HANOI UNIVERSITY OF INDUSTRY

SCHOOL OF LANGUAGES AND TOURIS

STUDY REPORT
COURSE: ECO-TOURISM
A Case Study of Tam Dao National Park

Lecturer MA. Tran Ngoc Quyet

Class code TO6159_TA01
Name Nguyen Phi Hung
Student ID 2022606477

Hanoi, 2024
Contents
Part 1. INTRODUCTION:..............................................................................3
1.1 Overview of eco-tourism concepts:.........................................................3
1.2 The rationale for choosing the specific ecotourism location in Vietnam.
3
Part 2. LITERATURE REVIEW:....................................................................4
2.1 Review of key concepts of eco-tourism..................................................4
2.2 Overview of ecotourism in Vietnam........................................................4
2.3 Evaluation of existing literature on ecotourism.......................................5
Part 3. METHODOLOGY:..............................................................................7
3.1 Description of the research design (qualitative/quantitative)..................7
3.2 Sampling strategy and sample size determination...................................8
3.3 Data collection methods..........................................................................8
3.4 Ethical considerations..............................................................................9
Part 4. DATA ANALIZYS:..............................................................................9
4.1 Presentation of data analysis methods.....................................................9
4.2 Identification of patterns or trends.........................................................11
Part 5. DISCUSSION:...................................................................................11
5.1 Critical analysis of findings about ecotourism concepts.......................11
5.2 Discussion of the implications of the study for ecotourism in Vietnam.
13
5.3 Comparison with existing literature......................................................13
Part 6. CONCLUSION:.................................................................................14
6.1 Summary of key findings......................................................................14
6.2 Recommendations for the ecotourism industry in Vietnam..................14
Part 7. COMMENT:......................................................................................15
Part 8. Bibliography.......................................................................................17
 Eco tourism

Tam Dao National Park

Part 1. INTRODUCTION:
1.1 Overview of eco-tourism concepts:
- The Global Ecotourism Network (GEN) defines ecotourism as
"responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment,
sustains the well-being of the local people, and creates knowledge and
understanding through interpretation and education of all involved
(visitors, staff, and the visited)".
- Ecotourism is now defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that
conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people,
and involves interpretation and education” (TIES, 2015).

1.2 The rationale for choosing the specific ecotourism

location in Vietnam.
According to VNAT, Ecotourism in Vietnam must meet at least 2 of the
following 4 principles:

- It occurs in protected or minimally impacted natural areas with distinctive

ecosystems, high biodiversity, and at least one rare or endangered species
listed in the Red Book of Vietnam or the world.
- It is linked to conservation goals, often organized for small groups; it uses
small-scale, environmentally friendly infrastructure, facilities, and means
of transport; it does not alter the integrity or natural processes of the
 ecosystem or diminish biodiversity; it encourages mechanisms to generate
revenue from ecotourism and uses this income to invest in the
conservation of natural resources and the environment.
- It has a high educational value, not only for tourists but also for the
tourism industry and the local community.
- It contributes to the local economic development, encourages active
participation, and brings maximum benefits to the local communities
where ecotourism activities take place.
 Tam Dao National Park is 34,995 hectares wide, including 26,163
hectares of forest, mainly natural evergreen humid forests with a
coverage of 70% of the entire park area. Tam Dao National Park
possesses rich flora and fauna, many rare and precious animals in the
Red Book, thereby contributing to ecosystem diversity and attracting
many tourists. Tam Dao has all the above criteria but has not really
focused on developing ecotourism in a sustainable and effective way.

Part 2. LITERATURE REVIEW:

2.1 Review of key concepts of eco-tourism
- Ecotourism is a form of tourism based on nature, associated with local
cultural identity, with community participation for sustainable
development (According to Article 4, Chapter I of the Law on Tourism) .

