The 30 minutes on the back of a rattling tuktuk were worth it: near Luang Prabang are the Kuang Si waterfalls – and they are spectacularly beautiful. Clear turquoise water in small pools spread at the foot of the waterfall. And the waterfall itself, in the middle of a tropical forest. All breathtaking.
Waterfall for adventure lovers
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can also take a look at the waterfall from above. A small trail leads up the mountain – and right at the sign “Danger! Do not pass!” you do exactly the opposite: off through the hole next to it and further up to the waterfall. But be careful, already the regular hiking trail is sometimes not without due to the wet ground… and here it does not get better.
And even if thousands of backpackers show you how to do it, it’s better to swap your flip-flops for sturdy sneakers. If you still need the total kick, you can then, once at the top, sit right on the cliff of the waterfall!
In the Laos blog you will find many more tips for a great Laos round trip!
Best time for Kuang Si Waterfalls
It is best to start early in the morning in the direction of the waterfalls, because from late morning the first tour groups slowly start to arrive, and then it gets really crowded. On weekends, the Kuang Si waterfalls are of course also a popular destination for the locals.
Many families spend the whole day there, picnicking, swimming and enjoying nature and family time. So if you prefer to travel more solitary, come during the week. However, the atmosphere is very nice on weekends so among locals, so is also a nice option.
Some locals even bring their own secret pop-up restaurant and nicely set the available tables and serve lunch – in case you forgot your packed lunch, you won’t starve either!
At the entrance to the waterfall is also the Bear Sanctuary, a sanctuary for bears, where you can watch them play and chill in their enclosure.
How to get to Kuang Si Waterfall?
There are two ways to get from Luang Prabang to Kuang Si Waterfall. Either book one of the many tours offered to Kuang Si or simply take a tuktuk from Luang Prabang, which is also waiting on site as long as you explore the waterfalls. Of course, this is a bit more expensive, but it’s definitely worth it to arrive before the crowds and have the flexibility to arrive and depart.
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This is so beautiful! I was so happy I got to go here and love seeing other people going as well. Lovely photos!
Thank you so much! Kuang Si waterfalls really left an impression on me, too – amazing place.