How to Get from Vientiane to Savannakhet

Leaving behind the golden stupas and French-influenced cafes of Vientiane for the quiet, colonial charm of Savannakhet feels like stepping back into a slower version of Laos. While Vientiane is the bustling capital, Savannakhet sits peacefully on the banks of the Mekong, offering a blend of faded architectural grandeur and some of the best street food in the country. The journey south follows the spine of the nation, transitioning from the urban sprawl into the rhythmic pulse of rural Lao life.

This route is a staple for those heading toward southern Laos or crossing into Thailand via the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, one of the entry points where the Lao eVisa can be used.^[1] Because the distance is significant, the journey is as much about the transition of scenery as it is about reaching the destination. You can check options and book through GoAsia.cc.

Vientiane to Savannakhet by Bus

The bus is the primary way to travel between these two cities, and there are two ways to tackle the trip: the overnight sleeper or a daytime local bus. Buses to the south leave from the Southern Bus Terminal in Vientiane, which lies well outside the city center. The terminal published its fares to Savannakhet as 200,000 kip for a regular bus, 230,000 kip for a VIP2 bus and 250,000 kip for a VIP1 bus, unchanged since 13 October 2023 at the time of its April 2025 announcement.^[2] It reported more than 60 bus trips a day to the southern provinces in normal times, with the first buses leaving at 04:00 and the last at around 21:00 to 22:00.^[2]

The Sleeper Bus Experience

For many travelers, the sleeper bus is the preferred choice. These buses are designed for long-distance travel and have bunk-style beds rather than reclining seats. Booking platforms list sleeper buses at about $19 to $28 for a trip of 9 to 14 hours (October 2026), usually arriving in the early morning.^[3] If you travel alone, check the berth type when you book, because some Lao sleeper buses use double berths that two passengers share. The roads can be bumpy, so do not expect a perfect night of uninterrupted sleep, but a night bus saves the cost of a night's accommodation.

Local Bus and Taxi Transfers

If you prefer to see the countryside during the day, booking platforms also list a daytime local bus, often sold with a taxi transfer from your hotel to the bus station.^[3] The local bus is slower and less comfortable, but you will see vendors hopping on and off selling grilled chicken, sticky rice and bottled water at stops along Route 13.

Tips for Traveling from Vientiane to Savannakhet

• Book in Advance: Sleeper buses are popular with both locals and tourists. It is wise to book your ticket at least a day in advance, especially in the dry season.
• Prepare for the AC: Air conditioning on long-distance buses can be strong. Carry a light jacket or a sarong to stay warm during the night.
• Snacks and Water: Buses usually stop at roadside stations for food and restrooms, but bring your own water and light snacks for the long stretches in between.
• Station Logistics: The Southern Bus Terminal is well outside the city center. If your ticket does not include a taxi transfer, allow plenty of time to reach the station by tuk-tuk from the riverside area, and arrive at least 2 hours early in busy periods.^[2]
• Keep Valuables Close: Keep your passport, money and electronics in a small bag on your person rather than in the luggage compartment under the bus.