Cà Mau Province Sees Significant Tourism Boost Amidst Heritage Preservation Efforts

Vietnam's southernmost province of Cà Mau has witnessed a substantial surge in tourism, with visitor numbers and revenue surpassing last year's figures during the first seven months of 2026. This remarkable growth can be attributed to the province's concerted efforts to preserve its rich cultural heritage, invest in digital transformation, and develop its infrastructure.

According to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Cà Mau welcomed nearly 5.98 million visitors between January and July, marking a 6.4 percent increase year-on-year. Moreover, tourism revenue reached an impressive VNĐ6.1 trillion (US$232.8 million), representing an 11.7 percent increase and exceeding the annual target. This remarkable performance has positioned tourism as a key driver of the province's economy, contributing to growth in trade, transport, accommodation, and local services.

The province's tourism strategy has focused on diversifying its offerings by combining ecological assets with cultural experiences and destination promotion programs. The 'Cà Mau – Destination 2026' program has played a pivotal role in this endeavor, featuring a series of events such as the Science, Technology, Culture and Tourism Week, the U Minh Forest Festival, and the Southern Folk Cake Festival. These activities have not only expanded tourism experiences but also showcased local traditions and cuisine, providing visitors with a glimpse into the region's unique cultural heritage.

Ecotourism remains a central component of Cà Mau's tourism strategy, with destinations like Mũi Cà Mau National Park and U Minh Hạ National Park drawing visitors seeking immersive experiences in nature and authentic local lifestyles. The province has also prioritized the preservation of its cultural heritage, with museums and historical sites continuing to attract visitors and serve as venues for education and cultural promotion. During the first six months of the year, these sites received over 118,000 visitors, while more than 13,000 people visited heritage sites for commemorative and spiritual activities.

Infrastructure development is expected to provide further momentum for tourism growth, with major transport projects like the Cần Thơ–Cà Mau Expressway and the upgrading of Cà Mau Airport set to improve accessibility, reduce travel times, and expand visitor markets. The province has also embraced digital transformation, launching an online tourism information system to provide visitors with destination information and promote Cà Mau to domestic and international markets.

Preparations are currently underway for the first Cà Mau Heritage Culture Festival and Hot Air Balloon Festival, scheduled to take place from August 28 to September 1. This event promises to be one of the largest tourism promotion programs of the year, featuring hot air balloon displays, exhibitions highlighting intangible cultural heritage, a traditional salt-making heritage showcase, an OCOP and food fair, and a press trip introducing new tourism products.