Da Bia Mountain Eco-Tourism Guide: Sustainable Adventures in Dak Lak Province

A Majestic Highland Retreat in Phu Yen

Da Bia Mountain, also known as Thach Bi Son, towers at 706 meters in Hoa Tam Commune, Phu Yen, Dak Lak Province, 35 km southeast of Tuy Hoa and 480 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. Following Vietnam’s 2025 administrative merger, this iconic peak in the Deo Ca mountain range, crowned by a 76-meter giant rock, attracts over 10,000 visitors annually, especially during the annual Peak Conquer Contest. With free entry and activities costing $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND), it’s a must-visit for eco-tourists and adventurers seeking Phu Yen’s breathtaking vistas.

Nestled in Phu Yen’s lush landscapes, Da Bia Mountain, revered as Lingaparvata in Cham mythology, offers panoramic views of Vung Ro Bay, Bai Mon Beach, and the Deo Ca Pass. Sustainable practices like biodegradable trail markers and local-guided tours preserve its tropical forest ecosystem. The region’s climate (dry season: January–August, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F; rainy season: September–December, 20–28°C or 68–82.4°F) ensures year-round exploration. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours immerse you in this natural and cultural gem, supporting local communities and Dak Lak’s green initiatives. Book via links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s 2025 restructuring merged Phu Yen into Dak Lak Province, with Phu Yen and Tuy Hoa now wards. Da Bia Mountain, in Phu Yen, is easily navigated using ward-based maps, with Tuy Hoa as a key hub 35 km away.

With over 17 years as Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism operator, Legend Travel Group crafts eco-friendly tours to Da Bia Mountain, blending adventure with cultural immersion. Our low-impact transport (electric scooters, bicycles) and English-speaking guides share insights on Cham heritage, local ecosystems, and green practices. Supporting Phu Yen’s communities, our tours align with Vietnam’s sustainability goals. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Sign up for a Legend Travel Group account to track our guides and book eco-tours via links on this page!

Located in Phu Yen, Da Bia Mountain is a National Relic recognized in 2008, celebrated for its 76-meter rock formation and rich tropical forest hosting 200+ plant species and wildlife like hornbills. Its trails, spanning 2,011 meters with 2,071 steps, offer stunning views of Vung Ro Bay, Bai Mon Beach, and Van Phong Bay. Steeped in Cham legend as the embodiment of Siva, the mountain is a spiritual and ecological haven. Sustainable features like eco-friendly rest stops every 300 meters and local-guided treks ensure preservation, making Da Bia a prime destination for eco-tourism in Phu Yen.

These sustainable activities, costing $2–$10, blend nature and culture:

1. Hike to Da Bia Peak

Trek 2,011 meters to the summit, best at 7:00 AM, with guided hikes at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND). Admire the giant rock and coastal views.

• Cost: $3–$5; entry free.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Stick to trails to protect flora; carry reusable bottles.

• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Da Bia Nature Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Join the Peak Conquer Contest

Participate in the annual contest (Lunar March 26–27), best at 6:00 AM, with registration at $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND). Compete and explore.

• Cost: $2–$4; entry free.

• Hours: Seasonal, 6:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use biodegradable markers; respect wildlife.

• Tip: Register early; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Adventure Eco-Tour ($100–$150).

3. Birdwatching in Tropical Forests

Spot hornbills and eagles, best at 8:00 AM, with guided tours at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND). Discover the forest’s biodiversity.

• Cost: $3–$5; entry free.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Avoid disturbing wildlife; use eco-friendly gear.

• Tip: Bring binoculars; included in Legend Travel Group’s Da Bia Nature Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Stay in an Eco-Homestay

Overnight in sustainable homestays near Vung Ro, best at 6:00 PM, for $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND), with local meals ($2–$5).

• Cost: $10–$15; meals $2–$5.

• Hours: Check-in 2:00 PM; check-out 12:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local families; uses biodegradable amenities.

• Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for cultural dining; included in Da Bia Overnight Eco-Tour ($100–$150).

5. Picnic with Coastal Views

Enjoy a picnic near the trails, best at 11:00 AM, with local snacks ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND). Relish Vung Ro Bay vistas.

• Cost: $0.50–$2; entry free.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use reusable containers; clean up waste.

• Tip: Buy snacks from Vung Ro vendors; bring a blanket.

Visit from January to August for dry, warm weather (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), ideal for hiking and birdwatching. The rainy season (September–December) enhances greenery but makes trails slippery, requiring rain gear. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see 20–50 visitors daily, compared to 100–300 during weekends and the Peak Conquer Contest (Lunar March). Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) offer cool temperatures and clear views, while afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) suit relaxed picnics.

