Kon Tum offers a unique and immersive travel experience. From exploring majestic mountains and pristine waterfalls to delving into the captivating traditions of ethnic minority groups, Kon Tum has it all. In this Kon Tum travel guide, we’ll be your virtual tour companion, providing you with insider recommendations to make your journey to this charming province truly unforgettable.
Where is Kon Tum?
Kon Tum is in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It shares borders with Gia Lai to the north, Dak Lak to the south, Quang Nam to the east, and Laos and Cambodia to the west.
The distance from Da Nang to Kon Tum is approximately 293 km while that journey from Ho Chi Minh City will take 564 km. On the other hand, if you’re starting your journey from Hanoi be prepared for a longer distance. The road from Hanoi to Kon Tum stretches over 1237 km
Kon Tum has a diverse and complex topography that includes hills, mountains, plateaus, and lowlands. This unique blend of landforms creates stunning and rich landscapes throughout the region, which is truly a sight to see in Kon Tum.
When is the best time to visit Kon Tum?
Kon Tum enjoys a characteristic highland climate, offering a cool and pleasant atmosphere throughout the year. The climate in Kon Tum is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season typically spans from April to November, while the dry season extends from December to March of the following year. Each season in Kon Tum showcases its unique beauty, attracting visitors with its own charms.
If you’re eager to witness the beauty of this Central Highlands gem, December is the ideal time to visit. This is when the locals enthusiastically celebrate a bountiful harvest and the ripe rice season with vibrant festivals.
Moreover, from December to March the following year, you’ll experience the dry season, making it the perfect time for trekking trips along the mountain roads. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sight of brilliant wild sunflowers that paint the entire area yellow during this period of the year. And make sure to visit at the end of January, when the rubber forests undergo a spectacular transformation, creating an unforgettable and awe-inspiring scenery.
How to go to Kon Tum
If you’re planning a trip to Kon Tum, it’s crucial to think about how you’ll get there. Kon Tum boasts great transportation links, ensuring easy access to the city. Here are a few transportation options to consider when making your way to Kon Tum
Travelling by plane
Currently, Kon Tum does not have its own airport. However, if you prefer to travel by plane, you can choose to fly to Pleiku Airport in Gia Lai province (50 km from Kon Tum) and then take a bus to Kon Tum. It’s important to note that this option may require multiple transfers and can be inconvenient if you have a lot of luggage.
Travelling by bus
On the other hand, many backpackers and travelers recommend taking a bus to Kon Tum, as this option allows you to enjoy the scenic views along the way and avoid the hassle of multiple transfers. Depending on the starting point, it can take you about 2-3 hours when traveling from the neighboring Central Highlands or longer if traveling from the south, like Ho Chi Minh City or Ba Ria Vung Tau.
From Hanoi: the bus routes from Hanoi to Kon Tum cover a distance of approximately 1080 km, which takes 20 hours for traveling. You can contact these bus for more information:
- Van Lang bus: 02923 852 852 – 02923 646 464.
- Khuong Duy bus: 0333 292 929
- Tan Xuan Phuc bus: 0982 541 160 – 0932 334 446
From Ho Chi Minh City: the bus route from Ho Chi Minh City to Kon Tum is approximately 576 km and the travel time is approximately 12 hours.
- Duc Thuong bus: 0961007799 – 0976581581
- Long Van bus: 0602211823 – 0603862809
- Minh Quoc bus: 02603 855 855 – 0903 511 350
- Phong Phu bus: 1900 9222
From Da Nang: if you plan to travel from Da Nang to Kon Tum by bus, the route covers around 350 km with approximately 8 hours of travel time.
- Minh Quoc bus: 02603 855 855 – 0905 823 279
- Phuong Thu bus: 0949 839 839 – 0985 729 777
- Viet Tan bus: 02603 913 999
- Quoc Thuong bus: 0913 645 027 – 0977 771 093
Booking directly can sometimes be difficult because of the language barrier. If you want a more convenient option, you can book online using your phone with Bookaway.
- Book bus ticket from Ho Chi Minh city to Kon Tum
- Book bus ticket from Da Nang city to Kon Tum
- Book bus ticket from Hanoi to Kon Tum
Traveling by motorbike
Many young travelers opt for motorcycles when planning their trip to Kon Tum due to the convenience and freedom they offer compared to cars or airplanes. If you’re considering this option, you can embark on a scenic journey from Da Nang through Quang Nam to Kon Tum along the Ho Chi Minh route.
This route spans approximately 300 kilometers and takes you through breathtaking mountains and hills, with minimal residential areas in between. To fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests, I recommend making a stop at Thanh My (Nam Giang) for breakfast. After that, you can continue your journey, as there won’t be many places to find food further along the road.
