From ecotourism to agritourism and community tourism, Can Tho offers a variety of experiences that appeal to visitors. The distinctive character of these offerings is currently being shaped by both policymakers and local businesses. To enhance its tourism competitiveness, the city must take stock and reframe its products around authentic local value.

Mr. Tran Van Huyen (2nd from left), Deputy Secretary of Can Tho City Party Committee, visits ecotourism sites to review operations and outline tourism development plans for Can Tho.

Variety of eco-friendly tourism models

Cantho Eco Resort in Nhon Ai Commune is a leading example of ecotourism integrated with resort accommodation. The 25-hectare resort sets aside more than 80% of its land for greenery and natural gardens. Its 7-hectare Eco Farm on site cultivates various fruit trees and vegetable crops, offering guests an authentic nature-based experience.

Beyond its varied lodging, the resort lets families and kids get hands-on with animal care, gardening, farm harvesting and home-cooked Mekong flavors, plus nightly shows and entertainment.

Vo Nguyen Minh Thai, director of sales and communications for Cantho Eco Resort, said the resort adds 2 to 3 new offerings annually, centered on meaningful experiences tied to nature and local orchard life. “This summer, we will roll out green tourism packages for families and young travelers featuring animal care, gardening, harvesting and preparing traditional Mekong Delta cuisine together”, Mr. Thai added.

In Tan Hoa Commune, Ngoc Dao Goat Farm blends circular farming with hands-on tourism. Guests may observe the livestock process, feed goats and explore OCOP 4-star certified goat milk products. Ms. Dang Thi Ngoc Dao, farm owner, stated that integrating agriculture and tourism enhances product value. “However, transportation infrastructure to the site is limited, which constrains visitor arrivals”, Ms. Dao noted.

Similarly, Muong Dinh Lodge is distinguished by its community-based agricultural tourism model, which is popular with foreign guests due to its integration with local residents’ daily life. Signature activities include sampan rowing, biking along village paths and spending time with host families define the hallmark of this destination. “We engage surrounding communities in tourism development to deliver culturally immersive experiences for travelers discovering rural areas”, said Ms. Nguyen Nhu Huynh, owner of Muong Dinh Lodge.

Tapping into agricultural and community tourism potential

Ngoc Dao Goat Farm represents a successful model of integrating agriculture with tourism at the local level and should be expanded. Nevertheless, access infrastructure to the site continues to pose difficulties.

Mr. Nguyen Cong Tam, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Tan Hoa Commune, stated that developing an agricultural economy in conjunction with community-based tourism is one of the commune’s key development orientations. “In Tan Hoa’s development strategy, the locality has adopted a dedicated resolution to grow farm-based tourism with community involvement. Two models are prioritized: Ngoc Dao Goat Farm and Muong Dinh Lodge. We’re rolling out programs to scale these models, upgrade infrastructure and support policies for agritourism and community tourism”.

Following an assessment of post-merger tourism, Mr. Tran Van Huyen, Deputy Secretary of the Can Tho City Party Committee, noted that while the city has established numerous well-planned tourism zones and attractions, its tourism products have yet to make a distinct mark. As a result, the city will re-evaluate each locality’s potential to formulate a strategic tourism plan that taps into local heritage and regional assets. Can Tho will therefore go deep on farm, community and ecotourism offerings. The city will also roll out policies to draw in investors and help locals build circular farming models tied to tourism, to forge a unique identity for Can Tho tourism and drive sustainable development.

 AI LAM (Translated by MAI QUYEN)