City in Champasak, Laos
Pakse
A practical southern hub for the Bolaven Plateau waterfalls and coffee, and Wat Phou in Champasak. Not scenic itself, but cheap, easy and a gateway to the 4000 Islands.
At a glance
- Safety4/5Safe with normal careDetails
- Monthly budget$359–628Comfortable, one person · ₭8M–14MDetails
- Value for money98/100Better value than 97% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goNov–FebWarmest: Mar, 36°CDetails
- Internet60 MbpsFixed broadband, Laos medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or filtered water.Details
- LGBTQ+3/5Tolerant, but be discreetDetails
- Solo travel3/5English: limitedDetails
- Doctor's visit$11–27Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundTuk-tukWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMostly cashCash in kip for most things.Details
Where to stay in Pakse
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Town center near the Mekong | Guesthouses, cafés, tour desks and the central market |
| Near the bridge and river | Quieter riverside stays and sunset views |
Apps that work in Pakse
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- LCR Ticket: Book Laos–China Railway train seats
- Taxis: No ride apps. Use tuk-tuks or hotel-arranged cars and agree the fare in advance.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Laos.
- Mostly cash Cash in kip for most things. ATMs in town; cards at a few hotels and tour agencies, often with fees.
- Currency: Kip (LAK). US$1 ≈ ₭22,287.30 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: BCEL and other bank ATMs accept foreign cards but cap each withdrawal low and charge a fee every time.
- Tipping: Not customary; leaving small change is appreciated. Tip guides and drivers at the end of a tour.
- Paying by phone: Lao QR (BCEL One) is everywhere but needs a local account; Thai banking apps can pay many Lao QR codes.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Fill in the Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF) within 3 days before arrival and before departure at main airports and Friendship Bridge I.
- Get an e-Visa at laoevisa.gov.la at least 5 days ahead, or a visa on arrival at main airports and borders.
- Tourist visas last 30 days and can be extended twice in-country, up to 60 extra days; overstays bring heavy fines.
Emergency numbers
Police 1191 · Ambulance 1195 · Fire 1190
Plugs
Type A, B, C, E, F · 230 V, 50 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Buy at airports or carrier shops with your passport; data packs cost a few dollars. Unitel has the widest coverage. eSIMs work for visitors.
More places in Laos
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Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.