Chasing Waterfalls in Laos
Finding the world's best infinity pool by climbing down the face of a waterfall.
Luang Prabang is a wonderful city, with temples scattered throughout and a very salient French colonial history that defines the look of the old quarter. It is a bit touristy nevertheless, but you just have to find ways to dodge the large buses unloading their tours. I met some people at a hostel who I would travel with for the next week, and we went to a beautiful waterfall a 30 minute tuk tuk drive outside of the city called Kwangsi falls.
Upon arrival you're greeted by chicken skewers on a barbecue, a tangle of tuk tuks, and countless selfie sticks. At that moment I was skeptical of this hike. Thankfully, most of the crowd thins out once the incline begins, and you get some room to scramble up this waterfall face.
We passed an asian bear rehabilitation center and reached the bottom of the falls which looks like the Garden of Eden that had been discovered by all the guidebooks. Absolutely stunning with light blue water that comes down terraced layers of rock formations. With the help of ropes, rock steps, and dirty hands we climbed to the top. Two of our friends from the hostel had been shown a secret infinity pool the day earlier, and were keen to not only find it again, but share it with us.
After climbing to the top, we walked to the edge of the falls and left our things in the trees. Looking down, you'd think there's no way we're getting out of this in one piece. We traversed one side of the face of the falls for about 30 meters and reached the first level/stair of the top of the falls. With water rushing down we tied some clothes to the trees and descended into the world's most incredible natural infinity pool.
Surrounded by powerful falls and trees, overlooking the rest of the falls, the people far below us, and the lush landscape in the distance. There was no one else there, which let us indulge in pictures, jumping rocks, and being completely in awe. One of the coolest things I have ever experienced and a definite peak of my travels throughout my life.
It was difficult to leave. I wish we could've slept up there. I bet the stars would have been amazing.
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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