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Leaving behind the colonial charm and quiet riverside pace of Savannakhet for the capital's busier streets is a journey through the heart of central Laos. While the distance is significant, the route follows the spine of the country, from the southern plains toward Vientiane. Travelers can choose between the public bus and a private door-to-door service.
The road north takes you through the rural landscapes of Khammouane and Bolikhamsai provinces. You can book private transport via GoAsia.cc, which handles the transfer between these two Mekong cities.
Savannakhet to Vientiane by Bus
Buses connect Savannakhet with the Southern Bus Terminal in Vientiane. The terminal publishes fares for the route in 3 classes: 200,000 LAK for a regular bus, 230,000 LAK for VIP2 and 250,000 LAK for VIP1 (fares unchanged since 13 October 2023, as reported in April 2025).[1] The terminal's first buses leave at 04:00 and the last departures are around 21:00 to 22:00, and the terminal advises arriving at least 2 hours early during holiday rushes.[1] Fares and timetables can change, so check them at the ticket counter.
Savannakhet to Vientiane by Flight
Lao Airlines lists Vientiane and Savannakhet among its domestic routes, which makes flying an option if you want to avoid the long drive.[2] Check the airline's current schedule when you book.
Savannakhet to Vientiane by Private Transfer
A private transfer removes the need to get to a bus station or adhere to a fixed schedule. Booking platforms list a journey time of about 8 hours (October 2026).[3] Because this is a long drive, a dedicated vehicle lets you ask for stops for photos, snacks, or leg stretches.
Private SUV
For solo travelers, couples, or small families, the 4-seat SUV is the more private choice. Booking platforms list private transfers on this route at about $415 to $485 per vehicle (October 2026), with the SUV at the upper end of that range.[3]
Private Van
If you are traveling in a larger group or with a lot of luggage, the 9-seat van is the better option. It is the lower of the two prices per vehicle, and if the seats are filled it works out much cheaper per person than the SUV.[3]
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (regular, VIP2, VIP1) | 200,000 - 250,000 LAK[1] | Varies by service | Standard to high |
| Private SUV (4 seats) | About $415 - $485 per vehicle[3] | About 8h[3] | High |
| Private Van (9 seats) | About $415 - $485 per vehicle[3] | About 8h[3] | High |
Tips for Traveling from Savannakhet to Vientiane
- Book in Advance: Private transfers can be hard to arrange at short notice. Securing your vehicle a few days before departure is recommended.
- Stock Up on Snacks: Your driver will stop at local service stations, but the selection can be limited. Visit a local market in Savannakhet before you leave to buy fruit or snacks for the road.
- Charge Your Devices: Not every van has USB ports. Bring a power bank to keep your phone or tablet charged for the long journey.
- Hydration is Key: The sun can be intense even through tinted windows. Carry a large bottle of water with you.
Timetable
| Taxi Savannakhet - Vientiane $ 412.81–481.61 8h | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Savannakhet to Vientiane, including current prices and schedules.
The regular bus is the cheapest option, at 200,000 LAK according to the Southern Bus Terminal in Vientiane (April 2025). A private van or SUV costs far more per vehicle, but a full van can be reasonable per person for a group.
Flying with Lao Airlines is the fastest option. By road, a private transfer takes about 8 hours according to booking platforms and goes door to door without stops for other passengers.
A private transfer takes about 8 hours according to booking platforms (October 2026). The duration can vary with road conditions and the number of stops you choose to make along the way.
Yes, the main highway connecting the two cities is paved, though the quality of the asphalt can vary. Some sections may have potholes or be under maintenance.
One of the main benefits of a private transfer is the flexibility to stop for bathroom breaks, meals, or photos. Tell the driver what you need and agree on stops before you set off.
The route runs through central Laos, past rural villages and through Khammouane and Bolikhamsai provinces. The drive is long, so ask the driver for a stop when you see something worth photographing.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Lao National News Agency (KPL): Southern Bus Terminal Fully Prepared for Lao New Year 2025 Travel Rush. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [2] Lao Airlines: Baggage & Optional Service Charges. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [3] 12Go: 12Go timetable: Savannakhet - Vientiane. 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.