What Are Laos's Border Crossings Like?
Laos shares borders with five countries and maintains numerous international crossing points, particularly with Thailand, Vietnam, and China. Most crossings used by tourists are well-organized and offer visa-on-arrival services.
The Friendship Bridges connecting Laos to Thailand are the most commonly used crossings, including the First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge near Vientiane. These crossings are efficient and straightforward, with visa-on-arrival available for most nationalities.
Crossings with Vietnam are popular for travelers combining both countries, with several checkpoints along the shared border. The crossing between Pakse and the Cambodian border provides access to Siem Reap. The Laos-China Railway now offers a convenient border crossing at Boten for travelers arriving from Kunming.
Your travel consultant can arrange private transfers and border assistance to ensure smooth crossings, particularly useful at busier checkpoints or when language might be a barrier.
Related Questions
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