In recent years, the park’s mountains, old-growth forests, waterfalls and sea of clouds scenery have attracted growing numbers of nature lovers and adventure seekers.
However, park authorities said trekking and other self-organised tourism activities remain under assessment and management and have not been officially permitted.
Under current regulations, unauthorised sightseeing and tourism activities in the forest may face fines of VND 4 million to VND 6 million (USD 150-USD 230), while recreational activities in strictly protected areas can incur fines of up to VND 10 million.
Located about 60 kilometres southeast of Buon Ma Thuot, Chu Yang Sin National Park is one of the Central Highlands’ most important primary forests, known for its rich biodiversity, rugged landscapes and towering peaks, including the 2,400-metre Chu Yang Sin peak, often referred to as the roof of Dak Lak.
Authorities warned that the area’s steep terrain, dense forests and rapidly changing weather could make trekking dangerous, especially during the rainy season when trails become slippery, streams rise rapidly and thick fog reduces visibility.
Many remote areas inside the forest core zone also lack mobile phone coverage, complicating rescue efforts in the event of accidents or hikers getting lost.
Park authorities said uncontrolled trekking could damage fragile forest ecosystems through littering, campfires, illegal trail creation and disturbances to wildlife habitats, while also increasing forest fire risks during the dry season.
Visitors were urged to explore nature responsibly and avoid entering the forest without permission from authorities.