Da Bia Mountain, in Phu Yen, Dak Lak Province, is 35 km from Tuy Hoa (45–60 min) and 480 km from Ho Chi Minh City (7.5–8.5 hours):

• By Private Car: Drive 45–60 min from Tuy Hoa via National Highway 1A to Vung Ro, costing $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, 45–60 min from Tuy Hoa, $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way. Use Xanh SM app.

• By Motorcycle: Ride via National Highway 1A from Tuy Hoa, 45–60 min, $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 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 + Xe Om: Bus from Tuy Hoa to Vung Ro (40 min, $1–$1.50 or 25,000–37,500 VND), then xe om to trailhead (15 min, $2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND). Total: $6–$9 (150,000–225,000 VND) round-trip.

• By Flight + Taxi: Fly to Tuy Hoa Airport (VTS) from Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour, $30–$60 or 750,000–1,500,000 VND), then Xanh SM taxi to trailhead (50 min, $12–[xaiartifact-end] $18 or 300,000–450,000 VND).

• Navigation Tip: Save “Da Bia Mountain, Phu Yen, Dak Lak Province” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs from Vung Ro. Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or bicycles to Vung Ro reduce emissions; group buses lower impact.

• Safety: Wear sturdy shoes; secure valuables. Confirm taxi/xe om fares.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Light layers, sturdy hiking shoes; waterproof jacket ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun protection.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).

• Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, binoculars for birdwatching, camera for scenic shots.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Snacks for trails; cash for vendors.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for rentals ($2–$5) or snacks ($0.50–$2).

Costs for Visiting Da Bia Mountain

Entry and Activity Fees

• Mountain Entry: Free.

• Guided Hike: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Peak Conquer Contest Registration: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Birdwatching Tour: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Eco-Homestay: $10–$15/night (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Local Snacks (e.g., Sticky Rice): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Drinks (Water, Coffee): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Local Crafts): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Tuy Hoa)

• Private Car: $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

• Motorcycle: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) fuel; rental $7–$12/day.

• Public Bus + Xe Om: $6–$9 (150,000–225,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, from Tuy Hoa)

• Budget: $5–$15 (bus + xe om, snacks).

• Mid-range: $20–$40 (taxi, activities, homestay).

• Luxury: $50–$80 (private car, premium tour, homestay).
  Tip: Budget for activities ($2–$5) and transport ($6–$30); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).

• Timing: Visit at 6:00–9:00 AM for cool weather; January–August for dry trails. Weekdays for fewer crowds (20–50 vs. 100–300 during contests). Plan for the Peak Conquer Contest (Lunar March) for a lively experience.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided hikes or homestays. Register for the Peak Conquer Contest at Vung Ro.

• Sustainability: Stay on trails to protect ecosystems; bring reusable bottles. Support local vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2) or crafts ($2–$5).

• Navigation: Save “Da Bia Mountain, Phu Yen, Dak Lak Province” in offline maps; ask locals at Vung Ro for trailheads. Avoid night hikes due to rural terrain.

• Safety: Wear sturdy shoes; secure valuables. Confirm taxi/xe om fares.

• Weather: Dry season for safe hiking; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7) and waterproof bags ($3–$7). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Respect Cham heritage sites; greet with “xin chào.” Avoid loud noises in forest areas.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and sanitizer.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Da Bia Mountain’s natural and cultural splendor:

• Da Bia Nature Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric scooter from Tuy Hoa for guided hikes, birdwatching, and Vung Ro views, with local lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.

• Da Bia Overnight Eco-Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Mountain trek, eco-homestay, and Tuy Hoa market visit. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

• Phu Yen Coastal & Highland Explorer ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Da Bia, Bai Mon Beach, Ganh Da Dia, and homestays. Includes meals, guides. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Sign up for an account to track tours and book now via links!

Da Bia Mountain in Phu Yen Ward, Dak Lak Province (formerly Phu Yen), captivates with its 706-meter peak, iconic 76-meter rock formation, and panoramic views of Vung Ro Bay, drawing thousands within Dak Lak’s 1 million annual visitors, located 440 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Recognized as a National Relic in 2008, this Cham heritage site, accessible for free, blends cultural significance with sustainable eco-tourism through eco-friendly trails and local-guided tours. Legend Travel Group’s Dak Lak Tours ensure a green, immersive Dak Lak Travel experience, guiding you through hiking to the Peak Conquer Contest (held annually on the 26th–27th lunar March) and visits to nearby Ganh Da Dia and Nhan Ancient Tower. Don’t miss out—sign up for a Legend Travel Group account, browse our featured tours, and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Da Bia Mountain in Dak Lak Province? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable highland eco-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.

Sources:

• Da Bia Mountain Information: vietnamnews.vn, vietnam.travel, phuyentourism.gov.vn, vietnamcoracle.com, vinpearl.com, vietnamtourism.org.vn