Start with the Sabaidy 2 Guesthouse in Pakse; it has the best maps of the plateau and plenty of information about routes, cities and sites. Stay there or just visit; the staff is helpful and informed. Most employees guide tours on the plateau as well as work in the hotel.
Rent your wheels. You can easily travel the plateau by motorbike or with slightly more effort by bicycle. You can rent both by the day from Sabaidy 2 Guesthouse for a minimal price.
Store your luggage. Most hotels in Pakse should watch luggage for no extra cost, provided you stay with them a night or two.
Head toward Paksong, but instead of making the whole 30-mile trip to the city, stop at Tad Yuang near km 40, about 25 miles in. There is a small family owned hotel just off the highway, and it's close enough for a day hike to Tad Fan, which is a huge tourist stop but less impressive. (You can stand under Tad Yuang, but only across a ravine from Tad Fan.)
Bypass Paksong, and head for Sekong. Most tourists on the loop either don't head this far east or just pass through, which makes for welcoming and interested locals. Check out the market and visit the UXO, where the English-speaking Mr. Banthuay can give you a tour and explain the government's role in demining Laos.
Head south to Attapeu City at the southeast corner of the Bolaven Plateau. There are also several waterfalls you can visit en route (consult the Lonely Planet Guide for directions). Along the city's river, bars are packed with locals for karaoke every night, and the market is full of great Vietnamese food.
Take the road from Attapeu City to Champasak. The road is basically a dirt path, and you'll have to cross the river by local ferry, but it is well worth the effort not to backtrack, and this is one of the least traveled roads through the jungle.
From Champasak, visit the ancient Khmer Ruins, then head back to Pakse.
