Hanoi (VNA) – While most volcanoes in Vietnam have long been dormant, the awe-inspiring landscapes they have left behind continue to captivate visitors, particularly in the Central Highlands and South Central regions.
A volcano is a large mountain with an opening at the top, beneath which lies a magma chamber capable of melting most types of rock. As temperature and pressure build, rocks require more space to expand, leading to cracks in the earth’s surface that allow lava, ash, and gases to erupt through the crater. The materials that escape then accumulate around the area, layer by layer, forming a steep, cone-shaped mountain.
Chu Dang Ya Volcano
Nestled in Chu Pah district, about 30km from Pleiku city in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai, Chu Dang Ya is one of Vietnam’s most renowned volcanoes. Standing 500m above sea level, this ancient volcano once erupted violently, leaving behind its distinctive funnel shape still visible today.
After ceasing activity, Chu Dang Ya's lava deposits transformed into rich, red basalt soil, now essential for local agriculture. The landscape is particularly breathtaking in October and November when the volcano is blanketed in radiant yellow-orange wild sunflowers.
Visiting Gia Lai during wild sunflower season, tourists can enjoy the vibrant annual festival celebrating the bloom. Beyond photographing the stunning scenery, visitors can immerse themselves in local culture with activities like hiking, traditional gong performances, and sampling regional cuisine – experiences that make the Central Highlands unforgettable.
Ham Rong Volcano
Ham Rong Volcano, also known as Chu Ho Dong or Hon Rong, is located in Chu HDrong commune, Pleiku city, in Gia Lai province. Rising over 1,000m above sea level, this iconic volcano on the Pleiku plateau is recognised for its impressive funnel-shaped crater.
Visitors trekking to Ham Rong are treated to winding paths up the mountain, often veiled in a refreshing morning mist. At the summit, the elevation offers sweeping views of Pleiku, dotted with endless tea plantations, coffee farms, and rubber forests.
In October and November, the bloom of vibrant yellow wild sunflowers adds a magical touch, creating picturesque photo opportunities for visitors immersed in nature's warm hues.
Chu Bluk Volcano
Chu Bluk Volcano, located in Krong No district, the Central Highlands province of Dak Nong, is home to Vietnam's longest volcanic cave system. This expansive network of over 100 caves was shaped by ancient lava flows millions of years ago and lies beneath basalt rock layers.
The 9km trekking path to explore the caves challenges adventurers with diverse terrain, especially the lava fields that glisten beneath layers of fertile basalt soil.
Spring and summer are the ideal seasons to visit Chu Bluk, when lush vegetation and clear weather make the trails more accessible and offer stunning photo opportunities. For those interested in local culture, early spring is a lively time to visit Dak Nong. Festivals such as the longevity celebration, new rice ceremony, Tam Nget, and Gong festival celebrate indigenous traditions, providing an immersive cultural experience.
Thoi Loi Volcano
Thoi Loi Mountain is one of the two national heritage sites on Ly Son island in the central province of Quang Ngai, recognised by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2020.
As the island’s largest volcano, Thoi Loi rises 169m above sea level, featuring a rugged and scenic landscape dominated by rock formations. From its peak, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Ly Son Island, surrounded by clear and blue seas.
The crater has been transformed into a freshwater reservoir with a capacity of 270,000 cu.m, serving as a vital resource for the island.
Gieng Tien Volcano
Not far from Thoi Loi is Gieng Tien volcano, another national heritage site on Ly Son Island, known for its surreal natural scenery that leaves a lasting impression on any visitor.
Viewed from above, Gieng Tien resembles a green crater surrounded by lush fields, villages, and beyond that, the vast sea. At a modest height of 86m, the volcano is easily accessible for exploration.
Its defining feature is the expansive crater, spanning hundreds of metres, filled with rich red soil that fosters thriving vegetation across the landscape.
Locals mix this fertile basalt soil with sand to grow the famous Ly Son garlic, a prized island specialty that is exclusive to the region./.
