Luang Prabang to Vientiane

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All of the roads here are good quality with pretty light traffic, except as you get closer to Vientiane the traffic increases. The roads are also very exposed to the midday sun during the non-rainy season.

2010.11.21
Cities: Luang Prabang to Xieng Nguen
Distance: 15.5 miles
Total Ascent: 550 feet
Avg Speed: 8 MPH

Matthew was recovering from a throat infection so we didn’t go far this day. The ride to Xieng Nguen is pretty easy, gentle ups and downs.

2010.11.22
Cities: Xieng Nguen to Kiukacham
Distance: 33 miles
Total Ascent: 4700 feet
Avg Speed: 6 MPH

Really hard and long day. First ascent is 15 km up to about 3400 feet, followed by a short downhill then a 22 km ascent up to 4600 feet. Few places to stop and rest.

2010.11.23
Cities: Kiukacham to Phoukoun
Distance: 32 miles
Total Ascent: 3000 feet
Avg Speed: 6.3 MPH

These two towns are at the same elevation but have some steep descents and ascents between them. Dip down into a valley and then a series of climbs to get out of it.

2010.11.24
Cities: Phoukoun to Kasi
Distance: 27.8 miles
Total Ascent: 1350 feet
Avg Speed: 8.4 MPH

Gentle ups and downs for the first 7 km then a very long descent (15 km?) then more gentle ups and downs.

2010.11.25
Cities: Kasi to Vang Vieng
Distance: 37 miles
Total Ascent: 1200 feet
Avg Speed: 8 MPH

Easy, mostly flat except for one small incline for a pass through more mountains.

2010.11.27
Cities: Vang Vieng to Phonhong
Distance: 53.8 miles
Total Ascent: 1800 feet
Avg Speed: 9 MPH

Mostly gentle hills. The traffic is heavier at this point but otherwise an easy ride. Pretty dull, increasing signs of civilization.

2010.11.28
Cities: Phonhong to Vientiane
Distance: 44.1 miles
Total Ascent: 550 feet
Avg Speed: 10 MPH

Nearly entirely flat except for a few small hills. Very dull. Ugly scenery as you get closer to the capital city.


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