Top 12 Must-Visit Attractions in Dak Lak Province

Lak Lake is the second largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, after Ba Be Lake. Covering an area of about 500 hectares, it is connected to the Krong Ana River. Located approximately 56 km from Buon Ma Thuot City along the Da Lat - Buon Ma Thuot road, it lies in the Lak Thien town. The legend of the lake is well-known, and it is also a great spot for eco-tourism due to its picturesque blend of pristine nature, serene waters, and lush mountains. Here, you can enjoy a traditional boat ride along the river, ride elephants, visit local villages, or explore the forest to discover diverse plants and wildlife. Don't forget to try the unique dishes like Lak Lake fish cakes, moss soup, and bitter eggplant salad with anchovies.

This trio of waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfall areas in Dak Lak, and if you have the chance, make sure to take some time to explore it.

Dray Sap Waterfall is located at the lower part of this waterfall cluster along the Serepok River, about 30 km from Buon Ma Thuot. Often considered the most beautiful waterfall in the Central Highlands, Dray Sap is about 50 meters high and stretches 100 meters wide. Its majestic and picturesque landscape is truly breathtaking.

Gia Long Waterfall is the uppermost waterfall in this cluster and is named after the Vietnamese Emperor Gia Long. This waterfall is 40 meters tall and features a steep drop, with natural caves and a stunning pool at the base, making it a great spot for relaxation.

Dray Nur Waterfall is located in Ea-T'linh commune in Cu Jut district. This waterfall is more gentle and tranquil, hidden under large rocks, attracting many visitors who come to enjoy its peaceful beauty and scenic surroundings.

Trung Nguyen Coffee Village, also known as the coffee village, is located to the northwest of Buon Ma Thuot City at the intersection of Lí Thái Tổ and Nguyễn Hữu Thọ streets. It covers an area of around 20,000 square meters, showcasing unique architecture and a distinctive coffee experience.

The village consists of five main areas: an information desk, a dining area, a tasting zone, a supermarket, a Central Highlands ethnic museum, and a global coffee museum. Additionally, there are a coffee garden, performance spaces, and a recreational area within the premises.

This is considered one of the top attractions in Dak Lak, where visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional culture of ethnic minorities, experience the gong culture, and learn about the history of coffee in Vietnam and around the world. You'll also have the chance to taste the finest coffee and sample over 50 unique dishes from across the country. It's a place where you can both explore and enjoy a truly enriching experience.

Yok Don National Park is the largest nature reserve in Vietnam, located about 40 km from Buon Ma Thuot City, spanning the districts of Buon Don and Ea Sup. This park holds the wonders of nature and culture, attracting a large number of visitors.

The terrain is mostly flat and is dominated by pristine forests. Visitors can explore and observe a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 67 rare mammal species, 196 bird species, and numerous reptiles and insects. The park is home to 56 rare animal species from Indochina and 17 species listed in the International Red Data Book. Its plant life is equally diverse, with 23 varieties of orchids in a rainbow of colors.

The park also preserves the rich cultural heritage of the Central Highlands, including beautiful traditional stilt houses, opportunities to see and ride elephants, and a chance to enjoy cultural performances around a campfire, complete with traditional dances, drinking local rice wine, and listening to the echoing sounds of gongs.

Located on National Route 26, connecting the provinces of Khanh Hoa and Dak Lak, Phoenix Mountain Pass resembles a bird soaring between the vast forests. This 12-kilometer-long pass lies in the M'Drak district and is a unique attraction.

Once known as the “Death Pass” due to its sharp, winding curves and notorious hideouts of bandits, today the road has been widened and made much safer. The breathtaking view of the winding pass amidst the untouched mountains and endless ridgelines is a sight to behold. For adventurous travelers exploring Dak Lak, this is a must-visit destination.

Located about 12 kilometers southeast of Buon Ma Thuot, Ea-Kao Lake is the largest artificial lake in the area, surrounded by stunning landscapes and a cool, refreshing atmosphere. The name Ea-Kao translates to 'the lake that never runs dry,' and despite being built many years ago, it has maintained its pristine, untouched beauty.

