Destinations in Dak Lak
Yok Don National Park
Vietnam’s largest national park: open dry forest along the Serepok River, stretching from Buon Don toward the Cambodian border.
Distance
About 40 km from Buon Ma Thuot
Time needed
1 day
Best time
November to April
Good for
Forest, wildlife, river
Overview
A Forest Unlike Anywhere Else in Vietnam
Yok Don is the largest national park in Vietnam, north-west of Buon Ma Thuot in Buon Don district. Most of it is dry dipterocarp forest, an open woodland that turns green in the rainy season and golden in the dry months, cut through by the Serepok River.
The park borders Cambodia, and its forests shelter many birds and shy mammals. It is a place for slow walks, river views and quiet, not for crowds.
Highlights
- Open dipterocarp forest
- The Serepok River
- Birdlife and shy wildlife
- Buon Don villages nearby
Things to do
What to See and Do
Forest Walks
Walk with a park guide through the open forest; mornings are best for birds and wildlife.
Along the Serepok
Follow the river past rapids, sandbanks and old trees on the banks.
Buon Don Villages
Combine the park with the bamboo bridges and stilt houses of Buon Don.
Elephant Heritage
Yok Don stopped elephant riding in 2018. On its elephant-friendly program you walk with a ranger to watch elephants feed and bathe freely by the Serepok River.
Practical information
Good to Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
The dry season, from about November to April, is the easiest time to walk in the forest, and the light through the bare trees is beautiful. In the rainy season the forest turns green but some tracks get muddy.
How to Get There
Yok Don and Buon Don are about one hour by car from Buon Ma Thuot. Some areas near the border need special permits, which we arrange for our guests.
What to Eat and Drink
- Grilled river fish
- Com lam, rice cooked in bamboo
- Bamboo shoots and wild vegetables
- Bring water and snacks for forest walks
Local Tips
- Start early; wildlife is most active in the morning
- Wear long trousers and use insect repellent
- Keep your voice down to see more birds and animals
- Bring binoculars if you have them
Visit with Lak Tours
Treks in Yok Don
Buon Don
Yok Don Jungle Trek
Two or three days on foot through Vietnam's largest national park, along the Serepok River and deep into open dry forest, starting from Buon...
Plan a Trip to Yok Don
Combine the forest with a night in Buon Don, or visit on a day trip with your own driver.