From Vientiane (approx. 460km and 8h drive and Pakse (approx. 240km and 4h drive) by RN13. Savannakhet main bus station is an important hub for Vientiane, Thakkhek, Pakse but also for Thailand (Mukdahan, Bangkok) and Cambodia (Siem Reap, Phnom Penh).

The Friendship Bridge spans the Mekong a few kilometers upstream from Savannakhet and links Savannakhet province with Thailand (Mukdahan province). It is an international border open to locals and foreigners alike. Visas can be obtained on site.  The bridge is open every days (6:00AM-10:00 PM). Visas can be obtained on arrival for most of the nationalities. An additional fee of 1USD/visa can be charged outside these hours and on Saturdays and Sundays. (information available at the Tourism Information desk close to immigration (Monday to Friday at business time).