Gia Long Waterfall
A natural oasis near Buon Ma Thuot with a popular swimming hole and scenic cascades, offering an affordable escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Gia Long Waterfall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural oasis near Buon Ma Thuot with a popular swimming hole and scenic cascades, offering an affordable escape.
"Beautiful place to spend the day, but be prepared for litter and elephant welfare concerns. "
🚗 Easy Access Road
Opt for the road over the path to the swimming hole for a much easier walk. :athletic_shoe:
♻️ Pack Out Your Trash
Help keep this beautiful spot clean by taking your litter with you. :recycle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Main Swimming Hole
First waterfall area
A refreshing natural pool perfect for a dip on a hot day. Accessible via a road for easier access.
Upper Waterfalls
7km further from the main area
Discover two smaller, less developed falls for a more secluded experience.
Elephant Rides
Designated area
An option for a short ride, though some find the conditions for the elephants concerning.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Trash
Navigating Entry & Elephant Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access Road
Opt for the road over the path to the swimming hole for a much easier walk. :athletic_shoe:
♻️ Pack Out Your Trash
Help keep this beautiful spot clean by taking your litter with you. :recycle:
💰 Bypass Fee (with caution)
A dirt track may offer a way to avoid the entrance fee if you have a suitable bike. :motorcycle:
🐘 Elephant Welfare Concerns
Be aware that elephants are chained; consider this before opting for rides. :elephant:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access Road
Opt for the road over the path to the swimming hole for a much easier walk. :athletic_shoe:
♻️ Pack Out Your Trash
Help keep this beautiful spot clean by taking your litter with you. :recycle:
💰 Bypass Fee (with caution)
A dirt track may offer a way to avoid the entrance fee if you have a suitable bike. :motorcycle:
🐘 Elephant Welfare Concerns
Be aware that elephants are chained; consider this before opting for rides. :elephant:
🎶 Loud Music at Entrance
Expect loud music near the entrance, which can be off-putting for some. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gia Long Waterfall is a budget-friendly natural escape with a refreshing swimming hole, though it's marred by significant litter and concerns over elephant welfare. Visitors appreciate the low cost and natural beauty, but many are disappointed by the environmental upkeep and the treatment of the animals. +1
"Beautiful place to spend the day-Hint: if just want to hang out at the swimming hole take the road rather than the path. It’s a lot easier walk if you’re elderly are out of shape."
Chip Stoecker
"If you wish to access this site and have a good dirt road bike then it's possible to avoid paying the ticket by passing through the dirt track souther. Else it's 40k and then 5k to park at first waterfall. They advertise 2 falls but in fact there is 3. The two others are 7km further than the first and are nearly not developed. They're also very small."
DominiQC Asean
"Like many Vietnamese nature areas, there is garbage everywhere. I actually watched somebody walking in front of me throw trash on the ground so I cleaned up after her. I don't know why people think throwing trash in the jungle is normal. Even worse, though, is the suffering of the elephants. They have elephants chained in place. They can't move. They stand there bored, rocking back and forth for hours. It must be torture for them. If you love nature and animals, don't come here."
Russell Gross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gia Long Waterfall is located about 2 km from Buon Ma Thuot city. You can reach it by motorbike or car. Some visitors mention a dirt track that might allow you to bypass the main entrance fee if you have a suitable bike.
Yes, there is parking available at the first waterfall area. There's a small fee for parking.
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are available in Buon Ma Thuot and can take you to Gia Long Waterfall. It's advisable to arrange a return trip or ensure your driver is willing to wait.
The main road to the first waterfall and swimming hole is generally accessible. However, some visitors mention a dirt track that can be used to avoid the entrance fee, which would require a motorbike.
Gia Long Waterfall is a known tourist spot near Buon Ma Thuot. Following GPS or asking locals should help you find it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is quite affordable, around 40,000 VND (under 2 USD). There's an additional small fee for parking.
The main entrance fee covers access to the first waterfall and swimming area. The two upper waterfalls are further along and may not require an additional fee, but they are less developed.
Some visitors suggest that a dirt track accessible by motorbike might allow you to bypass the official entrance and fee. However, this is not guaranteed and may depend on road conditions.
While specific hours aren't always published, it's generally considered a daytime attraction. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
No, tickets are typically purchased on-site upon arrival. It's not usually necessary to book in advance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the main waterfall's pool, explore the surrounding nature, and visit the two smaller upper waterfalls. Elephant rides are also offered. +1
Yes, the main waterfall area has a popular swimming hole that's great for cooling off. The water is generally clear and refreshing.
Basic facilities are usually available, though their condition can vary. It's advisable to manage expectations regarding cleanliness and amenities.
It can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Visiting on weekdays is recommended for a more peaceful experience.
Unfortunately, litter is a common issue at Gia Long Waterfall, with many visitors noting trash scattered around. Management efforts to clean the area seem limited.
🎫 🐘 Animal Welfare
Yes, elephants are present at Gia Long Waterfall and are offered for rides.
Some visitors have expressed concern about the welfare of the elephants, noting they are chained and appear bored.
This is a personal decision. While rides are available, be aware of the welfare concerns raised by some visitors before deciding. +1
The focus is primarily on the waterfalls and the elephants. Other wildlife may be present in the natural surroundings, but are not a main attraction.
Information on feeding the elephants is not readily available. It's best to follow any guidelines provided by the staff or avoid feeding them to ensure their health and safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be aware of the elephant rides offered. While some families might enjoy this, it's important to consider the ethical implications and the welfare of the animals, as noted by some visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and water to save on expenses, as dining options might be limited or pricier. The natural beauty and swimming opportunities are the main draw, offering great value for money without needing expensive tours or activities.
🌿 Nature & Animal Lovers
Animal lovers should approach the elephant encounters with caution. While rides are available, the conditions of the chained elephants have raised ethical concerns among visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfalls
Beyond the primary attraction, the site boasts two additional, smaller waterfalls located about 7 kilometers further upstream. These upper falls are less developed and offer a more natural, secluded experience for those willing to venture further.
Key Takeaway: The main waterfall is easily accessible and great for swimming, while the upper falls offer a more rustic adventure.
Environmental Concerns and Visitor Impact
Compounding these environmental issues are concerns about animal welfare, specifically regarding the elephants kept at the site. Visitors have observed elephants chained and exhibiting signs of distress, leading to ethical questions about the elephant rides offered.
Community Advice: Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their waste and consider bringing a bag to collect any litter they find, helping to preserve the area for future visitors.
Navigating Entry and Costs
It's worth noting that the 'two falls' advertised might be a bit misleading, as the two upper falls are significantly further and much smaller than the main attraction.
Pro Tip: If you're on a tight budget and have a suitable motorbike, exploring the dirt track option could save you the entrance fee.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit