Top 10 Waterfalls in Da Lat

Da Lat is the waterfall capital of Vietnam. Within a 100-kilometer radius of the city, you’ll find everything from adrenaline-packing adventure parks to remote cascades where you might be the only visitor. We ranked all 11 waterfalls in the region by rating, distance, and character — here are the top 10, plus a bonus pick for those short on time.

Quick Comparison

Waterfalls at a Glance

1. Bao Dai Waterfall

The most remote and least commercialized of Da Lat’s major waterfalls, Bao Dai is named after Vietnam’s last emperor, who used this area as a private hunting retreat. Located in the Tà Hine area about 60 kilometers from the city, it’s a tall cascade in a wild, untouched setting — no gift shops, no queues, just raw nature. This is the waterfall for those who want to feel like they’ve discovered something real.

The waterfall drops over 40 meters in a single dramatic plunge surrounded by dense jungle. The trail from the parking area winds through farmland before reaching the falls — the contrast between the open fields and the sudden wall of water is striking. You’ll likely have the place nearly to yourself outside of Vietnamese public holidays. Bring your own water and snacks, as there are minimal facilities on-site.

Best for: Solitude seekers and adventurers willing to trade comfort for authenticity.

View full details →

2. Pongour Waterfall

Often called the most majestic waterfall in southern Vietnam, Pongour features seven naturally terraced rock levels that create a massive, layered cascade. Located about 50 kilometers south of Da Lat, it’s a full-day excursion — but the scale and beauty of the terraces are genuinely breathtaking. The surrounding gardens are beautifully landscaped, and the calm pools between tiers are perfect for swimming during the wet season.

The terraced pools at Pongour are its signature feature. Each level forms a natural wading pool with crystal-clear water, and during peak season (May to November), the flow is powerful enough to create misty rainbows above the cascades. In dry season, you can walk down to the base to see lava rocks carved by centuries of water flow. The entrance fee is just 20,000 VND — remarkably cheap for such a spectacular sight.

Best for: Swimmers, photographers, and anyone wanting the “wow factor” of Vietnam’s seven-tiered giant.

View full details →

3. Datanla Waterfall

Datanla is Da Lat’s most exciting waterfall attraction, combining seven cascading tiers with an alpine coaster that winds through the forest canopy. The coaster — the longest in Vietnam at over 1 kilometer — lets you control your own speed as you zip past pine trees and waterfall viewpoints. Beyond the coaster, visitors can zip-line across the falls, kayak in the pool, or hike the trails connecting all seven tiers.

What makes Datanla stand out is the sheer variety of activities packed into one site. Families love the gentle coaster ride, adrenaline junkies head straight for the zip-lines, and hikers can take the staircase trail to explore each tier at their own pace. Tickets start at 220,000 VND and include the coaster, electric car, and access to all areas.

Best for: Adventure lovers and families looking for a full day of activities.

View full details →

4. Pang Tieng Waterfall

Pang Tieng is the waterfall for true adventurers. Also called Pang Tien 7-Storey Waterfall, this remote cascade sits deep in the pine forests of Lac Duong district, accessible only by rough road (4WD strongly recommended) with no phone signal along the way. The reward is a 7-tiered drop in a completely wild setting — almost no tourists, just locals who know the spot.

The journey is part of the experience: navigate unpaved forest trails, download offline maps beforehand, and walk through damp woodland to reach the falls. Be aware that a sturgeon farm at the top affects water quality, and leeches are common on the forest path. But for those willing to earn it, Pang Tieng offers something no other waterfall near Da Lat can: genuine isolation.

Best for: Off-road enthusiasts and travelers who want to earn their waterfall.

View full details →

5. Lien Khuong Waterfall

Lien Khuong is one of those pleasant surprises — a stunning roadside waterfall that most visitors drive past without realizing what they’re missing. Located at the Lien Khuong Pass intersection about 27 kilometers from Da Lat, it sits in a dramatic mountain setting with views in every direction. The waterfall itself is a powerful cascade, especially impressive at sunrise when the morning light hits the mist.

