(TITC) – Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, located in Gia Van commune of Ninh Binh province, is regarded as one of the most pristine inland wetlands in Vietnam. Covering a total area of 2,736 hectares, with approximately three-quarters being towering limestone mountains and one-quarter wetland, Van Long offers visitors a uniquely charming and harmonious landscape of “mountains and waters.” This natural harmony not only creates a picturesque environment but also provides an ideal setting for tourism development, playing an important role in the socio-economic growth of Ninh Binh province.
nd biodiversity
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve has proudly earned two Vietnamese records: “The place with the largest population of Delacour’s langurs” and “The largest natural painting – the Cat Scratch Mountain painting.” These titles highlight both the ecological importance and the unique beauty of the area, making it a destination that captures the attention of scientists, conservationists, and travelers alike.
The reserve is exceptionally rich in biodiversity. Researchers have identified 457 species of higher plants, of which 8 are listed in Vietnam’s Red Book as endangered. In addition, there are 39 species of animals, including 12 rare and precious ones. The most remarkable is the Delacour’s langur, a critically endangered primate species that has its largest remaining population here in Van Long. The presence of such biodiversity underlines the global conservation value of the reserve.
A landscape shaped by limestone mountains
“The place with the largest natural painting – the Cat Scratch Mountain.”
Surrounded by a vast system of limestone karst mountains, Van Long is home to roughly 1,000 caves of various shapes and sizes. These caves, combined with the typical vegetation of limestone ecosystems, create an extraordinary natural habitat. It is within this environment that the Delacour’s langur thrives, making the reserve one of the last safe refuges for this species. Visitors traveling by boat across the tranquil wetland can often catch glimpses of the langurs moving gracefully on the cliffs, a sight that leaves lasting impressions.
Developing sustainable ecotourism
Recognizing its natural potential, the Van Long Ecotourism Service Cooperative has worked to build a sustainable tourism model that balances conservation with community development. The cooperative has gradually attracted both domestic and international tourists, encouraging visitors to discover the wetland’s rich ecosystems while contributing to local livelihoods.
Local farmers, who traditionally focused on rice cultivation and animal husbandry, now also take part in tourism activities. They guide boat tours, provide hospitality services, and share stories about the cultural and natural heritage of Van Long. This model not only increases income and creates new jobs but also fosters pride and awareness among the community in protecting their homeland. Importantly, tourism here is carried out in a way that respects the environment, ensuring that Van Long retains its natural charm for generations to come.
Community efforts in conservation
Boat dock for visitors to explore the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve
The present success of Van Long would not be possible without the strong commitment of local residents. For over 20 years, the community has worked collectively to protect the wetland. Remarkably, there have been no cases of illegal tree cutting, rock exploitation, or wildlife hunting in the area. This long-standing dedication demonstrates how conservation can thrive when it is rooted in community participation and shared responsibility.
International recognition
In 2019, Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve was officially recognized as the 9th Ramsar site in Vietnam and the 2,360th in the world. This international title acknowledges its global significance as a wetland of high biodiversity and ecological value. Further recognition came in June 2022, when the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) approved and certified Van Long as Vietnam’s first and Southeast Asia’s first Green List site. This honor highlights not only the achievements of conservation work but also the reserve’s contribution to global biodiversity goals.
A destination worth discovering
Today, Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is more than just a protected area; it is a living example of how nature, culture, and community can coexist harmoniously. With its dramatic limestone mountains, serene waters, rich biodiversity, and cultural stories, Van Long offers travelers an experience that is both peaceful and inspiring. It is a place where one can witness the delicate balance between humans and nature, a model of sustainable tourism, and a symbol of Vietnam’s commitment to protecting its natural treasures.
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