Stretching along nearly 189 kilometres of coastline, with a rich mosaic of offshore islands, lagoons, bays, rocky headlands and pristine beaches, the Phu Yen Geopark spans 22 communes coupled with wards in the eastern part of Dak Lak Province. Home to more than 10 ethnic communities, including the Kinh, Cham, Ede, Ba Na and Hoa, etc. it is also recognised as Viet Nam's first coastal geopark.

Geological surveys have revealed that Phu Yen Geopark preserves an extraordinary geological record spanning hundreds of millions of years. Ancient volcanic activity and intrusive magma processes formed massive granite outcrops alongside striking basalt column formations. A system of uplifted marine terraces, lagoons, bays and estuaries has created an exceptional geological heritage landscape.

According to Mr. Huynh Vinh Ngoc, Director of the Phu Yen Geopark Management Board, the geopark contains 105 geological heritage sites representing 9/10 internationally recognised categories of geological heritage. Among these, continental-ocean geological heritage stands out as its most distinctive feature, giving Phu Yen Geopark a unique identity.

Chop Chai Mountain forming part of the Phu Yen Geopark.

Beyond its outstanding geological significance, Phu Yen Geopark also boasts remarkable biodiversity. It is home to endemic terrestrial flora and approximately 178 coral species spread across nearly 300 hectares, together with a wide range of characteristic ecosystems. The area also provides habitat for numerous rare and endangered species listed on the IUCN Red List.

The geopark encompasses 194 historical along with cultural sites, including nationally significant special relics such as Da Dia Reef, Nhan Tower combined with Vung Ro Wharf. It also preserves two invaluable collections of lithophones and stone wind instruments from Tuy An, together with numerous archaeological artefacts of exceptional value. In addition, the geopark safeguards a rich array of intangible cultural heritage, traditional festivals and long-established craft villages.

According to Associate Professor Dr. Tran Tan Van, former Director General of the Institute of Geological Sciences and Mineral Resources together with member of the Vietnam National Geoparks Subcommittee, the value of Phu Yen Geopark extends far beyond its geological heritage. Its greatest significance lies in the close interconnection between nature and local communities. Mountains, rivers, coastline combined with lagoon systems have shaped settlement patterns, livelihoods, spiritual beliefs and cultural identity across generations, creating a living heritage where natural alongside human histories have evolved together.

Advancing conservation through sustainable development

“Experience has shown that the establishment of geoparks generates tangible socio-eco benefits, particularly by stimulating tourism and service industries. It also enhances a locality’s profile while strengthening international integration. Pursuing this direction for the Phu Yen Geopark represents a sustainable approach to preserving while promoting its heritage values,” affirmed Associate Professor Dr Tran Tan Van.

Da Dia Reef being one of the world's most distinctive geological formations.

Established in 2024, Phu Yen Geopark is being developed with the ambition of attaining UNESCO Global Geopark status. The initiative is expected to strengthen the provincial brand, enhance its international profile, expand global tourism, and promote the sustainable utilisation of its geological, cultural, historical and biodiversity assets.

According to Mr. Nguyen Le Vu, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Phu Yen Geopark development is aimed at conserving geological heritage, cultural values along with biodiversity; simultaneously, raising public awareness of environmental protection and sustainable resource management. The geopark also provides a balanced model that harmonises conservation with development, enabling heritage assets to be fully valued without compromising the integrity of the natural landscape.

The PPC continues to direct preparation of Phu Yen Geopark’s nomination dossier for UNESCO recognition. So far, the province has completed 8/12 planned tasks as well as is working towards finalising the submission in 2027. Once recognised, Phu Yen Geopark is expected to become a key driver of tourism growth, heritage conservation and deeper international integration.

Translated by HAI LOAN