How to reach Kuang Si Waterfalls from Luang Prabang

The Kuang Si Falls in Laos is located 23 km south of Luang Prabang and it takes about 45-60 minutes to reach from the centre of town making it a perfect day trip from Luang Prabang. Reaching the waterfalls is easy and accessible, with plenty of transport options available – Tuk-tuks (private or shared), public van, private car, motorbike and boat. If you are feeling a bit adventurous you can even bike to waterfalls from Luang Prabang.

Visiting hours: 8:00 to 17:30

Entrance fees: 20,000 kip per person including camera fees and entry to bear rescue centre

Kuang Si Falls Activities

Trekking to the top of falls

From the biggest waterfall, on its either sides, you will find muddy steps which can take you to the top of the waterfalls. A steep yet short hike of 20 minutes will take you into the untouched and surreal world. The top is the kind of location where movies are shot and one can get amazing Instagram photos.

A steady stream of water flows a the top before it hits the 50m drop to form the stunning waterfall. You can take a canoe ride on this stream. A small shop owner who sells water can help you go on this ride.

If you have more time in hand, trek for 3 km to reach a Secret cave near a spring and have the entire area to yourself.

Love trekking? Check a guide on Nong Khiaw not far from Laos Kuang Si Falls.

Enjoy the pristine nature

Sit down on the wooden benches set up near most pools.  Enjoy the sight of aqua colored water. Or sit down near the pool and dip your feet in the cold water for a free fish spa! Just soak in the unspoilt nature. May be having a snack here is good idea too.

Swim in the pools

Yes, swimming in the pools is allowed unless specified in certain areas. However, diving is strictly prohibited. You need to be careful in these pool as there are deep waters in certain areas and no lifeguard on duty!

Tip: There are changing rooms for men and women before and after you take the dip.

Visit the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre

When you entre through the entrance gate, you will come across Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre even before you hike towards the waterfalls. The centre is operated by Free the Bears organization who have helped rescue and relocate more than 20 Asiatic Black Bears. See them in a playful mood or just taking a nap before you move on to the falls.

Best time to visit Kuang Si Waterfalls

The best time to visit Kuang Si Waterfalls is from November to April. The weather is pleasant and the water in the pools are settled post-monsoon. However, if you happen to visit the waterfalls between May to October, the falls would have a totally different look and swimming would not be possible.

Kuang Si Waterfalls Tips

• Shoes – Proper walking/hiking shoes are highly recommended if you trek to the top.
• Comfortable clothing – Shorts and t-shirts are ideal for this place with a change in a swimming costume.
• Drinking water and some snacks – Even in winter months, the jungle can get a bit humid. It is best to carry your own water and you will need a snack after the hike. There are 2 shops – one at the bottom near the pools and one at the top but they are extremely expensive.
• Mosquito repellent – Thanks to the lush green forest and waterfalls, there are way too many mosquitoes for comfort. It’s best to carry a mosquito repellent.

You can also check out Tad Sae Waterfalls which are near Luang Prabang.

Sustainable tips for Kuang Si Falls visit

• Reusable water bottle – Though it is important to carry drinking water, carry in a reusable and refillable bottle.
• Do not litter – It is perfectly okay to snack near the waterfall, but do not litter the pristine areas. Use a trash bin to dispose of snack pouches or pet bottles. Or even better, take it back to the hotel.
• Do not go in the water applying sunscreen lotion/mosquito repellent creams – Cosmetic products use many known and unknown chemicals. They may or may not react with the natural flora and fauna of the area. Why take the chance? Best is to avoid it. For mosquitoes, apply an organic roll on, on clothes.
• Respect the nature – Though you may get the most perfect shot and a thousand likes for the photo, do not in any way harm the natural formations of the waterfalls or trees for a vantage point.
• Do not feed the bears – After reading their sad stories, you may be tempted to give them a snack, but don’t. Buy a souvenir instead so that the organization taking care of them can feed them.

Read More posts from Laos:

• Luang Prabang Night Market
• Sustainable tourism in Luang Prabang
• Ethical cheese at Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm

Disclosure: I was invited by Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) and Luang Prabang Tourism Board on a FAM trip. However, all opinions are unbiased and of my own.

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