19° 44′ N, 101° 59′ E
Overview
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What are the Kuang Si Falls
The Kuang Si Falls near Luang Prabang are one of the most unique waterfalls in Laos and maybe even in all of Southeast Asia. It is sometimes referred to as the Kuang Si Waterfall or Luang Prabang Waterfalls.
The water has a beautiful turquoise-blue color and flows down various naturally formed limestone pools. Being completely surrounded by the green jungle, this place really has something fairylike. The main highlight is the large 50-meter-high waterfall before all the little cascades.
But why is the water so blue? Well, on its way down the water picks up little particles from the limestone in the large waterfall and the smaller cascades,. These particles contain a high level of calcium carbonate, which is known for reflecting light. This is what gives the water its beautiful bright blue color. We are sure that this place will not disappoint you as the water is really as blue as you see in all the pictures.
Practical
Entrance fee: 60.000 kip
Parking: 10.000 kip
The Kuang Si Falls are open daily from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
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Things to do at the Kuang Si Falls
Swim in the natural pools
The lowest pools of the series of cascades are perfect for swimming. You can easily access the water here and there are multiple changing cabins. Prepare for a refreshing dip, as the water is a bit chilly most of the time. As soon as you put one foot in the water, little fish will come nibbling on your toes. Don’t be afraid, they aren’t piranhas and it doesn’t hurt!
You’ll also find several places from which you can jump into the water, such as rocks and trees, but always check the depth of the water before you jump. There are also no lifeguards, so swimming is always at your own risk.
In the higher pools of the Kuang Si Falls, swimming is not permitted for various reasons, and often even not possible to swim in. Respect the signs and do not swim in the pools where it is not allowed.
Admire the main waterfall
When you follow the ‘Forest and Wildlife trail’ indicated on a map in the park, you’ll first pass all the little cascades and naturally formed pools before you reach the main waterfall Tat Kuang Si. The water cascades 50 meters down 3 layers of yellow and grey limestones.
You can hardly believe that this arose naturally, but it really did. There’s a bridge in front, from where you can admire and snap some shots of this breathtaking waterfall. In order to preserve the waterfall and for your own safety, it is not allowed to swim here.
Climb to the top of the waterfall
If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike to the top of the main waterfall. On both the left and the right side, you’ll find a path leading to the top, although the left trail was closed while we were there in January 2024.
It takes around 15 minutes and the trail is quite steep, slippery and uneven. This is also the reason why most people stay down, with the result that it is much quieter up here.
Although most of the vantage points are obstructed by trees, you still get an incredible view of the area from here. There is also a picnic area and some natural swimming pools with rope swing!
However, the water is not as blue as the ones below, due to the shade and because it has not yet passed much limestone. If the trail on the left side is open, it’s best to go up here, and climb back down on the right side. Be careful, as it might be tricky!
Visit the Bear Rescue center
At the entrance of the Kuang Si Falls, you’ll pass the Bear Rescue Center, a small sanctuary of Free the Bears. It is home to over 20 Asiatic Black Bears (sun and moon bears), that have been rescued from illegal wildlife trade and bear bile farms. Their enclosures are large and equipped with several hammocks, pools, climbing frames, ropes, and playing areas so that the bears can climb and play.
We are not usually in favor of animals in captivity, but know that these bears would never survive in the wild again. They now live in much larger enclosures than the small cages they were put in before and they looked happy. The sanctuary doesn’t get anything from the entrance fee and relies completely on donations and merchandise sales.
How to get to Kuang Si Falls
By scooter
Many scooter crashes happen on the way to the Kuang Si Falls. We personally know of 2 people who have had an accident with the scooter. That is why we recommend that you only drive to the Kuang Si waterfall with a scooter if you have a lot of experience with this and to be very careful!
We have driven the scooter ourselves and certainly understand why so many accidents happen.
Fortunately, the others are just as simple and also very cheap.
By tour
Joining a tour is a very easy way to get to Kuang Si Falls. You’ll find many tour companies in the center or you can book a tour through your accommodation or even online. During such a tour you often also visit the Pak Ou cave.
By boat
The most unique way to get to Kuang Si Falls is by sailing down the Mekong River with a boat. You can either go by slow boat or by kayak and you will often visit the Pak Ou cave and sometimes even some local villages.
Tours & Activities
Discover the Kuang Si Falls during a unique tour and enjoy a carefree trip!
By taxi/Tuk Tuk
If you would like more freedom than during a tour, you can also take a taxi or tuk-tuk. It is a very popular way and perhaps the best way to get to the Kuang Si Falls. You can either take a private taxi/tuk-tuk or look for other travelers to share one with. Sharing will be the cheapest way for sure. You can find a driver through your accommodation or in the center with whom you can arrange something.
Best time to visit
Season
The best time to visit Kuang Si Falls is between December and March/April. This is the dry season in Laos. The pools will have their beautiful turquoise blue color, the water will flow gently and the weather will be perfect for exploring. The downside is that this is also peak tourist season, so you can expect a lot of people there.
Towards the end of the dry season, between March and June, there might be less water in the natural pools and the waterfall.
We do not recommend visiting during the rainy season, from July to October. The falls turn into rushing rapids with muddy and brown water, instead of the gentle blue cascades in dry season. It will probably not be that beautiful to see and it will be dangerous and impossible to swim.
Due to the heavy rainfall, the path to the top is also impassable, and getting to the waterfall from Luang Prabang can be a challenge.
As you can see, there are a lot of reasons not to visit during that time of year.
Time of the day
It won’t surprise you that visiting Kuang Si Falls is one of the best things to do in Luang Prabang. Like many other popular places. That is why we recommend that you visit the waterfalls as early in the day as possible to beat the crowds.
From around 10-11 o’clock the people gradually start to arrive. Since it is also a popular spot among locals, we recommend avoiding weekends and going on a weekday.
Where to stay
The Kuang Si Falls are mostly visited as a day trip from Luang Prabang. In this village, you’ll find plenty of accommodations for every budget.
Hotels
Book your stay in Luang Prabang and enjoy this beautiful city!
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang
via Booking.com
Other Things to Do
Right before the entrance of the Kuang Si Falls, you will also find a butterfly park. Here, you can take a stroll through the gardens and see a wide variety of beautiful butterflies.
You’ll find many other great things to do in and around Luang Prabang that you can combine with a visit to the Kuang Si Falls, like the Pak Ou Caves and Wat Xieng Thong.
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Win-Win for everyone
Did you know that, if you buy or book something through our links, we receive a small commission?
However, you still pay the same and therefore have no extra costs! So a win-win for everyone. This way, we can continue to add even more travel inspiration and tips to this blog for your next adventure. Thanks a lot!
