Sunrise magic and campfire nights on Ta Nang trek

Vietnam Impressive Travel - Ta Nang - Phan Dung is considered the most beautiful trekking route in Vietnam. This route is famous for its two seasons: the green grass season and the dry grass season.

The afternoon sun casting dappled light on the hillsides during the dry season has become a classic image here. The green season, true to its name, is lush and vibrant, just like the old Windows screensaver. Luckily, the time I chose to visit in late March fell between those two most beautiful seasons, and I got to enjoy a "third season" that I've named myself: the "mixed" grass season.

The journey began at the entrance to Ta Nang forest, where motorbike taxis dropped us off to officially begin the trail. The first part was relatively easy, but the challenge quickly appeared with a nearly vertical slope of pine forest. After climbing the slope, everyone was breathless and drenched in sweat. The slope was so long that it felt endless. But upon reaching the summit, all fatigue seemed to vanish. Sunlight filtered through the pine canopy, the wind rustled gently, and a sense of peace permeated the air.

The deeper we went, the more spectacular the scenery became. For the first time, I saw the lush green meadows glistening in the slanted sunlight, so beautiful that I could only exclaim, "It's like something out of a movie!" Despite our shirts being drenched in sweat, we eagerly pressed forward, only to be overwhelmed with joy when we reached the Ta Nang - Phan Dung stainless steel marker under the blazing sun.

As evening fell, we set up camp near Soldier Hill, a location that could be described as ideal. It was a flat piece of land atop a vast, sun-scorched hillside. From here, we could see the entire range of mountains and the open space before us. As the sun set, the whole group dispersed to admire the scenery and take photos. The last rays of sunlight bathed the grassy slopes in a warm hue.

As night fell, the camp lit up with lamps and campfires. A lively barbecue began. Amidst the idyllic mountain scenery, strangers, who had only met after a day's journey, quickly became close friends through stories, laughter, and shared drinks. It seemed that after sharing a journey together, the distance between people naturally shortened.

When the party ended, everyone went back to their tents. The day was sunny and dry, but the night was bitterly cold. In the middle of the night, I was suddenly awakened by the howling wind mixed with the sound of rain. As soon as I peeked out of my tent, the biting cold rushed in. Curled up in my thermal blanket, I fully appreciated the warmth amidst the freezing night on the deserted hilltop. Looking back, that night alone was worth the entire trip.

But that's not all. The sunrise in Ta Nang - Phan Dung is breathtakingly beautiful. The dew drops on the blades of grass seem to sparkle even more. Watching the sunrise, waiting for the sun to rise with my companions, and then sharing a bowl of hot noodles with plenty of braised pork ribs, I suddenly felt that my life was truly complete.

On the way back, we crossed dipterocarp forests and rocky areas, finally hopping onto fast-paced motorbike taxis to leave the Phan Dung forest. Then came the night bus back to Ho Chi Minh City. To this day, that trip during the mixed grass season remains a beautiful and emotionally rich memory for me.

Source: https://impressivevietnamtravel.com/blog/unforgettable-journey-through-ta-nang-hills.html

Experience tranquility at Phu Cuong waterfall

Ethnic Travel - Nestled amidst the lush green forests of Chu Se commune (Gia Lai province), Phu Cuong waterfall, approximately 45 meters high, stands out with its cascading white water plunging from a basalt cliff, creating a majestic scene in the Central Highlands. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking ecotourism experiences.

Phu Cuong Waterfall is located about 45 km from the center of Pleiku city. The road leading to the waterfall winds through the mountains and forests, opening up a peaceful space before the distant sound of cascading water signals the arrival of this majestic destination. Visitors can stroll on the stone steps, walk along the tree-shaded trails, and enjoy the fresh air and vibrant sounds of the mountains and forests.

Nestled on the rocky foundation of an extinct volcano millions of years ago, the Phu Cuong waterfall area bears the distinctive geological imprint of naturally stacked black and gray rock formations, creating a wild and fascinating beauty. The water originates from the La Peet stream upstream, then merges with the Ayun River, contributing to the formation of the area's unique ecosystem.

At the foot of the waterfall, cool water flows through the crevices of rocks and lush green vegetation, creating a pristine natural space, characteristic of the basalt land of the Central Highlands.

The firsthand experience here left a lasting impression on visitors. John Smith (a tourist from the US) excitedly said: "Standing in front of the waterfall, I was truly impressed. Everything here is so pristine, peaceful, and completely different from places I’ve been to before. The sound of the water and the cool air made me feel relaxed immediately. I came here during the National Tourism Year - Gia Lai 2026, so I had many interesting experiences. When I return home, I will definitely tell my family and friends about the beauty of this place, a destination well worth exploring".

The waterfall's beauty changes with the seasons. During the rainy season, from May to October each year, the water cascades down forcefully, creating a white foam, and the sound of the waterfall echoes through the mountains, leaving visitors in awe. During the dry season, from November to April, the flow is gentle, the water clear and blue, ideal for relaxing excursions and picnics. Visitors can follow the trail at the foot of the waterfall to reach the area behind the water and better appreciate the majestic beauty of nature.

According to Lanh, a tour guide in Gia Lai , "Phu Cuong Waterfall is one of Gia Lai's outstanding destinations. Every time visitors return, they are amazed by the pristine and majestic beauty of the waterfall. If it were connected to other eco-tourism routes, the waterfall would be even more attractive. Visitors should wear sports shoes, prepare comfortable clothing, bring drinking water, and maintain general hygiene during their visit."

The local residents, those living near the waterfall, regularly contribute to preserving the landscape of this destination. Ms. H'Lan (a Jrai ethnic minority from Chu Se commune) said: "Phu Cuong Waterfall has been a part of my life since I was a child. I remember walking around the waterfall area early in the morning, listening to the gentle sound of the flowing water, feeling the cool air, and admiring the lush greenery. When tourists come, I always remind them to maintain cleanliness and respect the landscape so that the waterfall remains beautiful and pristine as it was in my memories. For me, the waterfall is not only a beautiful sight but also a place that reminds me of the close relationship between humans and nature".

Le Huu Thien, Head of the Culture and Social Affairs Department of Chu Se Commune, commented: "Phu Cuong Waterfall is an important resource for developing ecotourism in the commune. Currently, the locality is aiming for sustainable exploitation, both showcasing the beauty of the waterfall to tourists and preserving nature. The commune has been implementing measures such as forest conservation, water source protection, and guiding tourists to maintain general hygiene. I hope Phu Cuong Waterfall will become a prominent destination, where tourists can both enjoy the beautiful scenery and appreciate the natural and cultural values of the plateau".

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the National Tourism Year - Gia Lai 2026, Phu Cuong Waterfall (Chu Se commune, Gia Lai province) is gradually asserting its position on the tourism map of the western part of the province. With its magnificent scenery, fresh air, and unique natural and cultural values, it promises to become an attractive destination, contributing to spreading the beauty of the highland mountains and forests.

Source: https://ethnictravelvietnam.com/blog/discovering-phu-cuong-waterfall-in-central-highlands/