Question 1

What is the "Tuk-Tuk Commission Detour Scam" scam in Vientiane?

Accepted Answer

Tuk-tuk drivers claim their normal route is "closed" or offer a scenic ride and detour tourists to gem stores, silver shops, or tailor shops where they earn a commission. You end up trapped in a high-pressure sales environment and the ride costs extra. Agree on a fixed price and direct route before getting in — say "no stops" clearly. Use GPS to monitor the route. If the driver ignores your route, firmly refuse any detours. Ride-hailing apps like Loca are available in Vientiane.

Question 2

What is the "Friendship Bridge Taxi Price Inflation" scam in Vientiane?

Accepted Answer

Taxis and tuk-tuks positioned outside the Friendship Bridge border crossing on the Lao side routinely quote prices five to ten times above the actual fare into central Vientiane. Drivers claim meters are broken or that there is a fixed crossing surcharge. Some drivers take excessively long routes through Thadeua Road to pad the fare. Official metered taxis from the city center charge around 50,000–80,000 kip for the same journey; border touts charge 200,000–400,000 kip. Negotiate and agree on a price before boarding. Use the Loca app or ask your guesthouse what the fair rate is from the bridge before arrival. Alternatively, walk a few minutes from the border post before hailing a vehicle to avoid the captive-audience pricing.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Vientiane

Tuk-Tuk Commission Detour Scam

Friendship Bridge Taxi Price Inflation

Experienced a scam here?