Vietnam has been recognized among the world’s top seven destinations for sea turtle release experiences, with Con Dao National Park earning global acclaim for its large-scale, well-managed conservation efforts. Each year, hundreds of thousands of hatchlings are successfully incubated and released into the ocean under strict monitoring protocols, highlighting both the country’s commitment to conservation and the sustainability of its tourism practices.

The list, released by Condé Nast Traveler in celebration of Earth Day, features destinations with structured sea turtle conservation programs that allow visitors to participate in a controlled, educational, and environmentally responsible manner.

A Regional Stronghold for Sea Turtle Conservation

Vietnam’s inclusion is driven by the remarkable achievements at Con Dao, widely regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s most important sea turtle nesting sites. Each year, the archipelago records the successful hatching and release of hundreds of thousands of turtles, primarily green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas).

At Con Dao National Park, visitors can join specially designed eco-tours during the nesting season, which typically runs from April to October. These guided experiences offer rare opportunities to observe mother turtles coming ashore to lay eggs at night, followed by the release of hatchlings at dawn.

Strict conservation protocols are enforced to maximize survival rates. Visitors are required to minimize artificial light, avoid loud noises, and refrain from direct contact with the turtles unless instructed by trained staff. According to conservation experts, survival rates in the wild are extremely low, often as few as one in 1,000 hatchlings reach adulthood, making these carefully managed interventions critically important.

Where Luxury Meets Conservation

Beyond protected areas, select high-end resorts in Con Dao are also contributing to conservation efforts. Notably, Six Senses Con Dao has implemented its own on-site turtle incubation and release program. By integrating conservation activities with premium hospitality, the resort offers guests a meaningful, hands-on environmental experience without compromising ecological integrity.

A Global Network of Sustainable Experiences

Vietnam stands alongside six other global destinations recognized for similar experiences across tropical and subtropical regions where sea turtles nest. These include: Maldives, Costa Rica, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Florida.

Together, these destinations represent a growing global movement toward conservation-led tourism, where immersive travel experiences are designed not only to inspire, but also to protect fragile ecosystems.

A Model for Sustainable Tourism in Vietnam

Vietnam’s recognition in this prestigious list underscores a broader shift toward responsible travel, where conservation, education, and visitor experience converge. At Con Dao, the simple yet powerful act of releasing a sea turtle becomes more than a memorable moment; it is a meaningful contribution to preserving marine biodiversity for generations to come.

As global travelers increasingly seek purpose-driven journeys, Vietnam’s success story offers a compelling model - one where tourism not only celebrates nature, but actively safeguards it.