The trend of eco-friendly travel is increasingly spreading across Vietnam, driving the tourism industry toward a more sustainable future. Rather than simply enjoying the comforts of resorts or taking picturesque check-in photos, many travelers now seek lasting values that their journeys can bring to both communities and nature. Amid the sun-drenched, windswept land of Phan Rang, Nui Chua National Park emerges as a precious natural “treasure,” where visitors can immerse themselves in a unique ecosystem while contributing to the preservation of pristine landscapes through meaningful, responsible adventures.

Nui Chua National Park at Risk

Located about 30 km from Phan Rang town center in Khanh Hoa Province (under the new administrative model effective from July 2025), Nui Chua National Park spans more than 29,000 hectares and was recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve in 2021. It is one of the few arid forest ecosystems in Vietnam, where meager rainfall still sustains more than 1,500 plant species and hundreds of animal species. Beyond its vast stretches of dry forest, Nui Chua boasts over 40 km of coastline with rich coral ecosystems, serving as a vital nesting ground for sea turtles. Notably, Bai Thit is the only site on Vietnam’s mainland where rare species such as green turtles, hawksbills, and olive ridley turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. The harmonious fusion of forest, mountain, and sea creates a landscape so unique that Nui Chua is often referred to as a “mini desert” of Southeast Asia.

Yet, the park’s rising popularity has brought pressing environmental challenges. Poorly planned development has allowed some of the area’s few pristine beaches – tucked between rocky shorelines – to be fenced off by private enterprises, leaving only a handful accessible to the public. At popular spots like Bai Coc and Bai Cau, canoes, jet skis, and SUP boards crowd the waters, causing oil spills and waste pollution. Meanwhile, Vinh Hy fishing village is rapidly transforming into a lodging hub with high-rise hotels, while its wastewater treatment remains inadequate, eroding the charm of a traditional coastal community. Plastic waste, packaging, and bottles left behind along trekking routes and beaches not only spoil the scenery but also directly threaten the park’s fragile ecosystems.

In response, several tourism operators, including Exotic Vietnam, have initiated “green trekking” programs – a model that blends immersive experiences with conservation responsibility, aiming to help preserve Nui Chua’s “green paradise.” These trekking routes are designed with varying levels of challenge: an easy 3 km trail from Vinh Hy to Da Do Peak, a moderate 10 km trek from Da Hang to Cau Gay, and the toughest route – conquering Nui Chua’s 1,039 m summit over 15 km. Each journey leads travelers through arid forests dotted with thorny shrubs, along rocky streams, and up to expansive summits where the horizon paints a breathtaking panorama of mountains merging seamlessly with the sea.

Trekking – A Journey to Raise Environmental Awareness

On these treks, travelers are equipped with gloves and biodegradable bags, joining hands to collect litter along the trail. Each piece of trash picked up not only restores the landscape but also strengthens the bond among participants. Under the blazing sun and coastal winds of Central Vietnam, they share stories, take action together, and create memories that go far beyond ordinary check-in photos.

1. Preserving the Pristine Ecosystem: Plastic waste can linger for decades, silently harming soil, water, and the sea. By removing this waste, trekking participants help heal these “wounds,” keeping Nui Chua’s landscapes and ecosystems intact so visitors can experience not just its outward beauty but also its resilient vitality.
2. Protecting Wildlife and Sea Turtles: Nui Chua’s shoreline is a crucial nesting ground for green turtles and other endangered species. A single discarded plastic bag can entangle hatchlings or be mistaken for food. Beach clean-ups, therefore, safeguard not only white sandy shores but also the fragile life cycles of these creatures.
3. Easing Tourism’s Pollution Pressure: As visitor numbers surge in Vinh Hy and Stone Park, so does waste. Trash-collecting treks address existing pollution while fostering responsible habits, discouraging littering. This acts as a long-term remedy to reduce pressure on the park’s fragile ecosystem.
4. Spreading the Message of Responsible Travel: The true value lies not in the amount of trash collected but in the spirit it inspires. After each journey, participants become “green ambassadors,” sharing their experiences and encouraging others to act. Awareness is the spark of change, and these treks ignite that spark.
5. Building a Green, Sustainable Destination: Beyond environmental benefits, trekking clean-ups help solidify Nui Chua’s reputation as a green destination. This gives the park a competitive edge in attracting younger and international travelers who prioritize social responsibility, thereby supporting sustainable local tourism.

Today, Nui Chua National Park is more than a distinctive landscape – it is an emblem of green tourism in Vietnam. Each trek leaves not only footprints on sand and rocky trails but also a lasting mark on the consciousness of every traveler. For in the end, travel is not only about discovering – it is also about preserving. And Nui Chua, with its wild beauty and deep sense of responsibility, stands as a vivid testament to sustainable tourism in the modern era.

Why Choose Exotic Vietnam?

For a successful trekking journey that goes hand in hand with environmental protection, travelers and organizations need a partner who not only understands the destination but also has extensive experience in crafting responsible itineraries. With more than a decade of operation, Exotic Vietnam proudly stands as one of the pioneers in green and sustainable tourism in Vietnam.

1. Professional and Safe Organization: Exotic Vietnam accompanies travelers from itinerary planning and preparation of essential equipment (gloves, biodegradable bags, trekking tools, etc.) to on-site coordination, ensuring every trip is both safe and fulfilling.
2. Tailor-Made Programs: Every group has unique needs. Exotic Vietnam designs “made-to-measure” journeys that harmoniously combine nature exploration, local cultural experiences, and environmental activities such as waste collection, tree planting, or community workshops.
3. Commitment to Sustainability: Exotic Vietnam places nature conservation and the preservation of local values at the forefront. Our programs not only offer memorable experiences for travelers but also generate positive, long-term impacts for local communities.
4. Cost-Effective Solutions: With an extensive network of local partners, Exotic Vietnam delivers high-quality journeys at reasonable costs. Transparent services ensure travelers enjoy unforgettable experiences while optimizing their budget.

Contact Exotic Vietnam today to create journeys that make a difference – where every traveler explores, preserves, and shares the spirit of responsible tourism with the community!