KUANG SI WATERFALLS: THE COMPLETE GUIDE (2023)

The kuang Si waterfalls are in my opinion, the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, and an unmissable attraction when visiting Laos.

Its breathtaking beauty and heavenly like azure blue water flowing into perfect swimmable pools below will leave your speechless.

If you are visiting Luang-Prabang the Kuang Si falls should be a must do on your itinerary. This Kuang Si waterfalls half day tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.

In this guide I will share all you need to know about the Kuang Si waterfalls and will share my experience and photos about to help you prepare your visit.

ABOUT THE KUANG SI WATERFALLS

The waterfalls, fed by the Nam Si river, are a geological wonder in the area around Luang-Prabang. They are a series of cascades, being the biggest one 60 meters high, cascading into a staggered set of azure and turquoise pools.

Their peculiar azure water colors is a result of the calcium carbonate particles suspended in the water, coming from the mineral-rich limestone rocks in the area.

The waterfalls are surrounded by some lush jungle where colorful butterflies swirl giving the place a magical like type of aura.

Some of the pools are perfect for swimming and you will be able to relax in the water while enjoying the magical beauty of this place.

There is a hiking trail that goes to the top of the biggest waterfall and a bear rescue center, as well as a market at the entrance of the waterfall where you will be able to find food.

KUANG SI WATERFALLS LOCATION AND MAP

The Kuang Si natural wonders located in the heart of the Laos Northern region. They are located approximately 29 Km South of Luang-Prabang.

The falls are located within the Phou Hin Poun National Protected Area and they are part of a lush and biodiverse landscape. The cascading waters of Kuang Si originate from the Phou Fa Mountain where the river Nam Si originates.

Find here a pin with the waterfalls location and route from Luang Prabang:

HOW TO GET TO THE KUANG SI WATERFALLS

The trip to the falls from Luang-Prabang is an experience in itself. The journey will bring your through quaint rural landscapes, tiny villages and lush forests. It is the perfect introduction to the serene and traditional way of life in Laos.

The are several methods to reach the waterfalls:

Tuk-Tuk or Minivan : You can hire a Tuk-Tuk You can hire a tuk-tuk or join a shared minivan tour from the town of Luang Prabang. The price of Tuk Tuk is around 30 000 Kip or 4 $. Take into account you will need to arrange your Tuk Tuk back from there. You can always book a tour in advance to ensure your trip. Book your seat:

Rent a Scooter or Motorbike: You can rent a scooter or motorbike in Luang-Prabang and make the trip on your own. You will be them free to explore at your own pace. The road is in good conditions and there are signs to help you reach the falls. However take into account that if you stay until the falls closing time you will need to ride back to Luang-Prabang in the darkness and you might feel cold after having taken a dip in the waterfalls as the water is pretty cold. Price of renting a motorbike is negotiable.

Bicycle: This is a very nice option if you would like some exercise while enjoying a beautiful scenery. It will take you around 2 hours to reach the waterfalls and you will be able to clean your sweat by plunging into the pools.

Local Songthaew: You can also opt for a shared local songthaew, a converted pickup truck with bench seating in the back. They depart from the Southern Bus Terminal in Luang Prabang and make stops along the way to pick up and drop off passengers. The journey might take longer due to multiple stops. I do not really recommend this option as it can take you too long to reach the falls and you will miss precious time in the area.

Hiking: There is also a hiking trail to the falls that can take several hours. It is a beautiful and arduous trek. I only recommend doing this trek under the guidance of a local certified tour guide.

KUANG SI FALLS TOUR

This waterfalls and a world famous attraction and they can get pretty busy. If you are traveling on a tight schedule I recommend you buying a tour in advance. There are several options available to book:

• Cruise to Pak Ou caves and waterfalls: This 9 hour tour will take you to two of the not to be missed attractions when visiting Laos.
• Luang-Prabang local village and waterfalls: This whole day tour will take you to experience the local life by visiting a village and the falls.
• Luang-Prabang rice farm and falls: Visit a local rice farm and participate in its activities in combination with swimming at Laos most beautiful waterfalls.

KUANG SI WATERFALLS TOUR AVAILABILITY

You can use this calendar below to see the availability of tours. It’s important to book this tour in advance during high season as it can be a very popular activity in Luang Prabang and they try and there is limited availability.

KUANG SI WATERFALLS ENTRANCE FEE

The entrance fee is 20,000 Kip or $2.30 USD. The entrance fee is included in most organized tours.

KUANG SI FALLS OPENING HOURS

The falls are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Some of the local food places outside of the falls area opens until later so you can stay and have dinner there after the waterfalls are closed.

WHEN TO VISIT THE KUANG SI WATERFALLS

To make the most of your visit, it’s important to consider the time of day and the season.

• Time of Day:
  • Morning: The best moment to visit the waterfalls is at opening time and they are less crowded and the conditions are ideal for photography. You can also connect deeper with the beauty of the waterfalls in solitude.
  • Afternoon: The afternoon can feel pretty busy and the pools will be full with tourists swimming. The strong sunlight can influence your photos. However the place is still pleasant as the falls are simply stunning.
• Season:
  • Dry Season (November to May): This is the most popular time to visit Kuang Si Waterfalls. During the dry season, the water is clear and the pools are suitable for swimming and enjoying the scenery. The weather is generally warm and sunny, making it a great time to explore the area.
  • Wet Season (June to October): During the wet season, the waterfalls are at their most powerful, with a higher flow of water. The lush greenery around the falls is at its peak, creating a vibrant landscape. However, swimming might not be as enjoyable due to the strong currents, and muddy trails can make the visit a bit challenging.

