Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 93 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls worth booking?
Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls is a 12-hour experience in Luang Prabang, Laos, from $44 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 93 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 83 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (93)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $44 per person
This full-day private tour combines a Luang Prabang city tour with an afternoon excursion to Kuang Si Waterfall. In Luang Prabang, you will visit various temples and royal palaces and learn about Lao history culture and local life. Walking with a local guide, you will hear stories about the history of the temples and the city, Buddhist stories and legends painted all over the walls of the temples, and more, giving you a taste of Luang Prabang's culture. In the afternoon, we will head to Kuang Si Waterfall. There will be time to bathe in the emerald green waterfalls and visit a bear rescue center. On the way back, we will visit a Hmong village and have the opportunity to meet the ethnic minorities and get a glimpse of their culture.
What you get
About this experience
This full-day private tour combines a Luang Prabang city tour with an afternoon excursion to Kuang Si Waterfall. In Luang Prabang, you will visit various temples and royal palaces and learn about Lao history culture and local life. Walking with a local guide, you will hear stories about the history of the temples and the city, Buddhist stories and legends painted all over the walls of the temples, and more, giving you a taste of Luang Prabang's culture. In the afternoon, we will head to Kuang Si Waterfall. There will be time to bathe in the emerald green waterfalls and visit a bear rescue center. On the way back, we will visit a Hmong village and have the opportunity to meet the ethnic minorities and get a glimpse of their culture.
What's included
Included
- Kuang Si Waterfalls, Hmong museum entrance fees
- All Fees and Taxes
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Lunch
- Wat Xiengthong, Royal palace, Mount Phousi entrance fees (120,000 LAK)
What you'll see and do
Alms Giving Ceremony
[5:30 am opition only] In Buddhism, alms or almsgiving is the respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk, nun, spiritually-developed person or other sentient being. It is not charity as presumed by Western interpreters. It is important to know the ceremony is also a spiritual practice to accumulate good karma for those who give the alms. It is closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual realm and to show humbleness and respect in the presence of the secular society. The act of almsgiving connects the human to the monk and what he represents. The morning alms giving is a living Buddhist tradition for the people of Luang Prabang which, because of its beauty, has become a major tourist attraction. However, when tourists are unaware of its customs their inappropriate behaviors can be disruptive.
30 minutes here
The Morning Market
[5:30 opition tour only] I Following alms giving, we visit a local morning market. Luang Prabang morning market lining a couple of quiet streets near the Royal Palace, starts early and is over by mid-morning. It sets up along a couple of side-streets next to one of the city’s many Wats. A butcher and some of the more touristy stalls have actual tables for their wares. But most of the vendors, selling anything from rice, to fresh vegetables, to steamed fish, frogs, and anything else that might be the day’s catch, just set up on the ground. We go back to your accommodation and have a free time for breakfast until 8:30 am.
20 minutes here
Riverview Park
The second part of this tour begins at riverview park on the peninsula tip. You will have a brief introduction to Luang Prabang, standing where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong River. From there, walk to the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple.
10 minutes here
Wat Xiengthong
Wat Xiengthong was considered the ceremonial gateway to the city and was the arrival and departure point for foreign dignitaries for centuries. We will walk up the stairs to the main gate and enter the temple like ancient dignitaries. Wat Xieng Thong, once known as “The Temple of the Golden City”, holds great cultural, historic and architectural importance. It is serenely situated near the tip of the peninsula at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, with a grand staircase leading up from the Mekong. (Entrance fee 30,000 kip)
40 minutes here · Admission not included
Next, we will go temple hopping in the neighborhood. At Wat Sene, where there is a school for novice monks, you may meet again with novice monks you met on the morning alms. The temple was built in 1718 by King Kitsarath with 100,000 stones from the Mekong river. It literally means "Temple of 100,000 treasures"
15 minutes here
Royal Palace Museum
[The museum is closed on the last Thursday of every month and cannot be visited] We will visit the Royal Palace. The Royal Palace, which is today the national museum and built by French colonialists between 1904-09, displays a lovely collection of the artefacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture. (Entrance fee 60,000 kip)
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Mount Phousi
The morning tour ends with a climb up Phousi Hill. Rising 150m in the centre of town, you enjoy spectacular 360 degree views across the city and its many temples, and over the surrounding landscape to the mountains in the distance. (Entrance fee 30,000 kip) Free time until the afternoon to head to the waterfall
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Kuang Si Falls
Kuang Si Waterfalls
150 minutes here · Admission included
[Joint tour options only] The journey continues as we follow the water's path to the Kuang Si Heritage Rice Farm. Witness how the falls' water irrigates the terraced paddies and taste fresh, traditionally pressed sugarcane juice. You'll see firsthand the vital connection between the forest, the water, and the local way of life. Conclude your unforgettable day with a magnificent sunset cruise, returning to Luang Prabang around 6:30 PM. This gentle journey back on the Mekong perfectly captures the tranquil spirit of your adventure.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Luang Prabang