2.2 Overview of ecotourism in Vietnam.

- Vietnam is assessed as a country with full potential for the development
of ecotourism. Most national parks and conservation areas have been used
for developing tourism. Recently, many agricultural ecosystems such as
garden areas and ecological villages have welcomed a large number of
tourists. Therefore, while it contributes not only to the effectiveness of the
tourism economy but also carries an important meaning, contributing to
environmental protection, providing economic benefits for local
 communities, and contributing to the conservation of the country's
tourism resources..1
- In Vietnam, ecotourism has only been researched and developed as a form
of tourism since the mid-1990s. However, it has attracted significant
attention from managers, researchers in tourism and the environment, as
well as tourism businesses. Due to varying levels of awareness and
different perspectives, the concept of ecotourism remains inconsistent at
this time.
- Ecotourism is considered an effective solution to protect the ecological
environment towards sustainable development through the process of
reducing pressure on natural resource exploitation, serving the needs of
tourists and people. local people when participating in ecotourism
activities.2

- Therefore, the Vietnam Tourism Development Strategy for the period

2001-2010, as well as the new tourism development strategy for Vietnam
up to 2020, with a vision for 2030, has always identified ecotourism as
one of the main tourism products, with high competitiveness compared to
other countries in the region and worldwide.

2.3 Evaluation of existing literature on ecotourism.

- In the document " GIẢI PHÁP PHÁT TRIỂN DU LỊCH SINH THÁI
TẠI VƯỜN QUỐC GIA TAM ĐẢO" by master Bui Thi Minh Nguyet from
Vietnam Forestry University has the following summary of main ideas
concerning ecotourism development in Tam Dao:
1. Comprehensive Planning: Adopt a comprehensive plan for ecotourism sites
by integrating natural and cultural resources to create value for visitors.

1
Bộ Văn hóa, Thể thao và Du lịch; Tổng cục Du lịch, Chiến lược phát triển du lịch Việt Nam đến năm 2020, tầm
nhìn đến năm 2030; Hà Nội, 2011
2
Author: Associate Professor-Dr. Pham Trung Luong, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development.
Source: Environment Magazine No. 2/2017
2. Economic Participation: Encourage economic sectors to invest and engage in
ecotourism activities to expand funding sources and job creation.
3. Product Diversification: Develop diverse ecotourism products and services,
including adventure tourism, nature exploration, and cultural experiences, to
satisfy the needs of different types of visitors.
4. Promotion and Marketing: Strengthen marketing efforts to raise awareness
about Tam Đảo as an ecotourism destination through targeted campaigns and
partnerships.
5. Human Resource Training: Invest in the training of local staff in order to
improve the quality of services and visitor satisfaction.
6. Community Involvement: Foster local community participation in ecotourism
initiatives to ensure they benefit economically and contribute to conservation
efforts.
7. Improving infrastructure, such as roads, accommodation facilities, and
facilities for visitors, which help to better the tourists' comfort in the area.
8. Environmental Education: Include educational activities that increase the
visitor's awareness of environmental issues and conservation practices.
- In the article " Phát triển du lịch sinh thái Vườn quốc gia Tam Đảo" of the
June 2014 in Environmental magazine, the following problems related to
ecotourism development in Tam Dao were pointed out:
1. Tourism Potential: Tam Đảo National Park is bestowed with rich natural
resources, including biodiversity, a cool climate, and beautiful landscapes,
which entail favorable conditions for the development of ecotourism.
2. Economic and Environmental Significance: Ecotourism not only earns
revenues for the local community but also impacts environmental protection,
nature conservation, and creates community awareness about the responsibilities
the community must assume with respect to nature.
3. Current Situation: Although there is a large potential for ecotourism activities
in Tam Đảo, they are underdeveloped compared to the potential, and come
across many difficulties and challenges that must be solved.
4. Development Solutions:
5. Planning and Product Development: Formulate a sustainable development
plan for tourism sites.
6. Infrastructure Investment: Upgrade facilities and infrastructure serving
tourism.
7. Human Resource Training: Increase service standard through training of
human resources.
8. Community Participation: Foster the involvement of local people in tourism
activities, establishing a source of income and promoting awareness of
conservation.
9. Improved Promotion: Create efficient promotion campaigns to invite visitors.
 Conclusion: To sustainably develop ecotourism at Tam Đảo National
Park, close collaboration is needed among management agencies, local
communities, and investors to effectively leverage natural resources and
protect the environment.
 The article highlights the need for sustainable development of ecotourism
to save nature and enhance the lives of the local people.
 The above two research articles have demonstrated the potential of
ecotourism development in Tam Dao, which will be a great source of
benefit for the local economy and human resource development. Besides,
encouraging the participation of the local community is a key factor in
building a sustainable eco-tourism destination and attracting many tourists
in the North.
However, none of the above studies demonstrate clear development strategies,
with a lack in-depth analysis of the tourist market, revenue or tourist
satisfaction. We have not seen any mention of cooperation from successful
models abroad, lack of information on the application of modern technology in
tourism development, etc.

