Overview
Spanning five provinces (Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Gia Lai, Kon Tum, and Lam Dong), the
Central Highlands, bordering Laos and Cambodia, are a territory of plateaus that have long remained isolated from history. Mainly populated by the Degar people, whom the French called "Montagnards" (Highlanders), this region is home to numerous ethnic minorities.
The Central Highlands offer a fantastic opportunity to discover a part of Vietnam that has not yet been transformed by tourism. Visitors are drawn by the chance to discover the cultures of these highland communities, but also by the exceptional natural beauty of the region, with its many fantastic national parks.
Top Attractions
Jarai people drinking ruou can - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Highlands of Vietnam invite you to an immersive adventure in the heart of magnificent landscapes.
Trekking and hiking
Explore an endless network of trails through lush forests, majestic mountains, and verdant plantations, where the intoxicating aromas of coffee and tea mingle with the songs of exotic birds and the murmur of refreshing waterfalls. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, unforgettable panoramas await you around every bend.
A traditional Ede Long House - Mr Linh's AdventuresImmersion within ethnic communities
Beyond the landscapes, go and meet the ethnic communities that enrich the region. Immerse yourself in their ancestral culture by visiting their traditional villages, exchanging with their inhabitants, and sharing moments of their daily life. These authentic human encounters will leave lasting memories and a deep understanding of Vietnamese diversity.
Exploration of the wild nature
Then, let yourself be captivated by the raw beauty of the wild nature. Contemplate breathtaking panoramas, where mountain ranges stand proudly above peaceful lakes and rock formations sculpted by time. This haven of serenity will delight nature lovers and photographers in search of inspiration.
Tasting local flavors
Finally, embark on a unique culinary journey by tasting the local flavors. Savor the intense aroma of freshly ground coffee, the delicacy of fragrant tea, the conviviality of rice wine, and the authentic flavors of game-based dishes. Each bite is an invitation to discover the history and culture of this fascinating region.
See & Do
The Central Highlands of Vietnam offer a multitude of activities for all tastes and levels. Thrill-seekers can indulge in mountain biking, rafting, or zip-lining, while nature lovers can go hiking through the primeval forests, observe rare birds, or swim in secluded waterfalls. Those with a thirst for knowledge can visit ethnic villages, discover local crafts, or participate in traditional festivals.
BUON MA THUOT
The regional capital, Buon Ma Thuot, was the scene in 1975 of a decisive battle that precipitated the fall of the South Vietnamese army. Rebuilt and modernized since the ravages of the war, the city today resembles many other cities in Vietnam, largely because of the significant immigration from other parts of the country. That said, the region still offers many interesting villages belonging to minority ethnic communities and magnificent natural sites to explore in the surrounding area.
Khai Doan Pagoda, a spiritual place in Buon Ma Thuot - Mr Linh's Adventures Team
What to see and do in Buon Ma Thuot
The Buon Ma Thuot Museum of Ethnography
The Buon Ma Thuot Museum of Ethnography is an excellent starting point for discovering the many interesting cultures of the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The museum provides good examples and explanations of some of the cultural activities and ceremonies that take place in the villages of ethnic minorities. This information can be extremely useful, as the inherent language barrier often prevents any in-depth explanation in the villages themselves. The various funeral rituals, such as the tomb abandonment ceremonies, are particularly interesting.
The World Coffee Museum
Inaugurated on November 23, 2018, the World Coffee Museum is a must-see destination for coffee lovers. It is one of the largest private museums dedicated to coffee in Vietnam and aims to promote Buon Ma Thuot as the world's coffee capital.
The museum features architecture inspired by the traditional houses of the Ede ethnic group, with a distinctive basalt exterior. Inside, the bright colors and creative design reflect the culture of the Highlands. More than 10,000 coffee-related items are on display, including preparation tools and collections from coffee-producing countries.
Lak lake, a must-see destination in Buon Ma Thuot - Mr Linh's AdventuresLak Lake
The ideal place to discover the natural and wild beauty of the countryside and the traditional villages that line its shores. The largest lake in the region, it is located in the middle of wooded and rolling mountains. Small wooden boats allow you to take a walk on the lake, where Mnong villagers often fish. Several welcoming villages are scattered around the lake. The traditional stilt houses of the Mnong community, although modest, are beautifully constructed and offer a glimpse into their culture and way of life. It is also possible to attend a performance of the gong dance. A sacred instrument linked to the gods, the gong occupies an important place in the beliefs of the Highlands. The rituals that surround it have been
recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity.
