Tây Nguyên: A new frontier for MICE in Vietnam
In the heart of Vietnam, the Central Highlands, known locally as Tây Nguyên, are emerging as a promising destination for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) sector. This region, which encompasses the provinces of Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Đắk Lắk, Đắk Nông and Lâm Đồng, offers a unique blend of spectacular scenery, cultural diversity and booming infrastructure.
The Central Highlands and its spectacular scenary - Source : Internet
An exceptional natural setting
Tây Nguyên is distinguished by its vast plateaus at altitudes ranging from 500 to 1,500 meters, lush tropical forests and breathtaking landscapes. The climate, more temperate than that of the coastal plains, makes it an attractive year-round destination. This natural wealth is a major asset for companies seeking to combine business and relaxation in an inspiring setting.
Accessibility and infrastructure under development
The region's accessibility has improved considerably in recent years. The airports at Buôn Ma Thuột, Pleiku and Đà Lạt now provide regular connections with Vietnam's main cities, facilitating the organization of large-scale events. The road network has also benefited from significant modernization, making overland travel more comfortable and efficient.
In the field of accommodation and MICE infrastructure, the region is experiencing rapid development. In Buon Ma Thuot, capital of Dak Lak province, several hotels now offer modern facilities suitable for conferences, seminars and corporate events. These establishments offer fully-equipped meeting rooms, multi-purpose spaces for group events, and high-quality catering and accommodation services.
Cultural space of Tay Nguyen Gong is a symbol for power, wealth and also prestige - Source : Internet
A rich cultural heritage
The Central Highlands are distinguished by theirremarkable ethnic diversity. The region is home to many minorities who preserve their unique traditions, offering visitors an authentic cultural immersion. This cultural richness can be integrated into MICE programs in the form of team-building activities, visits to traditional villages or folk shows, adding a unique dimension to corporate events.
Focus on Đắk Lắk and Lâm Đồng
Among the provinces of Tay Nguyen, Dak Lak and Lam Dong particularly stand out for MICE tourism.
Buon Ma Thuot, provincial capital of Dak Lak
Capital of Dak Lak province, Buon Ma Thuot is a major hub for MICE tourism in the region.
The city boasts several modern hotels offering conference rooms and event spaces tailored to the needs of business groups. Establishments such as the Buon Ma Thuot Plaza Hotel offer top-quality facilities for conferences, seminars and meetings.
Convention centers are also being developed, such as the Dak Lak Conference and Exhibition Center, which can accommodate large-scale events.
Dak Lak, known as the heart of the Highlands, offers a range of activities combining adventure and well-being. Companies can organize innovative team-building sessions, such as treks through the ethnic villages of Ede and Jarai, kayaking on Lake Lắk, or horseback riding through coffee plantations. When it comes to wellness, the province offers traditional massages, yoga sessions in the heart of nature and local cuisine rich in flavor.
With nearly 200 establishments able to accommodate up to 6,000 visitors simultaneously, the province is well positioned to become a leading destination for MICE tourism in Vietnam.
On the road to Dalat - Source : Mr Linh's adventures
Da Lat, provincial capital of Lam Dong
The city of eternal spring is renowned for its cool climate and mountain scenery.
The city boasts a number of high-end hotels, such as the Sofitel Dalat Palace, offering top-quality MICE facilities: conference rooms, event spaces, catering services and more.
Lam Dong, nicknamed the “Switzerland of Vietnam”, is ideal for high-altitude seminars and creative team-building activities. The region offers opportunities for trekking, mountain biking in the tea plantations, and even canyoning for the more adventurous. Wellness options include mountain spas and healthy cuisine based on fresh local produce.
A commitment from the local authorities
The Tay Nguyen authorities, particularly those in Dak Lak, are demonstrating a strong commitment to promoting the region as a MICE destination. They actively participate in tourism fairs and collaborate with travel agencies to create attractive packages, including cultural activities and nature excursions.
The World Coffee Museum, Buon Ma Thuot - Source : Internet
Here are just a few examples of MICE events successfully held in the Tay Nguyen region
International Conference on Agroforestry in Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak
- In 2022, the town hosted the 5th International Conference on Agroforestry, bringing together over 500 delegates from all over the world.
- The event was held in the modern facilities of the Buon Ma Thuot Plaza Hotel, which boasted fully-equipped conference rooms and exhibition areas.
- Participants were also able to discover the region's coffee plantations during themed tours and workshops.
International Seminar on Sustainable Tourism in Da Lat, Lam Dong
- In 2021, Da Lat hosted a major seminar on sustainable tourism, bringing together professionals from the tourism industry.
- The event took place at the Sofitel Dalat Palace, taking advantage of its top-of-the-range infrastructure (meeting rooms, networking areas, etc.) and its exceptional natural setting.
- Alongside the seminar, participants were able to take part in creative team-building activities such as pottery and painting workshops.
But also: MICE tourism seminar, organized in September, aimed at strengthening local capacities in the organization of MICE events. Experts shared their experiences and offered practical advice on event management. And let's not forget the conference on business and investment between India and the Central Highlands provinces, held in mid-April in Dak Lak, or the conference on international trade connections as part of the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival in 2023.
A little to the side, Lễ hội Cồng Chiêng and Lễ hội đua voi are two major cultural festivals in the region, spreading the specificities of Tay Nguyen throughout the country.
These examples show that Tay Nguyen already knows how to successfully host MICE events of various sizes, drawing on its developing infrastructure and exceptional natural and cultural assets.
Lam Vien Square in Dalat - Source : Collected
Conclusion
Although Tây Nguyên is not yet as developed as other MICE destinations in Vietnam, its potential is undeniable. The continuous improvement of infrastructures, the richness of its natural and cultural heritage, and the commitment of local authorities make it a destination to watch closely in the years to come.
For business tourism professionals in Southeast Asia, Tay Nguyen represents a unique opportunity to offer original and memorable MICE experiences. By combining modern facilities with an exceptional natural setting and authentic cultural experiences, the region is fast becoming a destination of choice for companies seeking new frontiers for their events.
Some of our Tours in The Central Highlands