Tay Nguyen, the majestic basalt land with vast coffee forests and unique cultural identity, is always a dream destination for nature lovers and explorers. In the heart of this grand landscape, Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls emerge like emerald jewels, possessing pristine, magnificent beauty and romantic love stories. If you are planning a trip to Tay Nguyen and want to witness the beauty of these two waterfalls firsthand, this article will be your detailed travel guide, helping you have a complete and memorable journey. Let’s explore the exciting things waiting for you at Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls with “Du lịch khắp thế gian”!
Introduction to Dray Nur and Dray Sap Waterfalls
Located on the legendary Serepok River, Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls are situated in Dak Lak and Dak Nong provinces, about 25-30km south of Buon Ma Thuot city center. These two waterfalls are not only famous for their natural beauty but also associated with a sad but romantic love legend of an E De couple.
Legend has it that long ago, there was a talented and beautiful couple deeply in love by the Serepok River. The boy was the son of a wealthy tribe leader, while the girl came from a poor family. Their love was fiercely opposed by the boy’s family. In deep sorrow and despair, the lovers jumped into the river together, vowing to be together forever. Moved by their noble love, the Serepok River split into two branches: the Krong Kno branch (Male River) creating the majestic Dray Sap waterfall, symbolizing the strong husband; the Krong Ana branch (Female River) creating the gentle Dray Nur waterfall, symbolizing the gentle wife.
Since then, Dray Nur waterfall has also been called Wife waterfall, Dray Sap waterfall is called Husband waterfall, and this waterfall complex has become a symbol of eternal love, attracting visitors from all over to admire and learn about. Moreover, Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls are located in an area with a diverse ecosystem, surrounded by primeval forests, creating a pristine, fresh, and extremely attractive natural space.
Aerial view of Dray Sap and Dray Nur waterfalls, where the Serepok River splits into two branches
Directions and Transportation to Dray Nur and Dray Sap Waterfalls
To visit Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls, you can choose from various means of transportation depending on your starting point and personal preferences.
From Buon Ma Thuot City:
This is the most common starting point to reach Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls. You can travel by the following means:
- Motorbike: This is a popular choice for many tourists, especially young people who love exploring and freedom. From the center of Buon Ma Thuot, follow National Highway 14 south for about 25km. At the Cu Jut junction, turn left and go another 10km to reach the Dray Sap waterfall tourist area. The road is quite easy to navigate, and you can combine it with sightseeing along the way.
- Self-drive car or car rental: If you are traveling in a large group or want privacy, a car is a suitable option. The route is similar to motorbike, with a travel time of about 45-60 minutes.
- Bus: In Buon Ma Thuot, there is bus route number 13 to Krong No. You can take this bus and get off at the Cu Jut junction, then take a motorbike taxi or taxi to the Dray Sap waterfall tourist area (about 10km). However, this option will take longer and is not flexible in terms of schedule.
- Taxi or ride-hailing service: This is a convenient and fast option, suitable for those who do not want to drive themselves. Taxi or ride-hailing fares from Buon Ma Thuot to Dray Sap waterfall range from 300,000 to 400,000 VND.
- Tour package: If you want an all-inclusive trip and don’t want to worry about transportation and meals, you can book a Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfall tour from travel companies in Buon Ma Thuot.
From other provinces/cities:
If you are coming from other provinces/cities, you can travel to Buon Ma Thuot by plane, bus, or train, and then continue to Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls using the means mentioned above. Buon Ma Thuot Airport has flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Buon Ma Thuot bus station has many bus routes to and from provinces/cities across the country.
Transportation Notes:
- The road to Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls is quite easy to travel, but you should pay attention to speed and obey traffic laws, especially when traveling by motorbike.
- It is advisable to bring a map or use a map application on your phone to avoid getting lost.
- If traveling during the rainy season, the road may be slippery, so you should be more careful when traveling.
Discovering the Majestic Beauty of Dray Nur Waterfall
Dray Nur waterfall, also known as Wife waterfall, is just a short distance from Dray Sap waterfall, separated by a suspension bridge spanning the Serepok River. The waterfall has a gentle, romantic beauty, just like its name. From a distance, Dray Nur waterfall appears like a soft white silk strip across the cliffs, with water cascading down from a height of over 30m, creating white foam and a very poetic and charming scene.
Approaching Dray Nur waterfall, you will feel the majesty and power of nature. The roar of the waterfall echoes throughout the mountains and forests, harmonizing with the chirping of birds and the rustling of wind through the trees, creating a wonderful symphony of the Tay Nguyen mountains and forests.
Unmissable experiences at Dray Nur waterfall:
- Admire the waterfall from the suspension bridge: The suspension bridge across the Serepok River is an ideal spot to admire the panoramic view of Dray Nur waterfall. From here, you can admire the powerful waterfall cascading down, the misty haze surrounding the waterfall, and the green natural scenery.
- Explore the cave: Behind Dray Nur waterfall hides a fairly large natural cave. You can follow the small path to explore this cave, admire the unique stalactites, and feel the coolness and mystery of the cave.
- Swim in the waterfall: At the foot of Dray Nur waterfall, there are natural clear, cool pools. You can freely swim, relax in the clear water, and enjoy the refreshing feeling amidst pristine nature. However, it is necessary to choose a safe area and not swim in areas with danger warning signs.
- Forest trekking: Around Dray Nur waterfall, there are many trails leading into the primeval forest. You can go forest trekking, explore the diverse ecosystem of the area, admire rare plants, and breathe in the fresh air.