Wild beauty of Dray Nur Waterfalls - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Dray Nur Waterfall
Near Buon Ma Thuot is the Dray Nur waterfall, of wild beauty. A powerful wave of water tumbles down the rock face before crashing into the pool below. The waterfalls are most impressive when the flow is at its maximum and the sunlight reflects on the water. A little further away, the Dray Sap waterfall, although less imposing, offers a picturesque setting ideal for a picnic or simply to enjoy the surrounding nature.
Yok Don National Park
Easily accessible from Buon Ma Thuot, Yok Don National Park covers 115,000 hectares of protected, wild, and enchanting forest, home to a variety of wildlife. The park's tourist center offers the services of local guides, whose accompaniment is mandatory for visitors. In addition to safety, they share their knowledge and help to spot some of the many animal species that populate the area.
Although the park is home to rare and endangered species such as tigers, elephants, and leopards, excessive hunting makes their observation very rare. However, other animals such as wild monkeys and hundreds of species of colorful birds are more likely to be seen.
Accommodation is available in the park for those wishing to explore the wilderness for several days. Organized tours, of varying duration and level, sometimes include a night safari to maximize the chances of observing wildlife. The park also has four villages of ethnic minorities, three of which can be visited with a guide.
Other activities offered include boat trips, hikes to the Buddha waterfall, or simply relaxing in a hammock to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
Kon Tum church, a wooden masterpiece - Internet
KON TUM
Like Buon Ma Thuot, Kon Tum was devastated during the American-Vietnamese war. Today, the atmosphere is peaceful and welcoming, and the city is an excellent starting point for exploring the many ethnic minority villages around. Kon Tum also has some assets, including its Christian buildings. The architecture of the Montagnard church, which combines elements of the French colonial style and wood, is particularly remarkable. This beautiful, 100-year-old wooden church ranks among the top Catholic architectural masterpieces in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.
Around this peaceful town, several ethnic minorities live in traditional villages, mostly open to visitors, although it is recommended to be accompanied by a guide. The region has eight different minority groups, each with its own culture. However, there are similarities between the villages. As you travel through them, you will notice the importance of the communal houses, called rong. These raised wooden structures, with their imposing thatched roofs, are used for ceremonies and community activities.
Funeral rituals, visible in the elaborate cemeteries, are another fascinating aspect of local life. It is interesting to note that many villages have a Catholic church, testifying to the influence of the missionaries once exiled in the region. Music, and more specifically gongs, occupies an important place in the local culture. Lucky travelers may be able to attend a sacred performance.
When visiting the villages, especially accompanied by a local guide, it is not uncommon to be invited into houses or to events, revealing the hospitality and friendliness of the inhabitants. A common way to share a moment of conviviality is to drink rượu cần, a powerful glutinous rice wine, in a common jar using bamboo straws.
Bien Ho - Bien lake, aka Pleiku lake is a famous destination in this region - InternetPLEI KU
Like other regions of the Central Highlands, Pleiku was severely affected at the end of the American-Vietnamese war. Its strategic position made it a base for South Vietnamese and American troops, but the city was finally taken by the North Vietnamese in 1975. This defeat endangered many local and indigenous populations, who often lost their lives. The city, completely destroyed, was rebuilt in a modern and uninspiring style.
Pleiku also experienced unrest in the early 2000s with anti-government demonstrations that led to restrictions on tourist travel in the region. Some areas still require a permit or a tourist guide.
Despite these constraints, a trip through the preserved countryside and traditional villages is worthwhile. There are few places in Vietnam that have retained such a wild and authentic character. The rural charm and preserved culture, just outside the main city, are just waiting to be discovered. The geology of the region has created magnificent natural landscapes. The grandiose mountainous environment is the result of volcanic activity 30 million years ago.
