How to get from Vientiane to Pakse

Why visit Pakse?

Pakse is a transport hub and gateway to southern Laos. Its strategic location, comfortable accommodations and tour offerings make it a convenient basecamp for travellers visiting the nearby Bolaven Plateau and Wat Phu.

Admittedly, there is not much to do in this riverside town. But if you’re looking for a relaxing yet strategic place to take some time off, then your best choice in the south is Pakse. Walk around town, visit some temples, explore the local markets, or just sample traditional Lao dishes.

There are 3 ways to travel the 670 kilometres (416 miles) from Vientiane to Pakse. You can choose between the bus, minivan* and flight. The journey takes 1 hour 30 minutes to 15 hours and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $19.10 (416,000 LAK).

It’s a long journey by bus from Vientiane to Pakse — about 10 to 15 hours. But if you must really take a bus for this route, we recommend an overnight sleeper. This will save you time as well as a night of hotel costs.

Several buses are labeled “sleeping buses,” which are the most luxurious and expensive options in Laos. These buses feature double beds instead of standard reclining seats, and some also provide water and snacks.

If you book online via BookAway, you can secure a spot on these sleeper buses and enjoy their amenities, which are unavailable on local standard buses.

You can choose from five bus companies operating on this route: Soutchai Travel, Family Service, Chanthachone Transportation, Chit Prasong and Green Paradise Travel.

IMPORTANT: Sleeper buses feature double beds meant to fit two people. If you don’t feel like sharing the space with a stranger, you must book two tickets for the trip. Otherwise, prepare to make a new friend.

Looking to reach Pakse quickly? Flying is the fastest way to travel between the two cities, taking only about 1 hour 30 minutes. However, it’s also the most expensive option.

Lao Skyway offers the most budget-friendly option, with one-way fares starting at $40 (871,000 LAK). They have a daily flight departing from Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport and use propeller planes for their Laos destinations. Check their website for the latest schedule.

Lao Airlines provides more flight options, but their fares are generally higher, starting at $80 (1,742,000 LAK) one-way.

Transportation at Pakse Airport

For a convenient and affordable way to reach the city centre from Pakse Airport, consider taking a taxi. The fare starts at around $7 (152,000 LAK) and the ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.