After travelling through Southeast Asia for a year, I’ve witnessed more than my fair share of wonderful waterfalls. By far the most beautiful I’ve seen is Kuang Si Falls in Laos. Known in the local language as Tat Kuang Si, this waterfall stands out as the crème de la crème in a land known for its spectacular water features.
Set in picturesque surroundings, Kuang Si Waterfall spills over a limestone rock face, tumbling 60m in an impressive display and pooling below in swirls of turquoise. The crystal-clear waters continue in a series of cascades creating three tiers and a selection of aquamarine pools. The distinctive colour of these pools is what makes this waterfall such a magical natural wonder.
How to Get to Kuang Si Falls
Less than an hour from the popular colonial town of Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls is easy to reach. The most straightforward way to get to the falls is by shared minivan and your accommodation should be able to help you arrange this. This option is also the most budget-friendly at around 90,000LAK (approx. $4USD) and includes hotel pick up and drop off. This was the option I chose as it was simple and affordable as a solo traveller.
Local tuk-tuks will gladly take you to the falls. If you choose this option, it’s best to find others to join you to avoid having to wait for the tuk-tuk to fill up. This could take some time as most people now choose to go via shared minivan.
To visit independently, you can hire a scooter and drive yourself. Expect to pay around 150,000LAK (approx. $7USD) for day hire.
Pro tip: If you would like to combine visiting Kuang Si Falls with other must-do attractions nearby, consider booking a tour. Day tours include transport and a guide plus other activities such as a city tour, the almsgiving ceremony or a visit to the Pak Ou Caves.
Wet Season vs Dry Season
You may, like me, be surprised to hear that the best time of year to visit Kuang Si Falls is during Laos’ dry season, which runs from November to April. It’s during these months that the water appears in bright shades of aqua and turquoise. Thanks to the limestone rock, there are high levels of calcium carbonate present in the water. This mineral reflects light, creating the mesmerising colours for which the falls are famed. As the water is calm during the dry season, it is also the best time of year to swim in the refreshing and breathtaking (quite literally!) pools.
By contrast, during the wet season (May to October), the waterfall rushes in rapids making swimming unsafe and the pools lose their glorious colour. Avoid visiting in August, if possible, which is the wettest month.
When to Visit and Entrance Fees
Owing to the beauty and accessibility of the falls, Kuang Si Waterfall does get busy with visitors. To avoid the busiest times, aim to visit during the week, as the waterfall is a popular weekend destination for domestic tourists. It’s also advisable to avoid local holidays if you can help it. I happened to visit at New Year and it was very busy, although, no less spectacular!
The waterfall is open every day from 8am – 5.30pm. You will need to pay an entry fee of 25,000LAK (approx. $1.20USD). The ticket price includes a shuttle bus from the ticket booth to the entrance of the falls. It’s well worth taking this as it’s a 20-minute uphill walk otherwise. Allow around 2-3 hours to explore Kuang Si Falls.
Pro tip: If you decide to visit by tuk-tuk or scooter, try to time your visit to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon. This way you’ll miss the bulk of visitors who arrive by minivan between midday and 3pm and you’ll be able to enjoy a more tranquil experience.
Turn Right for the Bears
Just past the entrance, you will be faced with two paths – left or right. The path to the left is a shortcut to the falls, it’s convenient but uninspiring. The much more interesting route is the path to the right, signposted Forest and Wildlife Discovery Trail. This short trail will lead you to the waterfall via the Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre. (Yes, I was surprised to discover there were bears here too!)
Part of a project called Free The Bears, this centre is a sanctuary for sun and moon bears that have been rescued from the bear bile trade. Here, you can learn a little about these endearing but endangered creatures, see the bears in their new habitat and donate to the cause if you wish.
Cool Off With a Swim or Take a Hike
On your way to the main falls, you will pass three startling clear aqua pools where it is possible to swim. The scenery just gets better and better as you draw closer to the majestic Kuang Si Waterfall itself. It is a sight to behold and I was taken aback by its sheer beauty and force of nature. Make sure to spend some time on the bridge that affords the best views and allows you to feel the refreshing spray on your face.
If you’re feeling energetic, take the short but steep hike to the top of the waterfall. (Wear appropriate footwear and take care as it can get slippery!) At the top, you will also find another pool, which will likely be all but deserted – a perfect spot for a quiet swim surrounded by jungle.
Pro tip: Before and after swimming, make sure to dress modestly. Signs request ‘no bikini tops or bare chests’, so cover up outside of the water. The locals will appreciate it.
Don’t Miss the Bamboo Boat!
At the top of the waterfall, you can find a local man and his bamboo raft. For the modest price of 10,000LAK (approx. $0.50USD) he will take you on a short but scenic raft ride along the river to see the cave that is the source of the waterfall.
The round trip takes about 30 minutes and it was one of the most enjoyable and unexpected moments of my visit to Kuang Si Falls. While it’s not possible to enter the cave, the calm, peaceful journey through the beautiful natural setting is what makes this trip worthwhile.
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