Bien Ho Lake, a vast expanse of water located in a volcanic crater dormant for millions of years, is an example of the natural beauty of the region. Its charm lies in its wild and preserved aspect, far from any modern development. Early in the morning, the lake is revealed under the clouds that give way to the midday sun and the fresh mountain air. The calm and clear water changes color throughout the day, reflecting the sky that passes from bright blue to golden at sunset.
In addition to being an ideal place to relax in the heart of nature, the lake feeds many ethnic minority communities living on its shores. Villagers can often be seen fishing in the lake, sometimes competing with the kingfishers that dive for a catch.
The Phu Cuong waterfall is another place that has preserved its original beauty. This thundering waterfall is located in the heart of the countryside, surrounded by green vegetation and smooth and imposing rocks. It is best to visit it just after the rainy season, when the water flow is at its maximum, but access is possible safely throughout the year. The water that crashes on the rocks and falls into the pool below creates a refreshing mist. When the sun shines, its light is diffracted through the fall, creating a delicate rainbow that adds a touch of magic to this already magnificent landscape.
The architecture of Pleiku's religious buildings is also remarkable. The Minh Thanh Temple, south of the city, is a recent temple in Taiwanese style. Its red and gold nine-tiered pagoda is of resplendent beauty, especially under the midday sun. The grounds, equally captivating, are decorated with bonsai trees, lotus ponds and religious statues. In addition to the peaceful atmosphere and ornamentation, the temple features interesting works of art illustrating the tragic fate of the damned.
The Montagnard Church of Plei Chuet, another Catholic religious building, is distinguished by its architecture. Built in the traditional rong house style of the region, it presents a Catholic iconography while adapting to the style of the local community.
Pleiku is home to many ethnic minority communities, but their access is sometimes difficult due to traffic restrictions. It is therefore recommended to be accompanied by a guide. Visiting these villages offers an insight into the diversity of customs and traditions within the same region. The funeral rituals, particularly interesting, are visible in the cemeteries. The one in Plei Phun, for example, has original structures, sorts of small houses decorated with wooden sculptures, near each tomb. It is also an opportunity to discover the hospitality of local communities and learn more about their way of life.
Go Green
Mr. Linh's Adventures offers tailor-made tours in the Tay Nguyen region, designed for travelers seeking authenticity and sharing. Our tours will take you off the beaten track, to meet local people, discover the most preserved natural sites and taste the unique flavors of the region. Whether you are alone, as a couple, with family or friends, we have the tour that suits you.
Heritage
The gongs are considered sacred objets - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Tay Nguyen, or Central Highlands of Vietnam, is a region of great cultural richness, home to several ethnic minorities such as the Ba Na, E De, M'Nong and Gia Rai.
The Ba Na
The Ba Na, whose presence is concentrated mainly in the provinces of Gia Lai and Kon Tum, but also extends west to Binh Dinh, Phu Yên and Khanh Hoa. With a population of around 287,000 souls (in 2019), they speak a language belonging to the Mon-Khmer branch of the Austro-Asiatic languages. Their life, punctuated by slash-and-burn farming and the skills of their craftsmen (knitting, weaving, blacksmithing), takes place in traditional houses on stilts. Ba Na society is marked by a matrilineal structure where, after marriage, residence is established in the wife's family.
The Ê Đê
Not far away, the E De (or Rhade), with a population of around 271,000, are concentrated mainly in the provinces of Dak Lak, Gia Lai and Dak Nong. Their language, derived from the Malayo-Polynesian group, is echoed in their villages, where houses on stilts resemble boats. Also practicing shifting agriculture, the Ê Đê are renowned for their delicate crafts, notably weaving and basketry. Their culture is distinguished by a strong matriarchal tradition, enriched by dynamic folklore and craftsmanship.
The M'Nong
Further south, the M'Nông, whose population numbered around 127,334 in 2019, are mainly spread across the provinces of Dak Nông, Binh Phuoc, Dak Lak and Lâm Dông. Their language, also belonging to the Austroasiatic family, the Môn-Khmer group, unites them in villages called Bon, governed by a traditional electoral-type social organization. The M'Nông play an important cultural role in the region, perpetuating traditions that are unique to them.
The Gia Rai
Finally, the Gia Rai, whose presence is notable in the provinces of Gia Lai and Kon Tum, are an ethnic group sharing close cultural ties with the Ba Na. Their language, like that of their neighbors, belongs to the Mon-Khmer branch of the Austroasiatic languages. With a significant population of around 513,930 (according to 2019 data), the Gia Rai perpetuate a rich tradition of handicrafts and slash-and-burn agriculture. Like the Ba Na, their society is matrilineal, with similar matrimonial customs where post-nuptial residence is with the wife's family. These communities, each with their own specificities, weave the complex and fascinating fabric of the cultural heritage of the Central Highlands of Vietnam.age.
The Cultural Space of the Gongs
Among the cultural treasures of the Central Highlands, the
cultural space of the gongs stands out in particular, having been inscribed in 2008 on the representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity by
UNESCO.
The gongs are considered sacred objects that facilitate communication between humans and the spirit world. They are present in various rituals, including wedding ceremonies, harvest rites and funerals. Each ethnic group has its own traditions related to the use of gongs, which vary from village to village.
Festivals dedicated to gongs are organized every year in the five provinces of Tay Nguyen (Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Gia Lai, Kon Tum and Lam Dong), highlighting this unique tradition. These events not only celebrate local culture but also raise awareness of the need to preserve this heritage.
Food & Drinks
Grilled Chicken of Don Village - A must-eat in Tay Nguyen - Internet
The Central Highlands of Vietnam, with their distinctive geography and rich traditional cultures, offer a truly unique cuisine. Among the iconic specialties of this region are:
Gà nướng Bản Đôn (Grilled Chicken of Bản Đôn)
Once a prized dish of ethnic minorities, the grilled chicken of Bản Đôn is now an unmissable specialty for visitors to the Central Highlands. This flavorful dish is a source of pride for the local cuisine, symbolizing the union of mountain flavors and the craftsmanship of the indigenous people.
Cá lăng (Hemibagrus Fish)
The Cá lăng, a fish living in the wild waters of the Serepok River, is distinguished by its flesh, which is both delicious and subtly sweet. Once tasted, this unique flavor leaves a memorable impression. Particularly appreciated grilled and salted, it is traditionally enjoyed rolled in raw vegetables, green banana, noodles, and accompanied by a fish sauce with garlic and lemon. A blend of aromas that is simply irresistible.
Bò nướng đá (Grilled Beef on Stone)
Grilled beef on stone is one of the most original specialties of the Central Highlands. This spectacular dish showcases the marriage of flavors from the mountains and forests, enhanced by an inventive preparation. Thin slices of marinated beef are cooked on a basalt slab heated white-hot on incandescent pebbles. A delight for the taste buds as well as for the eyes.
Phở khô Gia Lai (Dry Pho of Gia Lai)
In Pleiku, the phở khô Gia Lai revisits traditional phở in a surprising way. Here, the rice noodles and meat are served separately from a fragrant broth. This comforting dish is usually seasoned with chili and garlic, providing a welcome inner warmth.
Cơm lam (Bamboo Rice)
Cơm lam, or bamboo rice, is another iconic dish of the region. Originally a practical method for cooking rice during long journeys in the mountains, this flavorful and fragrant dish has remained very popular. The rice is mixed with coconut water and seasonings before being inserted into a bamboo tube and cooked over hot coals.
Rượu cần (Tube Wine)
Rượu cần is a central element of the culinary culture of the Central Highlands. This glutinous rice wine is fermented for about a month in large terracotta jars with a mixture of herbs whose composition varies according to the villages. It is drunk directly from the jar using long bamboo straws. Rượu cần is indispensable during major occasions and for welcoming guests, the sharing of this drink creating a convivial and warm atmosphere.
Directions
Location
The Central Highlands of Vietnam are located in the heart of Vietnam, about 1,200 km from Hanoi and 350 km from Ho Chi Minh City.
How to get there
You can get to Tay Nguyen by plane, bus or train from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Ticket prices vary depending on the company, the season and the type of transport.
Best season
The best season to visit the Highlands is from November to April, during the dry season. The temperatures are pleasant and the sky is sunny.
The
Central Highlands of Vietnam, with their rich tapestry of cultures, stunning natural beauty, and historical significance, offer a unique and authentic travel experience.