There’s no entrance fee and no infrastructure — just the waterfall, some local food stalls, and the mountains. It’s the kind of stop that makes a long drive feel special. Pull over, take your photos, grab a coffee from a nearby vendor, and soak in the view. The whole experience takes 15-30 minutes, but the memories last much longer.

Best for: Sunrise chasers and anyone driving Highway 20 who wants a quick, free, stunning stop.

View full details →

6. Elephant Waterfall

Elephant Waterfall (Thác Voi) is one of Da Lat’s most powerful cascades, dropping with raw thunderous force into a misty pool below. Located beside the serene Linh An Pagoda, which features a towering Lady Buddha statue, this waterfall combines natural drama with spiritual calm.

The cascade itself is wide and powerful, especially during the rainy season. The force of the water creates a constant mist that keeps the surrounding rocks slick with moss. Note: the main entrance has been closed due to a landslide as of early 2026, but you can still access the falls via Elephant Coffee (1 minute away), which has an entrance down to the waterfall and an amazing rooftop perch.

Best for: Power-chasers and those who want to combine a waterfall with a temple visit.

View full details →

7. Damb’ri Waterfall

Damb’ri is the tallest waterfall in Lam Dong province at 57 meters, and it’s been developed into a full resort complex. The alpine coaster (claimed world’s highest starting point), Ferris wheel, 7D cinema, bungalows, treehouses, and a restaurant serving Central Highlands cuisine make this more than just a waterfall — it’s a full-day destination.

Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Da Lat in Bao Loc city, Damb’ri sits on the main highway between Da Lat and Ho Chi Minh City, making it a natural stopover. The standard ticket (220,000 VND) includes the coaster, electric transport, bird zoo, and infinity pool. Overnight stays in treehouses or forest camping are also available.

Best for: Families and resort-seekers who want comfort with their cascade.

View full details →

8. Bobla Waterfall

Bobla is Di Linh’s answer to a full-service waterfall experience. The 40-meter cascade sits inside an eco-resort with a 4-tier infinity pool, bird zoo featuring albino peacocks and alpacas, overnight camping, and cultural experiences like gong dancing and cơm lam (bamboo rice). The on-site Tea Bobla restaurant serves set menus and Central Highlands BBQ.

The complex is run by Bao Loc Tourism Joint Stock Company and draws visitors who want more than just a quick photo stop. The 2-day/1-night camping package (979,000 VND) includes tent, meals, and all activities — a solid option for those wanting to escape Da Lat for a night in the countryside.

Best for: Overnight visitors and those wanting a resort-style waterfall experience without the Damb’ri price tag.

View full details →

9. Tiger Cave Waterfall

Tiger Cave (Thác Hang Cọp) is a quiet cascade tucked inside a pine woodland east of Da Lat. Named for cave formations at its base (once rumored to be a tiger’s den), the waterfall is the real highlight — more so than the cave itself, which is a small grotto rather than a spelunking adventure.

The trek is more rugged than some reviews suggest: uneven paths with tree roots, mosquitoes, and proper shoes required. The area has been affected by a landslide and is officially closed, though visitors report entering without barriers. Plastic waste is also an issue. But the waterfall itself — powerful enough to create a refreshing mist and a cool pool — makes the walk worthwhile for those who manage it.

Best for: Pine forest lovers who don’t mind a rustic, slightly challenging walk.

View full details →

10. Prenn Waterfall

Located at the foot of the scenic Prenn Pass, Prenn offers a unique experience: a walkway that takes you directly behind the curtain of falling water. The surrounding Tea Resort Prenn complex includes botanical gardens, a cable car with panoramic views, and cultural exhibits. The walk-behind experience — feeling the mist and watching the world through a wall of water — is the unforgettable highlight.

Prenn’s botanical gardens are worth the visit alone, featuring over 100 species of flowers and ornamental plants. The cable car ride provides sweeping views of the pass below, and the cultural village area showcases traditional ethnic minority architecture. At just 10 kilometers from Da Lat, it’s one of the closest waterfalls to the city.