It’s essential to ensure your motorcycle is in good condition before embarking on this adventure. With a predominantly forested route of 300 kilometers, you’ll encounter mainly mountains, forests, and occasional residential areas. So, it’s crucial to check your motorcycle thoroughly to ensure it’s roadworthy and ready for the trip.
How to move around Kon Tum
If you go to Kon Tum by motorcycle, then you don’t need to worry about transportation to attractions anymore. However, if you opt for the bus or plane, you might be wondering what mode of transportation to use for convenience. Well, from the city center, you have three options to move around and explore the attractions in Kon Tum.
Private car rental
If you’re traveling in a group or with many people, going by car is a convenient option in Kon Tum. You can easily hire a taxi to move around the city. It’s worth noting that the car rental service in Kon Tum is still quite limited, as the tourism industry is still developing.
If you choose to fly to Pleiku Airport and then transfer to Kon Tum, it’s important to gather information about car rental services at the airport. Here’s a reference price list for the car rental service in the Pleiku-Kon Tum area:
Intercity car from Kon Tum to Pleiku:
- 4-seater car: 350,000 VND
- 7-seater car: 400,000 VND
In Kon Tum City, you can also find car rental services. The prices for car rentals are as follows:
- 4-seater car: 350,000 VND for 4 hours, 750,000 VND for 8 hours, 850,000 VND per day.
- 7-seater car: 450,000 VND for 4 hours, 850,000 VND for 8 hours, 1,050,000 VND per day.
Currently, car rental services in Kon Tum are well developed, offering a variety of car models ranging from 4-seaters to 7-seaters and even 16-seaters. These rental services can transport you to places in the city center and other tourist attractions as per your request.
Please keep in mind that the prices provided above are just for reference, as the actual rental price depends on various factors such as the rental duration, the number of people, and your specific schedule.
Bus
If you’re traveling to Kon Tum on your own and looking to save money, taking the bus is a cheap and budget-friendly option. From the city center, Kon Tum offers bus trips to various inner city districts such as Dak To, Tu Mo Rong, Kon Plong, Dak Ha, Kon Ray, Sa Thay, and Ngoc Hoi, as well as routes to Ho Chi Minh City and Pleiku airport in Gia Lai.
The starting point for these bus trips is the Thai Hoa bus station, located on Nguyen Hue Street, right opposite Tan Huong Church.
Motorcycle
| Unit Name | Phone | Address | Manual Bike Rental Price | Scooter Rental Price |
| Family Hotel | 0603 865 748 | 235 Tran Hung Dao Street | 80,000đ – 100,000đ/day | 130,000đ – 140,000đ/day |
| Le Lai Street | 0917 999 290 | 112 Le Lai Street | 80,000đ – 100,000đ/day | 130,000đ – 140,000đ/day |
| Nguyen Van Troi Street | 097 522 97 77 | 26 Nguyen Van Troi Street | 100,000đ/day | 150,000đ/day |
| Quoc Trang | 0899 356 982 | 162 Hoang Thi Loan Street, Quang Trung Ward | 80,000đ – 150,000đ/day | 120,000đ -180,000đ/day |
| Kon Tum Motorbike Rental | 0869 965 382 | 358 Duy Tan Street, Duy Tan Ward | 80,000đ – 150,000đ/day | 120,000đ -180,000đ/day |
| Van Tuan | 098 444 7999 | 981 Phan Dinh Phung Street, Quyet Thang Ward | 100,000đ/day | 150,000đ/day |
| Indochine | 1900 545440 | 30 Bach Dang Street, Quyet Thang Ward | 90,000đ – 120,000đ/day | 140,000đ – 150,000đ/day |
Renting a scooter/motorbike for a trip to Kon Tum can be a great experience, especially for young people who are eager to explore the stunning passes and national parks in the province. These locations often involve traversing slopes and sometimes even unpaved roads. While it can be thrilling, it’s important to prioritize safety and keep a few things in mind:
- Choose the right type of vehicle: When planning to tackle the passes, it’s advisable to opt for a manual bike rather than a scooter. The added control and stability of a manual bike will make maneuvering the bends easier and safer. On the other hand, if you’re only exploring attractions within the city, any scooter/motorbike that meets the necessary quality standards should suffice.
- Thoroughly inspect the scooter/motorbike: Before accepting the rental vehicle, take the time to carefully inspect everything, with special attention to the engine and brakes. Look for any signs of damage or potential issues that could affect your safety or the vehicle’s performance.