Part 3. METHODOLOGY:
3.1 Description of the research design
(qualitative/quantitative).
To collect the most accurate and reasonable data, I will employ a quantitative
research method. This research approach utilizes numerical data to gather
information and test hypotheses. Quantitative research allows for precise causal
explanations that can be measured and expressed mathematically. The collected
data will be analyzed and calculated to enhance tourist satisfaction and interest
in ecotourism at Tam Đảo. From this data, we can easily guide and develop
ecotourism in this area.

3.2 Sampling strategy and sample size determination.

- For the most realistic and effective insight, I have sought people
who can potentially travel and are interested in visiting
environmentally friendly tourist destinations for the protection of
the ecosystem. This enabled us to understand their perceptions
about ecotourism, responsibilities of tourists during the visitation to
such sites, and travel experiences.

- The outcomes obtained will yield important drivers to tourist

satisfaction such as perceived service quality, the diversity of
activities taken, and the level of environmental conservation. I'll
also investigate possible deterrents for tourists participating in
ecotourism activities and hence make possible suggestions for
reasonable solutions to these problems.

- Understanding tourists' needs and desires will develop appropriate

ecotourism programs for the enhancement of their experiences in
addition to contributing toward protection for ecosystem
sustainability in Tam Đảo. This similarly will be important to
tourists and the community for raising their appreciation of natural
resources and involving them in conservation activities.

3.3 Data collection methods

- Information Collection: Informs about the collection of insights from
groups on their thoughts, needs, and expectations with regard to
ecotourism.
- Perceptions: Assesses how tourists conceptualize ecotourism and their
responsibilities toward natural areas that they visit.
 - Determining Drivers of Satisfaction: The things that contribute to the
happiness of tourists, which include quality of services, variety in
activities, and commitment to the protection of the environment, are
determined.
- Determining Challenges: Analyzes the problems encountered by the
tourists in ecotourism so that potential solutions could be found to resolve
these.
- Informed Programming: Provide valuable insights into what shapes
ecotourism developments in a manner that caters to customer preferences
and needs;
- Environmental Awareness: The community and tourists should be more
aware of the importance of taking care of our environment and natural
resources.

3.4 Ethical considerations

The survey is completely confidential regarding participants' identities

Part 4. DATA ANALIZYS:

4.1 Presentation of data analysis methods
Based on the survey of satisfaction and awareness of ecotourism in Tam Đảo,
the following can be concluded:

- Demographics of Participants: The majority of participants have ages

ranging from 18-30 years, which is considered an age group that would
find this area suitable for ecotourism interests and trends.

- Ecotourism Awareness: Approximately 70% of participants claimed to

have heard about the concept of ecotourism, though about a portion still
remain unsure about this issue.

- Perception of Ecotourism: The perception is rather polarized; 14.3%

consider that ecotourism is just another alternative kind of tourism, but to
 85.7%, it is a means whereby natural and cultural protection can be
achieved with the involvement of sustainable development.

- Benefits to Community: A majority of the subjects (57.1%) perceive that

ecotourism may result in community benefits, but stress that there has to
be an accompanying definite supportive policy to that effect.

- Quality of Service: The quality of tourist services in Tam Đảo is assessed

as average and fails to meet the customers' needs; therefore, there is still
much room for improvement.

