Waterfalls in Laos: 10 spectacular spots you have to visit

Laos, renowned for its spiritual temples, is also home to some of Southeast Asia's most stunning waterfalls. In the article below, we've curated a list of 10 breathtaking waterfalls in Laos that you must experience at least once. This guide will be regularly updated to ensure you have the latest details on these natural wonders, with active waterfalls highlighted for your adventure.

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 13-02-2025

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1. Kuang Si, Luang Prabang

• Address: Kuangsi Village, Luang Prabang
• Entrance fee: 20,000 kip/adult ($2) and 10,000 kip/child ($1)
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–5:30 PM.
• Can I book a tour? Yes, you can book a minivan ride to Kuang Si Falls for around 6$ per person.
  The tour is a convenient alternative to taking a Tuk Tuk, as the minivan will pick you up directly from your hotel (entrance fee to the falls is not included).

Kuang Si, the jewel of Laotian waterfalls, stands 29 km northwest of Luang Prabang, nestled in the heart of a nature reserve. This 60-meter-high waterfall creates a breathtaking scene, spilling its waters into emerald pools. Visitors can swim or admire the view from wooden suspension bridges. The water, rich in minerals, gives the site a unique color before flowing into a clear stream down into the forest.

To reach Kuang Si Falls in Laos, you can rent a tuk-tuk or a motorbike. The opening hours are from 8 AM to 5:30 PM. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit to enjoy the beautiful blue lakes below.

>>> For more information, please read: Secrets of Kuang Si Falls

The best time to visit is from December to April, during the dry and sunny season. From May to October, heavy rains can make the trip more challenging. While the rainy season offers an impressive sight, it is recommended to visit during the dry season for an optimal experience.

2. Tad Sae, Luang Prabang

• Address: Bak En Village, Luang Prabang
• Entrance fee: 30,000 kip/person (free for children under 8)
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–5:30 PM.
• Can I book a tour? Yes! You can book a tour which includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation. The price ranges from $56 to $121 per person, depending on group size.

Tad Sae, a stunning Luang Prabang waterfall, is located about 20 km northwest of the city. Less frequented than other spots, it offers a charming natural landscape, right in the heart of a lush tropical forest.

>>> Discover the ultimate travel guide: Luang Prabang: Journey to the Immortal Legacy of Laos

The uniqueness of Tad Sae lies in its successive limestone levels, forming gentle white cascades. It can be explored intimately via a boat trip, swimming in its cool waters, and admiring its beauty. During the rainy season from April to October, the water flow is stronger, making the visit more spectacular.

3. Khone Phapheng, 4000 Islands

• Address: 4000 Islands, Champasak province
• Entrance fee: 50,000 kip/person
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–6 PM.
• Can I book a tour? Yes! You can book a tour which includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation. The price ranges from $30-$50/p.

Khone Phapheng, a famous waterfall in Laos, is one of the most majestic in the country, located on the Mekong River near the Cambodian border. Spanning over 10,783 meters, it is considered the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia. Its annual water flow ranks third globally. The waters of the Mekong rush down limestone rocks, offering a wild and powerful natural spectacle that captivates visitors.

In addition to viewing the waterfall, visitors can explore the surrounding area, visit the Manikhoth Temple, and rent boats to get close to the waterfall or go camping. To get there from Pakse, the journey to Nakasong village takes about 3 hours by car, followed by a short tuk-tuk or motorbike ride. Entrance is about 6 euros per person, and the best time to visit is from November to March.

4. Li Phi Waterfalls, 4000 Islands

• Address: 4000 Islands, Champasak province
• Entrance fee: 35,000 kip/person
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–5 PM.
• Can I book a tour? Yes! You can book a tour where you'll be picked up at the destination. The price ranges from $17 for a 2-hour tour to $30-$50 per person for longer excursions.

Li Phi Waterfall, also officially known as Somphamit Waterfall, is one of the top attractions in the 4000 Islands and among the most beautiful waterfalls in southern Laos. Located on the west side of Don Khon Island, it is just a short bike ride from Don Det.

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Spanning about 1.5 km, Li Phi Waterfall branches into dozens of smaller waterfalls cascading over countless rocks. These are some of the most stunning rapids along the Mekong River.

The crystal-clear turquoise water contrasts beautifully with the brown rocks, creating a picturesque view. The area is well-maintained with trails, wooden bridges, and viewpoints that offer great photo opportunities. The best season to visit is from November to April. Remember to stay behind barriers and follow safety signs during your visit.

>>> For more information, please read: Crossing the 4000 Islands, Laos

5. Tad Yuang, Pakse

• Address: Ban Lak 40, Road 23, Paksong District, Champasak Province
• Entrance fee: 10,000 kip/person + 5,000 kip for motorbike parking
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–5 PM.
• Can I book a tour? While there are no single-person tours available, you can book a combination tour to visit the Bolaven Plateau, Tad Fane, and Tad Yuang Waterfalls.
  Group tours are priced at $45 per person, while private tours range from $38 to $105 per person, depending on the number of participants.

Tad Yuang Waterfall is one of the stunning natural destinations located on the Bolaven Plateau in Laos, about 39 km from Pakse. The waterfall is known for its wild natural beauty, with water flowing through stone steps and creating streams of white water that form a beautiful image.

Lush green forests surround the Tad Yuang Waterfall area, offering visitors a peaceful space to relax and admire the majestic scenery. The water at the base of the waterfall forms a jade green lake, inviting tourists to swim in its refreshing waters.