KUANG SI WATERFALLS LEGEND/HISTORY

According to local folklore, the Waterfalls owe their existence to the actions of a wise old man who unearthed the waters of the Nam Si by excavating the Earth. Upon reaching Kuang-Si, a magnificent golden deer took up residence beneath a prominent rock jutting out from the falls. The captivating echo created by the cascading water striking this rock resonated far and wide, luring people to the waterfall from distant places like China.

The name “Tat Kuang-Si” derives from this enchanting legend, with “Tat” signifying waterfall, “Kuang” representing deer, and “Si” indicating dig.

It’s worth noting that the colossal rock, which once played a central role in the tale, is no longer visible due to its collapse during a minor earthquake in 2001.

KUANG SI WATERFALLS HIKE

The waterfalls are famous for its turquoise-blue swimmable pools but this is not the only activity to do in the area. The waterfalls are inside the Phou Hin Poun National Protected Area and walking to the less visited areas is well worth.

One of the most beautiful hikes is the one that will lead to the top of the main waterfall. Most people will only stay in the lower swimming levels, so even if you are visiting the area on the busy time of the day you will do this hike almost on your own.

The hike up the waterfall can be challenging as it is a steep muddy trail, even during the dry season.

Attempt it on your own only if you are physically fit and with some good hiking shoes. It will take you between 30 – 40 minutes getting to the top but it is well worth to stop by to admire the views.

There are hiking trails on both sides of the fall, I hike up the right one and went down through the left one to be able to explore both sides.

At the top of the waterfall you will find some quiet pools crossed by wooden bridges and almost no visitors. From this area you can hike even further and get to some local villages or take a boat half an hour up the river to the waterfalls source for a negotiable price.

Do not attempt the hike during wet season without a qualified guide as it can get dangerous.

TAT KUANG SI BEAR RESCUE CENTRE

The Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre is a part of the Kuang Si Waterfall Park. This center is run by the Free the Bears organization, which is dedicated to the rescue and conservation of bears, especially the endangered Asiatic black bear and the Malayan sun bear.

The centre serves as a sanctuary for bears that have been rescued from illegal wildlife trade, bear bile farming, and other forms of exploitation. The rescued bears are provided with a safe and natural habitat in the center, where they can live free from harm and receive proper care.

Visitors to the rescue center have the opportunity to observe these bears in a setting that resembles their natural environment. It also offers educational programs to raise awareness about the threats facing these bear species and the importance of their conservation.

The entrance to the rescue center is included on the waterfalls entrance fee.

EATING AT KUANG SI WATERFALLS

You will probably stay for a long time in the falls and their beauty is so captivating and unique that will not want to leave, trust me. So you will either will need to bring your own meal and eat in some of the nearby places. These are the main options for eating around the falls:

• Picnic: There are designated areas for picnic around the pools and you can just buy your food in Luang-Prabang and bring it with you. If you are on a budget this is your best option and you will eat surrounded by beauty on a natural setting.
• Carpe diem restaurant: This restaurant is located inside the waterfall area and it offers a magnificent view of the falls and pools while eating your lunch. I took my lunch here when I visited the fall and loved the place.
• Food Stalls: Near the entrance to the Kuang Si Waterfalls, you can find food stalls and small restaurants serving a variety of local dishes. You can enjoy a meal or grab a quick snack at these stalls, such as meat or noodles.
• Butterfly Park Café: There is a Butterfly Park located on the way to Kuang Si Waterfalls, and it has a café where you can have a meal or enjoy a refreshing drink. The café offers a scenic view of the park and is a relaxing place to sit and unwind.

WHAT TO PACK FOR KUANG SI WATERFALLS

Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or sandals with good grip, as you’ll be walking on uneven terrain and possibly climbing stairs and rocks.

Swimsuit: You will want to swim in the pools, so trust me bring your swimming suit.

Towel: Don’t forget a towel to dry off after swimming.

Sun Protection: Sunscreen, the sun can get pretty strong during the day

Insect Repellent: Never forget to bring insect repellent with you while visiting jungle areas in Laos.

Camera or Smartphone: These are the most beautiful waterfalls in the world in my opinion, you will regret if you do not bring a camera. Bring a water casing if you plan to film while in the water.

Cash: Bring some cash for entrance fees and to purchase food or souvenirs at the stalls near the entrance.

Binoculars: If you enjoy birdwatching or wildlife observation, binoculars can be useful in the lush forested areas surrounding the waterfalls.

Respectful Clothing: If you plan to visit any nearby temples or cultural sites, pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect.

KUANG SI FALLS FAQs

HOW MUCH TIME YOU NEED AT THE FALL?

You can complete your visit including the hike up the mayor waterfall in half a day, but the place is so stunning I would recommend you to spend a whole day there. You simply cannot get enough of so much beauty.

WHYS IS KUANG SI WATERFALL FAMOUS?

They are the most beautiful waterfalls in Laos and in the entire world. Their azure blue and turquoise-blue swimmable pools combined with the lush green forest around are a fairy tale like landscape.

CAN YOU SWIM IN THE KUANG SI WATERFALL?

Yes, you can swim in the several pools where the waterfalls cascade and in fact is one of the main activities in the area. The pools are deep and wide enough to allow swimming.

WRAP-UP

There are some places on planet Earth that makes up think the creator was an artist and these falls are one of these places.

I did visit the falls for a complete day when visiting Luang-Prabang and I ended up wanting more. This is a must visit stop in your trip to Laos. The waterfalls in itself make Luang-Prabang worth a visit.