| Reorganization | after the 2025 provincial mergers the Central Highlands and the South Central Coast were combined into one South Central region |
|---|---|
| South Central region | 99,690 km²; 15.8 million people (2024) |
| Terrain | the plateau lies in the west, the coastal strip in the east |
| Position | north of the Southeast, with the North Central region to its north and the East Sea to its east |
Getting to know Vietnam’s Central Highlands
The picturesque Central Highlands stretch northwards from the Colonial hill station of Dalat, as far as Quang Nam province to the west of Danang. It’s a fascinating region that receives a far lower number of visitors than the better known coast, which is very much part of what makes it such an interesting journey.
What to do in Vietnam’s Central Highlands
Hiking, trekking and cycling in a stunning mountainous landscape rich in agriculture.
Visit the region’s various minority hill tribes (known as montagnards in Colonial times) and discover a starkly different culture from the one you’ll experience in the more tourist-focused cities and towns, where Western influence has made its mark.
You’re likely to either start or finish your journey in Dalat, although this will very much depend on your interests and the amount of time you have.
A region redefined in 2025
Vietnamese Wikipedia says the Central Highlands and the South Central Coast were long treated as two regions and together with the North Central region formed central Vietnam. After the 2025 provincial mergers they were combined into one South Central region of 99,690 square kilometers and 15.8 million people in 2024. The highlands are the western plateau part, and the coastal strip lies to the east, with the East Sea to the east and the Southeast region to the south. Travelers still use the name Central Highlands for the plateau towns, from Da Lat north towards Kon Tum. See our Da Lat page. We have not verified the trekking, cycling and village details in the older text.
Sources (read in Vietnamese, Vietnamese Wikipedia): Tây Nguyên. Last checked November 2026.
Central Highlands: FAQ
What is the Central Highlands region?
The plateau part of central Vietnam; since 2025 it is combined with the coast into the South Central region.
How big is the South Central region?
99,690 square kilometers with 15.8 million people in 2024.
Which town is the usual gateway?
Da Lat is a common starting point; see our Da Lat page.
Is the Central Highlands busy with tourists?
It receives far fewer visitors than the coast, according to our older guide text.
How many days do you need?
Four to five days for a loop; confirm routes.