- Test drive the scooter/motorbike: It’s always a good idea to take the vehicle for a short test drive before embarking on your journey. This will allow you to ensure that the vehicle is running smoothly and that the brakes are in good working condition. If you notice any problems during the test drive, promptly inform the rental company and request a replacement vehicle.
Taxi
If you’re going with a group or family with children or elders, taking a taxi can be a convenient option when traveling to tourist attractions. Taxis offer comfort and spacious seating, ensuring everyone can travel together comfortably. Moreover, taxis provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for long walks or navigating public transportation, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the attractions without any hassle.
- Mai Linh Taxi: (0260) 38 38 38 38
- Taxi Sun Kon Tum: 0260.3.79.79.79.79
- Taxi Hung Nhan: 0260.3.91.91.91
- Taxi Tien Sa: 0260.3.89.89.89
- Taxi Phu Quy: 059.3..872.777
- Taxi Huy Hoang: 02603. 911.911
What to do for the first time in Kon Tum?
Kon Tum Wooden Church
Address: 13 Nguyen Hue, Thong Nhat Ward, Kon Tum
Situated in the heart of the city, the Kon Tum Wooden Church is a captivating blend of solemn Roman architecture and the rustic charm of the traditional stilt houses of the Ba Na people. This architectural masterpiece exudes an air of sanctity and purity, enveloping visitors in a mysterious and dreamlike ambiance.
While similar structures can be found elsewhere, the Kon Tum Wooden Church holds a special allure in harmony with the serene beauty of Kon Tum, making it an irresistible destination for many tourists.
Kon Tum Bishop’s Palace
Address: 146 Tran Hung Dao Street, Thong Nhat Ward, Kon Tum City.
Kon Tum Bishop’s Palace is a fascinating place to explore architecture and culture in Kon Tum. It is not far from the wooden church, making it convenient for visitors to explore both.
The Bishop’s Palace is not only the largest Catholic institution in the Central Highlands but also showcases a unique blend of architectural styles and cultural values. It’s a must-visit destination during your trip to Kon Tum to truly appreciate its beauty and significance.
As you approach the Bishop’s Palace, you’ll notice the striking façade and the picturesque surroundings. The road leading to the palace is lined with porcelain trees, displaying lovely pink blossoms that create a scenic mountain and forest-like ambiance. The combination of Western architectural elements with traditional features of the Central Highlands people makes the bishopric truly captivating.
While exploring the exterior is a great way to admire the building, don’t miss the opportunity to venture inside. The Bishop’s Palace serves as a mini-museum, preserving the history of the Catholic Association. Inside, you’ll find agricultural and living tools, as well as sculptures depicting the local people. It’s a fascinating insight into the culture and heritage of the area.
Kon K’lor Communal House
Address: Bac Kan Street – Thang Loi Ward – Kon Tum City
Nestled along the picturesque Dak Bla River, the Kon K’lor Communal House stands as a testament to the artistry of Kon K’lor village artisans. Constructed using simple materials like wood, bamboo, and leaves, this communal house showcases the unique cultural heritage of the Central Highlands.
With its impressive size and enchanting setting, the Kon K’lor Communal House has become a popular spot for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Kon Tum. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this remarkable location and capture memorable photos amidst its captivating surroundings.
KonKlor Suspension Bridge
The KonKlor Suspension Bridge is a must-visit destination in Kon Tum, particularly popular among young people. It is situated next to the Kon K’lor communal house, on Bac Kan Street in Thang Loi Ward, Kon Tum City. This suspension bridge, spanning the Dak Blar River, is the largest cable-stayed bridge in Kon Tum.
The KonKlor Suspension Bridge is an impressive sight, with a length of 292 meters and a width of 4.5 meters. As you stand on the bridge, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of majestic mountains, lush forests, and the flowing waters below.
Another valuable travel experience in Kon Tum is taking a journey from the Kon K’lor bridge to the Bah Nar ethnic village, also known as Kon Klor. This village is located in close proximity to the bridge. Here, you can witness and participate in unique activities that showcase the cultural heritage of the Ba Na. These activities include traditional practices like drinking stem liquor, ethnic dance performances, and the opportunity to see exquisite handicrafts created by talented local artisans.
The Border Milestone
Address: near the Bo Y border gate in Ngoc Hoi district, Kon Tum province
The Border Milestone represents the border junction of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. It’s a powerful symbol of unity and the shared history of these three Dong Duong countries. That’s why this border is definitely a conquest worth experiencing, and it adds a special touch to your trip.
The milestone sits at an altitude of 1086m, and although it’s not a challenging climb, the moment you step foot on this sacred landmark, you’ll be filled with deep emotions. It’s a proud moment, to witness the beauty of Vietnam.
