Experience the vibrant Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival Parade in Dak Lak, Vietnam! Discover sustainable tours, M’nong culture, and coffee heritage with Legend Travel Group. Book your eco-adventure now!
Capture the vibrant energy of Buon Ma Thuot’s cultural gem (Source: Internet)The Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival Parade, held biennially in Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak, Vietnam, is a dazzling celebration of the region’s world-renowned coffee heritage, drawing over 250,000 visitors, including 1,800 international tourists. Located 350 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City and 190 km south of Da Nang, Buon Ma Thuot, now encompassing former Phu Yen wards like Tuy Hoa after Vietnam’s administrative merger, is Vietnam’s coffee capital, boasting 210,000 hectares of coffee plantations and over 520,000 tons of annual production. With a temperate climate (dry season: December–April, 18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F; rainy season: May–November, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), the festival, held in March, offers activities costing $5–$30 (125,000–750,000 VND).
This vibrant parade, part of the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival, showcases M’nong and Ede traditions, coffee culture, and sustainable tourism, with Legend Travel Group leading eco-friendly tours that reject outdated practices like elephant riding. Aligned with Dak Lak’s “Green Highlands” initiative, our tours promote conservation and community support. Book your sustainable festival experience via the links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has unified Dak Lak, with Buon Ma Thuot as a central ward and former Phu Yen as a ward under Dak Lak’s administration, simplifying navigation with ward-based maps for festival access.
With over 17 years as a leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, Legend Travel Group is the first local operator to ban elephant riding, offering ethical, eco-friendly festival tours in Dak Lak. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric vehicles or bicycles, guided by English-speaking experts who share M’nong and Ede culture, coffee heritage, and sustainable practices. Supporting local communities, we align with Dak Lak’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, planning your festival adventure is seamless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page!
Photograph the authentic allure of Buon Ma Thuot’s heritage (Source: Internet)Held biennially in March, the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival, themed “Buon Ma Thuot – The Destination of World Coffee,” celebrates Dak Lak’s role as Vietnam’s largest coffee producer, contributing over 30% of national output. The festival, recognized by the International Coffee Organization, features 17 key events, including the iconic street parade, coffee fairs, and cultural performances, commemorating milestones like the 50th anniversary of Buon Ma Thuot’s liberation (March 10, 1975–2025). Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours focus on ethical experiences, showcasing M’nong gong performances, coffee tastings, and eco-friendly activities, ensuring minimal environmental impact and maximum cultural immersion.
The Coffee Festival Parade, held on March 10 at the Victory Monument in Buon Ma Thuot, is a vibrant spectacle featuring:
Colorful Floats: Coffee-themed floats, sponsored by brands like Trung Nguyen, parade through streets like Le Duan, showcasing Dak Lak’s coffee legacy.
Cultural Performances: M’nong and Ede gong ensembles, dragon dances, and stilt walkers create a festive atmosphere, joined by international troupes, like South Korea’s performers.
Community Participation: Coffee farmers, artisans, and media ambassadors like Miss Universe Vietnam 2017 H’Hen Niê add local pride, with children’s bicycle parades enhancing charm.
Sustainable Elements: Eco-friendly decorations and low-impact transport reflect Dak Lak’s green commitment, with Legend Travel Group ensuring ethical tour practices.
Opening Ceremony: The parade culminates in a grand 8:00 PM ceremony at 10/3 Square, featuring a 15-minute fireworks display and live broadcasts on VTV channels.
Experience Buon Ma Thuot Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)These eco-friendly activities, costing $5–$30, complement the parade:
Sample free Robusta coffee at 435 booths on Phan Dinh Giot Street, best at 10:00 AM, costing $0–$5 (0–125,000 VND), exploring global coffee cultures.
Cost: Free–$5; entry $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: March 10–13, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses biodegradable cups; supports local farmers.
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Coffee Eco-Tour ($70–$100); bring a reusable cup.
Enjoy gong music and dances at the Provincial Cultural Center, best at 7:00 PM, costing $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Cost: $5–$10; entry $1–$2.
Hours: March 10–12, 7:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports M’nong artisans; minimal waste.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Eco-Tour ($70–$100); arrive early for seats.
Witness a 500-drone light show at 8:00 PM on March 12 at 10/3 Square, costing $0–$3 (0–75,000 VND), showcasing coffee-themed displays.
Cost: Free–$3; entry free.
Hours: March 12, 8:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Energy-efficient drones; no fireworks pollution.
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Festival Eco-Tour ($80–$120); bring a camera.
Explore sustainable coffee farms in Krong Pak at 8:00 AM, costing $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND), learning about Robusta production.
Cost: $15–$20; entry $1–$2.
Hours: March 9–13, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports organic farming; low-impact transport.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group’s Coffee Eco-Tour ($70–$100); wear sturdy shoes.
Shop for M’nong crafts and taste local snacks at the night market on Le Duan Street, best at 6:00 PM, costing $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).
Cost: $2–$10; entry free.
Hours: March 9–13, 6:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local vendors; use reusable bags.
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Festival Eco-Tour ($80–$120); carry small VND notes.
