Laos’ version of Mukumuku Falls—go cliff jumping, swim under waterfalls, and watch wild black bears fight over hammocks

▲ The must-visit Kuang Si Falls in Laos

Reported and photographed by reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Laos

Known as the “most beautiful city in Southeast Asia,” Luang Prabang in Laos not only boasts a blend of Eastern and French architectural styles and offers a taste of local simplicity, but also features breathtaking natural landscapes. Located just outside of“Kuang Si Falls”, not only presents a stunning 50-meter waterfall but also offers deep turquoise pools surrounded by lush greenery, attracting many visitors to take a dip—making it Laos’ answer to Mukumuku Falls and an absolute must-visit destination in Luang Prabang.

To get from Luang Prabang to Kuang Si Falls, the most common way is by hiring a tuk-tuk. In Luang Prabang’s streets, look for tuk-tuks with signs that say “Kuang Si Falls,” which indicates they can take you there. However, it's best to compare prices or share the ride with others to get a more affordable rate, and be sure to agree on a set time with your driver for pickup to ensure you can return to the city.

▲ The walking trail at Kuang Si Falls

▲ The bear sanctuary within the Kuang Si Falls area

▲ See the black bears fighting over hammocks

The Kuang Si Falls walking trail stretches over 1 kilometer, cutting through nearly untouched forest and providing shade from the blazing sun. Along the path, you’ll first come across a black bear sanctuary, where only a low fence separates visitors from the black-and-white bears. You can watch the bears roam freely on the other side, compete for hammocks, or even see one being playfully knocked off a hammock by its companion—a truly amusing sight.

▲ The first pool where swimming is allowed

After walking for about another five minutes, you’ll soon hear the sound of flowing water, and there before you is the first pool area. The boundary between the river and the bank isn’t clearly defined—it simply gets deeper as the terrain slopes down, so people naturally wade in. That’s why you’ll see many experienced visitors who arrive already wearing their swimsuits, quickly shed their outer clothes, and jump right into the water to start playing.

▲ The second swimming pool, where many people go cliff jumping

▲ There are also many sections along the way where swimming isn’t allowed, but the waterfalls are still spectacular

▲ The third swimming pool, where exploring the falls is the main highlight

The second and third pools, located at higher elevations, have stronger currents and more elevation changes than the first. For example, the second pool is popular among children for cliff jumping, while the third pool features a wide curtain of falling water where visitors can sit inside. Some even use vines to climb up to higher parts of the waterfall to explore. Many families also enjoy a relaxing afternoon picnic on the banks.

▲ Kuang Si Falls

▲ The wooden walkways at Kuang Si Falls

At the end of the trail stands the towering Kuang Si Falls, a 50-meter cascade nestled right in the middle of the forest. Walk across the wooden bridge to face the waterfall head-on—the powerful mist and rushing water are so awe-inspiring that it’s hard to tear yourself away. To capture different views of the falls, you can head to the wooden bridge, the viewing platform on the left, or cross the bridge and climb up (using hands and feet) to reach the top of the waterfall’s source. But be cautious—if it rains, the path to the waterfall’s origin can quickly become flooded and more dangerous, so always prioritize your safety.

Kuang Si Waterfalls (Kuang Si WaterFalls)
Admission: 20,000 Kip (approx. NT$78)