Visiting the waterfalls of Kuang Si is a must during your trip to the region around Luang Prabang.
The Kuang Si waterfals are 60 metres high and seem to fall right out jungle, so that you can see their beauty in a luxurious setting. I really loved the contrast between the green jungle and the blue water tumbling down. As the whole region was really hot, I remember I really appreciated the chance to cool down in one of the little pools formed by the current.
I strongly recommend renting a scooter (or off road bike if you are more sporty) from Luang Prabang. It is an easy 30 km between the 2 sites. It will give you more freedom of movement, so you can make the most of the beautiful countryside and small villages along the road to the waterfalls.
I really enjoyed walking beside the river and taking the path which leads to the top of the waterfall, where there is a beautiful panorama over the surrounding area.
Finally, don't forget to look at the black bears in collars in the little zoo at the site's entry.
The road to the waterfalls that are situated about an hour from Luang Prabang is simply magnificent. Green, green, and more green!
I took a tuk-tuk in town to go to the falls: the driver will wait for you as long as necessary. You can spend a day there with no worries and it is well worth it!
At the entrance there is a small nature reserve that houses a few bears that make for a small local attraction. You arrive at the foot of the waterfall after a 20-minute walk through the jungle. The flow is just amazing!
For the more adventurous, a rather steep path leads to the top of the falls from where you have a fabulous view over the jungle.
Nevertheless, I would advise you to visit Kuang Si during the dry season: I went there during the monsoon when the water was very agitated and muddy and the flow was much too fast to swim in.
It's difficult not to love Kuang Sy. I admit that it can be a bit scary when you arrive - all the stalls selling everything and nothing and a car park full of vehicles is not exactly what you expect, but don't worry, what comes next makes the journey worthwhile.
First surprise: enclosures where there are a large number of Asian bears, an endangered species that is protected here. They are smaller than their European cousins and some have very fuzzy fur which is very sweet, if you have children they will love them...
When you arrive at the waterfalls there is a second surprise. There are natural swimming pools, all connected by little waterfalls of gloriously turquoise water, surrounded by luxuriant vegetation which adds up to almost surreal surroundings...The water might not be very warm but it's almost impossible to resist the urge to bathe in a place that is so magical. Ideal for family holidays!