Tad Sae Waterfall is a hidden gem located just 15 km southeast of Luang Prabang in Laos. Known for its stunning turquoise waters, multi-tiered cascades, and serene atmosphere, this waterfall offers a peaceful retreat compared to the more crowded Kuang Si Waterfall. Surrounded by dense jungle, Tad Sae is perfect for those seeking a quiet, picturesque location to unwind. The best time to visit is during the rainy season when the waterfall is at its fullest, creating a dramatic and beautiful sight.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing spot, Tad Sae Waterfall provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Attractions Features

Multi-tiered Cascades

Tad Sae Waterfall is unique for its series of smaller cascades that form a multi-tiered waterfall. Each tier flows into serene turquoise pools, providing a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere. The calm, shallow pools are perfect for wading and swimming, making it an excellent spot for relaxation.

Turquoise Water

The vivid turquoise color of the water in the pools is one of the main attractions of Tad Sae. The mineral-rich water, particularly during the rainy season, creates a striking contrast with the surrounding jungle, making it a photographer's paradise. The unique hue of the water is a result of the high calcium content and natural minerals, which gives the water its vibrant color.

Natural Pools

Visitors to Tad Sae can enjoy the refreshing, clear, and cool pools formed at the base of the waterfall. These pools are shallow and calm, making them ideal for swimming, lounging, and relaxing while surrounded by nature.

Boat Ride to the Falls

The journey to Tad Sae Waterfall begins with a boat ride across the Nam Khan River, adding an adventurous touch to your visit. The boat ride is a scenic way to cross the river, and it’s an essential part of the experience. The boat ride costs 10,000 Kip (~$1 USD) per person, and it is the only way to access the waterfall from the parking area.

Elephant Village

Located near the waterfall, the Elephant Village is an ethical elephant sanctuary where visitors can interact with rescued elephants in a natural setting. The village allows you to feed and bathe elephants and learn about their rescue and rehabilitation. This initiative focuses on non-exploitative tourism practices, offering a humane alternative to traditional elephant rides.

Surrounding Jungle

The waterfall is nestled in a lush, tropical jungle filled with diverse plant species and vibrant wildlife. The surrounding forest provides an excellent backdrop for nature walks, where visitors can enjoy the serenity and beauty of the area. The jungle also offers various hiking trails, making it an ideal location for nature lovers and those interested in exploring Laos' natural beauty.

Attractions History

Tad Sae Waterfall has long been cherished by locals for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Unlike the more famous Kuang Si Waterfall, Tad Sae remains relatively undiscovered, allowing it to retain a more authentic and tranquil atmosphere. Historically, the waterfall has been a peaceful spot for relaxation and spiritual contemplation.

The Elephant Village was established to promote ethical tourism and support elephant conservation. The elephants at the village are rescued from exploitative situations and rehabilitated in a safe and natural environment. The village is an important part of the local eco-tourism industry and helps educate visitors about responsible wildlife tourism.

Entrance Tickets

• Laotian Nationals: 15,000 Kip (~$1.50 USD)
• Foreigners: 30,000 Kip (~$3 USD)
• Children under 8 years old: Free entry
• Boat Ride (Nam Khan River): 10,000 Kip (~$1 USD) per person
• Parking Fee: 5,000 Kip (~$0.50 USD) for motorbikes and vehicles

Location and Address

• Location: 15 km southeast of Luang Prabang, Laos
• Address: Nam Khan River, Luang Prabang, Laos

How to Get There

Tad Sae Waterfall is easily accessible by various forms of transportation from Luang Prabang. Visitors can choose from tuk-tuks, motorbikes, private cars, bicycles, or a combination of these options.

Tuk-Tuk

Tuk-tuks are the most popular and affordable way to reach Tad Sae Waterfall. A round-trip tuk-tuk ride typically costs between 150,000 - 200,000 Kip (~$20 - $25 USD), and the driver will wait for you while you explore the falls. Tuk-tuks are a convenient option for those who want a hassle-free experience.

Private Car/Van

For those traveling in a group or preferring more comfort, a private car or van rental is a great option. The round-trip cost is approximately 45 USD, making it an affordable choice for families or groups.

