Vietnam’s rural ecotourism is flourishing, attracting visitors with its captivating blend of traditional craft villages and breathtaking landscapes. This trend showcases the nation’s rich heritage and its potential to become a leading destination for sustainable travel.
As a country steeped in agricultural heritage, Vietnam boasts a wealth of traditional craft villages and stunning landscapes, making it a prime location for rural ecotourism. This sector has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, drawing both domestic and international tourists seeking unique and immersive experiences.
According to Ngo Truong Son, head of the central coordinating office for new-style rural areas, Vietnam currently has 584 models of agricultural and rural tourism nationwide. To further bolster this sector, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has approved 20 pilot agricultural and rural tourism projects to be implemented by 2025.
Local regions are actively promoting tourism by leveraging their agricultural and rural resources. This approach not only diversifies tourism offerings but also caters to a growing demand for authentic experiences. Efforts are underway to capitalize on the value of traditional culture, agricultural practices, local cuisine, scenic landscapes, festivals, and craft villages. These elements are being combined to create unique tourism experiences that also support the promotion of local agricultural products, especially those associated with the “One Commune, One Product” (OCOP) program.
The National Agricultural Extension Centre emphasizes that the abundance of beautiful landscapes and traditional craft villages significantly boosts agricultural tourism. This dual development approach not only transforms the economic landscape and enhances the marketability of agricultural products but also helps preserve the cultural heritage of rural areas, increasing the brand value of local specialties.
Several agricultural and rural tourism models have become popular attractions for both Vietnamese and international visitors. For instance, the Con Chim community-based tourism initiative in Tra Vinh province offers a tranquil escape amidst waterways and gardens. The Khim Noi cultural village in Yen Bai province’s Mu Cang Chai district, along with homestay services in Lac village of Hoa Binh province, provide a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to experience the customs of northern Vietnam’s ethnic minorities.
Tours of the terraced rice fields during harvest in the northwest, coffee plantations in Dak Lak province, and dragon fruit farms in Binh Thuan province offer unforgettable sights and hands-on farming experiences. These opportunities further enhance Vietnam’s appeal as a rural tourism destination, attracting those seeking immersive cultural and agricultural encounters.
Despite its immense potential, agricultural and rural tourism in Vietnam faces challenges due to the absence of comprehensive development strategies. The small scale and lack of professionalism in some projects hinder effective management and promotion. Furthermore, few models successfully integrate agricultural production with rural tourism, and local communities often lack the necessary skills to manage and operate these tourism initiatives. Marketing efforts for agricultural and rural tourism also remain underdeveloped.
To boost rural tourism and modernize the countryside, it is essential for local authorities to evaluate available tourism resources, establish connections between regional destinations, and align agricultural tourism activities with local landscapes and agricultural practices. Additionally, creating tourist-friendly venues to showcase agricultural products and crafts, and revitalizing traditional farming techniques and craft villages can attract more visitors interested in experiential tourism.
As Vietnam continues to develop its rural ecotourism sector, the country is poised to become a leading destination for sustainable travel, offering unique experiences that connect visitors to the heart of Vietnamese culture and heritage. The combination of vibrant landscapes, rich traditions, and a commitment to sustainable practices creates a compelling proposition for travelers seeking authentic and enriching experiences.
