Buon Me Thuot is the provincial capital of Dak Lak and the largest town in the western
highlands. It is home to a number of ethnic minorities including the Rhade and Jarai
groups making a great base for trekking to explore the ethnic culture besides its
natural surroundings and impressive waterfalls.
What to do? The region's main crop is coffee, thus, finding a guide for a visit at the coffee
plantations would be interesting. Or you can make tours to historical vestiges like
Bao Dai Palace, Yang Prong Tower,
Buon Ma Thuot Prison, museums, Dak Tua Cave and
Victory Monument.
Yet the natural surroundings and ethnic groups in the area would
be very impressive.
Lac Lake, 56 km southwest of
Buon Ma Thuot, offers fantastic
views. Visitors can cross the lake to nearby villages either in a dugout canoe or
on elephants. Homestay with the M'Nong people is also a highlight of trips.
Yok
Don National Park, an attractive destination where you can do trekking to minority
villages, elephant riding through the forests, staying overnight in Ban Don Village
and enjoying traditional activities like gong performance and drinking Jar wine.
Famous waterfalls include Dray Sap, Draylon, Drayling and Dray Nur Waterfalls, in
which Dray Sap Waterfall, approximately 27km from Buon Ma Thuot, is the worthiest
one to stop over.
In addition,
Buon Ma Thuot is a promising point for trekking to
ethnic villages, in which Tua Village and Ya Liao Village are two of few villages
that tourists are allowed to visit.
When to go?
The best time to visit
Buon Ma Thuot is during the dry season between
November and May.
Travel Tips: Most of Buon Me Thuot's attractions lie well away from the town and are accessible
by motorbike, car or minivan.
Visits at minority villages are a MUST but it is always
required a local guide and permits to these spots. Please do not offer money directly
to minority people - instead donate to a local charity or offer a small gift, such
as pens. And remember to ask for permission before taking photographs in minority
areas.