The best time to visit Tad Yuang is from October to January. Be sure to bring water shoes, as the rocks near the falls can be slippery. Visitors can also enjoy Laotian cuisine and learn about the traditions of the local indigenous people, making Tad Yuang a must-see during your stay in Laos.

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6. Tad Fane, Pakse

• Address: Paksong, Pakse
• Entrance fee: 10,000 kip/person
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–5 PM.
• Can I book a tour? While there are no single-person tours available, you can book a combination tour to visit the Bolaven Plateau, Tad Fane, and Tad Yuang Waterfalls.
  Group tours are priced at $45 per person, while private tours range from $38 to $105 per person, depending on the number of participants.

Among the most beautiful Laos waterfalls, Tad Fane Waterfall is unforgettable. Located about 36 km from Pakse in Dong Hua Sao National Park, at the top of the Bolaven Plateau, this waterfall is situated in a magnificent tropical forest. Standing at approximately 120 meters, Tad Fane is one of the highest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls in Laos.

The water cascades majestically down the mountain, splitting into two white streams that flow over large limestone ridges, creating an otherworldly and magical scene.

The easiest way to visit Tad Fane is by renting a motorbike in Pakse. The entrance fee is about 1 USD. Surrounding Tad Fane Waterfall are lush, diverse forests, offering an excellent destination for nature lovers. Visitors can take walks, climbs, or guided forest tours, enjoying the peaceful natural beauty for about 42 USD.

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Tad Fane Falls is also a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh air. Nearby cafes and small restaurants offer delicious local coffee and cuisine, allowing visitors to soak in the stunning scenery while enjoying their meal.

>>>You may consider exploring the Bolaven Plateau - Wandering off the beaten path

7. 100 Waterfalls, Nong Khiaw

• Address: Nong Khiaw
• Entrance fee: 25,000 kip/person + 125,000 kip for a local guide
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–5 PM.
• Can I book a tour? Yes! You can book a combination tour that includes a boat ride, village visit, and the iconic trek within $100/person.

For adventurers looking to uncover the mysteries of Laos, 100 Waterfalls in Nong Khiaw is the perfect spot. This trek allows travelers to discover over 100 breathtaking waterfalls in Laos along the route.

The journey is thrilling and challenging, so a guided tour is highly recommended. Be sure to wear waterproof shoes for better grip while climbing, and along the way, you'll meet locals from small, remote villages hidden in the forest, offering a glimpse into their daily lives.

8. Kaeng Nyui Waterfall, Vang Vieng

• Address: Vang Vieng, Vientiane
• Entrance fee: 10,000 kip/person
• Can I book a tour? Not available yet.

Kaeng Nyui Waterfall, located near Vang Vieng, Laos, consists of three waterfalls, including the 34-meter Kaeng Nyui falls and the smaller Kenlon Falls, which has an aquamarine swimming pool. The best time to visit is during the rainy season.

Situated on the eastern side of Vang Vieng, Kaeng Nyui is accessed by walking along the Houay Nyui and Nam Lao streams, passing cascades and Kenlon Falls. Villagers from Ban Naduang, the traditional owners, maintain the paths, bridges, swimming holes, and a picnic area along the stream. They also manage the car park and food stalls.

>> Read more to get: Practical tips for a good trip to Laos 

9. Tad Tayicseua, Pakse

• Address: Paksong, Pakse
• Entrance fee: Free
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–5 PM.
• Can I book a tour? No, there isn't a single tour available, but you can combine visits to Tad Fane and Tad Tayicseua in a trip to explore the Bolaven Plateau in one day.

Southern Laos' Bolaven Plateau Loop, also called the Pakse Loop, is well-known for its coffee plantations because of the volcanic soil in the area. However, it’s also home to at least seven stunning Laos waterfalls, including the famous Tad Tayicusa Waterfall.

This 50-meter-tall natural wonder is encircled by mountains and verdant marshland. Along with calming noises, the hazy, enchanted environment is created by the water cascading from the falls.

To visit Tad Tayicusa, first travel to Pakse. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk or motorbike to Ban Houay Xai village, and then either walk or take another tuk-tuk to the falls.

Tad Tayicusa is not just a tourist destination; it’s a great spot for relaxation, nature walks, and trekking. Visitors can bathe in the cool water, stroll around the falls, and explore the nearby jungle.

10. Nam Kat Waterfall, Oudomxay

• Address: Oudomxay Province, Northern Laos
• Entrance fee: Free
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–5 PM
• Can I book a tour? Not available yet. 

Nam Kat Yorla Pa is a sizable conservation forest with a varied ecosystem that is situated in Oudomxay Province. Renowned for its dedication to ecotourism, you may take in the scenery while discovering local conservation initiatives.

Hiking, zip-lining, and touring the magnificent Nam Kat waterfalls - a breathtaking waterfall in Laos - are popular pastimes. The multi-tiered waterfall, which is encircled by thick trees, provides a serene and daring haven in an unspoiled setting.

This area is known for its preserved mountain forests, where you can encounter abundant wildlife, as it remains largely unaffected by human activity.

Final Thoughts

The breathtaking Laos waterfalls not only offer a place for tourists to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, but they also provide an opportunity to understand the culture, lifestyle, and hospitality of the local population. Laos is undoubtedly the perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking to discover something new.

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