Summary
The turquoise waterfall known as Kuang Si Falls has quickly become one of the most popular places to see in Laos. These wonderful waterfalls feature a series of cascades and pools that are ideal for swimming, almost resembling a natural waterpark hidden within the jungle!
The images showcased herein truly reflect the actual color of the waterfalls without any enhancements. This dazzling blue is most visible if you visit during the right season. Consequently, this travel guide will outline how to get to Kuang Si Falls along with essential information to enhance your visit!
Kuang Si Waterfall: What To Expect
Before reaching the main waterfall that’s often featured in famous Instagram photos, you will navigate along an easy dirt trail strewn beside a turquoise stream, encountering dozens of smaller waterfalls and inviting swimming holes.
The initial pools are excellent for swimming, complete with changing facilities for your convenience. Although the water may be a bit cool, it is certainly refreshing!
Two other fantastic photo opportunities along the way include a massive banyan tree and a unique cascade that resembles flat, stacked layers of flowing water.
Your journey culminates at the main waterfall, a magnificent 60-meter (200-foot) plunge. While swimming is not permitted here, capturing stunning photos from the bridge is a breeze. The vibrant colors are breathtaking!
If time permits, consider hiking above the main cascade to discover even more wondrous waterfalls in Laos. However, we opted to stay here as my partner wanted to swim while I focused on capturing additional photographs of the surrounding beauty.
Overall, this experience was extraordinary, and we look forward to returning again in the future!
Why Is Kuang Si Waterfall Blue?
The captivating blue color of Kuang Si Waterfall derives from the minerals present in the water. Specifically, the cascades and pools flow over limestone rocks, imparting a distinct milky blue hue to the water.
Entrance Fees
- Entrance: 20k Kip (~$2 USD)
- Parking: 2k Kip
Laos Bear Sanctuary
Before entering the falls, you will encounter a small sanctuary dedicated to rescued Asian black bears (also known as sun/moon bears). Here, you can observe the bears play, and visiting the sanctuary is included in your entry ticket for the falls. This sanctuary aims to rescue bears from bile farms and protect them from the illegal wildlife trade prevalent in Southeast Asia.
Best Time To Visit
The optimal time to witness the falls is between November and February when the water is relatively settled and exudes its striking turquoise color. We visited in late December, which turned out to be perfect! However, keep in mind that as the dry season progresses (from March to June), the falls may begin to dry up, resulting in reduced water flow.
Visiting during the monsoon season (from July to October) is also possible, but be prepared for roaring, muddy waters. While still impressive, the falls will lack the iconic blue colors and swimmable conditions.
How To Get To Kuang Si Falls
Kuang Si Falls is situated approximately 30 kilometers (20 miles) southwest of Luang Prabang, the former capital of Laos. The commute to the waterfalls typically takes around 45 minutes, and you have several transportation options including scooter, private car, tuk-tuk with a driver, or shared minivan.
Driving on the mountainous roads can be adventurous; therefore, opting for a private or shared van is the safest and most economical choice.
Best Kuang Si Falls Tours
For just $6 USD per person, Klook offers shared van tours to Kuang Si Falls, which is an incredibly low price! Our experience with this company was outstanding. The tour included hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing for nearly 3 hours of enjoyment at the waterfalls.
They provide morning tours starting at 11:30 AM, in addition to afternoon departures at 1:30 PM. We participated in the 11:30 tour, which was fantastic.
Where We Stayed
Our accommodation was at Silichith Guest House in Luang Prabang, where we paid $19 USD per night for a clean double room equipped with cold A/C, WiFi, and a hot shower. The location is ideal, situated near the Mekong riverside, the Night Market, the Royal Palace, and a variety of excellent local restaurants.
Keep in mind that prices can vary, so it’s wise to monitor for favorable deals!