- Tourist Role: The tourists understand their role and contribution to the
conservation and development of ecotourism; this indicator is still low
and will need education and communication programs.
 4.2 Identification of patterns or trends.
The survey show that :
The young generation is very interested in ecotourism; however, they miss
complete and clear awareness of what they are supposed to do, what methods
should be followed for nature conservation in the development of this type of
tourism. Participation in environmental protection and cooperation by tourists
with the locals is relatively high. Raising awareness and advocating aspects are
much in want.
Specific findings of this survey provide stakeholders with a number of patterns
and trends that have important implications for the future development of
ecotourism in Tam Đảo. This will promote stakeholders to enhance the
sustainability and efficiency of the ecotourism industry through education,
improvement in service quality, and encouragement of active participation from
the community and tourists

Part 5. DISCUSSION:
5.1 Critical analysis of findings about ecotourism concepts.
- Definition and Scope of Ecotourism

Ecotourism is often defined as responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the

environment, and improving the well-being of local people. However, there is a
lack of consensus on what constitutes "ecotourism," leading to varied
interpretations and implementations across different regions. Tam Dao aiming to
become one of the tourism and service centers of the region and the country, an
attractive and friendly destination for tourists,Environmental Impact

Ecotourism offers numerous environmental benefits, as its preservation and

development serve as a foundation for creating a cleaner environment.
Additionally, the natural surroundings contribute to making ecotourism more
attractive to visitors, providing stunning landscapes for tourists to enjoy. Tam
Đảo is well-known as a prime location for cloud hunting due to its fresh, cool air
and beautiful nature.
 - Economic Benefits

Ecotourism provides significant advantages for local residents by creating jobs

and attracting a skilled workforce. This fosters the development of tourism-
related activities to meet the needs of visitors. People living around Tam Đảo
National Park gain employment, which enhances their responsibility to preserve
the environment in order to increase their financial resources. Moreover,
engaging in sales or serving as tour guides are effective ways to boost income.

- Cultural Impact

Ecotourism has the potential to promote the integration and development of

local communities with tourists, facilitating cultural exchanges that encourage
repeat visits. The number of visitors to Tam Đảo is steadily increasing,
especially during holidays, presenting an opportunity for local culture to gain
greater recognition.

- Community Involvement

Local community participation in organizing, providing feedback, and

conducting tourism-related activities is essential for enhancing the growth of
ecotourism, particularly in areas like Tam Đảo where development is still
emerging.

- Sustainability Challenges

While ecotourism aims for sustainability, there are critical challenges that must
be addressed to achieve this goal. Issues such as inadequate infrastructure, a lack
of regulatory frameworks, and insufficient funding can impede the sustainability
of ecotourism projects. The leadership in Tam Đảo needs to implement
reasonable policies to ensure the optimal development of this destination.
 5.2 Discussion of the implications of the study for ecotourism
in Vietnam.
The findings of this research into ecotourism in Vietnam, especially in places
like Tam Đảo, have a number of significant implications for the future of
ecotourism development in the country.

- Policy Development and Regulation

The results report on the unmet needs of infrastructure and regulatory
frameworks that could hamper ecotourism sustainability. It thus calls for the
Vietnamese government to come up with inclusive policies that address these
issues. Strict regulations will ensure that ecotourism activities are viable
ecologically with the host communities. This can be through investment in
infrastructure upgrading or development of legal frameworks that foster
ecotourism but without ecological distortions.

- Promotion and Marketing of Ecotourism

It follows from this study that there is an increasing interest in ecotourism on
the part of tourists. In this respect, what should be noted is the effective
marketing strategies that can be undertaken to develop ecotourism products
in Vietnam by offering distinctively unique natural and cultural attractions
through using a promotions approach to back up sustainable practices which
will help capture more ecological tourists.

5.3 Comparison with existing literature

- The thesis "Developing Tourism Linked to Conservation, Promoting
Cultural Values, Protecting the Environment, and Promoting Sustainable
Development in the New Context" by Master's student Nguyễn Trùng
Khánh, Director of the National Tourism Administration in 2023,
discusses the potential for developing ecotourism in Vietnam, its positive
and negative impacts, and the role of community participation in
environmental protection, thereby reflecting the development trends of
this promising tourism sector.
 - In the research results "Sustainable Ecotourism Development: An
Overview of Experiences from Some Asian Countries and Implications
for Vietnam" by a group of authors published in the Electronic Industry
Magazine, policies for developing ecotourism are outlined, emphasizing
the enhancement of biological and natural conservation, which in turn
raises awareness of the value of ecotourism in contributing to Vietnam's
social environment.
 Through the two articles, it is evident that issues related to ecotourism are
addressed accurately and in line with reality. This highlights the
importance of awareness and community participation in promoting the
development of the industry.

