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Attapeu, in the far south-east of Laos near the Vietnamese border, is reached by road from Pakse. It is a quiet provincial capital, and the route passes through a part of the country with few tourist services.
Pakse to Attapeu by Road
Attapeu is reached by road from Pakse. Ask at the Pakse bus station which bus or van is running, what it costs and where it leaves from.
The UK government notes that roads in Laos are often in poor condition and that travel after dark significantly increases the risk of an accident.[1] Landmines and unexploded weapons are a hazard throughout Laos, so keep to main routes in rural areas and do not pick up metal objects.[1] Attapeu is one of the provinces where the national UXO programme operates.[2]
Health
The US CDC lists malaria as present in the southern provinces, including Attapeu and Champasak.[3] Ask a doctor about prevention before you travel.
Tips for Traveling from Pakse to Attapeu
- Cash: Carry Lao Kip, because card and ATM options may be limited in a small provincial town.
- Daylight: Plan to arrive before dark.
- Stay on marked paths: Do not leave main roads or paths in rural areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Pakse to Attapeu, including current prices and schedules.
Attapeu is reached by road, and fares change, so ask at the Pakse bus station what the bus or van costs.
Travel is by road. Ask at the Pakse bus station which services are running and how long they take.
Travel time depends on the vehicle and the number of stops. Confirm it when you buy your ticket.
The UK government says that roads in Laos are often in poor condition and that travel after dark significantly increases the risk of an accident. Travel in daylight, and in rural areas keep to main routes because of unexploded ordnance.
The US CDC lists malaria as present in the southern provinces, including Attapeu and Champasak. Ask a doctor about prevention before you travel.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO): Laos travel advice: Safety and security. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [2] Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Programme (UXO LAO): The Most Bombed Country in the World. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [3] US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Laos - Traveler view. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.