Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel in Luang Prabang. Head into the lush countryside and visit a traditional Hmong community nestled in the hills. Observe villagers weaving intricate textiles on wooden looms, a craft for which the Hmong are famous.
Learn about the community's customs, history, and way of life. You may see traditional wooden houses on stilts and children playing. Often, there is a small stall where you can buy handicrafts directly from the artisans (textiles, bracelets, bags). Purchasing here supports the community directly.
Enjoy a traditional Lao set lunch at a restaurant the Elephant Village or on the way to the waterfall. Typical dishes might include Laap (minced meat salad), sticky rice, grilled fish, and fresh vegetables.
Follow the shaded, well-maintained path upstream. Pass a series of stunning, turquoise-blue pools. Each tier is more beautiful than the last. Swim in the refreshing pools, take photos, and relax. The most famous spot is the large pool at the base of the main 60-meter cascade.
A steep but short trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the main fall—worth the climb for the panoramic photo. Finally, begin the scenic drive back to Luang Prabang city and get dropped off at your hotel.