Tad Sae Waterfalls
Cascading limestone waterfalls with turquoise pools, best enjoyed with a scenic boat ride during the rainy season.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak water flow, fewer crowds
Tad Sae Waterfalls
Best Time
Peak water flow, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cascading limestone waterfalls with turquoise pools, best enjoyed with a scenic boat ride during the rainy season.
"Amazing waterfalls, where there were not many people, I recommend it to everyone!"
🚤 Boat Access is Key
Take the 5-min boat ride from parking for the best experience. It's 25k Kip per person.
🩱 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The natural pools are perfect for a refreshing swim, especially in the rainy season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cascading Limestone Pools
Main waterfall area
Enjoy refreshing dips in numerous natural pools formed by the cascading limestone formations.

Scenic Boat Journey
Nam Khan River
A thrilling 5-minute boat ride offers stunning river views and is the primary access point.

Jungle Serenity
Surrounding jungle
Relax in shaded jungle spots amidst lush greenery, a perfect escape from the heat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Peak Flow
Boat Ride Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Same day trip Kuang Si & Tat Sae?
🚤 Boat Access is Key
Take the 5-min boat ride from parking for the best experience. It's 25k Kip per person.
🩱 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The natural pools are perfect for a refreshing swim, especially in the rainy season.
Looking for recommendations for stuff to do in Luang Prabang, Laos
Not enjoying Luang Prabang, help me salvage it
👟 Waterproof Footwear Recommended
Waterproof sandals or shoes are ideal for navigating the wet and rocky terrain.
🦟 Don't Forget Bug Spray
The lush jungle environment means mosquitoes can be present, especially in the evenings.
People who’ve been to Luang Prabang, what are some to-do stuff there?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚤 Boat Access is Key
Take the 5-min boat ride from parking for the best experience. It's 25k Kip per person.
🩱 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The natural pools are perfect for a refreshing swim, especially in the rainy season.
👟 Waterproof Footwear Recommended
Waterproof sandals or shoes are ideal for navigating the wet and rocky terrain.
🦟 Don't Forget Bug Spray
The lush jungle environment means mosquitoes can be present, especially in the evenings.
💰 Parking Fee
There's a small fee for parking your vehicle before taking the boat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tad Sae Waterfalls are praised for their beautiful, swimmable pools, especially during the rainy season. The scenic boat ride is a highlight, and visitors appreciate the fewer crowds compared to other attractions. However, some note ongoing construction and limited facilities.
"The quickest & most adventurous way to get here is via boat from Tad Sae Waterfall Parking. Costs 25k kip, takes 5min
Swimmability of waterfall on point. U swim u don't die here, unlike Kuang Si (rainy season)
The watercolour u like available, loaded 80%
Lots of smol pools to choose from for a dip
Spot still under construction"
Maciej Stec
"Amazing waterfalls, where there were 6 of us in total. The waterfalls are currently under reconstruction.
The navigation will show you an hour's drive, but I recommend arriving at Tad Sae Waterfall Parking where will they take you by boat for 25,000 kip per person.
Beautiful waterfalls, where there are not many people, I recommend it to everyone🙏 10/10"
Filip Rihak
"Tad Sae Waterfall is a beautiful natural attraction located near Luang Prabang, in northern Laos. It’s known for its multi-tiered limestone formations, clear turquoise pools, and lush jungle surroundings.
Key Facts
🗺️ Location: About 18 km southeast of Luang Prabang, accessible via road and a short boat ride across the Nam Khan River
💧 Best Time to Visit: August to November (rainy season), when the water flow is strongest and the falls are most beautiful.
🏞️ Activities:
Swimming in natural pools
Relaxing in shaded jungle areas
Visiting nearby villages
Elephant rides (though these are controversial for ethical reasons)
Tips for Visitors:
Bring a swimsuit, waterproof sandals, and bug spray.
Water levels are low or dry during the dry season (around March to June), so it’s not ideal then.
Combine the visit with a trip to Ban En Village or other local sites"
Thug Life
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way is to drive to the Tad Sae Waterfall Parking area and then take a short, 5-minute boat ride across the Nam Khan River. This boat ride costs approximately 25,000 Kip per person. Google Maps can guide you to the parking spot, which is often near a temple.
