Da Lat is perfect for hiking thanks to its cool weather, lush pine forests, and stunning mountain vistas. Whether you are trekking through misty trails or soaking in panoramic landscapes, Da Lat hiking offers a refreshing escape from the heat and a chance to explore beautiful scenery.
1. Top Da Lat hiking trails for explorers
1.1. Lang Biang Mountain
- Trail distance: 12 kilometers
- Recommended for: Day hikers and overnight campers
Lang Biang Mountain, situated roughly 15 kilometers away from the heart of the city center, is among the top destinations for Da Lat hiking. This trail begins at a tourist area and leads you along a forest path. The trail is around 12 kilometers long, ideal for a day hike. For those who want more adventure, spending the night and waking up to the sunrise in the forest is a unique experience. From the summit, you will be treated to sweeping views of Da Lat and surrounding mountains covered in mist.
Where to hike in Da Lat? – Consider Lang Biang Mountain (Source: Collected)
1.2. Phi Lieng Waterfall
- Trail distance: 1.5 kilometers
- Recommended for: Experienced hikers looking for a challenge
Phi Lieng Waterfall lies about 70 kilometers southwest of Da Lat’s city center. The trek to reach it is not easy, including dirt paths mixed with slippery clay and steep slopes that require good physical condition to traverse. But the effort is well worth it. Once you arrive at Phi Lieng, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking sight of one of the most stunning Da Lat waterfalls. The water crashes down from a height of over 70 meters, creating a cool mist that refreshes you after the tough trek.
1.3. Quang Thua – Tuyen Lam
- Trail distance: 10 kilometers
- Recommended for: Beginners and families
Tuyen Lam Lake is situated roughly 6 kilometers south of the city center. The trail between Quang Thua – Tuyen Lam offers an easy journey through a peaceful stretch of forests. It is a great choice for beginners or families looking to try Da Lat hiking. It takes you through dense areas with pine trees and unique plants, including maple trees that change color with the seasons. Along the way, you can stop to rest, set up camp near the lake, or even go boating on the calm water.
Tuyen Lam Lake is a must-visit for anyone seeking Da Lat outdoor adventures (Source: Collected)
1.4. Bidoup Nui Ba National Park
- Trail distance: Up to 27 kilometers
- Recommended for: Both beginners and experienced hikers
Located about 50 kilometers northeast of the city center, Bidoup Nui Ba National Park offers two trekking routes with different levels of difficulty.
For beginners, the route from Provincial Road 723 to Bidoup Ranger Station, then up to Bidoup Summit and down to K’long K’lanh Station is a good choice. This 27-kilometer trail is long but fairly easy. It is great for first-time hikers who want to enjoy the beauty of nature without too much physical strain.
For more experienced trekkers, the reverse route, from K’long K’lanh Station to the Summit then down to the Ranger Station, is much more challenging. You will start at a lower elevation and climb steadily to 2,287 meters without breaks in between. The long ascent makes this route physically demanding and best suited for those with solid experience of Da Lat hiking.
1.5. Pinhatt Peak (Samson Mountain)
- Trail distance: 4.5 kilometers
- Recommended for: Cloud hunters and casual hikers
Pinhatt Peak is located roughly 7 kilometers from the city center. To get there, head toward Tuyen Lam Lake and follow Truc Lam Yen Tu Road & Hoa Phuong Tim Road. About 1.5 kilometers past the restaurant, you will see a small trail on the left. You can ride a motorbike to the end of the trail, which is the starting point of the hike.
This Da Lat hiking trail is marked with signs on trees, which were placed by other hikers to help guide your way. At the top, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of surrounding hills, forest, and Tuyen Lam Lake in the distance. It is also a great spot for cloud hunting thanks to the elevation.
Pinhatt Peak is great for Da Lat hiking (Source: Collected)
1.6. Tam Pham Waterfall
- Trail distance: Over 7 kilometers
- Recommended for: Those looking for a peaceful escape
Tam Pham Waterfall is situated about 25 kilometers away from the city center. To reach it, you will need to trek through forest trails and rolling hills. Once there, you will be surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. From the waterfall’s summit, you will be able to take in expansive views of the forest stretching out below. It is a great place to rest, take photos, soak your feet, or even go for a swim in the cool, clear water.
1.7. Go Lat Waterfall
- Trail distance: 1 kilometer
- Recommended for: Hikers seeking a tranquil experience
The trail to Go Lat Waterfall is a great pick if you want a peaceful Da Lat hiking experience without extreme difficulty. The tour will start with a ride from the city center to Tam Tham Waterfall, lunch, then the trek to Go Lat Waterfall. In total, you will cross four small streams, hike through two untouched forests, pass a green meadow, and walk over three pine-covered hills. The changing views and quiet surroundings make it a relaxing escape.
Join Da Lat hiking tours to Go Lat Waterfall (Source: Collected)
1.8. Da Man Forest
- Trail distance: 4 kilometers
- Recommended for: Photographers and seasonal hikers
Da Man Forest is about 40 kilometers away from Da Lat. The trail starts in the small town of D’ran, followed by a dirt path through rolling hills, coffee farms, and fruit gardens. Along the way, you will pass through mandarin orchards and persimmon groves, where you can rest, take photos, or even set up camp. What makes Da Man Forest especially popular is its seasonal beauty. From February to April, the forest bursts into color with bright red and orange leaves, making it a favorite place for photographers.
1.9. Lomburr Peak
- Trail distance: 15 kilometers
- Recommended for: Beginners, intermediate hikers, overnight trekkers
Lomburr Peak is a great Da Lat hiking option for those who want to enjoy nature without tackling overly difficult terrain. The full trek is often planned as a two-day-one-night trip to make the most of the experience. Lomburr Peak sits within Bidoup Nui Ba National Park, so trekkers will need to buy an entry ticket and be accompanied by a guide. From the base to the summit, the hike takes from 4 to 6 hours depending on weather conditions. It is a rewarding journey for anyone looking to connect with the natural beauty of Da Lat.
1.10. Ta Nang – Phan Dung
- Trail distance: 35 kilometers
- Recommended for: Romantic trekkers
Ta Nang – Phan Dung is a Da Lat hiking journey through some of the most stunning landscapes the Central Highlands has to offer. Picture long, sloping grass hills, forest-covered valleys, and a trail that feels like it was made just for those craving open skies. Camp overnight, and you will be rewarded with something even more magical. At night, the sky opens up, filled with stars. If the moon is out, the hills glow softly, turning the whole scene into something that feels straight out of a fairytale.
2. Recommended Da Lat hiking tours
2.1. Half-day tours
3-hour trekking tour to a hidden waterfall and sturgeon farm
- Duration: 3-6 hours
- Price: 250,000 VND per pax
- Guide: English, Vietnamese
- Highlights:
- Discover a secluded waterfall
- Visit a sturgeon farm not open to the public
- Explore a coffee farm and bring home fresh beans
Da Lat: Chasing the sunrise – A mini trek adventure
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Price: 800,000 VND per pax
- Guide: English, Vietnamese
- Group size: 6 people max
- Highlights:
- Watch the sunrise over Da Lat’s rolling mountains and valleys
- Trek through serene pine forests
- Enjoy coffee and snacks amidst nature
- Experience a local breakfast in town
2.2. Full-day tours
Da Lat: Trekking Pinhatt – SUP/Kayak at Tuyen Lam Lake
- Duration: 6 hours
- Price: 1,355,900 VND per pax
- Guide: English
- Highlights:
- Pickup and drop-off service included
- Visit an ethnic minority village
- Picnic lunch provided
- Go stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking on Tuyen Lam Lake
- Trek 8-10 km to Pinhatt Peak
Da Lat: Trek on Langbiang Mountain
- Duration: 7 hours
- Price: 1,332,600 VND per pax
- Guide: English
- Highlights:
- Trek 18 km to the highest peak in Da Lat
- See wildlife along the trail
- Pickup and drop-off service included
- Visit an ethnic minority village
- Enjoy a well-prepared picnic lunch
Da Lat: Silent tour – Hiking and swimming at a waterfall
- Duration: 8 hours
- Price: 950,000 VND per pax
- Guide: Vietnamese, English
- Highlights:
- Photography and food tasting
- Lunch and snacks included
- Hike, swim, and see wildlife
- Free time to relax and explore
*Note: The information in this guide is for reference only and may change over time.
Get ready to enjoy the best of Da Lat hiking (Source: Collected)
3. FAQs about hiking in Da Lat
3.1. When is the best time to go?
You can go Da Lat hiking year-round, and the dry season from November to March is the best time for it. During these months, the weather is more stable and you are more likely to get clear skies. Temperatures usually range from 20°C to 30°C. It can feel warm for some hikers, but the cool air in the hills and shade from the trees often make it more comfortable.
3.2. How should I prepare before the hike?
Always check the weather forecast before your hike. Rain can make the trails muddy and harder to trek. Also, pick a Da Lat hiking trail that suits your fitness level. Some trails include steep climbs that may be challenging for beginners or casual hikers.
3.3. What should I wear for Da Lat hiking?
Wear comfortable clothes that are lightweight, breathable, and easy to move in. A long-sleeve shirt and pants can help protect you from the sun, bugs, and scratches. Choose sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as some trails can be slippery or uneven.
3.4. What essentials should I pack?
Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated and bring along snacks or energy bars. Other must-haves include sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, a flashlight or headlamp, and a fully charged phone. If you plan to camp or hike overnight, bring extra clothes, a tent, and a sleeping bag.
3.5. How can I stay safe and enjoy Da Lat hiking?
Always share your Da Lat hiking plan and expected time of return with someone. It is also important to stay on marked trails and avoid hiking alone. Start early to avoid getting caught in the dark. Watch your step on slippery paths, take breaks when needed, and do not push yourself too hard. Most importantly, respect nature and leave no trace behind.
Da Lat, with its cool air and breathtaking views, is a perfect place to explore on foot. Whether you are a novice or an experienced trekker, Da Lat hiking has something for everyone.
After hiking in Da Lat, why not extend your Vietnam travel to other must-visit destinations? You can explore the spectacular limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, soak up the vibrant culture of Da Nang and Hoi An, relax on the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang, or unwind in the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc.
