Vietnam’s Dak Lak suspends tourism at 3 waterfalls for safety

The provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism announced that Krong Kmar Waterfall in Krong Bong Commune, Dray K’nao Waterfall in M’Drak Commune, and Thuy Tien Waterfall in Phu Xuan Commune will not receive tourists during Tet, due in the middle of this month.

Officials said the sites lack proper facilities, security staff, and rescue equipment, making them unsafe for visitors.

The department emphasized that these waterfalls have not yet been officially recognized as tourist destinations and remain within protected forest land.

As such, local authorities are tasked with strict management to prevent accidents.

Commune-level administrations were instructed to regularly inspect and remind residents and businesses not to welcome tourists at the sites during the holiday period.

Phan Tien Thanh, chairman of the Phu Xuan Commune administration, explained that Thuy Tien Waterfall is a national scenic site managed by the Forest Protection Management Board under the provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment.

The land belongs to protected forest areas, and the commune only oversees administrative matters.

Thanh said proposals to temporarily open the waterfall for tourism during Tet were rejected because no sustainable forest management or tourism plan had been approved.

To ensure safe and smooth holiday activities, the provincial tourism department has organized inspection teams to review readiness at tourism businesses from January 26 to February 6.

In case of incidents affecting visitor health, operators must immediately report to the department’s tourism management division for timely support.

The department also urged travel agencies to review their programs, prepare adequate services, and introduce new promotions to meet rising demand during Tet.

The move reflects Dak Lak’s cautious approach to balancing tourism development with safety and environmental protection.