Old Đồng Cam Dam, Phú Yên (New Dak Lak)

Đồng Cam Dam: A Century-Old Hydraulic Masterpiece in the Heart of "New Dak Lak"

Amidst the surging flow of infrastructure development and the major administrative boundary changes in 2026, Đồng Cam Dam still stands as a historical witness, a timeless "stone treasure." Previously, Đồng Cam Dam was synonymous with the symbol of Phú Yên, the "yellow flowers on green grass" land. However, with the new administrative merger starting from July 1, 2025, bringing this land into the key economic-tourism zone of the expanded administrative area (temporarily called New Dak Lak according to the Central Highlands - Coastal phân vùng), the position of this structure becomes even more special.

The LocalTrips.ORG team conducted a 5-day field survey along the new East-West economic corridor to bring you the most updated, accurate, and in-depth information about this destination.

1. Geographical Location and New Administrative Context (2026)

The changes in Vietnam's administrative map with the streamlined proposal reducing it to 34 provinces have strongly impacted how we locate destinations. Đồng Cam Dam is no longer just a story of the former Phú Yên but an important gateway connecting the New Dak Lak region to the sea.

A "golden" coordinate on the tourism map

Đồng Cam Dam stretches across the Ba River, the largest river in Central Vietnam. Geographically, the dam connects two mountain ranges: Trù Các (North bank) and Qui Hậu (South bank).

• Former location: Thuộc Hòa Hội commune (Phú Hòa district) and Hòa Phú commune (Tây Hòa district), Phú Yên province.
• 2026 Administrative location: Part of the Coastal subdivision, New Dak Lak province (after merger).

From LocalTrips.ORG's perspective, this change does not diminish the inherent identity; on the contrary, the transportation infrastructure connecting Buôn Ma Thuột to this area has been upgraded to a 6-lane expressway, shortening the travel time from the plateau to the dam to just over 1 hour.

Optimal travel guide for 2026

With the newly completed transportation system, accessing Đồng Cam Dam has become easier than ever, whether you are coming from the sea or the mountains.

1. Travel from the New Dak Lak Administrative Center (Buôn Ma Thuột):

• Follow the Buôn Ma Thuột - Tuy Hòa Expressway (CT.26).
• Exit at Hòa Phú interchange, then continue on National Highway 29 for about 15km to reach the base of the dam.
• Note: This route is stunning with the majestic Central Highlands mountains on one side and the lush Ba River valley on the other.

2. Travel from Tuy Hòa Airport (Coastal Area):

• Follow the extended Hùng Vương road, then turn onto National Highway 25.
• Travel about 30km to the West. The road is now asphalted throughout, making it very smooth even for low-clearance vehicles.

![Map image showing directions from the expressway to Đồng Cam Dam with new 2026 milestones. Alt text: Map of Đồng Cam Dam Phu Yen New Dak Lak 2026]

2. History & Architecture: An epic song in stone

More than just a hydraulic project, Đồng Cam Dam represents the sweat, tears, and even blood of tens of thousands of workers in the past. Understanding its history will make your experience much more profound than just coming to "check-in."

Imprint of French architects

The project was started in 1924 and completed in 1932, designed by the French chief architect F. Chevallier. What amazes us every time we return here is the construction technique that was ahead of its time.

• Dam body: 688m long, but not just a soulless concrete block. The dam was built in a honeycomb shape, its surface entirely clad with hand-carved granite.
• Stone wedging technique: The stones are tightly fitted together with extremely thin mortar joints, creating a century-long sturdy structure, defying the fierce annual floods of the Ba River.

Legend of sacrifice

During the construction, due to the challenging terrain and harsh climate ("poisonous land, malevolent spirits"), 54 people died and thousands were injured. At the northern end of the dam (Trù Các mountain), there is currently a memorial stele and a shrine.

• Expert perspective: When you visit, take a moment of silence or light an incense stick. This beautiful spiritual culture expresses gratitude to the ancestors, which LocalTrips.ORG always encourages tourists to do.

3. Weather & Ideal Time to Explore

The climate in the Đồng Cam Dam area is influenced by the interaction of oceanic and plateau climates (due to its bordering position within the New Dak Lak region).

Advice from LocalTrips.ORG: The "golden" time for photography is 6:00 - 8:00 AM (when morning mist still lingers on the water) or 4:00 - 5:30 PM (sunset casting golden hues on the granite blocks).

4. Unique Experiences at Đồng Cam Dam

Don't think of coming here just to watch the water flow. With the new planning of New Dak Lak province, the area around the dam has developed many interesting experiential services while still preserving its pristine charm.

Walk on the "wall" in the middle of the river

In the dry season, when the water level is low, you can walk on the top of the dam. The feeling of cool water flowing over your feet, with moss-covered honeycomb stones below, creates an unforgettable tactile experience.

• Safety note: Absolutely no running or jumping. The stones are mossy and quite slippery. It is advisable to wear non-slip sandals or honeycomb sandals (the "legendary" type of sandals with excellent grip).

Admire the massive irrigation canal system

Đồng Cam Dam has two main canals:

1. North Main Canal: Irrigates the former Tuy An area.
2. South Main Canal: Irrigates the former Tây Hòa area.
   The massive water regulating valve system at the head of the canal provides an extremely cool Industrial-style photo background that few people notice.

