Top 10 Breathtaking Waterfalls In Laos You Need To Visit

Laos is home to some of the most stunning natural sights in Southeast Asia, and the waterfalls in Laos are among its true highlights. Hidden in lush jungles and cool highlands, these cascades offer unforgettable views. Here are 10 waterfalls in Laos you won’t want to miss.

1. Kuang Si Falls

• Address: Ban Long, Luang Prabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 daily.

Located about 30 km south of Luang Prabang city center, Kuang Si Falls is one of the most famous and beloved destinations in Laos. With water cascading from a height of around 50 meters into turquoise pools, the falls create a majestic yet gentle scene, especially stunning during the dry season. In addition to swimming in the cool water, visitors can stop by the Bear Rescue Center near the entrance or wander along forest trails to immerse themselves in the pristine natural surroundings.

2. Tad Sae Waterfall

• Address: Approximately 15–30 km from Luang Prabang, near the confluence of the Huisai and Nankang rivers.
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:30 daily.

Hidden in the jungle and accessible only by boat across the Nam Khan River, Tad Sae offers a quiet and untouched experience for those seeking to escape the crowds. Though not tall, the waterfall spans wide, creating multiple small tiers with crystal-clear natural pools. It is most impressive during the rainy season when the water flow is strong. This is an ideal spot for swimming, picnicking, and taking photos amid lush greenery.

3. Tad Fane

• Address: Dong Hua Sao Protected Area, near Paksong town, Champasak Province; about 38 km from Pakse.
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 daily.

Among the most iconic waterfalls in Laos, Tad Fane stands out with its breathtaking twin cascades that drop nearly 120 meters in parallel. Located in the heart of the Dong Hua Sao Protected Area near Paksong town in Champasak Province, this waterfall captivates visitors with its dramatic height, lush jungle surroundings, and cool mountain air.

As one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, Tad Fane not only offers scenic beauty but also provides adventure opportunities such as trekking, sightseeing, and zip-lining. The area is also well known for its highland coffee plantations, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers and those seeking a taste of local culture.

4. Khone Phapheng Falls

• Address: Near Don Khon Island, in the Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands) area, Champasak Province.
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:30 or 18:00 daily.

Khone Phapheng is the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia in terms of water volume and one of the most awe-inspiring sites in Laos. Stretching nearly 10 kilometers, the powerful flow of the Mekong River creates a breathtaking spectacle. Due to the fierce current, swimming is not recommended, but the area is perfect for sightseeing, photography, and appreciating nature. The site is well-developed with scenic viewpoints and tourist facilities.

5. Tad Yuang Waterfalls

• Address: Near Paksong town, Champasak Province; about 33 km from Pakse, close to the Ban Lak 40 junction.
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 daily.

Just a few kilometers from Tad Fane, Tad Yuang offers a more relaxing and accessible natural experience. The waterfall, around 40 meters high, flows directly into a wide pool surrounded by lush forest, creating a perfect setting for resting or taking photos. A well-constructed path leads down to the base of the falls, making it easy for both seniors and children to visit. This is a popular stop on the journey through the Bolaven Plateau – an area famed for its rolling coffee plantations and year-round cool climate.

6. 100 Waterfalls

• Address: Near Nong Khiaw village, Ngoi District, Luang Prabang Province.
• Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00 daily (mostly accessible via local guided tours).

As one of the most unique waterfalls in Laos, the 100 Waterfalls near Nong Khiaw offers an adventurous and immersive experience for nature lovers. Nestled in a pristine jungle, this destination is mainly accessible through local guided tours that include a scenic boat ride along the Nam Ou River and a trek through the forest.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking maze of countless small waterfalls cascading over limestone cliffs. This untouched natural landscape makes it a standout trekking experience in northern Laos, often combined with cultural visits to nearby ethnic villages.

7. Bolaven Plateau

• Address: Spanning across Champasak, Salavan, and Sekong Provinces; centered around Paksong town, Champasak.
• Opening hours: No fixed time (most waterfalls open from 08:00 – 17:00).

The Bolaven Plateau is a highland region known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and numerous beautiful waterfalls such as Tad Fane, Tad Yuang, Tad Lo, and more. It's also the premier coffee-growing region in Laos. Visitors can tour local coffee farms, trek through forests, explore waterfalls, and engage with the unique cultures of ethnic minorities. This plateau is a perfect choice for eco-tourists and those seeking a deeper connection with the land and people of southern Laos.

8. Tad Somphamit Waterfalls

• Address: Don Khon Island, Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands), Champasak Province.
• Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:30 daily.

Also known as Liphi Falls, Tad Somphamit is part of the Mekong River waterfall system in southern Laos. While not as vast as Khone Phapheng, it still impresses visitors with its powerful flow and striking rock formations. The fast-moving water creates a thundering sound and dramatic visuals. Well-developed walking paths, scenic viewpoints, and small local eateries make it a pleasant spot for exploration and photography.

9. Kaeng Nyui Waterfalll

• Address: About 6 km east of Vang Vieng town, Vientiane Province.
• Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00 daily.

Located within the Kaeng Nyui Nature Reserve, this lesser-known waterfall offers a serene escape from the tourist crowds of Vang Vieng. The water flows gracefully over mossy rocks surrounded by thick forest, providing a peaceful and refreshing setting. A short 15–20 minute jungle walk is required to reach the falls, making it a great choice for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

10. Tad Thong Waterfall

• Address: Around 5 km southwest of central Luang Prabang.
• Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00 daily.

Tad Thong is a quiet and less-visited waterfall near Luang Prabang, ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and a natural setting. While not as tall or dramatic as Kuang Si, it offers a rustic charm with gentle cascades surrounded by dense forest. Hiking trails nearby allow for wildlife spotting and forest walks. Once part of a small eco-reserve, it remains a peaceful retreat with a raw, untouched atmosphere.

The waterfalls in Laos are more than just beautiful sights. They offer travelers a chance to explore the country's unspoiled nature, experience moments of peace, and enjoy exciting outdoor adventures. From the cool highlands to the lush tropical forests, each waterfall tells a different story of Laos. Visiting these natural wonders is one of the best ways to connect with the land and its quiet charm.