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Tà Đùng marked the very first milestone in my journey to explore nature — because this was my first time trying trekking! The route was 14 kilometers long, rated moderately challenging. Personally, I’d give it about a 6.5/10 in terms of endurance and difficulty.
This was the 14km Tà Đùng trekking route that our ExoTrails team completed in collaboration with Dichungxe (DCX). You can now find this exact route on the ExoTrails app.
My trip to Tà Đùng happened by chance, I came without many expectations, which perhaps made every scene feel even more magical. We began the journey at a 300-year-old heritage banyan tree that stood tall and majestic, like a silent guardian watching over Tà Đùng Lake.
Read more interesting posts here:
- A Local’s Guide to Non-Touristy Places in Vietnam: Beyond the Brochures
- 8 Essential First Time Hiking Tips: How to Plan and Get Started
- Ready, Set, Track: A Fun Guide to Outdoor Fitness Challenges
The Start of My Tà Đùng Trekking Adventure
As we made our way down toward the lake, we got a closer look at the “floating islets” scattered across the water’s surface. The thrill built up as we crossed a pitch-dark cave, only to emerge before the breathtaking sight of a massive hydroelectric dam.
And finally — after a long day of hiking — plunging into the cool water at the foot of the three-tiered waterfall, about 75 meters high, was the perfect ending. It’s a feeling I won’t forget anytime soon.
Tà Đùng – Where the Slopes Are So Steep You’ll Stop in Awe
The uphills and downhills of Tà Đùng trekking are no joke — slippery, narrow, and sometimes heart-pounding. Our group had a few funny falls along the way (note to self: next time, proper hiking shoes and a trekking pole are a must).
Most of the paths here are red earth trails, so we were incredibly lucky that the weather stayed dry. Otherwise, it would’ve been a muddy mission! There were many spots where we had to grip onto tree branches to pull ourselves up or down, since much of the route was once part of the old trails used by local villagers.
A Journey for All the Senses
One of the things I love most about Tà Đùng trekking is how every section of the trail feels like a different landscape entirely. There was a stretch where we passed through coffee plantations — the scent of the Central Highlands hung in the air. Then, we walked downhill between fields of wildflowers swaying on both sides of the path, like something straight out of Hà Giang. And then — the grand finale — standing high above and seeing the “Mini Hạ Long Bay” of the Central Highlands unfold beneath us.
Moments like these made every heavy breath, every tired muscle, feel so worth it.
“This experience makes me crave another one.”
My legs were aching, my shoulders sore from the weight of the backpack — yet my heart felt full, overflowing with the beauty around me. At that moment, I could only think one thing: Let my eyes keep seeing, as long as my memory still has room; my body can recover, but these sights are once in a lifetime.
I believe seeing something beautiful is a kind of destiny — the reward for chasing wonder, for daring to go. Not everyone gets to witness scenes like this with their own eyes. But for me, this was just the beginning. There will be a second time — and when that day comes, I’ll sit down again, write it all out, and tell you about the next unforgettable journey.
Conclusion
In the end, my first Tà Đùng trekking experience was a powerful lesson in resilience and reward. It taught me that the most challenging paths often lead to the most beautiful views, and that the ache in your muscles is a small price to pay for a memory that fills your heart. This “Mini Hạ Long Bay” of the Highlands isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey that marks the beginning of many more to come.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Tà Đùng located?
Tà Đùng is located in Đắk Nông Province in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, often nicknamed the “Mini Hạ Long Bay of the Central Highlands” for its stunning lake and islets.
2. How difficult is the Tà Đùng trekking route mentioned in the story?
The 14km route is rated moderately challenging, with steep, slippery red-earth trails that require a decent level of fitness and good balance.
3. What is the best time to trek in Tà Đùng?
The dry season, from November to April, is the best time for Tà Đùng trekking as the red-earth trails are less muddy and treacherous, and the weather is generally clear.
4. What are the main highlights of the trek?
Key highlights include the view of Tà Đùng Lake’s “floating islets,” a 300-year-old banyan tree, crossing a dark cave, and swimming at the base of a three-tiered waterfall.
5. Do I need special gear for Tà Đùng trekking?
Yes, proper hiking shoes with good grip are essential due to the slippery trails. A trekking pole is also highly recommended for stability on the steep ascents and descents.
6. Can I find this trekking route on the ExoTrails app?
Yes, the specific 14km Tà Đùng trekking route described in this story is available on the ExoTrails app for you to follow.
