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Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre: A Sanctuary for Moon Bears

Observe rescued moon bears in a natural setting at this unique sanctuary near the beautiful Kuang Si Falls in Luang Prabang.

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Located near the stunning Kuang Si Falls, the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre provides a safe haven for Asiatic black bears, also known as moon bears, rescued from bile farms and the illegal wildlife trade. Visitors can observe these bears in a natural environment and learn about the threats they face.

A brief summary to Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, Free the Bears

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Kuang Si Falls for a full day of natural beauty and wildlife conservation.
  • Consider purchasing a t-shirt or sponsoring a bear to support the center's ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
  • Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and have the best chance to observe the bears during their active hours.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    The most convenient way to reach the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre is by taxi or tuk-tuk from Luang Prabang. Negotiate the fare in advance, with a typical round trip costing between $2-3. The journey takes approximately 35-45 minutes. Ensure the driver knows you want to visit the Bear Rescue Centre at Kuang Si Falls, as it's a well-known destination. The taxi will drop you off at the entrance to Kuang Si Falls Park, where you'll need to pay an entrance fee of 60,000 LAK (approximately $2.50 USD). The Bear Rescue Center is located just past the entrance to the falls.

  • Public Transport

    Shared taxis (songthaews or jumbos) are a cheaper option, departing from Luang Prabang. Expect to pay around 25,000 LAK (approximately $1 USD) per person for a return journey. However, these may have fixed departure times or wait until they have a full load, and may only allow a limited time at the falls. As with taxis, you will still need to pay the 60,000 LAK entrance fee to Kuang Si Falls Park.

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Discover more about Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, Free the Bears

Nestled in the lush landscape near the famous Kuang Si Falls, about 30 km south of Luang Prabang, the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre offers a unique and heartwarming experience. Established in 2003 by Free the Bears, the center rescues and rehabilitates Asiatic black bears (moon bears) that have been victims of the illegal wildlife trade, particularly the cruel practice of bile farming. Visitors can witness these once-captive bears enjoying a life of freedom in large, forested enclosures. The bears have access to fresh water streams, pools, hammocks, and enrichment items that stimulate their natural behaviors. Viewing platforms provide excellent vantage points to observe the bears playing, foraging, and interacting with each other. The rescue center also serves as an educational hub, raising awareness about the plight of bears and the importance of wildlife conservation. Information boards detail the threats faced by Asiatic black bears, including habitat loss, poaching, and the demand for their bile in traditional medicine. By visiting the center, tourists contribute to the ongoing care and protection of these magnificent animals. Free the Bears also operates the Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary, located 8km from the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, which houses a wider array of rescued animals, including sun bears, macaques, leopard cats, and red pandas.

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