Exploring the Coffee Capital of Vietnam: Buon Ma Thuot Adventure

Lakeside Calm and Garden Aromas

Today was a day of embracing the slower pace of life here in Buon Ma Thuot. After a few days of bustling markets and vibrant city streets, it felt right to dedicate a day to nature and relaxation. I was eager to explore beyond the coffee farms and delve into the natural beauty that Dak Lak province has to offer. With my friends in tow, we set out to discover Lắk Lake and Mộc Garden, two spots that promised serenity and sensory delights.


Discover the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Lăk Lake in Dak Lak, Vietnam, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bún Bò Huế Cố Đô. The rich, spicy broth of the bún bò Huế was exactly what we needed to kickstart our day. It reminded me of the flavors back home, a comforting warmth that prepared us for the adventures ahead. The restaurant was bustling with locals, a sure sign of its authenticity and quality. This version of the classic Hue noodle soup was a testament to the way culinary traditions evolve, adapting to local ingredients and preferences while retaining their essence.

Fueled and ready, we drove towards Lắk Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the Central Highlands. The drive itself was picturesque, with rolling hills and lush greenery accompanying us along the way. It's always a treat to escape the city and immerse ourselves in the countryside. As a financial analyst in Zurich, I spend most of my days crunching numbers and analyzing market trends. These moments of natural beauty are a welcome contrast, a reminder of the world beyond spreadsheets and stock prices. The air was fresh, carrying the scent of damp earth and distant wildflowers. The weather in Buon Ma Thuot during November is ideal for exploring, with cool, dry air making every excursion a pleasure.

Arriving at Lắk Lake, the vast expanse of water was a sight to behold. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, creating a tranquil atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. We decided to explore the lake by boat, hiring a local fisherman to take us on a tour in his traditional dugout canoe. As we glided across the water, the fisherman shared stories about the lake and the local M'nong people who call it home. He spoke of ancient legends, of a battle between fire and water gods, and of a hero who saved his village from drought. These stories, passed down through generations, gave the lake a sense of history and mystique. The M'nong people have a deep connection to the lake, relying on it for their livelihood and sustenance. We saw them fishing in their canoes, women collecting snails along the shore, and children playing in the shallows. Their lives are intertwined with the rhythm of the lake, a testament to the enduring power of nature.

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but in the stories it holds.

After our boat ride, we visited Jun Village, a traditional M'nong village on the shores of the lake. The village is known for its longhouses, traditional dwellings built on stilts. We were invited into one of the longhouses, where we met a family who shared their culture and traditions with us. They showed us their traditional clothing, their musical instruments, and their handicrafts. They even offered us some of their local rice wine, a potent brew that warmed us from the inside out. It was an intimate glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. I couldn't help but reflect on the differences between their lives and mine. In Zurich, life is fast-paced and technology-driven. Here, life is slower, more connected to nature, and rooted in community. Both have their charms, but there's something undeniably appealing about the simplicity and authenticity of life in Jun Village.


Discover the serene charm of Mộc Garden BMT in Buôn Ma Thuột, Vietnam—a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery and delightful local cuisine.

After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Lak Lake and the traditions of Jun Village, we were ready for a change of scenery. Our next stop was Mộc Garden BMT, a coffee studio and garden that promised a different kind of sensory experience. As we drove towards Mộc Garden, the landscape began to shift from open water and rolling hills to lush greenery and carefully manicured gardens. The air became thick with the aroma of coffee, a tantalizing preview of what awaited us.

Mộc Garden turned out to be a delightful surprise. It was a beautifully designed space, blending natural elements with artistic touches. The garden was filled with a variety of plants and flowers, creating a vibrant and colorful tapestry. There were cozy nooks and crannies, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a cup of coffee. And of course, there was the coffee itself. Mộc Garden takes its coffee seriously, sourcing beans from local plantations and roasting them in-house. We sampled a variety of brews, each with its own unique flavor profile. As a coffee enthusiast, I appreciated the attention to detail and the passion that went into every cup. Sipping on a rich, aromatic brew surrounded by the beauty of the garden, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. It was a perfect moment, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. Mei would have loved this place, I thought, picturing her among the flowers, a camera in hand, capturing the beauty of the garden.

For lunch, we stopped at Nhà Hàng - Khách Sạn Hoàng Kiêm Ban Mê, a local restaurant that came highly recommended. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with families and groups of friends enjoying a midday meal. We ordered a variety of local specialties, including grilled pork, fresh spring rolls, and a spicy seafood soup. The food was delicious, a testament to the fresh ingredients and the skilled chefs. It was a satisfying meal that fueled us for the rest of the day's adventures.

As evening approached, we found ourselves at Moon Bar & Grill, a rooftop bar that offered stunning views of the city. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with music playing and people laughing and chatting. We ordered some drinks and watched as the sun began to set, painting the sky with vibrant colors. It was a perfect way to end the day, a chance to reflect on our experiences and enjoy the company of friends. Sipping on my drink, I thought about Wei. I imagined him pointing at the city lights, his eyes wide with wonder. I made a mental note to bring him here someday, to share this experience with him.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we grabbed dinner at Quán Cơm 108, a local cơm bình dân spot known for its hearty, affordable meals. It was simple, satisfying, and a perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery. Cơm bình dân is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, offering a wide variety of dishes at affordable prices. It's a great way to sample local flavors and experience the everyday life of the city. After dinner, we strolled through the night market, soaking in the atmosphere and picking up a few souvenirs. The market was filled with vendors selling everything from clothing and handicrafts to street food and snacks. It was a sensory overload, a vibrant mix of sights, sounds, and smells. As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this experience. Buon Ma Thuot had exceeded my expectations, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and culinary delights.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Serepok Garden - Khu Du Lịch Sinh Thái and Buon Ma Thuot Square. I'm looking forward to seeing what these attractions have to offer and continuing our exploration of this fascinating city. Perhaps we'll stumble upon another hidden gem, another unforgettable experience. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of today, of the tranquil lake, the fragrant garden, and the warm hospitality of the Vietnamese people.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day, I'm reminded of a quote from the great Vietnamese poet Nguyễn Du:

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

And so, our journey in Buon Ma Thuot continues, one step at a time, one experience at a time. Each day brings new discoveries, new insights, and new memories to cherish. And as we continue to explore this beautiful country, I'm confident that we'll uncover even more hidden treasures along the way.