Part 6. CONCLUSION:
6.1 Summary of key findings.
Based on the survey and referring to various essays, the following can be
identified as key findings:

- Huge Ecotourism Potential: Tam Đảo has great potential for the
development of ecotourism.
- Participation of Locals Not Effective: The participation of residents in
ecotourism activities is ineffective at present.
- Need for Development of Policies: Policies are needed for effective usage
of tourism resources and economic development of the area.
- Low Tourist Awareness: Most of the awareness in ecotourism principles
and practices among tourists is very low.
- Infrastructure and Services: The conditions of infrastructures and services
play a vital role in enhancing the development of ecotourism while
guaranteeing the protection of the natural environment.
- Results also indicated the strategic planning and community involvement
that may better enhance ecotourism in Tam Đảo.

6.2 Recommendations for the ecotourism industry in

Vietnam.
- Encouraging the Participation of the Local Communities:
 - The more there is ecological potential in Tam Đảo, the more local
residents should be encouraged to join into activities of tourism
development. This should upgrade their incomes, upgrading their training
and awareness of environmental protection.
- Formulation of Appropriate Policies:
- The local management has to adopt the appropriate form of policies that
allow for the fullest sustainable use of resources from tourism. These
policies also need to encourage participation from the community in
ecotourism initiatives.
- Awareness and Education
- The development with several stakeholders' involvements will raise the
awareness of residents regarding resource protection. Develop educational
programs to educate the community for the conservational importance of
the natural and cultural resources.
- Improve Infrastructure:
- Infrastructure improvement is crucial in the development of visitor
experiences and tourist satisfaction. The region needs to develop
transportation, accommodations, and visitor facilities.
- Utilize Advanced Scientific Techniques
Installation of innovative methods in the form of QR codes regarding rare
plants and endangered animal species, thus information about local
resources easily available to tourists, might be one of the ways of building
their sense of responsibility and stewardship.

Part 7. COMMENT:
- This essay has provided a comprehensive overview and detailed
analysis of potentiality related to the development of ecotourism at
Tam Đảo National Park, alongside an assessment of the current
situation and a proposal of feasible solutions. Based on the analysis of
ecotourism concepts, it is realized that this is more than a trend in
tourism; it is a sustainable model trying to contribute to the
environment for the protection of its existence and to improve life
quality for locals.
- From the survey and various essays, we can identify several limitations
in the development of ecotourism at Tam Đảo. This insight allows for
the formulation of appropriate steps to enhance tourism in this
location.
Part 8. Bibliography
Bộ Văn hóa, T. t. (2011). Chiến lược phát triển du lịch Việt Nam đến năm 2020,
tầm nhìn đến năm 2030. Hà Nội.
Electronic Industry Magazine. (2018). Sustainable Ecotourism Development: An
Overview of Experiences from Some Asian Countries and Implications for
Vietnam. Hà Nội.
Goverment, V. P. (2019). Vườn quốc gia Tam Đảo.
Khanh, M. N. (2023). Developing Tourism Linked to Conservation, Promoting
Cultural Values, Protecting the Environment, and Promoting Sustainable
Development in the New Context. Hà Nội.
Luong, D. P. (2017). Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development.
Magazine, E. (2014). Phát triển du lịch sinh thái Vườn quốc gia Tam Đảo. Hà
Nội.
Network, T. G. (2012). New York.
Nguyet, M. B. (2013). GIẢI PHÁP PHÁT TRIỂN DU LỊCH SINH THÁI. Hà
Nội: Đại học Lâm nghiệp.
VNAT. (2013). Sổ tay hướng dẫn phát triển du lịch sinh thái tại Việt Nam. Hà
Nội.