Pakse is a walkable town and most central guesthouses, restaurants, and the market are within easy reach on foot. Tuk-tuks are available for longer journeys within the city and to the bus station or airport.
For excursions, motorbike rental is the best option. The Bolaven Plateau loop is typically done on a motorbike rented in town; most guesthouses can arrange this. Expect to pay around $10–15 per day for a semi-automatic or automatic bike.
Shared minivans run to Champasak town (for Wat Phu) and to the 4,000 Islands. Day tours to Wat Phu are easily arranged through guesthouses and include transport and a guide. For independent travel to the islands, take a bus or minivan to Ban Nakasang and then cross by boat to Don Det.