Backpacking Trip To Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the captivating Kuang Si Falls in Laos! Nestled in Thapene Village, this three-tiered wonder beckons nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From exploring the Butterfly Park to supporting the heartwarming Kuang Si Bear Sanctuary, there’s more to this destination than meets the eye.

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Tourists gather on the walkway bridge at Kuang Si Falls — Credit: Ekrem Canli under license CC BY-SA 4.0. No changes were made to the image.

Laos, a landlocked gem in Southeast Asia, boasts an abundance of gorgeous waterfalls across the country. A previous list includes the 120-metre-high Tad Fane and even Khone Phapheng, Southeast Asia’s largest waterfalls. Yet, none of these options holds a candle to the raw beauty of Tad Kuang Si Falls in Luang Prabang. As noted in our article, this three-tiered marvel is renowned for its surreal turquoise-hued pools, making it an irresistible destination for backpackers seeking adventure and tranquillity.

But to make the most of your trip to Kuang Si Falls, you need to make sure you’ve got the right tips. Bringing swimwear or passing by the Kuang Si Bear Sanctuary is only the tip of the iceberg of an unforgettable experience! Let’s get your trip started with our guide below.

Exploring Kuang Si Falls

Nestled in Thapene Village, Kuang Si Falls is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The falls are surrounded by lush forests and well-marked trails, where you’re sure to pass by the Butterfly Park and the Kuang Si Bear Sanctuary. The latter is a heartwarming rescue centre that homes over 20 Moon Bears and Asian Black Bears saved from poaching. Enhance your overall experience by supporting the sanctuary through donations or purchasing souvenirs.

Extensive enclosure for the rescued bears at Kuang Si Falls — Credit: shankar s. under license CC BY-SA 4.0. No changes were made to the image.

When you get to the falls, you are welcome to swim in all but one of the sacred pools. Afterwards, you can hike for 15 more minutes to the top of the falls or, like most visitors do, settle down with a peaceful picnic. Pack a lunch bag ahead of time or purchase barbecued meat at the Kuang Si Falls Market beforehand. After your meal, remember to take pictures at the nearby footbridge. Choose a waterproof camera built for adventure, like the HERO12 Black of GoPro, so you can snap the most epic selfies over the powerful 50-meter drop of blue water.

Essential items for Kuang Si Falls

Beyond your lunch bag and camera for capturing those epic swims, spice up your Kuang Si Falls adventure with three absolute must-haves! Unveiling them below for an experience that’s not just good, but legendary:

Cover-up: Stay Modest + Protected

In Luang Prabang, being mindful of local customs is key, especially at the revered Kuang Si Falls as they are sacred. So, why not blend style and respect with a touch of modesty in your wardrobe? Opt for a chic cover-up or a versatile rash vest that not only keeps things modest during a swim but also shields you from the elements—UV rays, pesky insect bites, and unexpected scratches.

Consider a brand like Matteau, where fashion meets function seamlessly. Their collection not only prioritizes practicality but also flaunts subtle yet striking designs. With creative necklines and asymmetrical patterns, Matteau’s rash vests add a touch of flair to your Kuang Si adventure while paying homage to the local culture. Dressing with respect has never looked so effortlessly cool!

Sunglasses: Shield Your Eyes in Style

In the sunny haven of Southeast Asia, especially around Kuang Si Falls, the rays can be a bit intense on your eyes. Equip yourself with a top-notch pair of sunglasses, such as the Oakley Sutro and Radar. Crafted to tackle all kinds of outdoor adventures, these sunglasses not only shield you from UV rays but also breeze through gusty winds and playful water spritz. With polarised lenses, you’ll soak in the breathtaking scenery without the need for constant squints. That’s a win!

man wears shades under a waterfall in Luang Prabang — Enjoy the falls and protect your eyes, photo courtesy of Pexels

Water Jug: Travel Responsibly, Do Your Part

Just like many hotspots around the globe, managing waste is a bit of a challenge at Kuang Si Waterfall Park. Picture this: each traveller ends up with around 0.14 kg of trash during their visit — basically, it’s like two buddies leaving a whole 300ml water bottle behind. Let’s be eco-warriors together and tote a reusable water jug on your adventure. Loads of places are totally on board with refilling your jug, and hey, you’ll be part of the squad ensuring Kuang Si Falls stays as awesome for the next wave of backpackers. Cheers to keeping the good vibes flowing!

To find out more about how you can be a responsible traveller, check out our guide.

Man totes a reusable water bottle at Kuang Si Falls — Do your part and bring your reusable water bottle to the falls, photo courtesy of Pexels

Madventures — Experience the Best of Kuang Si Falls

Let Mad Monkey take you to the waterfalls in Luang Prabang

Staying at Mad Monkey Hostels in Luang Prabang isn’t just about a bed; it’s about embarking on unforgettable adventures. Our Madventures tours are designed for intrepid travelers like you. We’ve curated the top experiences of Luang Prabang in Laos for you so that you can leave knowing that you’ve fully experienced this stunning country. Our Mad5 will give you a taste of the beauty, culture and adventure of Luang Prabang. Plus we’ve made it super easy for you to book them! Check out the links below or, download our app, Mad Monkey Experience. The App will award you POINTS for booking a Madventure tour, events and dorms! More points = more discounts + free perks to make your Mad Monkey trip even more epic (and cheaper????)!

Kuang Si Fall’s Tour: One of the crown jewels of Luang Prabang — transport, entrance fees, + a tour guide
Phousi Hills Walking Tour: Soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mekong River — transport + knowledgeable tour guide