Dong Nai – a vibrant eco-destination in Southeast Vietnam

Dong Nai City, the green lung of Southeast Vietnam, has become an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and renewed energy after long days amid the rush of urban life.

Mai Waterfall - Bau Nuoc Soi stands out as a destination known for its naturally heated mineral lake and wellness-oriented tourism experiences, which have attracted growing interest from visitors.

With a wide range of eco-tourism experiences from forest, lake, and river exploration to wellness retreats and health-care services, Dong Nai has become an ideal destination for families and young travelers seeking relaxation and a deeper connection with nature.

Exploring Dong Nai’s forests

Southeast Vietnam is currently entering one of its hottest periods of the year. As the country’s leading economic region, its residents are often caught up in demanding routines and fast-paced work schedules. Against this backdrop, opportunities for rest and relaxation have become increasingly valued as a way to recharge after intense working days.

Dong Nai takes pride in being a city of vast forests, home to one of the richest ecosystems in Southern Vietnam. Over the years, it has become a favored destination for travelers looking to recharge during weekends, holidays, and festive occasions.

In Dong Nai, visitors can experience the forest up close in many different ways. There is the quiet pleasure of walking beneath shaded canopies, listening to birdsong echo through the trees, watching butterflies gather in the morning light, and breathing in the crisp air of the wild. Along forest trails, travelers can also explore the region’s diverse ecosystems by bicycle, discovering the natural beauty of Cat Tien National Park, Bu Gia Map National Park, and the Dong Nai Nature and Culture Reserve.

During these journeys, visitors may encounter unforgettable moments spotting wild animals along the trail, admiring centuries-old trees, and gaining deeper insight into conservation efforts led by forest rangers. Such experiences offer more than adventure; they leave travelers with a sense of serenity, renewed energy, and a deeper connection with nature.

According to tourism experts, once Long Thanh International Airport becomes operational, Dong Nai will have the opportunity to emerge as a key tourism gateway for Southeast Vietnam and the country as a whole. This feature presents both a major opportunity and a driving force for the city’s tourism sector to transform itself, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen Dong Nai’s position on the domestic and international tourism map.

After traveling more than 100 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City to Cat Tien National Park in Nam Cat Tien commune, Nguyen Huu Nghi and his group of 10 friends eagerly prepared for a two-day, one-night forest adventure. Nghi shared that Cat Tien has long been one of the group’s favorite weekend and holiday destinations.

“At any time of the year, we always find something exciting here,” he said. “April and May are our favorite months because the forest is full of flowers, the weather is dry, and there are no leeches, so we can comfortably enjoy the cool air. At night, we go on wildlife tours. Everything about Cat Tien feels so relaxing, which is why it has remained our familiar destination for years.”

Wellness retreats in nature

In recent years, as health care and well-being have become greater priorities, many families have chosen resort destinations that combine relaxation with wellness services. This sector has emerged as a growing tourism segment in Dong Nai.

Beyond wellness tourism, Dong Nai is also developing eco-garden tourism products, along with unique camping and glamping destinations that attract travelers from across the country. These tourism sites have been carefully developed, with some meeting international standards and receiving prestigious global hospitality and tourism awards.

Visitors paddle across Tri An Lake. Photo: Quang Huy

Located in the urban center of Dong Nai, Thien Tam Resort has for years served as a destination for travelers seeking both leisure and health care. Its offerings include mineral mud baths, herbal baths, hot and cold mineral pools, hydrotherapy massage systems, and jacuzzi treatments, all known for their benefits to skin and overall health. Complementing these services is a culinary experience featuring flavorful specialties, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian menus. The resort is widely appreciated for its service quality and the value it brings to guests.

About 17 kilometers from National Highway 20, in Dinh Quan commune, Mai Waterfall – Bau Nuoc Soi, known for its thermal mineral lake, is nestled within the lush primary forest of Gia Canh. For decades, Mai Waterfall has been one of Dong Nai’s best-known attractions, where streams cascade through rocky formations to create a striking natural landscape.

At Mai Waterfall – Bau Nuoc Soi, visitors can immerse themselves in hot mineral pools sourced from the area’s year-round natural spring, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 60 degrees Celsius. Scientists explain that the spring formed when underground geothermal flows erupted to the surface. The water is recognized for containing numerous minerals beneficial to human health.

Situated at the gateway to Cat Tien National Park, resorts such as Nam Cat Tien Green Bamboo Lodge Resort and Cat Tien Jungle Lodge have also become sought-after destinations for wellness and relaxation.

Notably, Cat Tien Jungle Lodge was recently honored by the International Business Association with the World’s 10 Best Boutique Hotel Awards 2025, recognizing it among the top 10 hotels in the world.

Speaking about the lodge’s services, Duong Thi Ngoc Phuong, Director of The Gioi Hoang Da Co., Ltd., said Cat Tien Jungle Lodge welcomes both domestic and international travelers. In recent years, beyond accommodation and leisure services, the lodge has expanded its offerings to include nature exploration, wellness cuisine, meditation programs, and nature-based sound therapy experiences.

Meanwhile, Truong Cong Vung, owner of Nam Cat Tien Green Bamboo Lodge Resort, said that, alongside forest adventure programs such as trekking and nighttime wildlife tours, the resort also offers wellness services, including massage and acupressure, to help guests recharge after forest hikes and cycling trips.

By N. Lien – Translated by M.Nguyet, Minho