5 Best Breathtaking Waterfalls in Laos

5 Best Breathtaking Waterfalls in Laos

The mystical country of Laos serves up rustic vibes, a spiritual atmosphere, lush tropical jungles, the mighty Mekong River and emerald green countryside. In this mountainous country, water cascades down rocks and cliffs into spectacular waterfalls. While some of the best waterfalls are in Luang Praband, many of them are also in the Bolaven Plateau of Champasak Province in southern Laos.

No trip to Laos is complete without seeing some of these spectacular streams of water falling over steep cliffs. Here is a roundup of our top 5 must-see waterfalls in Laos!

First on the list is Kuang Si, Luang Prabang

Kuang Si is the most photographed waterfall in Laos. This picturesque fall features countless cascading pools of turquoise water trickling down from the main fall measuring a staggering 200 feet (60 meters) tall. You can walk up to the peak of the waterfalls by the trail on the left side, past more tumbling cascades to the specular main drop and then see impressive views of the lush forests around. As additional bonus, two nearby excellent attractions are the Bear Rescue Center which is a sanctuary to a dozen of rescued sun and Asiatic black bears and Kuang Si Falls Butterfly Park. The forests around Kuang Si are famed for their myriads of colorful butterflies and the park is home to thousands of Lepidoptera.

Just 15 miles outside of Luang Prabang makes it is an easy and enjoyable day excursion.

Second place, Tad Fane, Champasak

Tad Fane waterfalls is located in the Bolaven Plateau of Southern Laos. A pair of iconic twin cascades plummets 330 feet (100 meters) down steep cliffs into a giant gorge. The falls are located amid a rainforest jungle that stretches as far as the eye can see with wild animals such as leopards, tigers, elephants, and monkeys.

Third, Khone Phapheng Falls, Champasak

Khone Phapheng Waterfall is the biggest waterfall in southeast Asian and is located in Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands) in the Champasak Province that borders Cambodia. While it is not very high, it has a succession of rapids that stretches a mighty 6 miles crashing down the Mekong River toward Cambodia. It has a well-built tourist pavilion above the falls providing an ideal place to sit and enjoy the magnificent view.

Fourth,Tad Sae, Luang Prabang

The Tad Sae waterfall is just 11 miles east of Luang Prabang. The wide Tad Sae waterfall wanders down a gradual slope, serenely cascading through trees and a dozen clear blue pools amidst the tropical forest. Although it does not possess the drama of Kuang Si, it is a beautiful enchanting waterfall and is popular with local Lao people. Visit Tad Sae during the wet season when the falls are flowing in full force.

Finally, last is Tad Yuang, Champasak

Ta Yuang is about 1 mile (2km) from Tad Fan, a spectacular dual cascade that is popular with both picnicking locals and tourists.

The Runner Ups, Tad Lo in Bolaven Plateau and 100 Waterfall Trek

In the Bolaven Plateau the small village of Tad Lo is blessed with 3 waterfalls, Tad Lo, Tat Hang and Tat Soung. They are less spectacular than Khone Pha Pheng Waterfalls but quite beautiful in their own ways.

The so-called 100 Waterfalls Trek near Nong Khiaw in northern Laos is a bit misleading since it is impossible to say how many waterfalls tumble through the thick jungle along the steady 6 mile (10km) ascent, with each waterfall tumbling immediately into the next. The trek is a great opportunity to experience the natural beauty of this little-known part of rural Laos.

“Tad” means waterfall in Laos. Some of the waterfalls double as swimming pools, but be sure to respect local culture and dress modestly. Be aware that nude sunbathing or swimming is considered impolite. For women, it is recommended to keep a shirt on or wear a sarong over your swimsuit.

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