Community-based tourism in Vietnam: Why is it worth experiencing?
Community-based tourism in Vietnam brings many benefits to local communities, while offering travelers with the most authentic experiences. Nowadays, it’s a sough-after type of traveling in our country with a huge of potential which is crafted by hidden beauty of nature, culture and people.
In this blog, let’s find the reasons you shouldn’t miss community-based tourism in Vietnam and where you can enjoy it throughout the S-shaped country!
A Glance at Community‑Based Tourism in Vietnam
Community‑based tourism (CBT) is a form of travel where local communities directly operate tourism experiences, developed from their own local resources. They receive the full economic benefits while preserving their natural and cultural heritage. CBT is an important type of sustainable tourism – it raises awareness among both locals and travelers, offering authentic and soulful encounters with the land and its people.
In Vietnam, CBT first emerged in the early 2000s. By 2020, approximately 300 villages and hamlets across the country had engaged in community‑based tourism activities (Vietnam National Administration of Tourism).
Since 2018, even before our team was officially formed, DCT Responsible Travel has passionately championed community‑based tourism. We believe in the valuable benefits it brings – to the communities and to you, our travelers.
→ Let’s see some of our community‑based tourism projects!
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Community-Based Tourism in Vietnam?
Rich heritage of nature and culture await your discovery!
With over 10 million hectares of natural forest and 3,260 km of coastline, Vietnam is endowed with countless natural wonders – from the ancient forests of the northwest to the turquoise seas of the central coast, from majestic highlands to winding riverlands.
We know many travelers are always seeking wild, untouched nature – a chance to escape the city’s din and feel as if they’ve stepped back into simpler times. Within this setting, you’ll slow down, then enjoy fresh air, peaceful spaces and natural gifts.
Especially, stepping into community-based tourism spots in Vietnam allows you to truly sense the wondrous bond between people and nature. In these places, the changing landscapes go hand in hand with cultural uniqueness, weaving a rich tapestry of 54 ethnic groups across the length of Vietnam. Each community preserves its own distinctive traditions – from costumes and cuisine to rituals and festivals – passed down through generations.
Every region, every village, pulses with its own vibrant character, as rich and captivating as the people themselves.
More than a trip, you're contributing to sustainable development
Whether you spend a night in a rustic homestay, share a meal with a local family, learn to weave a scarf, or purchase freshly picked herbs – you are reigniting the local economy. Farmers, craftswomen, homstay hosts, cooks, local guides, and more – all of them regain sustainable livelihoods on their own homeland.
And not just fostering local economy, CBT is a silent force for cultural preservation. As we walk alongside community-based tourism projects, we witness beautiful revivals – folk songs and dances, traditional games, artisanal crafts, and everyday rituals once fading into silence, now return daily life through meaningful travel experiences. Thankfully, concious travelers embrace these cultural treasures with deep respect, which is a powerful movement for local pride and identity, especially in the hearts of the younger generation.
Moreover, community-based tourism in Vietnam does not cost the earth! It’s a slow and responsible way to travel, one that raises awareness among both locals and travelers about the importance of protecting our living environment. Forests remain lush, fields remain golden, streams stay clear, homes remain traditional architech – as they have always been. Nature here isn’t subdued – it’s allowed to breathe in rhythm and harmony.
Community-based tourism brings you authentic encounters!
Living like a local is more than just a slogan – it’s a feeling that stays with you long after the journey ends. You live among local communities, share conversations with new friends, and take part in everyday work. Some of these experiences are rare gems you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
The first feast for your soul when you travel to small villages is the tranquil scenery with lots of ways to immerse in pristine nature! You can wander through villages, trek through ancient forests, bathe in a cool mountain stream, walk along fields of rice, flower, tea or coffee; and even – set sail into the vast sea.
At the end of an active day, you’re welcomed back into warm familial home-stay with local family, a hearty home‑cooked meal, and laughter‑filled stories that transcend language. Each village offers a unique culture – food, dress, music, festivals, and crafts – waiting for you to explore.
Where to Experience Community‐Based Tourism in Vietnam?
Community-based tourism spots in Northern Vietnam
Northwest Vietnam are the ultimate CBT hub. With their breathtaking scenery, rugged passes, terraced rice fields, and 30+ ethnic groups, travelers can trek from village to village, stay in stilt houses, taste local food and wine, and even join farmers in the fields – experiencing life at a gently slow pace.
That’s our recommended villages: Lao Chai (Sapa), Ta Van (Sapa), It Thai (Khau Pha, Mu Cang Chai), Kho Muong (Pu Luong), Nam Dam (Ha Giang), Lung Tam (Ha Giang).
Community-based tourism spots in Central Vietnam
This long region covers diverse ecosystems from tropical forests and misty highlands to sparkling seas and islands. You can stroll through craft villages, discover indigenous highland life, and take part in coastal conservation. Culture here shifts vividly from mountain to sea.
Let’s see some suggestion and find what you want: Thanh Dong village (Hoi An), Kim Bong village (Hoi An), Bau Truc village (Ninh Thuan), Vinh Hy village (Ninh Thuan), Jun village (Dak Lak), Kon K’Tu village (Kon Tum), Kon Brap Du village (Kon Tum), Kgiang village (Gia Lai).
Community-based tourism spots in Southern Vietnam
Here, the charm lies in riverine life and heartfelt countryside. Glide along narrow canals in a small boat, visit fruit‑laden orchards, and learn local crafts like cake‑making, basket weaving, or hat stitching. The people of the Southwest are truly warm and sincere – making you feel like you’ve come home.
Here are some suggested destinations: Thieng Lieng Hamlet (Ho Chi Minh), Con Son (Can Tho), Cu Lao Dung (Soc Trang), Sa Dec village (Dong Thap), Tan Lap floating village (Long An), Con Chim Hamlet (Tra Vinh).
Travel with Heart for Soulful Connection
So – have you found a destination that speaks to you from the list above? Take your time, imagine yourself there, and let us know if you’d like a hand crafting your journey.
And when you go, go with an open heart! If you love wild nature and crave true discovery, make sure you also carry respect — for the land beneath your feet, for the culture that welcomes you in, and for the quiet wisdom of the communities you’ll meet. That is what transforms a trip into something unforgettable and lasting impacts.
