Discover Vietnam’s 5 Outstanding Nominees for the 2026 "World's Best Village" Award

Visitors explore the lush waterways of the Bay Mau Coconut Forest in traditional basket boats, providing a lively mix of nature and culture.

We are thrilled to announce that Vietnam has secured five magnificent representatives for the prestigious "World's Best Village" award in 2026, hosted by UN Tourism (United Nations Tourism Organization).

This global accolade honors rural destinations that champion sustainable tourism, preserve rich cultural heritage, protect surrounding ecosystems, and empower local communities. With winners set to be announced in the fourth quarter of 2026, let's explore the five breathtaking Vietnamese villages vying for this international title!

1. Cat Cat Community Tourism Village (Lao Cai)

• Location: Just 3 km from Sa Pa town center along the road to Fansipan.

• The Vibe: A serene, historic Mong ethnic settlement established in the mid-19th century.

Wander down a picturesque stone-paved path nestled along the mountainside to uncover terraced rice fields, rustic wooden houses, and soothing streams. Cat Cat offers an authentic window into Northwest highland culture where locals still practice traditional crafts like flax weaving and silversmithing.

• Must-Do Experiences:

  • Admire the cascading beauty of Tien Sa Waterfall and local watermills.

  • Shop for authentic handmade crafts and textiles.

  • Savor local delicacies including corn wine, thang co (traditional stew), and smoked meats.

2. Huu Lien Community Tourism Village (Lang Son)

• Location: Nestled within the Huu Lien Nature Reserve and the core UNESCO Global Geopark area.

• The Vibe: A biodiversity haven featuring towering limestone mountains, hidden caves, pristine forests, and tranquil waterfalls.

Huu Lien seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern comfort, offering around 40 guesthouses built in traditional stilt-house architecture. Nature lovers and adventure seekers will find endless ways to unwind here.

• Must-Do Experiences:

  • Kayak across the crystal-clear waters of Nong Dung Lake.

  • Camp overnight at the scenic Michi Camp eco-tourism area.

  • Visit the Dong Lam Delta—a magical destination where a vast, sweeping grassland transforms into a poetic, flooded landscape during the rainy season (July to October).

3. Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Da Nang / Hoi An)

• Location: Approximately 3 km from the ancient town of Hoi An, bordered by the De Vong, Thu Bon, and Hoai rivers.

• The Vibe: Often celebrated as "the Mekong Delta in the heart of Hoi An," this lush brackish water ecosystem serves as a thriving habitat for nipa palm trees and boasts a rich revolutionary history.

Famous for its vibrant basket boat culture, this unique destination invites travelers to glide through dense green palm groves while experiencing incredible local skill and hospitality.

• Must-Do Experiences:

  • Embark on an exciting basket boat tour weaving through the emerald canopy.

  • Watch skilled boatmen perform mesmerizing high-speed basket boat spinning techniques.

4. Mang Den Treehouse Tourist Area (Quang Ngai)

• Location: Situated on Su Van Hanh Road within the Dak Ke Lake area of Mang Den.

• The Vibe: A tranquil forest sanctuary officially recognized as a tourist destination in August 2025, designed for ultimate relaxation and deep nature connection.

Built directly onto ancient tree trunks or elevated tall wooden stilts amidst the dense canopy, the treehouses embody a harmonious respect for the forest ecosystem. Each retreat features a private balcony overlooking breathtaking valley and mountain vistas.

• Must-Do Experiences:

  • Practice outdoor meditation or unwind with a good book surrounded by the soothing sounds of the forest.

  • Immerse yourself fully in an adventurous yet eco-conscious alpine getaway.

5. Lo Village (Dak Lak)

• Location: Hoa Hiep Ward, stretching along the stunning southern coast of the province.

• The Vibe: A vibrant coastal fishing village spanning over 182 hectares, renowned for decades-old traditional seafood-drying kilns, narrow winding alleys, and a tight-knit community.

With rows of historic tiled-roof houses shaded by coconut palms just steps from the sea, Lo Village (specifically the Lo 3 area) offers an authentic slice of coastal Vietnamese life, paired with modern hospitality hosting 72 accommodation establishments.

• Must-Do Experiences:

  • Stroll through charming alleys leading directly to the sparkling ocean.

  • Engage with friendly local fishers and experience coastal village festivals and seaside culture firsthand.

Plan Your Sustainable Journey Today!Whether you are dreaming of misty mountain peaks in Lao Cai, kayaking through serene lakes in Lang Son, spinning in a basket boat in Da Nang, retreating to a treehouse in Quang Ngai, or breathing in the salty sea air in Dak Lak, these five exceptional villages showcase the heart and soul of Vietnamese hospitality.Contact our travel experts today to craft your custom itinerary to these world-class nominees!