travelHidden amid the vast forest in the Central Highlands region, the Chu Bluk volcanic cave complex in Dak Dong Province has emerged as a popular trekking spot
The Chu Bluk volcanic cave complex is the longest in Southeast Asia, comprising more than 100 caves of different sizes and structures, formed after the Chu Bluk volcano erupted 3,700 years ago.
Located in Buon Choah Commune, Krong No District, Dak Nong Province, the Chu Bluk volcanic cave complex, also known as the Doi (Bat) Cave, stretches around 25 kilometers from the Dray Sap Cascade to the Buon Choah Cave.
The path to Chu Bluk comprises a nine-kilometer trekking route that is scary but exciting as people have to walk on an uneven path covered with volcanic stones and wild grass. The entire journey offers charming views of the blue sky and majestic mountains.
Inside, Chu Bluk is dark, with just some rays of sunlight peeping in through the cracks on the cave walls. It is cold and humid inside, giving trekkers a nervous, prickly feeling. Sometimes, the sound of falling water droplets breaks the silence.
Trekkers also have the choice to conquer high cliffs and the cascades on the Srepok River during the trip.
For the less adventurous, there are activities such as cycling around the local villages and coffee farms, overnight camping and enjoying a cup of hot coffee and grilled meat by the poetic Dray Nur Cascade.
The best time to explore the Chu Bluk Cave Complex is during the spring or summer when the location is bright with sunshine and fresh with lush green vegetation.