The lake's ecosystem is rich with various species of fish and shrimp, and the surrounding hills are home to diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of both sunrise and sunset at this peaceful spot. Although it remains relatively unknown to many travelers, there are ongoing efforts to develop tourism here and showcase its natural charm.

The Tâm Linh Hill Tourist Area is located just 5 kilometers from Buon Don. The standout feature here is a 40-meter tall statue of Quan Am, towering amidst a lush green backdrop. Scattered throughout the surrounding gardens are 18 statues of Arhats, each displaying unique facial expressions.

Although some people refer to this place as a temple, it doesn't follow the traditional enclosed design found in most temples. Instead, it adopts an open architectural style, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the surrounding natural beauty of the mountains and forests.

Chư Yang Sin National Park is located about 60 kilometers from Buon Ma Thuot, covering more than 59,000 hectares. It is one of the largest national parks in Dak Lak province. Unlike Yok Don National Park, this park is home to higher mountains, including the Chư Yang Sin peak, the tallest in Dak Lak, rising over 2,400 meters.

The higher altitude means the area has steeper slopes and a cooler climate compared to the rest of Dak Lak. The park is rich in biodiversity, with more than 44 rare species listed in Vietnam's Red Book.

Đăk Tuar Cave is a popular destination for adventurers visiting Dak Lak. The cave system here is challenging and filled with thrilling obstacles, making it an exciting spot for those seeking adventure. The rugged terrain invites exploration and discovery.

For thrill-seekers, this place holds an air of mystery, perfect for those in search of an adventurous journey. It also serves as a valuable historical learning experience for young people, students, and soldiers, offering insights into the struggles and sacrifices made to secure the independence of the nation.

Even before visiting, travelers are likely familiar with the name Buôn Đôn through the popular song 'The Baby Elephant of Buôn Đôn' sung by children. Located about 40 km northwest of Buôn Ma Thuột, Buôn Đôn is part of Krong Na commune in Buôn Đôn district. This place is famous for its long-standing tradition of elephant hunting and training, its pristine natural beauty, and its deep cultural roots in the indigenous ethnic groups of the Central Highlands.

In Buôn Đôn, visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as riding elephants, river trekking, mountain climbing, grilling fish, drinking rice wine, and immersing themselves in the majestic beauty of the SêRêPôk River and the vast natural forests.

Be sure to take a leisurely stroll on the swaying bamboo bridges, enjoy the local delicacies like steamed chicken and grilled chicken, and experience the serene natural beauty—an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The natural beauty of Đắk Lắk remains largely untouched, with many stunning waterfalls scattered across the region. Among them, the Thủy Tiên Waterfall, also known as the Three-Tiered Waterfall, stands out. Located in Tam Giang commune, Krông Năng district, this waterfall is still quite secluded, making it a hidden gem. The waterfall is also tied to the legend of the maiden H' Năng, a fascinating story worth discovering.

The path leading to the waterfall winds through vast fields of coffee and rubber trees. As you approach, the sound of rushing water becomes louder, and upon arrival, you will be awestruck by the serene beauty of the scene. The Thủy Tiên Waterfall features three distinct levels: the first is a gentle slope with stone steps and beautiful tree roots, the second has a wide cascade and a natural swimming pool where visitors can bathe in the cool waters, and the third level is a powerful waterfall that plunges directly into a deep lake, flowing gracefully through the surrounding jungle.

The landscape here is breathtaking, offering a peaceful escape into nature, where you can leave behind the stresses of city life and immerse yourself in tranquility.

Đắk Lắk Water Park is located just 4 kilometers northeast of Buôn Mê Thuột city. This modern and exciting recreational park is one of the top attractions in the area. The weather here is typically sunny by day and cool at night, making it a perfect place for endless fun and exploration without ever getting bored.

The park boasts the most extensive range of water-based activities in the Central Highlands. Visitors can enjoy relaxing in the cool waters, ride water slides, and take part in thrilling adventures such as tube slides. The lazy river that surrounds the entire park offers a calm float, adding to the leisure experience.

If you’re a fan of water activities, or if you're planning a family trip, this park is an ideal destination for fun, discovery, and adventure for all ages.