Exploring the Coffee Capital of Vietnam: Buon Ma Thuot Adventure

Day 2: Waterfalls and Highlands Culture

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and local culture of Buon Ma Thuot. After a restful night, I was eager to explore the majestic waterfalls and savor the authentic flavors of the region. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded my Zurich office for a life on the road, even if just for a little while.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Quán Ăn Quốc Án. The restaurant was bustling with locals, always a good sign, and the aroma of Vietnamese coffee filled the air. I opted for a steaming bowl of *bún bò Huế*, a spicy beef noodle soup that’s a regional specialty. Mei, ever the adventurous eater, tried a local pastry filled with coconut and mung bean. Fuelled up, we were ready for our waterfall adventure. I was looking forward to capturing some great shots with my camera.

Our first stop was Đray Nur Waterfall, about 25 kilometers south of Buon Ma Thuot. The drive itself was stunning, winding through lush coffee plantations. It's easy to see why this region is known as the coffee capital of Vietnam. The air was fresh and crisp, a welcome change from the often-stuffy atmosphere of Zurich. As we approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. The falls are most impressive between May and November, so we were in luck to see it in its full glory.

When we arrived at Đray Nur, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The water cascaded down from a height of over 30 meters, creating a misty spray that enveloped the area. The falls stretch over 250 meters in length, making for a spectacular sight. The local Ede people call it the Wife Waterfall. The scene was straight out of Jurassic Park, mist-soaked jungles and legends that gave me goosebumps. I spent a good hour just taking photos, trying to capture the power and beauty of the falls. Wei would have loved running around here, perhaps next time I'll bring the family.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Dray Nur Waterfall, a stunning natural gem in Dak Lak, Vietnam, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

The constant roar of the waterfall, day and night, echoes the strength of the great forest, filled with pride and raw power.

We then explored the cave behind the waterfall, a vast cavern stretching nearly 3,000 square meters. Walking behind the curtain of water was an exhilarating experience, offering a unique perspective of the falls. The sunlight filtering through the water created a magical, otherworldly ambiance. I could only imagine what Wei would think of this adventure, he loves caves!

After Đray Nur, we visited Khu Du lịch Sinh thái Văn hóa Cụm Thác Đray Sáp - Gia Long, a nearby eco-tourism area. This area provides access to both Đray Nur and Đray Sáp waterfalls via a series of bridges. The landscape was dotted with restaurants and recreational areas, making it a perfect spot for tourists to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Though we didn't spend too long here, it was a pleasant contrast to the raw power of Đray Nur. According to local legend, the Dray Nur Waterfall is connected to a Romeo and Juliet-style love story of the mountains.


Explore the breathtaking Dray Sap Waterfall in Dak Nong, Vietnam, an ecotourism gem showcasing stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we stopped at Quán Mẹ Phích, a local eatery known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. I ordered *gà nướng cơm lam*, grilled chicken with rice cooked in bamboo tubes, a Central Highlands specialty. The chicken was tender and flavorful, infused with local spices, and the rice had a unique smoky aroma from the bamboo. Mei tried *bánh xèo*, crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. We shared stories and laughed, enjoying the simple pleasures of good food and good company. It reminded me of our early days in Zurich, discovering hidden culinary gems together.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Quán Mẹ Phích – a family-friendly restaurant in Buôn Ma Thuột perfect for all ages.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Buon Ma Thuot and decided to explore the city a bit. We wandered through the local market, a vibrant hub of activity with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to colorful textiles. I picked up a few souvenirs for Mei and Wei, including a hand-woven scarf and some locally grown coffee beans. I am looking forward to trying them out back in Zurich.

As evening approached, we decided to try Atrani Bistro Buôn Mê Thuột for dinner. While I am here to enjoy local cuisine, it was nice to have some Western food for a change. The bistro had a trendy, luxurious ambiance, and the menu featured a variety of Western dishes with a Vietnamese twist. I opted for a steak with pepper sauce, while Mei chose a pasta dish with seafood. The cocktails were also excellent, particularly the light chill cocktails. It was a delightful end to a day filled with adventure and cultural immersion. It's interesting to see how Buon Ma Thuot balances its traditional culture with modern influences.


Discover the rich flavors of Vietnam at Atrani Bistro in Buôn Mê Thuột - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.

To cap off the night, we headed to Ngã 6 Pub, a popular local bar known for its Latin music and vibrant atmosphere. The pub had both indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a great view of the Buon Ma Thuot intersection. The music was lively, and the crowd was a mix of locals and tourists. I enjoyed a cold beer while Mei sipped on a cocktail. We even tried our hand at some salsa dancing, much to the amusement of our friends. It was a fun, energetic way to end the day, and I even managed to pick up a few new dance moves.


Experience the vibrant nightlife and exquisite flavors at Ngã 6 Pub in Buôn Ma Thuột, Vietnam's hidden gem for cocktails and local cuisine.

As I sit here writing this, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences today. From the majestic waterfalls to the delicious food and lively nightlife, Buon Ma Thuot has truly captured my heart. It’s a place where nature and culture blend seamlessly, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, where we plan to visit The World Coffee Museum and Trohbu Botanic Garden. It will be interesting to delve deeper into the coffee culture of this region, as well as explore more of its natural beauty.

This trip is certainly different from my usual business trips, but I find that I am learning a lot about myself and the world around me. It's a reminder that there is more to life than spreadsheets and financial reports. Sometimes, you just need to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unknown. Buon Ma Thuot has certainly provided that opportunity, and I am excited to see what the rest of the trip holds.

I'm hoping to find some time to explore the villages of the Ede people near Dray Nur Waterfall, known for their unique textiles and cultural traditions. I'm also curious about the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival, which celebrates the region's coffee heritage with various activities. I am looking forward to sharing my experiences with you all, and hopefully inspiring you to embark on your own adventures. After all, life is too short to stay in one place. Time to recharge and get ready for another day of exploration!

I think I will have some *cà phê sữa đá* before bed. Good night!