If you have limited time or are planning a day trip to Kon Tum, the mentioned places are worth visiting. But for a deeper exploration, check out our comprehensive travel guide for Kon Tum tourist attraction. Uncover fascinating cultural and historical aspects beyond the iconic sites.
What to eat in Kon Tum
Kon Tum is blessed with abundant natural resources from its mountains, forests, rivers, and lakes, ensuring that you won’t go hungry during your visit.
Sticky Rice with Bamboo Shoots
Sticky rice with bamboo shoots is a must try for any tourist come to Kon Tum. This dish is made of sticky rice infused with turmeric and flavorful fried bamboo shoots. This rustic delicacy has become a daily breakfast for the locals of Kon Tum.
Leaf Salad
True to its name, leaf salad boasts a delightful medley of 40 different types of leaves, accompanied by thinly sliced pork. This addictive dish captivates visitors with its unique flavors, especially when paired with a secret dipping sauce. You’ll have to visit Kon Tum to uncover the magic of this one-of-a-kind recipe firsthand.
Jellyfish Noodle Soup
Despite being nestled amidst mountains and forests, Kon Tum has made a name for itself with its delectable jellyfish noodle soup. This unique dish offers a delightful combination of chewy and crunchy jellyfish, infused with a rich and flavorful broth. One bowl is never enough to satisfy your craving.
While the ingredients may resemble Nha Trang’s jellyfish noodle soup, there’s something special about experiencing this dish in the Central Highlands. Perhaps it’s the broth, which boasts a richer, warmer, and more comforting flavor, that truly captivates the taste buds.
Bitter tomato
Bitter tomato is quite popular among the ethnic minorities in Kon Tum. Although it may have a bit of bitterness to it, food enthusiasts will quickly recognize its unique taste.
The local ethnic minorities have perfected the art of preparing this wild fruit into various dishes, such as salted bitter tomatoes, braised bitter tomatoes, and bitter tomato stir-fry. Each dish adds its own unique twist to the cuisine of Kon Tum’s ethnic minorities.
Ginseng stewed chicken
As Kon Tum is blessed with precious ginseng resources and a variety of medicinal herbs, the locals have taken advantage of this to create highly nutritious dishes. One of them is the ginseng stewed chicken. This dish is not only delicious but also has the amazing effect of invigorating and detoxifying the liver. It’s like a valuable medicine for your health!
So, if you’re looking for a nutritious and flavorsome meal in Kon Tum, make sure to try the ginseng stewed chicken. Your taste buds and your health will thank you for it!
These are some must-try dishes in Kon Tum, but there are many more culinary delights to explore if you have more time. Don’t forget to consult our Kon Tum local food list for a comprehensive summary and discover even more delicious options in the region.
Hotels in Kon Tum
Finding accommodation in Kon Tum is relatively easy, as the city offers a concentration of hotels. The main streets to consider are Phan Dinh Phung, Truong Chinh, and Duy Tan. If you’re planning a resort-style trip, to visit famous attractions, it’s most convenient to choose hotels located near or in the city center. This allows easy access to taxis or motorcycle rentals, making it convenient to reach your desired destinations. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s advisable to book your accommodations in advance.
Konklor Hotel
Konklor Hotel is a highly regarded 1-star hotel in Kon Tum. Despite its rating, it offers excellent room quality and services, impressing many tourists. The hotel takes the form of a homestay, featuring a spacious and beautiful campus with separate rooms, ensuring maximum comfort for guests.
Its architecture combines modern and traditional elements, reflecting the unique characteristics of the Central Highlands’ mountains and forests. The interior design harmoniously blends materials from the natural surroundings, such as paintings, bamboo, rattan, and brocade, creating a refreshing yet rustic ambiance. Despite its 1-star status, Konklor Hotel provides luxurious amenities, including a water heater, refrigerator, television, internet access, and a locker for guests’ convenience.
Window Hotel
The Window Hotel is a 2-star hotel located near the center of Kon Tum. Its convenient location allows easy access to nearby attractions. The rooms here are fully furnished with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, carpets, blankets, and comforters, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The hotel is also situated close to the market and Nguyen Hue street, which is where the bus station is located. This makes it convenient for guests who wish to travel to Pleiku or neighboring districts by bus.
The rooms are well-designed and brightly lit, providing a pleasant ambiance that rivals that of a 3-star hotel. Many guests have praised the hotel for its excellent value for money, with competitive prices that do not increase even during peak seasons. Additionally, the hotel offers motorbike rentals at a reasonable rate of 150k VND per day. For hourly or half-day rentals, guests can inquire at the reception for specific pricing.
