Climate change extreme weather events, and the loss of precious ecosystems is having a growing impact on our global environment. In response to these challenges, more and more travelers are turning towards eco-friendly tourism, also known as sustainable travel, to minimize their environmental footprint.

Eco-friendly tourism helps protect nature, supports local communities through conservation and sustainable development initiatives. Travelers who embrace this type of tourism often choose destinations with strong environmental policies, participate in green tours, and use eco-friendly services to contribute to a more sustainable world of travel.

In some cases, your money spent on eco-friendly activities may be donated directly to sustainable causes. If you find these opportunities, you can support the environment and give back while traveling in Vietnam.

1. Trail Run – Ban Moi Village

This 12km loop takes you through majestic mountain landscapes, across streams, and through remote villages. Your adventure begins winding through a small Red Dao village before the trail heads uphill through beautiful rice terraces.

As you climb higher, the views become ever grander. You will cross a rushing stream and hear the water tumbling down the mountainside. On the way, you will likely see people from the surrounding Black Hmong villages.

Take a rest at the top of the climb and shoot some photographs of the surrounding panorama. Next, head downhill through some serene forest before reaching the village of Ban Moi.

At the village, you will see the sophisticated and colorful designs of the Red Dao people. From here you will head into a jungle section before emerging onto a wide, open grass area with yet more breathtaking views.

Soon, you’ll spot Topas Ecolodge again across the valley. Your guide will show you the trail ahead that will take you back to the lodge through the rice terraces, crossing another beautiful stream.

Back at the lodge enjoy a well-earned rest and perhaps a cool-down swim in one of the infinity pools!

2. Trekking in Mai Chau 

Mai Chau is close enough to Hanoi to be easy to reach, it is not overrun with tourists. It remains rural and undeveloped, preserving nature and the communities that flourish here.

Hiking the Mai Chau area, you will get to enjoy picturesque views of fields, bamboo forests, mountains, and explore small, peaceful agricultural villages.

The eco-friendly resort Avana Retreat operates a few compelling mountain trekking experiences in Mai Chau. On their treks, you will be able to look out over Thai villages from mountaintops, watch farmers at work in the rice paddies, cross over a picturesque hanging bridge, and explore Hmong Village.

3. Paddling a Boat in Trang An Ecotourism Complex 

Trang An is one of the most remarkable areas in Vietnam. When you visit, you will quickly understand why it is referred to as an “ecotourism complex.” Towering limestone formations dominate the landscape. These rock faces appear lush rather than stark, covered by deep green vegetation.

One of the most eco-friendly and enjoyable ways to experience Trang An’s magical landscape is to paddle a boat down the river. Tourists can rent a boat from roughly dawn until dusk, and head out on a route with a guide that will last for several hours.

Depending on the route you choose, your boat tour will take you through mysterious caves and past picturesque lily pads. You may stop off at intervals to explore temples that dot the landscape.

One thing you will notice as you are on the river is just how quiet and peaceful it is. And what is great about paddling as opposed to driving is that you are helping to preserve that peace. Boats do not pollute, and leave plants and animals along the river banks undisturbed.

4. Hiking Inside Cuc Phuong National Park

Southwest of Hanoi is Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest national park. Hiking through this park gives visitors a chance to spot hundreds of species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians, some of which are rare.

The best time of year to visit the forests and mountains of Cuc Phuong National Park is in April or May. This is when butterflies emerge from their crystallizes by the thousands, flitting on colorful wings.

Cuc Phuong National Park is also fascinating from an archaeological and anthropological standpoint. People have lived in this area for at least 7,000 to 12,000 years. Prehistoric remains of humans and animals along with ancient artifacts have been discovered in the park.

Local people still inhabit the park today, specifically members of the Muong ethnic group. While on the outskirts of the park, you will be able to catch glimpses of their villages.

5. Cam Thanh Coconut Village and Fishing

Several kilometers southeast of Hoi An old town, Cam Thanh Village and its expansive Bay Mau palm forest offer another draw to sustainably-minded travelers looking for eco-travel in Vietnam.

When you arrive at the village, you will be able to discover the traditional ways of the villagers firsthand. You will get to watch as local fishermen use pulleys to cast nets to catch crabs, then paddle in basket boats to get their catches. In fact, you will be able to ride along and even attempt paddling. Vietnamese basketboats are notoriously easy to tip over, so it can be more challenging than expected. Don’t be surprised if you get wet.

These basket boats are not the only amazing things the villagers craft; they also make a wide variety of artisan crafts using wood from their palm forest. So, be sure to shop for some souvenirs before you go.

Finally, by choosing sustainable travel options, visitors help preserve Vietnam’s natural beauty and contribute to the well-being of its people. So, start your journey to Vietnam in a way that respects and protects this extraordinary destination for the future.