Kuang Si Falls — A Deep Dive
Kuang Si Falls is a three-tier turquoise cascade 30 km south of Luang Prabang in Laos — one of Southeast Asia's most photographed waterfalls. On the map.
Three tiers
Lower travertine terraces (bathable pools), middle 40-m main fall, upper smaller cascade. Total drop ~60 m.
Turquoise water
The colour comes from dissolved calcium carbonate in the water — light scattering produces the bright turquoise. Most vivid in dry season (December-April).
Bear sanctuary
Free the Bears charity operates a moon bear sanctuary at the falls' entrance. Animals rescued from the bile-farming trade. Donations support the rescue work.
Visiting
From Luang Prabang: 45 minutes by tuk-tuk (~USD 25 return) or minibus. Open 08:00-17:30 daily. Entry fee ~USD 3. Avoid weekends; visit before 10:00 or after 15:00 for fewer crowds.
Bathing rules
Swimming permitted in the lower marked pools only. The lip and middle pool above the main fall are off-limits. Changing huts available; modest dress encouraged out of the water (Buddhist country).
Hike to top
Steep stone-step trail up the side of the falls (left bank, 30 minutes). Bamboo pole bridges cross the river above. The top pool is bathable but slippery.
See them all in one view
All of these are pinned on our interactive map.