Yes, it's possible to visit both Tad Sae and Kuang Si Falls in one day. You could hire a tuk-tuk or van for the entire day to manage the logistics efficiently. Start with Kuang Si in the morning and then head to Tad Sae in the afternoon.
While Google Maps might suggest a longer drive, the most practical and scenic access is via the boat from the designated parking area. Walking might be possible but is not the typical or recommended route.
You can reach the parking area by renting a scooter or hiring a tuk-tuk. Many visitors use Google Maps for navigation to the correct turn-off.
While direct transport might be limited, arranging a private taxi or tuk-tuk for the day is a common and convenient option for reaching the parking area and then taking the boat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a fee for parking your vehicle at the designated area, and then a separate fee for the boat ride to the falls. Specific entrance fees for the falls themselves are not always clearly stated but are generally covered by the boat cost.
The best time to visit is during the rainy season, from August to November, when the water flow is strongest and the falls are most beautiful. During the dry season (March to June), the water levels can be very low or dry.
Operating hours are generally tied to daylight and the availability of boat services. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during the peak season, to make the most of your visit.
Tickets for the boat ride are typically purchased on-site at the parking area. Advance booking is usually not necessary, but it's always good to check locally for any changes.
Toilets may not be readily available at the falls themselves. It's recommended to use facilities before hopping on the boat or at the parking area if available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the natural pools, relax in the shaded jungle areas, and enjoy the scenic beauty. Some visitors also mention visiting a small cave with a Buddha statue near the entrance.
Yes, Tad Sae is known for its swimmable natural pools, especially during the rainy season when the water flow is strong. It's considered a great spot for a refreshing dip.
Tad Sae can be less crowded than other popular waterfalls, particularly if you visit during the weekdays or outside of peak tourist times. Some visitors have reported having the place almost to themselves.
Information on food availability directly at the falls is limited. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Bring a swimsuit, waterproof sandals, bug spray, a towel, and any snacks or water you might need. A waterproof bag for your electronics is also a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Capture the cascading water over limestone formations, the vibrant turquoise pools, and the lush jungle surroundings. The boat ride itself offers great scenic shots.
Yes, but be cautious around the water. Using a waterproof camera or a waterproof case for your phone/camera is highly recommended to protect against splashes.
Morning light can be beautiful, offering softer light and potentially fewer crowds. However, the vibrant colors of the water are often best appreciated throughout the day.
The main viewing areas are around the pools themselves. Exploring the different tiers of the waterfall can offer unique perspectives.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid larger crowds. The surrounding jungle also offers shaded areas for relaxation, which can be a nice break for younger ones. Ensure everyone has appropriate footwear for navigating potentially slippery surfaces. The overall experience is more about natural beauty and swimming than structured activities, making it a good choice for families who enjoy outdoor exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
Visiting during the rainy season ensures the falls are at their most impressive, providing maximum value for your visit. While there might be some construction or ongoing development, the natural beauty and swimming opportunities are the main draw, and these are accessible without significant additional costs. It's a great way to experience Laos' natural landscape without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Tad Sae: The Boat Ride Experience
It's important to note that the water levels at Tad Sae are highly seasonal. During the rainy season (August to November), the river is full, and the boat ride is smooth and accessible. However, during the dry season, the water levels can drop significantly, potentially impacting boat services. Always check current conditions before planning your trip. The parking area itself is often described as being easily navigable with Google Maps, making the initial leg of the journey straightforward for independent travelers.
The Swimmability Factor: Tad Sae vs. Other Falls
In contrast, while other waterfalls might be visually stunning, their currents or water levels might not always be ideal for swimming. Tad Sae, however, seems to hit the sweet spot during its peak season. Visitors often express delight at the abundance of small pools, allowing for a choice of spots to relax and swim. This emphasis on the swimming experience is a recurring theme in reviews and discussions, highlighting it as a key reason to visit.
Seasonal Considerations: When to Go for the Best Experience
Conversely, the dry season (roughly March to June) is generally not ideal for visiting Tad Sae. During this period, the water levels can recede significantly, leading to minimal or even completely dry falls. If your primary goal is to see the waterfalls in their full glory and enjoy swimming, it's best to avoid the dry months. Travelers planning a trip should always confirm the current water levels closer to their travel dates to avoid disappointment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit