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Kon Tum 5 Days Itinerary Vietnam Travel Review By Mr. Denis

Located in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, Kon Tum captivates with its authenticity and cultural richness. A 5 days trip to Kon Tum offers immersion in breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable encounters with ethnic minorities, and surprising culinary discoveries. Hiking through lush valleys, exploring traditional villages, and savoring local flavors filled each day, unveiling a region that remains unspoiled and charming. Below, discover Mr. Denis’s detailed review of his Kon Tum 5-day itinerary.

Day 1: Kon Tum city tour

My 5 days in Kon Tum, organized by the Vietnam travel agency Vietnam, began with an immersion in the city center. After landing at Pleiku Airport, my guide picked me up for the Kon Tum trip. The road, lined with rolling hills and vast coffee plantations, offered a first glimpse of this region’s untouched charm.

Upon arrival, I started my trip by exploring downtown Kon Tum. The atmosphere was peaceful, with traditional houses and an authentic local vibe. My first stop was Kon Tum Church, a wooden masterpiece built in the 19th century. Constructed entirely from bamboo and jackfruit wood, it perfectly blends Western architecture with local influences. I also visited the orphanage run by the Sisters of Providence, where I had the chance to interact with the children and gain insight into the importance of local culture.

In the late afternoon, I walked along the Dakbla River, an ideal moment to admire the sunset over the water. The mild evening climate made this stroll especially pleasant, and the small local fishing boats added a picturesque touch to the scenery.

For my first meal in Kon Tum, I wanted to try local specialties. I dined at a small family-run restaurant, where I was recommended to try chicken stewed with pandan leaves (ga nau la nep), a traditional dish with slightly tangy and fragrant flavors, typical of Central Highland cuisine. Served with sticky rice and fresh aromatic herbs, it was the perfect introduction to the region’s culinary delights. To end on a sweet note, I tasted a dessert made with corn and coconut milk—smooth (che bap), fragrant, and delicious.

This first day in Kon Tum was a perfect appetizer for the rest of my journey, already giving me a glimpse of the cultural and culinary richness of this region.

Day 2: Immersion in ethnic villages

The second day of my 5 days itinerary in Kon Tum was dedicated to exploring the villages of the Bahnar and Jarai ethnic minorities, true guardians of a fascinating cultural heritage. With the guidance of my French-speaking guide, I had the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn more about their ancestral traditions.

In Kon Tum Kon Klor village, I visited the communal house, an impressive structure with a soaring thatched roof. This gathering place plays a crucial role in Bahnar life, hosting meetings and traditional celebrations filled with ritual dances and music.

One of the most memorable moments was taking part in a local handicraft workshop. The village women showed me how they weave colorful fabrics with geometric patterns inspired by nature, preserving a craftsmanship passed down through generations.

At lunchtime, I enjoyed a typical highland dish: sticky rice cooked in bamboo (com lam). Served with grilled chicken wrapped in lemon leaves (ga nuong la chanh) and fresh local vegetables, this rustic meal highlighted the authentic flavors of Vietnam’s central highlands.

In the evening, I shared dinner with a Bahnar family, where I had the chance to taste fermented rice wine sipped through bamboo straws (ruou can). This warm and immersive experience perfectly illustrated the legendary hospitality of the ethnic minorities in Kon Tum.

Day 3: Hiking in Chu Mom Ray National Park

The third day of my 5-day trip to Kon Tum was all about adventure with a hike in Chu Mom Ray National Park. This untouched nature reserve, still free from mass tourism, is home to an exceptional variety of wildlife and plant species.

With a local guide, I followed winding trails through the lush jungle. Along the way, we spotted several rare bird species and even came across footprints left by wild animals.

The highlight of the hike was reaching the summit, where I was rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains in Central Highlands Vietnam.

Day 4: Exploring the local cuisine of Kon Tum

The fourth day of my 5-day trip to Kon Tum was dedicated to discovering its coffee plantations, a hidden gem of the central highlands. Known for its high-altitude arabica, the region attracts coffee enthusiasts from all over the world.

At a family-run farm, I followed the entire process from harvesting to roasting and enjoyed a cup with an intense and refined flavor. This experience deepened my understanding of coffee’s importance to the local economy.

At lunchtime, I enjoyed caramelized Mekong fish in a clay pot (ca loc kho to), a flavorful dish with a perfect balance of sweet and salty aromas, served with steaming rice. For dessert, I tried a sticky rice cake made with mung beans and ramie leaves (banh it la gai), a traditional Vietnamese treat that was the perfect way to end the meal.

In the afternoon, I visited a pepper farm, another specialty of Vietnam’s highlands. Carefully cultivated and dried, Kon Tum pepper stands out for its strong, slightly citrusy aroma. This flavorful and immersive day further deepened my appreciation for the region’s rich gastronomy.

Day 5: Excursion to the historic site of Dak To

On my last day in Kon Tum, I cycled through the golden rice fields of the village, enjoying the fresh morning air and the peaceful scenery. Since my trip coincided with the harvest season, I was lucky to witness the rice fields at their peak — an incredible display of vibrant colors and life.

Before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City, I stopped by the central market to pick up some souvenirs and local specialties, including coffee, pepper, and traditional cakes.

For my final meal in Kon Tum, I enjoyed rice noodles served with fried tofu, fresh herbs, and fermented shrimp paste (bun dau mam tom), a Northern Vietnamese specialty that has won over food lovers in the central region.

This 5-day trip to Kon Tum was an unforgettable experience, blending cultural discoveries, nature exploration, and culinary delights. Each day revealed a new aspect of this untouched region, leaving me with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s cultural richness. I highly recommend this region and these places to anyone seeking an authentic experience away from mass tourism, for a truly immersive journey into Vietnamese local life.