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
Joint tour (Japanese)
schedule: Alms giving / morning market (sunrise -6:30) City tour (8:30-12:00) Kuang Si Falls (2:00-5:30) Pickup included
Joint Tour (English)
Activity: City tour (8:30-12:00) Kuang Si Falls (2:00-5:30) Require cash payment on site: Wat Xignthong (30,000 LAK) Royal Palace (60,000 LAK) Mount Phousi (30,000LAK) total about US$6 Dress Code: During sightseeing, you will enter the temple. Please do not wear revealing clothing as this is a sacred place Pickup included
Private Tour (English)
Participate in alms giving: Choose 5:30. for joining alms giving. Exact pick-up time varies with sunrise Require cash payment on site: Wat Xignthong (30,000 LAK) Royal Palace (60,000 LAK) Mount Phousi (30,000LAK) total about US$6 Duration: 12 hours lunch: is not included. We can take you to a restaurant of your choice in town or near Kuang Si falls. Contact us for recommendation minivan air conditioned Dress code: During sightseeing, you will enter the temple. Please do not wear revealing clothing as this is a sacred place. Pickup included
Joint Tour alms giving
Require cash payment on site: Alms giving / morning market (sunrise -6:30) City tour (8:30-12:00) Kuang Si Falls (2:00-5:30) Dress Code: During sightseeing, you will enter the temple. Please do not wear revealing clothing as this is a sacred place. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- ja, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Manifa travel
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 93 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
93 verified traveler reviews for Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Luang prabang
Great one day trip of all main sites in Luang Prabang. Nothing missed. Great guide Da. Thank you to him. So much knowledge about all things Laos. Made the day soecial
via Viator
Seeing sights, with insight
This was essentially a walking tour of Luang Prabang, with an added visit to a beautiful series of waterfalls about 30 km away. My guide was a former Buddhist monk from a highlands tribe who provided great insight into how Laos is culturally "put together" among the various population groups. He was also easily able to relate the stories behind the temple displays, and explain the meaning of the rituals performed there.
via Viator
Falls excursion
The falls were great. 2 hours were allotted to spend there. Opportunities to swim, visit the bear refuge, zip line or climb to the tree top cafe. The stop along the way at the Hmong village seemed rather rushed and an afterthought though since we were rushing to have more time at the falls. We had a good guide who gave commentary on the drive to and back from the falls.
via Viator
A great way to enjoy Luang Prabang in a day
Started the day with alms giving followed by walking the morning fresh market. After breakfast, visited the Royal Palace (now a museum), the Haw Phra Bang temple and Phousi Hill. After lunch, visited a small village and Kuang Si waterfall. Quite a lot done in a day - all of which were wonderful. Both guides (morning and afternoon) were excellent.
via Viator
Great tour
Activities during the day were great! Just a very packed day and therefore sometimes too little time at some places. Overall great experience!
Response from the operator: 😊 Got the mix of fun activities but maybe a bit too jam-packed 😅. Would you say it was worth it or would you tweak the schedule next time?
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $44 to $155
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 33
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Manifa travel, who run 14 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.3 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Manifa travel runsWhy this scores 83
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Luang Prabang.
How much does Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls cost?
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Prices start at $44 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Luang Prabang usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls take?
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Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Luang Prabang is not rushed.
Is Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 93 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Luang Prabang, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls?
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Around 33 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Luang Prabang can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Luang Prabang and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Luang Prabang within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Luang Prabang?
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On Outty we rank every Luang Prabang experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Luang Prabang: Cruise to Pak Ou Caves & Kuang Si Waterfalls, Mekong Meals Food Tour with 15+ Tastings, FULL DAY – Kuang Si Waterfall, Kayak on the Nam Ou / Mekong River, Pak Ou Caves. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Luang Prabang?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Luang Prabang?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls?
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Included: Kuang Si Waterfalls, Hmong museum entrance fees; All Fees and Taxes; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch; and Wat Xiengthong, Royal palace, Mount Phousi entrance fees (120,000 LAK). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 318 listed pickup locations in and around Luang Prabang. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls offered in?
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It is offered in Japanese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls?
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Across 93 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
What booking options are available for Luang Prabang City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfalls?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including Joint tour (Japanese), Joint Tour (English), Private Tour (English), Joint Tour alms giving. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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