Hnam Chang Ngeh Hotel
Hnam Chang Ngeh Hotel is a comfortable and affordable 3-star hotel. With its classic architectural style, the hotel attracts international guests and young travelers looking for a unique accommodation experience. Although it may not offer the same level of luxury as other 3-star hotels, Hnam Chang Ngeh provides a clean and courteous environment for its guests. The hotel has a distinctive European charm that adds to its appeal.
One of the standout features of the Hnam Chang Ngeh Hotel is its reasonable pricing. Despite being a 3-star hotel, the rates are affordable, even when there are many foreign guests. The hotel also provides breakfast for its guests, and although the staff may be small in number, they are friendly, approachable, and enthusiastic in their service.
Homestay in Kon Tum
When you arrive in a particular destination, you’ll often come across homestays that are designed in the distinctive style of that region. And in Kon Tum, you’ll find homestays that showcase the region’s mountainous charm and provide an ideal setting to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of this province.
Vietnam Phuot Homestay
Vietnam Phuot Homestay is a homestay with traditional Vietnamese-style tiled-roof houses and lush green gardens. Every corner of this homestay is meticulously cared for, captivating the eyes of every guest. The vibrant flower garden adds a colorful touch to the ambiance, creating a delightful atmosphere for a memorable stay.
Chino Homestay Mang Den
Nestled amidst a serene pine garden, Chino Homestay offers a unique and exciting space for young travelers. It’s not just a place to stay; Chino also features a café, restaurant, pub, and opportunities for mountain climbing, providing a range of experiences to choose from. Coming here, you can not only enjoy a comfortable stay but also immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
TOKI Boutique – Mang Den
TOKI Boutique – Mang Den will give you the opportunity to experience a beautiful, pleasant, and unique stay. At TOKI, you’ll find warmth and comfort in their cozy rooms. Soft mattresses and a charming bookshelf create a cozy nest where you can relax and unwind.
How long should you stay in Kon Tum
For a short but fulfilling visit, a 1 to 2-day stay in Kon Tum is recommended. Within this timeframe, you can explore the prominent attractions mentioned earlier and indulge in the delightful local cuisine. It will give you a taste of the unique charm and cultural richness of this region.
However, if you have the luxury of more time, extending your stay to 4 to 5 days in Kon Tum is highly recommended. With a longer stay, you’ll have ample time to discover additional local attractions beyond the popular ones. You can embark on adventurous hikes through the mesmerizing national parks, visit remote ethnic villages, and witness traditional cultural performances. Engaging in these activities will make your experience in Kon Tum even more enriching and memorable.
ATM and Money Exchange in Kon Tum
Kon Tum offers a reasonable number of ATMs for convenient cash withdrawal. You will find ATMs located throughout the city, providing easy access to your funds. However, it is advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors or when visiting remote areas where ATMs might be scarce.
When it comes to currency exchange services, they are not as readily available in Kon Tum. If you require such services, it is recommended to inquire at local banks or visit reputable jewelry stores. Prior inquiries will ensure you find a reliable establishment for your currency exchange needs. Major banks like Vietcombank, Sacombank, and others are good options to consider.
For safety purposes, it is advisable to perform currency exchange in major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang before traveling to Kon Tum. These larger cities offer a wider range of exchange services and a more competitive exchange rate.
Local Emergency Contact for Tourists in Kon Tum
- Electronic portal of Kon Tum province: 02603.955456
- Emergency Rescue: Dial 112
- Police: 113
- Fire Department: 114
- Ambulance and Medical support: 115
- Remember to save your hotel/homestays phone number in case of emergency
Other notes to ensure a wonderful trip beside of this Kon Tum travel guide
- Choose comfortable and flexible clothing for easy movement, such as elastic and absorbent fabrics. Don’t forget suitable footwear like sports shoes or flat shoes.
- Essential accessories for the hot weather include a hat to shield yourself from the sun, a jacket for cooler evenings, sunglasses for eye protection, and sunscreen for your skin.
- Pack personal items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, towels, your phone, necessary medications, and mosquito repellent spray. Bring premium snacks if you plan to explore remote areas, and consider enjoying a meal in scenic spots.
- For camping trips, bring your tent and camping essentials, along with warm clothing for cooler nights.
- We suggest using a Viettel SIM card to ensure a reliable data connection in mountainous areas.
- Remember to clean up after meals in picturesque spots before continuing your adventure.
With these tips in mind and all the suggestions above, you’ll be well-equipped for your first time in Kon Tum. Enjoy your trip and make unforgettable memories!
