By sustainably harnessing natural resources while preserving indigenous cultural values, Dak Lak province is gradually turning internal strengths into drivers for long-term green growth.

Unlocking the potential of forests and sea

Dak Lak province currently possesses a distinctive ecological landscape shaped by the harmonious integration of forests and sea. This provides a core foundation for eco-tourism development closely aligned with nature conservation.

In special-use forest areas such as Yok Don National Park, Chu Yang Sin National Park, and Ea So Nature Reserve, tourism models are being operated under strict control to minimise environmental impact. A notable highlight in this transition is Yok Don National Park, the only site offering elephant-friendly tourism for both domestic and wild elephants within natural habitats. In recent years, the park has expanded nature-based tours including forest cycling, camping, elephant observation, alongside birdwatching, attracting a rising number of domestic and international visitors.

Visitors taking part in boating activities at the Dray Nur Waterfall area.

In coastal zones, eco-tourism associated with bays alongside lagoons has developed strongly, particularly in Xuan Dai Bay, Vung Ro, and O Loan Lagoon. Visitors can take part in experiential activities such as exploring fishing villages, boating, fishing, as well as enjoying fresh seafood at floating restaurants within the bays. In addition, various eco-tourism models associated with natural landscapes continue drawing tourists, notably Da Dia Reef, as well as trekking routes exploring Da Bia Mountain.

These models not only diversify tourism offerings but also establish a distinctive connection between forest and marine spaces, opening new directions for sustainable eco-tourism development in Dak Lak province. The “minimal intervention - enriched experience” has begun to deliver clear results.

The appeal of community-based tourism

Along with landscape-based tourism, Dak Lak province has prioritised agricultural tourism in parallel with community-based tourism. Numerous coffee farms, fruit orchards, and aquaculture areas have emerged as attractive destinations. Through these models, local OCOP products are elevated in value, becoming distinctive tourist gifts while improving incomes and supporting new-style rural development.

Community-based tourism has also delivered positive outcomes in traditional villages such as Buon Tuor (Hoa Phu Commune), Buon Ako Dhong (Buon Ma Thuot Ward), together with Buon Tong Ju (Ea Kao Ward). In these areas, longhouses, Ede cultural practices, together with gong performances have evolved from heritage elements into the “soul” of tourism experiences. The development of tours linked with historical sites alongside traditional craft villages as a key solution for preserving “cultural security” amid international integration. At present, Dak Lak has 16 villages under planning, investment, and development for community-based tourism, drawing a growing number of visitors.

A notable example is Tong Ju community tourism village, located beside the scenic Ea Kao Lake, home to a long-established Ede community. Several households have pioneered stilt-house-style bungalow construction, creating a space that is both comfortable yet culturally distinctive. Each year, the village welcomes around 2,700 visitors for sightseeing alongside experiential activities.

According to Ms. Nhu Thi Ngan, General Director of Hanoi Tourism Investment JSC, current travel trends are shifting strongly towards “green” tourism products. With advantages in diverse ecosystems and well-presed cultural identity, Dak Lak holds significant opportunities if it continues pursuing sustainable investment alongside development strategies.

Translated by HAI LOAN