Chàm Islands Declared a Nature Reserve to Boost Conservation and Eco-Tourism

Chàm Islands

The picturesque Chàm Islands, located just 20km off the coast of Hội An City, are now officially recognized as the Cù Lao Chàm Nature Reserve. This announcement, made by the central province of Quảng Nam, marks a significant step towards preserving the region's unique biodiversity while promoting sustainable eco-tourism.

The newly established Chàm Islands Nature Reserve spans a total of 23,530 hectares, including 21,887 hectares of sea area and 1,642 hectares of land across the islands. The reserve will play a vital role in conservation efforts, with 1,716 hectares designated as a strict protected zone focused on ecological restoration and long-term conservation of flora and fauna.

With an investment of approximately US$6.88 million allocated for the development of the reserve between 2026 and 2035, the project aims to bolster eco-tourism, scientific research, and biodiversity conservation. This initiative is expected to transform the Chàm Islands into a key center for community-based tourism and ecological research, while improving the livelihoods of local residents.

Tourism on the Chàm Islands has seen a significant shift in recent years. More than 80% of the local population has transitioned from traditional fishing to eco-tourism, contributing to the sustainable development of the area. The islands, which consist of seven smaller islets and the main Chàm Island, are a haven for biodiversity and one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in central Vietnam.

Notably, the Chàm Islands have been at the forefront of environmental conservation in Vietnam. The region has implemented the non-use of plastic bags since 2011 and has promoted the "3R" principle—reduce, reuse, and recycle—making it the country's first 'zero waste and plastic waste' destination. These efforts, combined with the islands' rich marine life and pristine landscapes, have helped to preserve the area as one of the most protected natural destinations in Vietnam.

The Chàm Islands are not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a place for visitors to explore nature in its most pristine form. Divers can immerse themselves in vibrant underwater ecosystems, while hikers can enjoy scenic views of lush forests and clear waters. The reserve is set to welcome around 400,000 tourists annually, with eco-tourism services and biodiversity research at the heart of the experience.

With this official designation as a nature reserve, the Chàm Islands will continue to thrive as a conservation success story while offering sustainable travel opportunities to environmentally conscious visitors.

Web: https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/en