Dak Lak

Located 1,410 km from Hanoi and 320 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Buon Ma Thuot is the capital city of Dak Lak and is renowned as one of the most famous destinations in Vietnam, particularly for its exceptional coffee, often referred to as some of the best in Southeast Asia.

Dak Lak Province spans an area of 13,085 km², accounting for approximately 3.9% of Vietnam’s total land area. Situated on the southwestern slope of the Annamite Range, Dak Lak features a predominantly mountainous landscape, with about 35% of its area comprised of highlands and mountains. The average elevation ranges from 1,000 to 1,200 meters above sea level. The province’s highest peaks include Chu Yang Sin (2,442 m), Chu H’Mu (2,051 m), Chu De (1,793 m), and Chu Yang Pel (1,600 m). In the center of Dak Lak lies a vast expanse of highland that constitutes 53% of the province's natural area, with an average elevation of 450 meters. Notably, one-third of Dak Lak is composed of fertile basalt soil, which is critical for the development of its coffee, rubber, and pepper industries.
Photo: dulichdaicoviet.com

Dak Lak is considered one of the most promising provinces in Vietnam for tourism development due to its rich history, natural attractions, and vibrant cultural heritage. A prime example is Ban Don, a village that has gained international recognition for its traditions of elephant hunting and taming. Additionally, Buon Ma Thuot is celebrated as a "Capital of Coffee" globally.
Photo: anhungcoffee.com

The vibrant culture of Dak Lak is manifest in various art forms, including the epic tales of Dam San and Xinh Nha, as well as the languages spoken by the Ede and H’mong ethnic groups. Traditional musical instruments such as the lithophone, T’rung, and K’long Put are quintessential to the region. Furthermore, Dak Lak is part of the Space of Gong Culture in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, which UNESCO recognized as a Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity on November 25, 2005. The region also boasts an impressive architectural panorama, including thousands of traditional stilt houses, where furnishings are meticulously crafted from local hardwoods.
Photo: sites.google.com

With 44 ethnic groups residing in Dak Lak, the province offers a culinary landscape rich in diversity, showcasing dishes from the northern, central, and southern regions of Vietnam. Among the culinary delights not to be overlooked are the Ban Don Grilled Chicken and the unique Ama Kong Wine—both must-try experiences during your visit to Dak Lak.