just outside of town at 10am.  The trip takes 7 hours.  Tickets are available from guesthouses and travel agents.  Transfer by tuk tuk to the bus yard should be included in the ticket price.  Buses arrive in Luang Prabang at the southern bus terminal.  Tuk tuks will be waiting to take you in to town for 10,000Kip per person.  Most VIP buses are actually basic.  Some buses have aircon, but it's a gamble how well they work.   Some buses store the luggage underneath, others on the roof.  The bus stops for a break near the middle of the journey, where you can buy baguettes, Laos food and drinks.  At Laos New Year (mid April) buses will be packed, with extra seats being added to the aisle.  

Mini-bus

Mini-buses cost 105,000Kip, typically leaving at 9am, and take 6 hours to get to Luang Prabang.  Tickets are available from guesthouses and travel agents.  The journey can be more comfortable than a big bus, as the smaller vehicle rides over the steep terrain better than a larger vehicle.  I have seen some without working air conditioning, which would not be nice, but most seem to be working OK.  Mini-buses should pick you up from your guesthouse in Vang Vieng, and drop you at one in Luang Prabang, saving the need for a tuk tuk ride into town.