Destinations in Dak Lak

Buon Don

A land of rivers, forests and old villages on the Serepok River, known for its bamboo suspension bridges, its stilt houses and its long history with elephants.

Distance

About 45 km from Buon Ma Thuot

Time needed

1 to 2 days

Best time

November to April

Good for

Culture, nature, homestays

Overview

Where the Highlands Meet the Serepok

Buon Don lies north-west of Buon Ma Thuot, close to the border with Cambodia and to Yok Don National Park. M’nong, Ede and Lao families have lived here for generations, and their houses and customs still shape the villages.

For a long time Buon Don was famous across Vietnam for its elephant catchers. Today the focus has moved to protecting elephants, and visitors come for the river, the villages and a quiet night in a homestay.

Highlights

Bamboo suspension bridges
Old stilt houses
The Serepok River
Village homestays

Things to do

What to See and Do

Cross the Suspension Bridges

Bamboo and rope bridges cross channels of the Serepok between small islands shaded by old trees.

Visit Old Stilt Houses

See traditional wooden stilt houses, including the old house of a famous elephant catcher, built in a style that shows Lao influence.

Learn About Elephant History

Hear how people once caught and trained wild elephants, and how the region now works to protect the animals that remain.

Spend a Night in a Homestay

Stay with a local family, share a home-cooked dinner and wake up early to see the river in the morning light.

Practical information

Good to Know Before You Go

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from about November to April, is the best time for walking and cycling, and the river is lower and calmer. In the rainy season the landscape is green, but some paths near the river can be muddy.

How to Get There

Buon Don is about 45 km from Buon Ma Thuot, around one hour by car. Visit on a day trip or ride there by bike and stay overnight.

What to Eat and Drink

Grilled river fish
Com lam, rice cooked in bamboo
Bamboo shoots and wild vegetables
Ruou can, rice wine from a shared jar

Local Tips

Walk the bridges carefully; they move as you cross
Ask before photographing people and houses
Bring insect repellent for the evening
Elephant riding has stopped in Buon Don; today you meet the elephants on foot and learn about the people who cared for them

Visit with Lak Tours