Kuang Si Waterfalls: Guide to the most beautiful waterfalls in Luang Prabang
We’ve all seen those perfect Instagram shots of turquoise cascades in Laos, and yes, they’re real. After spending a month exploring this beautiful country, we can tell you that Kuang Si Waterfalls lives up to every bit of hype – and then some. These incredible cascades are one of Luang Prabang’s most impressive attractions. We…
We’ve all seen those perfect Instagram shots of turquoise cascades in Laos, and yes, they’re real. After spending a month exploring this beautiful country, we can tell you that Kuang Si Waterfalls lives up to every bit of hype – and then some.
These incredible cascades are one of Luang Prabang’s most impressive attractions. We personally booked a guided tour, which was ideal for our lack of experience driving a motorbike and also for transportation options.
In this guide about Kuang Si Waterfalls, or as you want to call it, the Luang Prabang waterfalls, we will highlight basic information and deep tips to make the most of your visit.
Is Kuang Si Waterfall worth visiting?
Yes, Kuang Si Falls is among our best experiences in Laos. The majestic falls are incredible, with insanely blue, turquoise water. There are great hikes and unique spots to swim and relax. It is easy to reach from Luang Prabang and perfect for a day trip.
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How to get to Luang Prabang Waterfalls
The journey to Kuang Si is part of the adventure. While you might read about renting a motorbike, we learned the hard way that Laos roads can be tricky to navigate. The Tat Si Falls (Kuang Si Falls) are about 20 miles from the centre of Luang Prabang and 50 minutes by motorbike. (Not ideal, isn’t it?).
The roads from the old Laotian Capital to the falls entrance aren’t the best, with a way up to the mountains through narrow roads and fast-speed tour drivers.
Our best tip? Book a guided tour from Luang Prabang. They handle everything from hotel pickup to entrance tickets, letting you focus on the experience rather than the logistics.
Things to know visiting Kuang Si Waterfalls
Entrance ticket and Skip the line options
How much is the entry fee to the Kuang Si Waterfall in Luang Prabang? The ticket costs 60,000 LAK ($2.70 | £2.15 | €2.60). While in Laos, you always carry cash with you (some might accept USD).
Card payment isn’t widely accepted, either Apple Pay or Google Pay. We actually booked a tour with an entrance ticket included and skipped the line, as it was Saturday. Check out our same tour here.
Kuang Si Waterfall Opening times
The natural park, which includes the Kuang Si Waterfall, is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day.
Facilities at Kuang Si Waterfall
There are several food and drink stalls before entering the park. Also, while inside, in between the pools, it is easy to spot vendors for drinks on the side of the paths. There is a bar with an outdoor area to rest while exploring the falls.
Carpe Diem Restaurant offers the perfect view of the blue pools, but it is a bit expensive though. If you are looking for a quick, cheap local lunch, check out YUNA Restaurant, right before the waterfall entrance.
The best time to visit Kuang Si Waterfalls
We’ve found that early morning, between 8:30 and 10:00 am, is the sweet spot to experience Kuang Si’s magic.
The soft morning light creates perfect photo opportunities as it filters through the forest canopy. Plus, you’ll beat both the midday heat and the tour buses that typically arrive around lunch hour.
If you’re wondering about seasons, November to February offers the most pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall. During these months, the water runs clear and calm, perfect for swimming.
However, if you want to see the falls at their most powerful, visit during the wet season (June to October) – just be prepared for muddier waters and occasional rain showers. This isn’t the perfect time if you wish to swim in the wonderful natural pools.
Best tours of Tat Si Falls
How to get to the waterfalls
What to expect visiting the Waterfalls
Bear Rescue Centre
After the main gate you will walk through a path that goes inside the bear rescued centre. You will watch mainly Asiatic Black Bears in their natural environment. This is a significant centre that helps rescued bears through their path to relish in the wild again.
Honestly, I haven’t seen a bear so close before, and it was nice to understand that the ticket money for the waterfalls goes into a pot to save animals. Through the path, you can also get some information about brown bears; the entire walk takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
Lower Pools
The lower section is where most people hang out, and for good reason. The water takes on an almost impossible shade of blue-green, like nature’s own swimming pool.
The pools cascade one into another, creating perfect spots for a refreshing dip. You can swim in this pool, even though we suggest not to, as it tends to be so crowded, and isn’t yet the best spot.
The Main Fall
As you walk up, the main waterfall reveals itself – a spectacular sight that’ll stop you in your tracks. The water tumbles down from 60 meters high, creating a cooling mist that’s welcome on hot Laotian days.
This is one of the most instagrammable places in Kuang Si Waterfalls. We flaw the drone, and it was even more impressive getting closer to the waterfall.
Secret Upper Pools // Best hike!
Here’s where it gets interesting. Most people don’t venture beyond the main fall, but we discovered a hidden gem. Follow the stairs up beside the main cascade, and you’ll find secluded pools with fewer people and those Instagram-worthy swings you’ve been dreaming about.
I want to be frank, it isn’t easy, and it was tough to get through. However, passing the main bridge, you will be prompted in a section I couldn’t believe was true.
Pinch me if I am not dreaming. On the top of the main waterfall, you will find turquoise water, swings, and bridges on clouds, all surrounded by forest. I had the place all for myself.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have my swimsuit, as I forgot downstairs with Ale, but it was fantastic anyway. Watch our Luang Prabang video for more specs about this hidden gem.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit (keep it handy, not buried in your bag like we did)
- Water shoes or sturdy sandals
- Dry bag
- Quick-dry towel
- Change of clothes
- Camera
Our Experience with the shared minivan service
While in Luang Prabang we were aiming to explore at the best without hassles. We booked this tour with Klook, our best partner in crime, when exploring Southeast Asia.
The tour includes round-trip transportation for just $5, and you can add on directly with them for some upgrades, such as ticket entrance. It is a good value for money.
There are several departure times, with pickup starting at 8 a.m., and we are trying to take advantage of the park’s first openings.
Swimming spots at the Kuang Si Waterfall
The pools vary in depth and current strength. Some are perfect for a gentle float, others for a proper swim. The water feels similar to other Southeast Asian gems like the Sticky Waterfall in Chiang Mai and the Zodiac Waterfalls. I mean, the colours are similar, and the water is refreshingly cool and crystal clear.
Where to stay in Luang Prabang
We extended our stay in Luang Prabang and experienced different areas and hotels with different budgets. These are our suggestions on where to stay in Luang Prabang, and all are perfect for pickup service to the Kuang Si Waterfall or exploring the city centre.
Chaliya Boutique Garden
Staying here you can walk to reach the market, the centre and many other attractions. The staff is lovely, and the environment is super quiet. Prices are affordable if you are backpacking in Southeast Asia!
