8 Best Waterfalls in Laos to Marvel at Natural Enchantments

Discover 8 of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Laos. Learn how to reach these remarkable natural enchantments and what makes each of them unique.

Laos is one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia for people who love nature and outdoor activities. Among its most magnificent natural features are its hundreds of waterfalls. The country receives an impressive average of 70 inches of rainfall annually, amplifying the waterfalls’ spectacular grandeur. 

Whether subtle and delicate or dramatic and powerful, they offer an entrancing backdrop for a swim, photography, or just a few minutes of relaxation. Here are 8 of the best waterfalls in Laos.

1. Kuang Si Falls 

South of Luang Prabang is a sight no visitor to Laos should miss: Kuang Si Falls. Here, falling water fans out in bright, milky cascades over sculpted limestone, tumbling down a series of natural terraces and collecting in three tiers of jade and aquamarine pools below. Beholding these spectacular colors, you will understand why it is the country’s most famous waterfall.

Source: RubinaGan

The calcium carbonate carried in the water from the limestone is what gives the falls their magical hues, reflecting the light in enchanting ways. Dense foliage all around encloses the falls and pools, lending them an atmosphere of tranquility.

Charming bridges and walkways wind around the falls, offering views from different angles. If the blue and green pools call to you, head to the lowest tier for a swim, these colorful waters are just as refreshing as they look.

• How to get there: Travel the 18 miles from Luang Prabang to Kang Si Falls by scooter or tuk-tuk, minivan, boat, or bicycle. 
• Best time to visit: Visit during the dry season between December and May when the falls are most photogenic, and it is safe to swim. A weekday morning is best.
• Nearby: While you are here, be sure to also stop in at the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre. The Asiatic black bears were saved from poachers.

2. Tad Fane Waterfall

Tad Fane Waterfall in the Dong Hua Sao National Protected Area is not only one of the best waterfalls in Laos. It is also one of the most recognizable, with a pair of long, narrow waterfalls pouring 393 feet into a deep hollow, where mist billows up in clouds from below. It is located at the convergence of the Pak Koot and Champee waterfalls as they spill off of the Bolaven Plateau.

Source: Discover Laos

This waterfall is the ultimate thrill for adventurers. Take a zipline above the waterfalls, looking down at a dizzying, jaw-dropping view. You’ll feel like you’re flying as you zoom over the falls. Sometimes, you might even be lucky enough to catch rainbows playing in the mist.

• How to get there: You can take an airplane or bus to the town of Pakse, which is close to Tad Fane. From Pakse, you’ll need to hike for an hour to reach Tad Fane. 
• Best time to visit: The rainy season is most dramatic.
• Nearby: If you have some extra time, stop by the nearby villages and coffee plantations. You also should make time to visit Tad Yuang Falls (see below).

3. Tad Yuang Falls

At Tad Yuang Falls, a pair of graceful, gossamer curtains pour over a cliff draped in lush vegetation. Dark rocks at the bottom make for a vivid contrast with the white water, throwing the falls into sharp relief. The calls of birds mingle with the rush of the tumbling water, weaving a soothing tapestry of sound.

Bring water shoes if you plan to take a dip in the pool; you’ll need them to help you climb over wet rocks and wade in the shallows. You can swim all the way to the falls and gaze directly up at the roaring water, which is easiest during the dry season when the currents are not as strong.

Source: Discover Laos

There aren’t as many tourists at Tad Yuang as there are at some of the more famous waterfalls in Laos. But you’ll see plenty of locals sharing this slice of paradise with you, relaxing down by the water, admiring the splendor of the falls from the lookouts, or enjoying a picnic lunch. You can grab a bite to eat from one of the restaurants on the way in and bring it with you to the picnic spot at the top of the falls, offering a magnificent view of your verdant surroundings.

• How to get there: Motorbike or a group tour are the best ways to reach Tad Yuang Falls from Pakse.
• Best time to visit: Come during the dry season for the best swimming opportunities and an easier descent.
• Nearby: Explore the restaurants and markets of Paske while you are in the area.

4. Tad Sae Waterfall

If you are dreaming of swimming in jade pools in a peaceful setting, Tad Sae Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Laos. It's similar to Kuang Si Falls, but remains a hidden gem, just waiting to be discovered away from the crowds.

