Question how to get from Vientiane to pakse between Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, and Pakse, a significant city in the southern region of the country, can be an adventure worth undertaking. Both cities have rich histories and unique attractions that draw in tourists and locals alike. As a traveler, understanding the various options available to you to make this journey is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The distance between Vientiane and Pakse is approximately 699 kilometers, which can seem immense when planning your trip. However, with careful planning and consideration of the different modes of transportation available, you can ensure a comfortable and efficient journey. This article will help you planning your options, provide practical tips and suggestions, and answer frequently asked questions.

The journey between Vientiane and Pakse spans approximately 699 km (434 miles) and offers a few options for travelers seeking to make this trip. The most direct and time-efficient mode of transportation between the two cities is by air, with flight durations around 1 hour and 50 minutes.

More budget option, the bus is a viable choice. Although it takes considerably longer (around 12 hours), it offers travelers the opportunity to experience the scenic landscapes between the cities. Travelers should be aware that buses on this route typically run overnight, which may impact personal preferences for sleep and comfort.

Another alternative is to travel by private car. An added advantage of this option is the independence and control it offers concerning stops and sightseeing throughout the journey. While this method can be more expensive due to fuel and rental costs, it allows travelers to tailor their journey more precisely.

Search Bus and Flight Ticket on 12go.asia

When planning your trip from Vientiane to Pakse, 12go.asia is a valuable resource for finding and comparing transportation options. On their website, you can easily browse different methods of travel, such as flights, buses, and taxis.

The Vientiane to Pakse section on 12go.asia provides a number of choices for travelers, along with prices and duration. For a faster journey, you can consider booking a flight, which takes around 1 hours and 30 minutes, with ticket prices ranging between $45 up.

For budget-conscious travelers, taking the bus is the cheapest option. The bus journey takes approximately 12 hours, allowing you to experience the local scenery along the way. Keep in mind that the travel duration may vary depending on traffic and other factors.

To book your tickets, simply follow the user-friendly steps on the website. Additionally, you can read reviews from other travelers who have experienced the same route, offering insights into the quality of service and overall experience.

Direct Travel Options

By Flight

Traveling from Vientiane to Pakse is fastest by taking a direct flight. There are a few airlines, such as Lao Airlines and Lao Skyway, offering daily flights between the two cities. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it the most time-efficient option. However, this option could be more expensive than other routes, with ticket prices ranging from $45 up.

By Bus

Another way to travel between Vientiane and Pakse is by taking a bus. This option is cheaper than flying, with ticket prices around $12-$24. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. Although it’s a longer trip, it provides an opportunity to see the Laotian countryside along the way and mingle with locals, offering a more authentic travel experience.

By Private Car

Finally, travelers looking for a more personal and flexible travel option can opt for a private car. This allows for stops and detours at will and provides complete control over the travel schedule. The driving distance between Vientiane and Pakse is about 699 km, and the estimated travel time by car is around 10 to 12 hours, depending on road conditions, traffic, and personal preferences for breaks and sightseeing. Keep in mind that this option may be the most expensive, particularly if renting a car or including the cost of petrol and potential accommodation for overnight stays.

Alternative routes

Via Savannakhet

One option for traveling from Vientiane to Pakse is to take a route via Savannakhet. First, take the bus from Vientiane Phanthavong Tour Office to Savannakhet. This part of the journey takes approximately 8 hours. After arriving in Savannakhet, transfer to another bus that travels to Pakse. The travel time from Savannakhet to Pakse is around 7 hours.

This alternative route offers the opportunity to explore Savannakhet, a city with rich cultural heritage and well-preserved colonial architecture. It is a great choice for travelers who are interested in incorporating a stopover in another location before reaching Pakse.

Via Thakhek

Another alternative route goes through Thakhek, a town located along the Mekong River. Travelers can reach Thakhek from Vientiane by bus. The journey to Thakhek takes about 6 hours and is typically a comfortable ride. Upon arrival in Thakhek, travelers can find a range of accommodations and explore the town’s attractions, such as the Thakhek Loop—a scenic motorbike circuit.

Budgeting for your journey

When planning your journey from Vientiane to Pakse, it’s important to consider the different transportation options and their associated costs. to travel between these two cities are by plane, bus, and car.

Plane: Flying from Vientiane (VTE) to Pakse (PKZ) is the quickest but also the most expensive option. Ticket prices range from $45 to $120, depending on the airline and booking time. The average flight time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Bus: Traveling by bus is the most budget-friendly way to get from Vientiane to Pakse. Bus tickets can be purchased for as low as $24, with the journey taking approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. There is also an alternative bus route via Savannakhet which may take longer, about 15 hours, but offers a different travel experience.

Experience of Pakse Adventure activity

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure in Pakse, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the top tours:

1. Bolaven Plateau Tour – This tour takes you to the stunning Bolaven Plateau, where you’ll see waterfalls, coffee plantations, and traditional villages. You can also go trekking through the lush jungle and enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot.

3. Cycling Tour – Rent a bike and explore the city and surrounding countryside at your own pace. You can visit temples, markets, and local villages, or head out to the countryside for a scenic ride.

4. Zip-lining Adventure – If you’re looking for a thrill, try zip-lining through the jungle canopy. You’ll soar over treetops and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

5. Elephant Trekking – Take a ride on the back of an elephant and explore the lush jungle.

Top 5 best deal budget hotel, hostel in Pakse

Pakse, the charming capital of the Champasak province in southern Laos, has a lot to offer to travelers in terms of comfort and affordability. With its ideal location near the Mekong and Xe Don rivers, as well as easy access to popular tourist attractions like Wat Phou and the Bolaven Plateau, finding the best deal on a hotel or guesthouse is essential for travelers on a budget to ensure an enjoyable stay.

1. Intouch Riverside Hotel Cost: $29/ night located city center (599 review)
2. You Empire Hostel & Bar Cost: $5/ night located city center (385 review)
3. Pakse Backpacker Hostel2023 Cost: $5/ night located city center (351 review)
4. Chato Hostel Cost: $7/ night located city center (253 review)
5. Arawan Riverside Hotel Cost: $38/ night located city center (565 review)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to travel from Vientiane to Pakse?

The most efficient way to travel between Vientiane and Pakse is by plane, as it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Lao Airlines and Lao Skyway offer direct flights between the two cities.

How long does it take to get from Vientiane to Pakse?

The travel time depends on the mode of transportation chosen. By air, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. If opting for a bus or a van, it can take between 12 to 13 hours. Meanwhile, driving would take about 12 hours.

Are there buses available from Vientiane to Pakse?

Yes, there are various bus companies operating between Vientiane and Pakse. These include King of Bus, Kriangkai Transport, PST Transit Service, Soutchai Travel, Champasak Bus, and Chit Prasong. Travelers can choose between modern sleeper coaches, minibuses, and vans for their journey. The trip usually takes around 10 to 13 hours.

Can I travel from Vientiane to Pakse by train?

There is currently no train service available between Vientiane and Pakse.

Are there flights between Vientiane and Pakse?

Yes, Lao Airlines and Lao Skyway offer direct flights between Vientiane and Pakse, with an average duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes. There are typically 16 flights per week between the two cities.

What is the distance between Vientiane and Pakse?

The distance between Vientiane and Pakse is approximately 699 km by road. If traveling by air, the distance between Vientiane (VTE) and Pakse (PKZ) airports is shorter, but the overall journey will still depend on the specific flight taken.