Camping by the Ba River bank

The floodplain downstream of the dam has now been zoned into spontaneous camping sites but with regulated sanitation.

• Experience: Pitch a tent, light a campfire, listen to the thundering sound of the water like a waterfall, yet very peaceful at night.
• Warning: Only camp in designated areas. The water level of the Ba River can change unexpectedly if the upstream hydropower plant releases water (although the flood release process is now automatically announced via the local tourism App).

![Image of tourists walking on Đồng Cam Dam with white frothy water. Alt text: Experience walking on Đồng Cam Dam Phu Yen 2026]

5. Cuisine: The Fusion of Coastal & Highland

Due to its location within the newly merged administrative area, the cuisine around Đồng Cam Dam in 2026 is an interesting blend of riverine seafood and mountain flavors.

Mương fish rolled in rice paper

This is a "signature" dish that you must try. Mương fish live right at the foot of the dam, with sweet flesh and soft bones.

• How to eat: Crispy fried or grilled fish, rolled with sun-dried rice paper, fresh vegetables (must include the characteristic white lá é of this region) and dipped in fermented fish sauce or chili garlic fish sauce.
• Suggested address: Simple thatched-roof restaurants right at the foot of the dam on the South bank.

Grilled chicken with chili salt and lá é

Influenced by the culinary culture of the Central Highlands, the grilled chicken here uses free-range chicken from the Tây Hòa hills, with firm meat, crispy skin, marinated with lá é and spicy green chili.

Sun-dried beef - Ant salt

A great snack to enjoy while admiring the dam scenery. The sweetness of local beef combined with the uniquely sour taste of ant salt creates an unforgettable aftertaste.

6. Accommodation and Services (Updated 2026)

Previously, this area was quite wild with few accommodations. However, after the 2026 planning, many Farmstay and Homestay models have sprung up along National Highway 29.

Accommodation options:

1. Đồng Cam Glamping (New 2026):
• Model: High-end riverside tents, fully equipped.
• Suitable for: Couples, young groups who like to "chill".
• Reference price: 600,000 - 800,000 VND/night.
2. Thủy Lợi Guesthouse:
• Model: Basic, clean rooms with direct dam views.
• Suitable for: Families, seniors, research groups.
• Reference price: 300,000 - 450,000 VND/night.
3. Vườn Xoài Homestay (Hòa Phú Area):
• Model: Live with locals, experience mango picking, gardening.
• Suitable for: Foreign tourists, those who love local culture.
• Reference price: 200,000 VND/person/night.

7. Reference Service Price List 2026

To help you plan your finances in detail, LocalTrips.ORG has compiled a table of average prices in this area (Updated March 2026):

8. Vital Notes "Expert's Perspective"

From our practical experience leading many tours, here are some things you need to keep in mind:

1. Water safety: The current at the dam may seem calm on the surface, but underneath there are many hidden rocks and whirlpools (due to the honeycomb structure). Absolutely do not swim in the area right at the foot of the dam without a life jacket and a local guide.
2. Attire: Wear comfortable, sweat-absorbent clothing. If you go in summer, bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen because the dam surface area has no shade.
3. Waste: With the sudden increase in visitors after the provincial merger, waste is a concern. Please adhere to the principle of "Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints."
4. Vehicle inspection: If traveling by motorbike from Buôn Ma Thuột, check your brakes and tires thoroughly because even though the road is good, there are many long, winding pass sections.

![Image of crispy fried mương fish rolled in rice paper, a local delicacy. Alt text: Dap Dong Cam mương fish specialty delicious cheap 2026]

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there an entrance fee for Đồng Cam Dam?
Currently (2026), Đồng Cam Dam area is still open to visitors free of charge. You only pay for parking and food.

2. When is the best time to visit Đồng Cam Dam?
The dry season from January to August is the best. At this time, the water is clear, the current is moderate, and the weather is sunny, which is favorable for photography and travel.

3. How far is Đồng Cam Dam from Tuy Hòa city center (old)?
The distance is about 30-35km, taking about 45-60 minutes by motorbike or car.

4. Is there a bus to Đồng Cam Dam?
Yes. Interprovincial bus route 08 (Tuy Hòa - Sơn Hòa - Krông Pa) passes through the Hòa Phú intersection. From there, you need to take a motorbike taxi for about 2km to reach the dam.

5. Is Đồng Cam Dam safe for children?
The area on the dam surface is quite slippery and lacks protective railings in some sections. If traveling with children, parents must be extremely careful and always hold their hands. Children should not be allowed to run freely on the dam surface.

6. Does the administrative change to "New Dak Lak" affect tourism?
It's entirely positive. Roads are wider, signs are clearer, and tourism services are more systematically and professionally planned than before.

The journey to explore Đồng Cam Dam is not just a trip to rediscover an architectural heritage but also an opportunity to experience the changes in the South Central Coast - Central Highlands region in the new administrative era of 2026. The majestic beauty of the stone, the refreshing coolness of the water, and the rustic flavor of grilled mương fish will surely captivate anyone who sets foot here.

If you need help planning a detailed itinerary combining Đồng Cam Dam with other destinations in "New Dak Lak" such as Mũi Điện or the Central Highlands waterfalls, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or contact the LocalTrips.ORG team directly. We are always ready to accompany you on every road in Vietnam!