Many foreign tourists flock to Du Gia Waterfall in Ha Giang to jump from heights into the water (Photo by Nguyen Thuat)
The number of visitors to Du Gia Waterfall has sharply increased. As Ha Giang enters the dry season, the favourable weather conditions have attracted even more tourists. Du Gia Waterfall has become a favourite destination for foreign travellers seeking cliff-jumping experiences.
Last week, Nguyen Thuat, a local tour guide, witnessed groups of tourists waiting their turn to jump from 3.5 to 6 metres into the water below.
Domestic tourists prefer sightseeing and photography. Besides the waterfall, there is a stall that sells drinks and snacks.
Du Gia Waterfall has become a favourite destination for foreign travellers seeking cliff-jumping experiences (Photo by Nguyen Thuat)
Another tourist guide, Hoang Huy, said homestays near Du Gia Waterfall and Dong Van are fully booked.
Hoang Minh Truong, chairman of Du Gia Commune, stated that warning signs in Vietnamese and English are placed at the waterfall, but many foreign tourists ignore them and continue to engage in cliff jumping.
Nguyen Dinh Duan, vice chairman of Yen Minh Commune, said that the district is working to manage tourism at the site.
A Danang-based Highland Sport Travel representative, specialising in providing adventurous tours, said that cliff jumping or rope swinging appeared in Vietnam in 2014. He added that to be licensed in this service, tour operators and travel companies must meet strict requirements set by management agencies.
He says cliff jumping at Du Gia Waterfall is spontaneous and poses potential risks. He advised tourists to select prestigious travel firms to ensure safety during extreme tourism activities.