Dray Sap Waterfall: Where Love and Water Converge
Thác Đray Sáp (Dray Sap Waterfall) is known for its majestic beauty and the constant veil of mist that rises from the cascading water, earning it the local Ede name “Smoky Waterfall” (Dray Sap means ‘smoke’ or ‘mist’). It stands as one of the most magnificent waterfalls on the Serepok River, marking the boundary between Dak Nong and Dak Lak provinces. This towering cascade is approximately 20 meters high and stretches nearly 100 meters wide, making it an essential stop for any Central Highlands adventure.
History, Culture, and The Legend of Two Falls
Dray Sap is intimately linked with its neighbor, Dray Nur Waterfall (The Wife Waterfall). They were created by an ancient eruption and subsequent geological shifts, but the local Ede and M’Nông ethnic communities explain their separation through a beautiful legend.
The Legend: Local folklore tells the tragic love story of a young couple from warring villages. When their families forbade their union, they chose to end their lives in the Serepok River to be together eternally. Giang (a God) then split the river into two branches: Krông Nô (the Male River), forming Dray Sap (The Husband Waterfall) in Dak Nong, and Krông Ana (the Female River), forming Dray Nur (The Wife Waterfall). This enduring legend adds a layer of romance and mystique to the landscape.
Cultural Significance: The entire area is valued not only for its natural beauty but also as a traditional homeland of the Ede and M’Nông peoples. Visitors have opportunities to see their unique longhouses and experience the gong culture, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Activities and Practical Tips for Visitors
The Dray Sap-Gia Long Landscape Protection Area offers more than just sightseeing; it provides a peaceful escape into nature.
Crossing the Bridge: A suspension bridge connects the Dray Sap and Dray Nur sides of the river, allowing visitors to easily experience both spectacular waterfalls in one trip.
Photography and Relaxation: The misty spray creates a dramatic backdrop for photos. Explore the flat, layered basalt rocks along the riverbanks, perfect for picnicking and enjoying the powerful sound of the rushing water. Please note: swimming is often restricted directly under the main falls for safety.
Exploring Gia Long: Nearby is Gia Long Waterfall, the uppermost of the three-fall system. You can find beautiful natural pools there, offering a safer spot to swim and cool off.
Visitor Information
Dray Sap is easily accessible from Buon Ma Thuot City (about 30-40 kilometers) and is a key feature of the Krông Nô district.
Address: GVQR+44F, Đắk Sôr, Krông Nô, Đắk Nông, Vietnam. It is located near the border with Dak Lak Province.
Entrance Fee (Subject to Change): Expect to pay an entrance fee, typically around 40,000 to 50,000 VND per adult, to access the Cultural Ecotourism Area.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season (December to March) offers clear skies and easy trekking paths. However, the rainy season (July to October) shows the waterfalls at their most massive and majestic flow, although trails can be slippery.