Best for: Families and first-time visitors wanting a complete “day out” experience close to town.

View full details →

Bonus: Cam Ly Waterfall

The closest waterfall to Da Lat’s city center, Cam Ly is a compact, historically significant cascade that has inspired local poets and musicians for generations. Formed where the Cam Le stream meets water from Xuan Huong Lake, it flows over several rocky tiers within a landscaped park. It’s not the biggest waterfall, but its proximity to town and its cultural charm make it an easy, pleasant stop.

Cam Ly is the waterfall locals visit on a casual afternoon stroll. The park around it has benches, small bridges, and well-maintained walking paths. There’s a small night market area nearby, making it easy to combine with an evening walk around the lake. If you’re short on time and can only visit one waterfall without leaving the city, Cam Ly is your answer.

Best for: Short on time, evening strollers, and those combining with Xuan Huong Lake.

View full details →

Planning Your Waterfall Trip

Best Time to Visit

The wet season from May to October brings the most dramatic waterfalls with full flow and maximum visual impact. Pongour and Elephant are at their best from July to November when the cascades are powerful. Datanla, Prenn, Damb’ri, and Bobla are accessible year-round. The dry season (December to April) means lighter flows but also fewer crowds and easier trail conditions.

Getting Around

The closest waterfalls — Cam Ly (2 km) and Datanla (5 km) — are easily reached by taxi or Grab. Prenn (10 km) and Tiger Cave (15 km) are a short motorbike ride away. For Pongour (50 km), Bao Dai (60 km), and Damb’ri (100 km), renting a motorbike gives you the most flexibility, though hiring a private car with driver is more comfortable for full-day trips.

Suggested Routes

• Southern Loop (full day): Datanla → Prenn → Pongour — chain three waterfalls along Highway 20
• Remote Adventure (full day): Bao Dai → Pongour — two wild waterfalls in the southeast
• City Waterfalls (half day): Cam Ly → Datanla — quick hits without leaving town
• Resort Day: Damb’ri or Bobla — full-day resort experience with rides, pool, and dining

What to Bring

• Footwear: Waterproof shoes or sandals with grip — the rocks around waterfalls are slippery
• Clothing: Quick-dry clothes you don’t mind getting wet from spray
• Protection: Waterproof phone case or dry bag for electronics
• Supplies: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water
• Cash: Most waterfall entrance fees are cash-only
• Offline maps: Essential for Pang Tieng and Bao Dai where there’s no phone signal

Waterfall FAQ

When is the best time to visit waterfalls in Da Lat?

The wet season from May to October offers the most spectacular water flow. Pongour and Elephant are especially impressive from July to November. Datanla, Prenn, Dambri, and Bobla are enjoyable year-round. If you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind lighter flows, the dry season (December to April) is also pleasant.

Can I swim at the waterfalls?

Yes, at several waterfalls. Pongour has natural terraced pools perfect for swimming during the wet season. Datanla has a designated kayaking and swimming area. Bobla has a 4-tier infinity pool included in the ticket. Always check current conditions and follow safety guidelines — currents can be strong after heavy rain.

Which waterfall is best for adventure seekers?

Datanla for rides and activities (alpine coaster, zip-line, canyoning). Pang Tieng for off-road adventure and genuine isolation. Bao Dai for raw, untamed nature with a challenging trail. Tiger Cave for a rugged pine forest walk.

Do I need a guide to visit the waterfalls?

No, all waterfalls are visitable independently. Larger sites (Datanla, Prenn, Dambri) have English signage. For remote waterfalls like Pang Tieng and Bao Dai, download offline maps before you go — there's no phone signal in those areas.

What should I bring when visiting waterfalls?

Bring waterproof footwear (rocks are slippery), quick-dry clothing, a waterproof phone case, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. Most entry fees are cash-only. A light rain jacket is wise during wet season — spray from the falls can be significant.