Jenny Sky Is The Limit

I had been intrigued by tales of Kuang Si Falls ever since my friends Jo and Tony, back in Chiang Mai, raved about their breathtaking beauty. As the stories echoed through the travel community and further fueled my curiosity through online research, the falls became a must-see destination on my journey.

There are numerous day tours available, featuring trekking, cycling, or kayaking. However, as a solo traveller, joining such activities can be challenging, often requiring a minimum of two participants. During this particular instance, despite leaving a cash deposit and exploring every Luang Prabang travel agency, I couldn’t find a trekking group, which was the activity I had set my sights on.

Since I preferred if possible not to pay a solo traveller premium, the travel agency presented me with the option of transportation only from Luang Prabang. The cost for a round-trip shared minivan was 40,000 kip (£3.80, COP14,000),  a fantastic deal. Everything was now arranged.

Kuang Si Falls, also known as Kuang Xi or Tat Kuang Si, is situated approximately 30 kilometres south of Luang Prabang. Despite Laos not having a coastline, Kuang Si compensates for it with its breathtaking turquoise crystal waterfalls. It proved to be more than just another waterfall; it’s a destination well worth visiting, offering a swim in these enchanting waters that immersed me in the reflection and beauty of nature.

I was picked up at my guesthouse around 11 am, and the minivan was already full, with about 8 people sharing the trip, including the lovely Hitomi from Japan (whom I later bumped into again on my flight to Hanoi – life and its surprises!). The journey took us 45 minutes, and the minivan was comfortable, clean, and thankfully air-conditioned. Upon arrival at the entrance, our driver informed us that we had three hours for the visit, indicating the meeting point and the exact time for our return to town.

The three-hour duration turned out to be just right for the visit. At the entrance, there’s a small market and numerous places to grab decent Laotian food.

The entrance fee is 20,000 kip (£1.90, COP7000). Inside, I discovered vendors selling snacks, fruits, and drinks, and I grabbed a bag of fresh mango for 10,000 kip.

Once inside, I found an easy and beautiful trail to follow for the visit. The weather was cooler, a welcome relief from the Asian heat.

The first stop was the bear sanctuary, which proved to be well worth the visit. The Bear Centre has a mission to rescue bears from hunters, wildlife traders, and bile farmers, as the bear spleen is unfortunately used in old-style Asian medicine.

I learned that the methods used to produce these medicines are tremendously painful for the bears. All the bears rescued in this centre are Asiatic black bears and are now fortunate to call this place home. The bears seem happy and playful, often caught in cute snoozing positions! Donations are welcome and for more information  http://www.freethebears.org/

The trail allowed me to climb to the top, passing through captivating trees and witnessing the three-tier cascades and many natural pools. There are tables and shelters at the lower-level pools.

I saw many locals and tourists enjoying picnics there. Some of the pools are considered sacred, so it is not allowed to swim in them, but many others make great swimming holes with up to five-meter cascades, where I managed to enjoy a refreshing swim along the way. Once inside the pool, many tiny fish were constantly trying to munch on my feet, a weird tickling feeling, I must say.

There is also a restaurant before reaching the last level, where it is possible to enjoy a tasty local lunch. I then reached the top level, which is the biggest, with a 50-meter drop into a spectacular azure pool before flowing downstream, a truly fantastic view.

I was absolutely delighted to witness the beautiful colours of this magical place. It was a bit crowded, but I did not mind this at all as nature once again blessed me with the view of this stunning place, feeling so grateful!🌷

“Water is the driver of nature. Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. Confucius

Sending love ❤️

Jenny 😊