According to locals, first-time climbers of Co Tien Mountain need to be physically fit, go with experienced people, and avoid overnight stays to prevent snakes and forest fires.

Co Tien Mountain is located north of Nha Trang city, about 400m high, with 3 adjacent peaks, resembling a young girl with her hair down and face up towards the sky. It is an ideal camping spot for many travelers, with panoramic views of the seaside city from the summit.

Teacher Pham Vu Thanh An from Vo Van Kiet Secondary School in Nha Trang city has many years of experience climbing Co Tien Mountain. He said the mountain is not too tall, suitable for many locals and travelers. Most of the mountain is low bushes and there is only one trail so there is no risk of getting lost.

However, the mountain range has many steep sections across the three peaks so climbers need to pace their stamina. Going down requires caution as many areas are slippery, easily causing injuries for those unfamiliar with the terrain. Especially for travelers and locals who enjoy night experiences, it is essential to prepare flashlights and power banks.

According to Mr. An, the most important things when climbing Co Tien Mountain are good health, drinking water, easy moving outfits, a hiking stick, and lighting devices. First-timers should go with someone experienced, absolutely do not go alone.

"The mountain has distinct beauty in each season, winter is great for cloud hunting, spring has young green leaves, and especially summer the forest is glowing yellow like in Europe," Mr. An said. He added that summer is also the most suitable time for climbing experiences. For people with stargazing equipment, this is also a "perfect location".

The city of Nha Trang seen from Co Tien Mountain is described by locals as a "fiery phoenix".

On the journey, when reaching the first peak (200m high), travelers can take souvenir photos in three directions: facing the ocean and yacht harbor, facing the city and the two other peaks, together with the surrounding cherry blossom forests.

The highest peak nearly 400m high is the ideal spot to observe the full panorama of the seaside city. At night, the view of Nha Trang city from Co Tien Mountain is likened by locals to a flaming phoenix circling in the dark.

Mr. An warned that in summer the dry grass is very flammable so locals should not light campfires to avoid forest fires. "Campfire cooking is inevitable but I don't encourage it on Co Tien Mountain," Mr. An said.

In addition, before climbing, travelers need to be fully equipped, avoiding breaking tree branches along the way for walking sticks or firewood. Mr. An advised just bringing drinking water and snacks. For those staying overnight, beware of green snakes and high fire risks from the dry grass.

According to Vinh Hoa ward authorities, most people climbing Co Tien Mountain are locals exercising, exploring, and returning in a day, some organize overnight camping.

Activities in the Co Tien Mountain area are spontaneous, no licensed tours or services. The locality is studying measures to ensure safety for climbers, especially at night.