In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 670 kilometre distance from Pakse to Vientiane. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 2 ways to get from Pakse to Vientiane. You can choose between the bus, flight. The most affordable option is by bus, starting from $26. The fastest route is by flight (1h 55m).
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1h 55m
$93
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15h
$26
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It’s a long bus ride from Pakse to Vientiane, taking around 10-15h. But if you’re travelling on a budget, this is your cheapest option, with tickets starting from just $26.
We recommend booking an overnight sleeper bus. You’ll save valuable travel time and skip paying for a night’s accommodation.
A quick heads-up on travel time: some companies claim they can complete the journey in under 8 hours. In reality, it’s closer to 10 hours, sometimes more. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to sleep through most of it and arrive feeling (somewhat) refreshed.
Not keen on that setup? Some buses offer standard seats or solo reclining beds. Always check the bus features before booking so you know what to expect.
You’ll find five bus companies running this route: KriangKai Transport, Green Paradise Travel, Chanthachone Transportation, RG Adventure and Sanga Hostels.
Flying is the fastest way you can get from Pakse to Vientiane, with a travel time of just 1h 55m, including airport transfers.
Combined rates start from $93, also making it the most expensive option for this route.
We think the price is worth it, though! The flight gives you not just speed, but also comfort. You can save money with the bus, but it's at least a 10-hour journey, and can be very uncomfortable.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Vientiane is Laos’ fascinating capital city sitting on the banks of the Mekong River. A former French trading post, the city has kept many of its historical influences and original architecture undamaged.
True, there is not much to do in this sleepy city — and that’s exactly what sets Vientiane apart from other capital cities in Southeast Asia. It is a hub for temples, markets, spas and cafes. Our favourite spot is the riverside, where you can relax with a cold Beer Lao and just watch the sunset over the Mekong.
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Carbon Footprint
This 670 km journey produces approximately 60 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
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Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Patuxay Place is great value for money. The rooms are spacious, modern and decorated to a high standard. The hotel has thought of every detail, including free drinking water on every floor of the hotel.
The staff want to make sure you have the best stay possible, offering a helping hand whenever you need it. They're full of recommendations too! The hotel is situated in a great location in Vientiane.
This hotel is beautiful! S 2 Modern Boutique Hotel boasts a modern and simple decor with pops of colour. Every corner of this hotel is aesthetic. There's also an outdoor swimming pool, onsite gym and delicious restaurant. There's even a barista.
It's good to know that it isn't located directly in the city centre, so you'll need to grab a taxi to visit popular attractions. Don't worry though, the friendly and helpful staff are always on hand to help you get somewhere.
If you want to splash the cash a little, Eastin Hotel is the place to do it. Overlooking the Mekong River, it's hard to find a better view to wake up to. The hotel was built recently meaning that everything is fresh, clean and very modern.
The hotel is located 10 minutes outside of the city, but there's a courtesy car to take you there and back. The service here will make your stay an unforgettable one.
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