Private Dalat Waterfall Tour: Pongour, Elephant & Datanla

Summary

Discover Dalat’s Hidden Waterfalls and Local Life

You’ll get up close with Dalat’s wildest waterfalls, taste mountain-grown coffee at Me Linh Café, meet locals at cricket and silk farms, and soak up real highland life—all with an English-speaking guide who knows every shortcut and story along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Dalat always feels a bit crisp, even in summer. We set off early, winding through quiet roads lined with pine trees. Our first stop was Pongour Waterfall—a place that locals call the “Seven-Level Cascade.” The sound of water tumbling over wide stone steps echoed all around us. I noticed the spray left tiny rainbows in the sunlight if you stood at just the right angle. Our guide, Minh, shared stories about how villagers used to gather here for festivals. It’s easy to see why—there’s a peaceful energy you can’t quite put into words.

Next up was Elephant Falls, or Lieng Rowoa as some locals say. This one’s much louder—you’ll hear it before you see it. The path down is a bit rocky (watch your step!), but it’s worth it for the view at the bottom. Mist clings to your skin and there’s this earthy smell from all the moss and old trees nearby. Minh pointed out vines wrapped around trunks that must be centuries old. There’s a pagoda close by too—Linh An Tu—with a giant Buddha statue watching over everything. We took a few minutes there just listening to the water and monks chanting somewhere in the background.

Datanla Waterfall has its own vibe—more lively, with families laughing and kids trying out the alpine coaster ride nearby. If you’re feeling brave, you can try it yourself (I did—it’s fast!). The water here rushes through narrow rocks, making little pools where people dip their feet to cool off. There are food stalls selling fresh sugarcane juice; I grabbed one and sat on a rock just taking it all in.

We stopped at Me Linh Café after that—a spot perched on a hillside overlooking coffee plantations as far as you can see. The coffee here is strong and has this chocolatey aroma that lingers long after your last sip. You might spot farmers tending their plants below while birds flit between branches overhead.

The day wasn’t just about waterfalls though. At a small cricket farm nearby, we met Mr. Bao who showed us how he raises crickets for local dishes (yes, I tried one—crunchy but surprisingly tasty). Then we visited Cuong Hoan Silk Factory where workers still use old wooden looms to weave silk by hand. Watching them separate silk from cocoons was oddly hypnotic.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Dalat Waterfalls and Attractions

• Visit Pongour Waterfall
• Visit Elephant Waterfall
• Visit Datanla Waterfall
• Relax at Cafe Me Linh Dalat
• Tour Cricket Farm
• Visit Cuong Hoan Silk Factory
• Visit Linh An Tu Pagoda

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, kids can join but some paths near waterfalls are uneven—just keep an eye on them.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable shoes are best since some trails are slippery; bring a light jacket for cool mornings and sunscreen for midday.

Are meals included?

No meals are included but there are plenty of local food stalls along the way where you can buy snacks or lunch.

Is hotel pickup available?

The tour starts from a central meeting point but let us know if you need help arranging transport—we’re happy to assist.

What’s included

Your ticket covers entrance fees at all stops, bottled water (500ml per person), an English-speaking guide who really knows Dalat inside out, and comfy transport from 8am till 4pm so you don’t have to worry about getting around.