Walkabout Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak, Vietnam

In this episode, I took a journey on one of Vietnam's infamous long-distance sleeper buses—a 13-hour overnight adventure from Da Nang to Dak Lak. With the family in tow, we explored the local cuisine, vibrant culture, and the rich agricultural landscape of the Central Highlands, including a visit to a durian farm and the fascinating World Coffee Museum in Buon Ma Thuot.

This region, nestled in Vietnam’s western mountains, is a hidden gem that many foreign tourists rarely venture to explore. Visiting in the heart of summer, we were greeted by cool mornings and evenings, a welcome reprieve from the tropical heat. The people here are some of the friendliest I’ve encountered, making the experience even more memorable.

Our trip started on one of the older sleeper buses—far from luxury but still equipped with the basics. Each berth had a pillow, blanket, and a small TV that unfortunately didn’t work. While not the most comfortable beds, they were manageable for the night ahead. The bus journey was a bit of an endurance test; as we wound through towns and villages, the constant honking and vibrations made it hard to sleep. Despite the challenges, it’s these kinds of experiences that make you appreciate the comforts of home.

Upon arrival in Dak Lak early in the morning, we dove right into exploring the area. We visited a small farm where grapefruit, durian, and avocados thrive under the care of local farmers. It was a perfect way to start the day, enjoying fresh produce and learning about the agricultural traditions that define this part of the country.

Breakfast took us to a tiny hole-in-the-wall spot, where we sat on little plastic chairs and savored some of the best bánh xèo I’ve had in a long time. There’s nothing quite like enjoying local food in an unassuming setting—it’s one of the simple pleasures of travel.

We continued our journey through the backstreets and hidden alleys, discovering everything from small supermarkets packed with essentials to a badminton court tucked away in a nondescript building. It’s always a thrill to stumble upon these local gems that tourists often miss.

One highlight was the World Coffee Museum, a must-visit for anyone coming to Dak Lak. As the second-largest coffee producer in the world, the region takes great pride in its coffee heritage. The museum, sponsored by the Trung Nguyen coffee brand, is beautifully designed and offers a deep dive into the history of coffee, not just in Vietnam but globally. It’s a well-curated space with fascinating exhibits and, of course, delicious coffee samples. The architecture and layout are stunning, making it a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon.

After a few days of indulging in amazing food and exploring the local culture, it was time to head back to Da Nang. Given our less-than-comfortable bus experience on the way up, we decided to take the overnight train for our return journey. But first, we made a quick stop in Nha Trang, where we enjoyed a short but scenic ride along the beach, soaking in the lively atmosphere of the coastal city.

The train ride back to Da Nang was a significant upgrade from our bus adventure. The VIP bus to Nha Trang was a smooth three-hour ride, and the train itself offered comfortable berths—ideal for catching up on some much-needed rest. Riding through the night, we were lulled to sleep by the gentle swaying of the train, a welcome contrast to the bumpy bus ride.

This trip to Buon Ma Thuot and the Central Highlands was an unforgettable experience. From the bustling local markets to the serene temple visits and the deep dive into Vietnam’s coffee culture, it was a journey that highlighted the beauty and diversity of this lesser-known region. I hope more travelers take the time to explore this amazing part of Vietnam.