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 Thout 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.