- Take souvenir photos: With its wonderful natural beauty, Dray Nur waterfall is an ideal place to take unique and impressive souvenir photos.
Dray Nur waterfall appears like a soft white silk strip amidst the green forest
Experiencing the Power of Dray Sap Waterfall
Dray Sap waterfall, also known as Husband waterfall, is not far from Dray Nur waterfall. If Dray Nur waterfall has a gentle beauty, Dray Sap impresses with its majesty, power, and wildness. Dray Sap waterfall is about 50m high and about 100m long, and is known as the most beautiful and majestic waterfall in Tay Nguyen.
Standing in front of Dray Sap waterfall, you will be overwhelmed by the water cascading down from above like a flood, with white foam spreading across the area. The sound of the waterfall is deafening, drowning out conversations, creating a powerful and majestic sound. Surrounding Dray Sap waterfall are vertical cliffs and ancient mossy trees, further enhancing the pristine and mysterious beauty of the waterfall.
Interesting experiences at Dray Sap waterfall:
- Admire the waterfall from multiple angles: Dray Sap waterfall has many different viewpoints, allowing you to admire the waterfall from various angles. You can admire the waterfall from above, from the foot of the waterfall, or from the surrounding rocks to fully appreciate the majestic beauty of the waterfall.
- Explore the suspension bridge: At Dray Sap waterfall, there is also a suspension bridge spanning the river. Walking on the suspension bridge, you can admire the panoramic view of Dray Sap waterfall and the surrounding natural scenery.
- Ride a dugout canoe: Another interesting experience at Dray Sap waterfall is riding a dugout canoe on the Serepok River. You will float on the river, admire Dray Sap waterfall from a completely new perspective, and feel the peace and romance of the river.
- Visit the special-use forest: The Dray Sap waterfall area is surrounded by a special-use forest of high biological value. You can visit the special-use forest, explore the rich flora and fauna, and learn about forest conservation efforts.
- Camping and picnicking: The area around Dray Sap waterfall has many open spaces, suitable for camping and picnicking. You can organize overnight camping, campfire, barbecue, and enjoy the fresh air of the mountains and forests.
Dray Sap waterfall is majestic and powerful, known as the most beautiful waterfall in Tay Nguyen
Useful Tips for Visiting Dray Nur and Dray Sap Waterfalls
To have a complete and meaningful visit to Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls, you should note some of the following tips:
- Ideal time to visit: The dry season (from November to April of the following year) is the best time to visit Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls. During this season, the weather is dry, with little rain, which is favorable for traveling and sightseeing. The rainy season (from May to October) has stronger and more majestic waterfalls, but the roads can be slippery and more dangerous.
- Entrance fee and opening hours: The entrance fee to Dray Sap and Dray Nur waterfall tourist area is about 40,000 VND/adult. The tourist area is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- Preparation:
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, cool, and easy-to-move clothing. Bring a light jacket if going in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Footwear: Choose sports shoes or sandals with good grip for easy movement on hilly terrain and forest paths.
- Personal items: Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, insect repellent, camera, phone, and power bank. If you want to swim in the waterfall, you should bring swimwear and a towel.
- Cash: Bring enough cash to pay for entrance tickets, meals, shopping, and other expenses.
- Accommodation: In the Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfall area, there are some guesthouses, homestays, and small hotels serving tourists. If you want more options, you can stay in Buon Ma Thuot city, about 30km from the waterfalls.
- Dining: In the Dray Sap and Dray Nur waterfall tourist area, there are some restaurants and eateries serving Tay Nguyen specialties such as grilled chicken, bamboo-tube rice, forest leaf hotpot, rice wine… You can also bring snacks and drinks for a picnic.
- Safety:
- Follow the regulations of the tourist area.
- Do not swim in dangerous areas with warning signs.
- Do not litter indiscriminately, maintain environmental hygiene.
- Pay attention to personal belongings, avoid theft.
Suggested Itinerary for Visiting Dray Nur and Dray Sap Waterfalls
You can refer to the following itinerary for visiting Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls in one day:
- Morning:
- 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Have breakfast in Buon Ma Thuot or on the way.
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Travel from Buon Ma Thuot to Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls.
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Visit and explore Dray Nur waterfall (admire the waterfall, explore the cave, swim in the waterfall, forest trekking).
- Noon:
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Have lunch at a restaurant in the tourist area or picnic.
- Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Visit and explore Dray Sap waterfall (admire the waterfall, walk on the suspension bridge, ride a dugout canoe, visit the special-use forest).
- 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Buy souvenirs and travel back to Buon Ma Thuot.
If you have time, you can combine visiting Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls with other famous tourist destinations in Buon Ma Thuot and Tay Nguyen such as:
- Mother Elephant Rock: The largest monolithic rock in Vietnam.
- Lak Lake: The largest natural freshwater lake in Tay Nguyen.
- Buon Don: A famous tourist village known for elephant hunting and taming.
- Yok Don National Park: The largest nature reserve in Vietnam.
- Trung Nguyen Coffee Village: An attractive destination for coffee lovers.
Conclusion
Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls are must-visit destinations when traveling to Tay Nguyen. With their majestic, pristine beauty and romantic legends, these two waterfalls will surely bring you unforgettable experiences. Hopefully, with the detailed instructions in this article, you will have a wonderful and meaningful visit to Dray Nur and Dray Sap waterfalls. Don’t forget to share your memorable moments with “Du lịch khắp thế gian”!