Tad E-Tu
Experience the raw beauty of Tad E-Tu, a spectacular waterfall with an adventurous trek and an intriguing abandoned resort.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less slippery paths
Tad E-Tu
Best Time
Less slippery paths
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the raw beauty of Tad E-Tu, a spectacular waterfall with an adventurous trek and an intriguing abandoned resort.
"A bit overgrown path and stairs but beautiful waterfall. Feels adventurous!"
👟 Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes
Paths can be wet, slippery, and muddy. Protect your feet and enjoy the trek!
💰 Local may ask for a fee
A local might charge around 10,000 kip. It's not mandatory, but can be a small contribution.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Tad E-Tu Waterfall
Base of the waterfall
A spectacular, powerful cascade that's well worth the adventurous trek down. Best seen in full flow!
Abandoned Resort Exploration
Top of the waterfall area
Explore the remnants of an old resort, adding an eerie and adventurous feel to your visit.
Overgrown Scenic Pathway
Path from parking to waterfall
A unique, foliage-covered cement pathway that leads you to the roaring waterfall below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Descent
Embrace the Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes
Paths can be wet, slippery, and muddy. Protect your feet and enjoy the trek!
💰 Local may ask for a fee
A local might charge around 10,000 kip. It's not mandatory, but can be a small contribution.
📸 Capture the raw beauty
The overgrown paths and abandoned resort add to the adventurous vibe.
💧 Be prepared for mist
The waterfall's mist can make the surrounding grassy areas wet, even in the dry season.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes
Paths can be wet, slippery, and muddy. Protect your feet and enjoy the trek!
💰 Local may ask for a fee
A local might charge around 10,000 kip. It's not mandatory, but can be a small contribution.
📸 Capture the raw beauty
The overgrown paths and abandoned resort add to the adventurous vibe.
💧 Be prepared for mist
The waterfall's mist can make the surrounding grassy areas wet, even in the dry season.
🚗 No secure parking
Be mindful of your vehicle as parking is not secured.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tad E-Tu is praised for its spectacular, powerful waterfall and the adventurous, off-the-beaten-path experience it offers. Visitors enjoy exploring the abandoned resort, adding a unique element to the visit. However, the trek down can be challenging due to overgrown and slippery paths, and the lack of facilities means visitors must come prepared.
"Getting down to the waterfall: On the left side of the parking area, a CEMENT pathway (overgrown with foliage) leads down to a LOWER LEVEL of the old resort. The pathway levels out near the top of a CLIFF (drop off) where, further down, the ROAR of the waterfall can be heard. This area has a DERILICT building nearby which may have been a restaurant but is now broken and covered with graffiti. The trail down to the waterfall is on the left. It’s another long flight of cement steps, overgrown with foliage in many places. The stairway has a handrail on the right hand side, to provide safety. Note: This stairway in the rainy season can be WET and slippery.
A the Bottom: There’s a collapsed cement landing at the bottom of the steps which you need to negotiate, to continue on a dirt trail towards the waterfall. If you come here the RAINY SEASON, use footwear which you don’t mind getting wet and covered in mud. To get closer to the waterfall, and near the edge of the PLUNGE POOL, you’ll need to cross an expanse of wild grass. In the rainy season, this grassy area will be muddy and wet from the mist being blown off the waterfall. In FULL FLOW, this waterfall is a spectacular sight and well worth the effort of getting there. Note: There’s currently no entry fee for this site.
Safe travels,
Mega."
Megaworld Asia
"A bit overgrown path and stairs but beautiful waterfall. There is a local (living there in the abandoned building?) who charges 10.000kip for the two of us. Dont think you have to pay but we did as he was being nice and didn’t ask ridiculous prices as at the other waterfalls. You can also discover the abandoned resort around. Not many people there, feels adventurous 😁"
Iva Brusová
"It is a very beautiful waterfall and there is a grass field in front of the waterfall, making the waterfall look even more beautiful. On top there is a resort which is the entrance and there are stairs leading down to the waterfall but it seems like this place has been abandoned for a long time."
MOU ZAH!
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tad E-Tu is accessible as part of the Pakse Loop. You can rent a motorbike or hire a tuk-tuk. The journey involves navigating local roads and can be part of a multi-day trip.
Yes, there is parking available. However, it's important to note that the parking area is not secure, so be cautious with your belongings.
From the parking area, a cement pathway leads down. This path can be overgrown and requires careful navigation, especially during the rainy season.
While possible, it's often recommended to include Tad E-Tu as part of a longer Pakse Loop trip to fully appreciate the surrounding areas and avoid rushing.
Signage can be minimal. It's advisable to use GPS or a map of the Pakse Loop to ensure you find the correct turn-off.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there is no official entry fee for Tad E-Tu. However, a local residing near the abandoned building might ask for a small fee (around 10,000 kip) for access.
Tad E-Tu does not have official opening hours as it's an undeveloped site. You can visit anytime, but daylight hours are recommended for safety.
No, advance booking is not required as Tad E-Tu is an undeveloped natural attraction.
It's highly unlikely that credit cards are accepted. It's best to carry cash, especially for any potential local fees.
The abandoned resort buildings are accessible, adding to the adventurous feel of the site. Be cautious when exploring these structures.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike involves a descent down a long flight of cement steps that can be overgrown and slippery. It requires moderate effort and good footwear.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes or boots. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is also advisable, especially if visiting during the rainy season.
The trek down can be challenging for very young children due to the slippery and overgrown steps. Parental supervision is essential.
No, there are no modern facilities like restrooms or shops. The resort is abandoned, so come prepared.
Tad E-Tu is generally not very crowded, offering a more adventurous and less commercialized experience compared to other waterfalls.
📸 📸 Photography
The main waterfall in full flow is a stunning subject. The overgrown paths and abandoned resort buildings also offer unique, atmospheric shots.
Be cautious when taking photos near the waterfall, especially during the rainy season when the ground is wet and slippery. Maintain a safe distance from the edge.
Morning light can be beautiful, but the waterfall is impressive throughout the day. Consider the angle of the sun to avoid harsh shadows.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a waterproof case or bag is recommended due to the mist and potential for getting wet.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drones. However, always be mindful of local customs and any potential restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Adventurous Descent to Tad E-Tu
At the bottom, you'll encounter a collapsed cement landing that requires careful navigation before you continue on a dirt trail towards the waterfall. This section can be muddy and wet, especially during periods of heavy rain. The effort is rewarded by the sight and sound of the waterfall in its full glory, making it a truly memorable experience for those willing to embrace the ruggedness.
Key Takeaway: Prioritize safety and comfort by wearing appropriate footwear and being mindful of the slippery conditions. The journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself.
Exploring the Abandoned Resort
Visitors can explore the remnants of this resort, which contributes to the site's adventurous and slightly eerie atmosphere. It's a fascinating contrast to the natural beauty of the waterfall, offering a glimpse into the past and providing unique photographic opportunities. Some locals might be present in or around these abandoned buildings.
Tip: While exploring, be respectful of the surroundings and exercise caution, as the structures may be unstable.
Understanding the Local Interaction
It's important to note that this fee is not officially mandated, and some visitors have chosen to pay it as a gesture of goodwill, especially if the individual has been helpful or friendly. The consensus from travelers is that while you are not obligated to pay, it's a small price for the experience and the local's presence.
Advice: Be prepared with small denominations of Kip for any potential interactions. If you choose not to pay, do so politely.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit