Dak Lak Redefines Its Tourism Identity in a Unified Highlands–Sea Space

Dak Lak Province, located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, is entering a period of strong transformation. The province has adopted a clear strategic vision to develop tourism as a key economic sector. This direction supports sustainable growth, revitalizes traditional culture, and strengthens regional connectivity.

Recent administrative restructuring and spatial integration with Phu Yen have reshaped Dak Lak’s tourism landscape. The province now enjoys a more diverse development space. While maintaining its strong cultural identity, Dak Lak has expanded toward the sea. This creates a unique competitive advantage compared to many other destinations in Vietnam.

Building a Distinct Tourism Identity in a Unified Space

Under the new spatial structure, Dak Lak possesses a rare combination of ecosystems and tourism layers. Yok Don National Park, home to Vietnam’s unique dry dipterocarp forest, offers strong potential for eco-tourism and nature exploration. This ecosystem is rarely found elsewhere in the country.

Meanwhile, Lak Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the Central Highlands, enhances the province’s natural appeal. Together with waterfalls such as Dray Nur, Gia Long, and Drai Yong, the area forms a chain of pristine landscapes. These attractions align well with demand for green tourism, adventure travel, and in-depth experiences.

Expanding Dak Lak Tourism from Forests to the Sea

The integration of Phu Yen’s coastal space has added a valuable marine dimension to Dak Lak tourism. Iconic destinations such as Dai Lanh Cape, where the sun first rises on mainland Vietnam, now form part of the province’s tourism map. Vung Ro Bay, unspoiled beaches, coastal fishing villages, and rich marine ecosystems further expand tourism opportunities.

This expansion does more than diversify tourism products. It allows Dak Lak to develop seamless travel routes from the highlands to the sea. These routes create multi-dimensional journeys and enhance overall visitor experience.

Cultural Heritage at the Heart of Dak Lak Tourism

Dak Lak’s tourism identity is deeply rooted in Central Highlands gong culture, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Ethnic communities such as the Ede and M’Nong continue to preserve traditional longhouses and seasonal festivals. Epic narratives like Dam San are still passed down through community-based preservation.

After the merger, this cultural landscape gained new depth. Coastal cultural elements now complement highland traditions. These include fishermen’s beliefs, seaside folk festivals, and distinctive coastal cuisine. Together, they form a harmonious blend of forest and sea cultures.

Priority Tourism Products in Dak Lak

Building on its natural and cultural strengths, Dak Lak is repositioning its tourism brand around the concept of “Highlands Forests – Blue Seas.” This is not a simple combination of forest and marine resources. It represents a new development structure that supports multi-space and multi-destination travel.

The province has identified several priority tourism products:

• Ecotourism
• Community-based tourism
• Cultural and historical tourism
• Marine and coastal tourism

These product groups form the strategic foundation for tourism to become a leading economic pillar.

Developing Integrated Tourism Experiences

In practice, Dak Lak is actively developing new tourism products. These include dry forest trekking in Yok Don National Park and outdoor activities such as climbing, kayaking, and off-road cycling. Agricultural and rural tourism experiences are also receiving greater attention.

At the same time, these products are being connected with coastal leisure and marine sports in the former Phu Yen area. Integrated development helps extend the tourism season. It also increases visitor length of stay and overall spending.

Toward Sustainable and High-Quality Tourism Growth

Dak Lak’s goal is not only to attract more visitors. The province aims to improve experience quality and build a friendly, culturally rich destination image. Tourism development is carefully balanced with the protection of forest and marine ecosystems.

With a clear strategic direction and expanded development space, Dak Lak is emerging as a distinctive destination. The province now offers meaningful travel experiences where majestic highland forests meet the blue sea, supporting sustainable tourism growth in the years ahead.

images: collected

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