This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Kontum.
Kontum, Vietnam, is a quiet and relaxed city located in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Surrounded by rolling mountains, Kontum doesn't see a lot of tourist traffic. it is not really on the travelers' path, as the two closest large cities are still a large distance away. Hoi An is just under three hundred kilometers due northeast and Nha Trang is about three hundred fifty kilometers southeast of Kontum.
While still a sizable city, Kontum boasts a very laid-back vibe. There is considerably less motorbike congestion in this city and locals can be found moving at an unflustered pace. Many people can be seen lounging at the string of cafes situated by the riverfront for hours at a time, chatting and smoking.
Kontum is a bit difficult to navigate, as it doesn't really have a city center or a central market. Aside from the Kontum Museum; the Wooden Church; and the Nha Rong KonK'lor, located several kilometers from the city, Kontum doesn't have much to offer travelers either.
However, Kontum is emerging as the place to be for visiting minority villages in the nearby hills. Similar to Sa Pa in the north, Kontum can be seen building itself up for more tourism in the future, as areas around all the riverfront are all under construction.
Visiting the minority villages in the neighbouring hills can be done via motorcycle or trekking tours. It is advised to visit these minority villages with a local guide.
Several hotels can be found by the riverfront, with many more under construction, but your options for Kontum, Vietnam hostels will be much more limited. There are many local, family-run guesthouse options available for budget prices though. Nha Nghi are Vietnamese guesthouses run by local families. Offering basic amenities and some toiletries, Nha Nghi establishments can be a bit difficult to pre-arrange, as many are do not have an online presence. But these are great options for a clean and comfortable place to sleep.
Written by local enthusiast for Kontum hostels
Charmaine
