Chu Yang Sin National Park in Dak Lak Province, Vietnam has issued warnings against unauthorized trekking, stating that eco-tourism activities in the area have not officially opened.
Park authorities noted that self-organized tourism poses safety risks and remains under ongoing management assessment, according to an article by dti news.
The park features primary forests, waterfalls, and the 2,400-meter Chu Yang Sin peak, which have drawn a growing number of visitors.
However, steep terrain, rapidly changing weather, and dense forests create dangerous conditions, particularly during the rainy season.
Visibility is often reduced by thick fog, while trails become slippery and streams rise quickly.
Furthermore, many remote areas within the core forest zone lack mobile phone coverage, complicating potential rescue efforts for lost or injured hikers.
Under current regulations, individuals participating in unauthorized sightseeing face fines ranging from 4 million to 6 million Vietnamese dong, or approximately $150 to $230.
Recreational activities conducted within strictly protected areas can incur penalties of up to 10 million dong.
Authorities warned that unregulated trekking damages forest ecosystems through littering and the creation of illegal trails.
Unmanaged campfires also disturb wildlife habitats and increase the risk of forest fires during the dry season.
For the outdoor recreation industry, this situation underscores the importance of developing official, regulated infrastructure before promoting wilderness access.