Motorbike

Renting a motorbike is a fantastic option for the more adventurous travelers who want to explore at their own pace. Motorbike rentals in Luang Prabang cost around 20 USD per day. This option provides flexibility and is perfect for those looking to explore other nearby attractions as well.

Bicycle

For a more eco-friendly and leisurely option, you can rent a bicycle. It takes around 45 minutes to cycle from Luang Prabang to the waterfall. This option is ideal for those looking for a bit of exercise and to enjoy the scenic route.

Boat Ride

Once you reach the parking area, you’ll need to take a boat across the Nam Khan River to the waterfall. The boat ride is a small additional cost of 10,000 Kip (~$1 USD) per person, but it’s a beautiful and scenic way to reach the falls.

Best Time to Visit Tad Sae Waterfalls

Rainy Season (June to October)

The best time to visit Tad Sae is during the rainy season when the waterfall is at its fullest, with abundant water flowing through the multi-tiered cascades. The vibrant turquoise water is most noticeable during the peak rainy months of July and August.

Dry Season (February to July)

During the dry season, the falls may have minimal water or may be completely dry, which makes it a less ideal time to visit for those seeking the full waterfall experience. However, it is still a great time for hiking and nature walks around the area.

November/December

Although the waterfall's water levels begin to decrease as the dry season sets in, Tad Sae is still worth visiting during November and December. It’s less crowded than during the rainy season, and the surrounding jungle remains lush and beautiful.

Travel Tips

• Modesty in Swimwear: Laos is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress modestly when visiting natural sites like Tad Sae. Avoid bikinis and revealing swimwear; instead, wear a full-coverage swimsuit or light clothing for swimming.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, especially for walking on slippery surfaces around the waterfall. Flip-flops are not recommended for the short hike to the falls.
• Essentials: Bring a towel, dry clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent (mosquitoes are common in the area), and a waterproof bag for your valuables.
• Water Sports: For adventure seekers, kayaking along the Nam Khan River is a fantastic option. Full-day kayaking tours include a stop at Tad Sae Waterfall for swimming, lunch, and exploration. Prices for these tours start at around 80 USD per person.
• Cash: It’s recommended to bring cash for the entrance fee, boat ride, and other expenses. There are limited ATMs at the waterfall, so plan ahead.

What to Do at the Waterfall

• Swim in the Pools: Take a dip in the refreshing, clear waters of the pools at the base of the falls. The cool water is perfect for swimming on a hot day.
• Explore the Elephant Village: Just a short distance from the falls, the Elephant Village offers visitors a chance to interact with and feed rescued elephants. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about elephant conservation and ethical tourism practices.
• Photography: The multi-tiered cascades, the lush jungle, and the vibrant turquoise water provide ample opportunities for photography, especially when the waterfall is flowing strongly.
• Picnics: Enjoy a picnic by the falls or visit the on-site restaurant for local Lao cuisine, including sticky rice, BBQ meats, and papaya salad.
• Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding jungle on foot and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the area. There are several trails around the falls that offer a more immersive experience of the natural environment.

Available Services

• Restaurant: A small restaurant serves typical Lao dishes, including sticky rice, BBQ meats, and local salads. Snacks and drinks are also available.
• Souvenirs: Visitors can purchase postcards, elephant carvings, and other trinkets at the souvenir shop.
• Changing Rooms and Toilets: Basic changing rooms and toilet facilities are available for visitors.

Related Tours

• Elephant Village Tour + Tad Sae Waterfall: A half-day tour that includes elephant interactions and a boat ride to the waterfall. Prices start at 50 USD per person.
• Kayaking Tour + Tad Sae Waterfall: A full-day kayaking tour along the Nam Khan River, stopping at Tad Sae Waterfall for swimming and lunch. Prices start at 80 USD per person.
• Luang Prabang Waterfalls Tour: A combined tour that includes both Tad Sae and Kuang Si Waterfalls, allowing visitors to explore two of the region's most stunning waterfalls in one day.

Tad Sae Waterfall is a serene and less-visited alternative to the more famous Kuang Si Waterfall. Its multi-tiered cascades, stunning turquoise water, and the opportunity to interact with rescued elephants make it an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a chance to learn about local wildlife conservation, Tad Sae Waterfall offers an authentic and peaceful experience in one of Laos' most beautiful natural settings.