The festival runs from March 9–13, with the parade on March 10 at 3:30 PM, ideal during the dry season (December–April) for pleasant weather (18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F). Weekdays (10,000–20,000 daily visitors) are less crowded than weekends (50,000+), with afternoons (3:00–6:00 PM) perfect for parade viewing and evenings (7:00–9:00 PM) for ceremonies. Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance, as the festival coincides with the 50th anniversary of Buon Ma Thuot’s liberation, expecting higher crowds.
Start your Buon Ma Thuot Travel with festive vibes (Source: Internet)Buon Ma Thuot, in Dak Lak, is 350 km from Ho Chi Minh City (6–7 hours) and 190 km from Da Nang (4–5 hours):
By Private Car: Drive 6 hours from Ho Chi Minh City via QL14, costing $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, 6 hours, $70–$100 (1,750,000–2,500,000 VND) one-way; $140–$200 (3,500,000–5,000,000 VND) round-trip. Use Xanh SM app.
By Private Motorcycle: Ride via QL14, 6–7 hours, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) fuel; rental $7–$12/day (175,000–300,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).
By Public Bus: Buses from Ho Chi Minh City’s Mien Dong Station to Buon Ma Thuot, 6–7 hours, $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) round-trip, then xe ôm to festival sites (5–10 km, $2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND).
By Domestic Flight: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Buon Ma Thuot Airport (Phung Duc), 1–1.5 hours, $30–$70 (750,000–1,750,000 VND) one-way, then taxi to city center (10 km, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from Ho Chi Minh City, 6 hours, $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND)/person for 20+ people, including guide.
Navigation Tip: Save “10/3 Square, Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs from Krong Pak or Ea Kar wards. Parking: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or buses reduce emissions; cycling in Buon Ma Thuot minimizes impact.
Safety: Wear helmets on motorcycles; confirm taxi/xe ôm fares.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable festival experience:
Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes for parades; raincoat ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($3–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/BusMap apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Festival Gear: Small backpack, camera for parade shots, notebook for cultural notes.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Snacks for long events; cash for vendors (no cards at festival).
Tip: Carry small VND notes for activities ($5–$10), snacks ($0.50–$2), or souvenirs ($3–$10); secure valuables in crowds.
The locals harvest Coffee in Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak (Source: Internet)Entry and Activity Fees
Festival Entry: Free; some events $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND) adult; $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND) child under 1.2m.
Coffee Tasting: Free–$5 (0–125,000 VND).
Cultural Performance: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Light Festival: Free–$3 (0–75,000 VND).
Coffee Plantation Tour: $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND).
Night Market Purchases: $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).
Local Snacks (e.g., Sticky Rice): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Drinks (Coffee, Water): $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Coffee Beans): $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Ho Chi Minh City)
Private Car: $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND).
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $140–$200 (3,500,000–5,000,000 VND).
Private Motorcycle: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) fuel; rental $7–$12/day.
Public Bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Domestic Flight + Taxi: $70–$160 (1,750,000–4,000,000 VND).
Private Tour Bus: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND)/person.
Parking: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$30 (bus, free tastings, snacks).
Mid-range: $50–$80 (taxi, cultural events, guided tour).
Luxury: $120–$200 (flight, premium tour, dining).
Tip: Budget for activities ($5–$20), transport ($10–$200), and souvenirs ($3–$10); carry cash (no cards at festival sites).
Timing: Arrive by 3:00 PM on March 10 for parade viewing; December–April for dry weather. Weekdays for smaller crowds (10,000–20,000 vs. 50,000+ on weekends). Book tours early for March festival.
Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group tours 1–2 weeks ahead for parade and festival activities. Pay in VND (no cards at most sites).
Sustainability: Support local vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2) or crafts ($3–$10); use reusable cups. Respect festival grounds; avoid littering.
Navigation: Save “10/3 Square, Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak” in offline maps; ask locals at Krong Pak for directions. Avoid night travel due to rural roads.
Safety: Wear comfortable shoes for crowds; secure valuables. Confirm taxi/xe ôm fares; carry a flashlight for evening events.
Weather: Dry season for clear views; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7) and waterproof bags ($5–$10). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees); say “xin chào” to locals. Respect M’nong performances; avoid disrupting parades.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Our eco-friendly tours highlight the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival, emphasizing ethical practices and cultural immersion:
Coffee Festival Eco-Tour ($70–$100/person, 1 day): Private car to Buon Ma Thuot, parade viewing, coffee tasting, with lunch ($3–$7). Includes guide, transport.
Dak Lak Cultural Adventure ($120–$180/person, 2 days): Festival parade, M’nong village, coffee plantation tour, homestay. Includes meals, guide.
Central Highlands Immersion ($300–$450/person, 3 days): Buon Ma Thuot, Lak Lake, Yok Don, with festival events and homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
The Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival Parade in Dak Lak, Vietnam, with activities costing $5–$30 (125,000–750,000 VND), is a vibrant celebration of coffee and M’nong culture, enchanting over 250,000 visitors biennially. From colorful floats to eco-friendly coffee tastings, Legend Travel Group’s Buon Ma Thuot Tours ensure a sustainable Buon Ma Thuot Travel experience, rejecting elephant riding for ethical immersion. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Ready to witness the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival Parade in Dak Lak? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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