100 Waterfalls
While the 100 Waterfalls cannot be narrowed down to any single waterfall, the entire exploration tour through these falls is a destination that should be on the list of every traveler interested in exploring the natural beauty of Laos. It also forms part of a number of trekking tours available in the area and an overnight stay in the village nearby.
Tad Yuang
Tad Yuang, sometimes transliterated as Tad Gneuang, is located in Champasak Province 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Pakse. Restaurants and tourist shops line the parking area. Visitors can take the slick steps to the water and take a dip above or below the falls during the dry season when the flow of the river is milder.
Li Phi Waterfall
The object of much local lore, it is believed that the rushing waters of Li Phi greedily collect the spirits of animals and people who did not lead virtuous lives. Though there is no official confirmation of whether or not this is true, it is why in the local language the fall’s name means ‘Spirit Trap.’ Located on the Mekong River, the fall’s swift water and slippery rocks can be treacherous. It is located in the 4,000 Islands area of Lao’s southern border with Cambodia, and it is possible to make trips into Cambodia from there if you have never been.
Nam Kat Waterfall
Located just outside the borders of the Nam Ha National Bio-Diversity Reserve in Laos’ Xiangkhouang Province, Nam Kat Waterfall is about an hour drive from the town of Oudom Xai in the country’s north-central region.
It is best to hire a guide in town, and make sure you have a good night’s sleep and nutritious breakfast before you go, because the hike to the falls and back will take a few hours at least. You may have the falls all to yourself, and although it is not large as far as waterfalls go, it seems to blossom from the surrounding forest.
Kuang Si Falls
This shimmering, cascading 3-tier waterfall nestled amidst lush tropical foliage just like in those picture postcards is even better when you actually see it. You could simply gaze at this natural wonder in awe and stroll around the woods to the sound of the falls, or take a refreshing dip in its cool soothing waters. The pure gush of water falling down to almost 50 metres into turquoise pools is one sight you cannot get enough of. Though the country boasts of many more enticing waterfalls, these Laos waterfalls in Luang Prabang are undeniably the most spectacular.
Tad Sae
While not quite as impressive year-round, the Tad Sae waterfall is a great day trip from Luang Prabang. Featuring low, cascading falls amid a tropical forest, the Tad Sae area is also home to an elephant center. The falls are more popular with local Lao people than tourists. We recommend visiting Tad Sae during the Green Season when the falls are flowing in full force.