Source: Chuang L

At Tad Sae, you can swim in clear waters with a distinctive green hue. The trees growing all around offer plenty of shade, and deepen the sense of seclusion. If you show up early in the day, there is a good chance there will only be a few other people exploring the pools. You’ll have plenty of opportunities for unencumbered photos of the terraced pools and the graceful bands of water pouring from level to level.

• How to get there: Starting from Luang Prabang, take a tuk-tuk or motorbike to the falls. It takes about 30-40 minutes to make the trip.
• Best time to visit: If you visit between September and December, you’ll arrive at the tail end of the rainy season. The falls should still be lovely, but the pools may also be safe by then.
• Nearby: Visit the MandaLao Elephant Conservation sanctuary, the temples of Luang Prabang, or enjoy street foods and shopping at the night market.

5. Khone Phapheng Falls

For a truly awe-inspiring sight, venture to the Khone Phapheng Falls in Champasak Province on the Mekong River. Here, the Pha Pheng Falls and the Khone Falls join to form the widest waterfall in the world, measuring 35,376 feet across. 

Source: Hannaone

The sight and sound of the wide, thundering falls will astonish you, as will the numerous waterways that pour over and around the rocks. This region has come to be known as Si Phan Don, which translates to “the 4,000 islands,” since there are thousands of islands formed by the falls.

This adventurous background sets the perfect stage for a daring kayaking expenditure. Join a guided tour to safely navigate the rapids while getting your adrenaline pumping.

• How to get there: You can take a tuk-tuk to the falls, or a group or private tour.
• Best time to visit: Both seasons have their charms. The falls are more majestic during the wet season. But the lower water level during the dry season exposes additional falls and rapids.
• Nearby: Use extra time to explore the nearby Don Det and Don Khon islands.

6. Tad Lo Falls

Tad Lo Falls collectively refers to a set of three of the best waterfalls in Laos. Their names are Tad Hang, Tad Lo, and Tad Suong. There are many vantage points where you can take picturesque shots of the water crashing over the rocks. The river is relatively wide, framed by trees on either side, but also offering views of the hills beyond. Bridges span the river, making it easy to hike around and explore the falls from both banks.

Source: Discover Laos

Tad Lo village is right next to the falls. The traditional bungalows perched above the falling water are charming to photograph, a picturesque backdrop for daily life in the village. You may spot villagers washing or bathing in the river, or Katu tribesmen hunting for snakes as an ingredient for their traditional soup. At the village’s local market, you can partake of delicious fresh fruit.

• How to get there: Many people arrive at Tad Lo by motorbike while on a Bolaven Plateau tour. 
• Best time to visit: Tad Lo Falls look great right after the rainy season ends. 
• Nearby: Enjoy Tad Lo Village while you are in the area. But please do not go on an elephant ride, as there are concerns about the welfare of the elephants here.

7. Pha Suam Falls

The word “Suam” translates to “room,” offering a poetic description of Pha Suam Falls, which are located at the site of an abandoned, overgrown ruin of what was once supposed to be a destination resort. 

Source: Sudkhiri

Spanning 20 feet in height, the falls cascade between two walls of rock that curve close together to form a horseshoe shape. This creates what looks a bit like a “room” with rock walls and the waterfall pouring down to create a watery floor.

• How to get there: You’ll need to take a motorbike or tour about 20 miles north of Pakse to reach the falls.
• Best time to visit: Go during the wet season or shortly after. At the peak of the dry season, there is not much water in the falls.
• Nearby: This region is famous for its coffee, strawberries and durians. Be sure to try some.

8. Tad Tayicseua

Between Paske and Paksong, you’ll find a remote area called Tad Tayicseua. This region is home to seven of the best waterfalls in Laos. While some of the other cascades lie just a short walk from the parking area, the most rewarding one lies deeper in the forest. That’s Tat Halang - the most famous, featuring clear pools, stunning rock formations and verdant foliage. And yes, the hike is definitely worth it!

Source: Sawapat Pimchaichon

Significant time and walking are needed if you want to truly take in all this area has to offer. So, plan on spending at least one full day and night in Tad Tayicseua (there is a pleasant homestay). The solitude is as much a prize as the scenery, which also makes it a great spot for watching birds and other forest critters, who are less shy here than in more touristy regions.

• How to get there: You can ride to Tad Tayicseua on a motorbike. There is roughly 2.5 miles of dirt road from the east, but it is manageable with care.
• Best time to visit: The rainy season is most dramatic, but even during the dry season, the falls are lovely.
• Nearby: There are some other smaller falls in the area that are also worth a visit.