Buon Don

Buon Don (also known as Ban Don) is a district in western Đắk Lắk Province, about 40 km northwest of Buon Ma Thuot near the border with Cambodia. The area is famous for its traditional elephant-catching and domestication culture, long practised by the M'Nông and Ê-đê ethnic minorities. While the elephant riding experiences that once drew tourists have been phased out in favour of ethical tourism, Buon Don remains a fascinating destination for its cultural heritage, riverside setting, and proximity to Yok Don National Park.

The climate follows the Central Highlands pattern: dry from November to April, rainy from May to October.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Buon Ma Thuot Airport (BMV IATA), about 50 km southeast. A taxi or private car takes roughly one hour.

By Car / Road

Buon Don is about 40 km northwest of Buon Ma Thuot via Highway 14C and local roads. Local buses run from Buon Ma Thuot (catch them at CoopMart every 30 minutes). Arrange to board at CoopMart to ensure a seat, as the buses fill up quickly.

The village is compact and walkable. Motorbikes can be rented in Buon Ma Thuot for the journey. Within the area, walking or hiring a local xe ôm is the most practical transport.

• Ban Don Village — The traditional village of the M'Nông people, known for its stilt houses and elephant-related history. The village sits along the Serepôk River.
• Serepôk River — A scenic river that forms part of the border with Cambodia. Dry-season sandbars and rapids make for beautiful scenery.
• Yok Don National Park — Adjacent to Buon Don, this is Vietnam's largest national park, home to elephants, gaurs, langurs, and over 300 bird species.

Take a boat trip along the Serepôk River, trek in Yok Don National Park, or visit the surrounding villages to learn about traditional M'Nông and Ê-đê culture. Elephant spotting in the national park is possible on guided treks — note that elephant riding is no longer offered.

Small family-run eateries in Ban Don village serve Central Highlands specialties including grilled meats, sticky rice, and canh chua (sour soup) made with local river fish from the Serepôk. Grilled chicken and cơm lam (sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes) are local favourites. Simple Vietnamese restaurants line the main road through Buon Don town.

Rượu cần (traditional rice wine drunk from a communal jar through bamboo straws) is a specialty of the Central Highlands ethnic minorities. Coffee is widely available.

• Budget: Basic homestays are available in Ban Don village, offering an authentic experience staying in traditional stilt houses.
• Mid-range: A few small guesthouses cater to travellers visiting Yok Don National Park.

Local handicrafts made by the Ê-đê and M'Nông people, including woven textiles and bamboo items. Coffee from local plantations is also available.

• Yok Don National Park — Adjacent to Buon Don. Trekking, wildlife watching, and overnight camping.
• Buon Ma Thuot — 40 km southeast. The provincial capital with coffee culture, waterfalls, and Buon Ma Thuot Airport.
• Lak Lake — About 100 km south. A large scenic lake with minority villages and boat trips.