Nong Khiaw: Nam Ou River Cruise, Hike & Waterfall Review
If you have already done Kuang Si and want something wilder, this Nong Khiaw day trip swaps the crowds for the dramatic karst mountains of northern Laos. Instead of driving straight there, you cruise the scenic Nam Ou River, stop at a remote village, and hike to a hidden waterfall, from $58 and rated 4.5 stars. Here is what the day involves, and how it compares to the classic waterfall tours in Luang Prabang.
About This Activity
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Book your spot and pay nothing today
A long day trip up to Nong Khiaw and back
English-speaking guide
A Lao bento-style lunch served on board
Private vehicles and boats — no crowded public transport
Check Live Availability & Prices
At around $58 this is the off-the-beaten-path choice — a scenic cruise to Nong Khiaw with a hidden waterfall hike, run with private boats and vehicles. Pick your date below to check availability.
Why Book the Nong Khiaw River Cruise & Waterfall Hike
The scenic way north
Most travelers reach Nong Khiaw by a straight road transfer. This trip does it differently — you cruise a stretch of the Nam Ou River through towering limestone mountains, which turns the journey itself into the highlight. Reviewers rate it 4.5 stars and single out the scenery and the lack of crowds.
It is the antidote to the busy Kuang Si day: smaller, slower and far more remote, with private boats and vehicles instead of packed public transport.
A village and a hidden waterfall
Along the way you stop at a remote village for a glimpse of authentic rural life, then hike upstream to a waterfall that flows into the Nam Ou. It is a gentler, lesser-known cascade than Kuang Si, but reaching it on foot through the countryside is the whole point.
What You'll See on the Nong Khiaw Trip
River, mountains, village and falls
This is the most scenic and remote tour on the site. Expect to see:
- The picturesque Nam Ou River winding through karst mountains
- The dramatic limestone scenery around Nong Khiaw
- A remote village and a look at everyday rural Lao life
- A hike upstream to a hidden waterfall flowing into the Nam Ou
- A Lao bento-style lunch served on board the boat
- Far fewer tourists than the Kuang Si day trips
What Is Included — and What You Should Still Bring
Included in the tour price
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Luang Prabang - Private river boat on the Nam Ou - Private vehicle transfer - A Lao bento-style lunch on board - English-speaking guide - Village visit and guided waterfall hike
Not included — plan for these
- Drinks beyond what is provided - Sturdy shoes for the hike and a swimsuit if you want to cool off - A light rain layer in the wet season - Gratuity for the guide and boat crew - Any optional village purchases or donations
What Happens on This Tour — Step by Step
Important Things to Know Before You Go
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes with grip for the waterfall hike - Swimwear and a quick-dry towel if you want to cool off - A light rain layer, especially in the wet season - A dry bag for your phone on the boat - Sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent - Cash in kip for drinks and any village purchases
Not suitable for, and timing
This is a long day with a real hike, so it is not the best fit for travelers with limited mobility or very young children.
The Nam Ou is at its most scenic when water levels are healthy; the rainy season fills the rivers and waterfalls but can make boating and trails muddier. Confirm conditions when you book.
Where the Tour Goes — Nong Khiaw
Who Is This Tour For?
Ideal for
- Travelers who have already seen Kuang Si and want something wilder - Anyone who loves dramatic river-and-mountain scenery - Active visitors happy with a hike to reach a waterfall - Those who prefer private boats and small groups to crowds - Photographers chasing the karst landscapes of northern Laos
Not ideal for
- First-timers who specifically want Kuang Si and the Pak Ou Caves - Travelers with limited mobility or very young children - Anyone short on time — this is a long day trip
Is the Nong Khiaw waterfall as impressive as Kuang Si?
No — the hidden waterfall here is gentler than Kuang Si, but the appeal is the wild scenery, the Nam Ou cruise and the lack of crowds. If you want the famous turquoise pools, see the Kuang Si waterfall tours instead.
How much does the Nong Khiaw day trip cost?
It starts at around $58 per person, including a private boat, transfers and lunch on board. Compare it with every Luang Prabang waterfall tour here.
How hard is the waterfall hike?
It is a moderate hike upstream rather than a serious trek, but you will want shoes with grip. It is not ideal for travelers with limited mobility. See gentler options on the homepage.
Is lunch included?
Yes — a Lao bento-style lunch is served on board the boat. Extra drinks and gratuities are not included. Check what other tours include.
When is the best time to do this trip?
The river and waterfall are fullest in the rainy season, while the dry season makes for easier trails. Confirm conditions when booking — browse all tours and seasons here.
What Travelers Say
The most scenic day of our whole trip. Cruising the Nam Ou between those huge limestone mountains was unforgettable, and we barely saw another tourist all day. The village stop and the waterfall hike were the cherry on top.
A great escape from the busier Kuang Si tours. The private boat was lovely, the lunch on board was tasty, and the hike to the waterfall felt like a real adventure. Highly recommend if you like the outdoors.
Loved the remoteness of this one. The scenery on the Nam Ou is incredible and our guide was knowledgeable and friendly. A long day, but worth every minute for the views.