Community-based tourism transforms northern Vietnamese villages

Community-based tourism and adventure sports are driving economic and cultural transformation in the remote mountainous provinces of Lai Chau and Son La in northern Vietnam. Despite challenges posed by difficult terrain and limited transport infrastructure, local villages are leveraging their natural landscapes and distinctive rural lifestyles to create new tourism assets.

In Lao Chai 1 village, located in the Khun Ha commune of Lai Chau province, local authorities have supported road construction and homestay development as part of a new-style rural area programme. Residents have adapted their daily practices to maintain cleanliness and hospitality, with many households now providing accommodation and meals for visitors. This shift has allowed residents to generate additional income through homestay services and local tourism activities.