Dalat: Qung Tha Village Hiking & Tuyen Lam Lake BBQ Lunch

Stepping away from Da Lat’s bustling streets, this tour offers a calm and scenic escape into the region’s lush pine forests and peaceful lakes. For $49 per person, you’ll get a roughly 7-kilometer walk through gentle terrain, guided by local experts who love sharing stories about the Central Highlands. The experience culminates with a delicious BBQ lunch by Tuyen Lam Lake, surrounded by water, trees, and fresh mountain air. It’s a package that balances nature, culture, and good food — perfect for those who want a gentle walk, some authentic scenery, and a taste of local flavors.

What makes this trip special? First, the scenery really delivers — pine forests and tranquil lakes are the backbone of Da Lat’s charm, and you’ll get to experience both up close. Second, the local guides aren’t just walking encyclopedias; their stories about the Central Highlands add a personal touch to the scenery and plants you’ll see, making the experience more meaningful.

A possible consideration? Since it’s advertised as beginner-friendly and covers only about 7 km, it’s not suited for those looking for a challenging hike. Plus, the tour is primarily in Vietnamese with basic English, so expect some language barriers if you’re not familiar with Vietnamese.

This tour works best for travelers aged 10 to 45 who enjoy light outdoor adventures, scenic nature, and local cuisine. If you’re after an easy, culturally enriching outing that introduces you to Da Lat’s natural beauty without strenuous effort, this could be just right.

Key Points

Serene Pine Forests: Enjoy a gentle trek through Da Lat’s iconic pine woods, perfect for beginners.
Scenic Tuyen Lam Lake: The BBQ lunch by the lake offers stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Local Knowledge: Guides share stories about native plants, wild mushrooms, and the Central Highlands’ culture.
All-Inclusive Comfort: Transport, trekking poles, bottled water, and insurance are included for hassle-free planning.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.
Ideal for: Families, first-time visitors, and those wanting an easy outdoor experience combined with local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Tour Review

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Getting to the Heart of the Experience

This tour starts bright and early at 8:00 AM from No. 82 Phu Dong Thien Vuong Street, the local meeting point, with a short drive to the trailhead. The convenience of round-trip transportation from the center of Da Lat means you won’t need to worry about navigating or arranging separate transport — a real plus for travelers unfamiliar with the area. The group stays small enough for a personalized experience, and with trekking poles and bottled water provided, you’re well-equipped for a comfortable walk.

The Trek: Pine Forests and Peaceful Trails

The core of this tour is a 7-kilometer trek through Da Lat’s pine forests. The routes are described as gentle, making it suitable for beginners, families, and those curious about local flora. We loved the way the trail meanders through tall pine trees, their scent filling the air, with just enough incline to keep things interesting without being exhausting.

Guides, often Vietnamese with basic English, are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge. They point out native plants as well as wild mushrooms, which travelers find particularly fascinating. One review mentions, “We loved the way our guide explained the different plants and their uses — it added a whole new layer to our walk.”

The tranquility of the forest is a highlight. Many travelers comment on how peaceful the surroundings are, with some noting that “you’re surrounded by nature, with only bird sounds and rustling leaves breaking the silence.” It’s an excellent way to disconnect from city noise and reconnect with nature.

Learning About the Central Highlands

Beyond the scenery, guides share stories about the Central Highlands’ culture and history. These insights give context to the landscape, helping visitors appreciate not just what they see but the stories behind them. It’s a chance to deepen your understanding of this lesser-known part of Vietnam, making the experience both scenic and educational.

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The Lunch: Scenic, Tasty, and Relaxing

At noon, the tour transitions to the lakeside at Tuyen Lam Lake, one of Da Lat’s most beautiful spots. The ambiance here is idyllic — water lapping against the shore, tall trees framing the scene, and mountains in the distance. The BBQ lunch is served outdoors, creating a true sense of alfresco dining.

The meal includes grilled chicken, beef, pork belly, roasted vegetables, salads, and bamboo-cooked rice (cm lam). Many reviews rave about how delicious and fresh the food is, with one traveler noting, “The bamboo rice was an unexpected delight — smoky, tender, and perfect with the grilled meats.” The setting and fresh mountain air make it a satisfying break, especially after the hike.

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End of the Day

The tour wraps up around 2:00 PM, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and a refreshed spirit. Many mention feeling relaxed and recharged, with some noting how the combination of nature, good food, and storytelling created a memorable experience.

Practical Details: Comfort and Cost

With round-trip transport, trekking poles, bottled water, and travel insurance included, the $49 price tag offers good value, especially considering the scenic locations and personalized guidance. The tour is designed to be accessible, with no heavy gear needed, and the short duration makes it perfect for a half-day outing.

However, keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or those over 95—the physical activity and walking on uneven trails could be challenging for some. It’s also primarily in Vietnamese, so some language barriers may exist, though guides are friendly and eager to share.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience best suits first-time visitors or those with limited time in Da Lat who want a taste of the region’s natural beauty without strenuous effort. Families with children aged 10 and above will find it manageable and enjoyable, especially with the scenic backdrop and relaxed pace. If you’re curious about native plants, local culture, and local cuisine, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction.

It’s also great for those seeking a peaceful outdoor escape in Da Lat, with the added bonus of learning about the Central Highlands’ stories and traditions. If you’re after a more challenging hike or a detailed cultural dive, you might want to explore other options, but for a light, scenic trek, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children aged 10 and above, as long as they’re comfortable with a 7 km walk on gentle trails.

How long is the trek?
The walk is approximately 7 kilometers, designed to be beginner-friendly and not overly strenuous.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent to stay comfortable during the outdoor walk.

Will I see wildlife or interesting plants?
Yes, guides point out native plants and wild mushrooms, and you’ll enjoy the natural sounds of the forest.

Is the food vegetarian?
No, the BBQ lunch features grilled meats and vegetables; vegetarian options are not specifically mentioned.

What language do guides speak?
Guides primarily speak Vietnamese with basic English, so some language barriers might occur.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are there any physical restrictions?
This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or people over 95 due to the walking and terrain.

How is the transportation arranged?
Transportation is included and departs from Da Lat city center, making logistics easy.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Dalat tour combines the calm of pine forests, the serenity of Tuyen Lam Lake, and a taste of local cuisine into a balanced half-day adventure. It’s ideal for travelers craving a gentle outdoor experience with cultural insights, especially if you’re new to hiking or traveling with family. The inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, and a scenic lakeside meal makes it a hassle-free way to enjoy some of Da Lat’s best natural sights.

If authentic scenery, friendly guides, and good food appeal to you, and you prefer a manageable walk without heavy physical demands, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also a perfect choice for those who want to learn a little about the Central Highlands while soaking up the tranquility of Da Lat’s famed pine woods.