Ta Dung National Park

The Central Highlands of Vietnam has risen as a new destination that attracts the most savvy travellers by its pristine nature and rich culture of ethnic minorities. Ta Dung National Park, precedingly known as Ta Dung Nature Reserve, is a favourite spot on the journey to the Central Highlands of many people.

Located in Dak Glong District, Dak Nong Province, Ta Dung National Park is surrounded by the Dak Nong and Di Linh plateaus. This expansive area of approximately 22,000 hectares features about 40 islands scattered across a vast lake, serving as a habitat for numerous plant and animal species. Ta Dung Lake showcases breathtaking scenery reminiscent of Ha Long Bay, a renowned destination in northern Vietnam, earning it the nickname “the inland Ha Long Bay” in the Central Highlands. In addition to its role as a tourist hotspot, this nature reserve is crucial for research and the preservation of unique ecosystems and endangered species.

Ta Dung Geopark

Attractions

Visitors to Ta Dung National Park are often captivated by its stunning landscapes. The park’s lakeside covers around 5,000 hectares, comprising over 40 islands and peninsulas of various shapes and sizes, undulating on its picturesque surface. On clear spring days with high water levels, you may even catch glimpses of fish swimming among the lush green algae. This area boasts an extraordinarily diverse ecosystem, including more than 1,000 species of flora and fauna, some of which are listed as endangered on Vietnam's Red List. The park hosts numerous wildlife species, including leopards, doucs, gibbons, pythons, and various rare snakes.

As an important nature reserve, Ta Dung National Park has minimal artificial impacts, ensuring an authentic natural experience. While it does not offer many man-made entertainment options, visitors can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that contrasts sharply with bustling urban life.

Activities

Take a boat tour

Ta Dung Lake resembles a vast green mirror, reflecting the verdant hues of surrounding mountains and forests. There is no better vantage point for sweeping views of the entire area than from a boat in the center of the lake. As you navigate the water, you can enter serene oases where you will gain an up-close perspective of the lake’s unique topography. Moreover, while cruising, you may spot floating rafts of local Ma people, gaining insights into their fishing lifestyle and rich cultural stories.

Explore springs and waterfalls

A trek deep into the forest during the summer months reveals refreshing water springs that provide an excellent respite from the heat. Visitors can discover Dak N’teng and Dak P’lao springs, which cascade over rocks to form majestic waterfalls like the Sun Waterfall and Dak Plao Waterfall. The journey to these waterfalls requires navigating large rocks and ancient trees. Further in, you will find Digne Klan waterfall, covered with flat rocks and shaded by a dense tree canopy, making it an ideal campsite for overnight stays.

Camping

Ta Dung National Park is considered one of the premier camping destinations in Vietnam's Central Highlands due to its pristine environment and the community's conservation efforts. Camping at Ta Dung Lake is a unique experience that no visitor should miss. After your boat tour, those opting for an overnight stay will be escorted to designated camping areas, complete with essential amenities such as tents, sleeping bags, and kitchenware. Campsites allow you to either bring your food or order a BBQ meal from the service center.

Camping and watching the sunrise over Ta Dung

Best time to visit

Central Highlands weather is akin to other regions in southern Vietnam, categorized into a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season lasts from May to October, while the dry season encompasses the remaining months. Serving as a reservoir for the Dong Nai Hydropower Plant, Ta Dung Lake’s water level fluctuates throughout the year. To experience Ta Dung National Park at its fullest, it is best to visit between July and December, when the water levels peak, creating a stunning emerald surface. While visiting during the rainy season is possible, rains typically occur at night, allowing for uninterrupted daytime exploration. Occasional daytime showers can cool the heat, enhancing the overall experience.

If you visit on weekends, you can also enjoy the weekly market of the H'Mong people, gaining insight into their rich indigenous culture.

How to get there

Ta Dung National Park is approximately 300 km from Ho Chi Minh City and 160 km from Buon Ma Thuot City. The recommended transportation is a shuttle bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Gia Nghia town, which takes about 5 hours and costs between VND 120,000 and VND 400,000. From Gia Nghia, you can take a taxi or rent a motorbike for a one-hour ride to the park.

Alternatively, adventurous backpackers may prefer to ride motorcycles from Buon Ma Thuot. You can travel through Dak Nong or the Di Linh plateau, following National Highway 28 to reach Ta Dung National Park. Although the journey takes about 4 hours, the breathtaking mountain landscapes along the way make the effort worthwhile.

For travelers coming from northern Vietnam, flying from Hanoi or Hai Phong to Buon Ma Thuot is the most convenient option, followed by a taxi or private vehicle to Ta Dung National Park.

Ticket details

Visitors to Ta Dung National Park are required to pay an entrance fee of VND 50,000, allowing access to the park's natural landscapes. Ta Dung Lake, a highlight of the area, is a must-see. For a complete experience, consider joining a boat tour, with rental prices set at VND 1,000,000 for a group of up to 15 guests. If your group is smaller, the staff is happy to assist in combining groups, reducing individual costs and offering the chance to meet new friends during the journey.