Most educational tourism products leverage the region’s strengths in history, culture, natural resources, local livelihoods, and traditional customs. This type of tourism primarily targets visitors with a passion for exploration, hands-on learning, and in-depth research, such as students, scholars, and researchers. The Mekong Delta, known for its agricultural prowess and unique water-based lifestyle, presents compelling themes like climate change adaptation and food security—issues of great interest to international experts. Experiential journeys that combine cultural and environmental exploration with academic research, exchange, and learning have become the foundation for the development of educational and research tourism in the region.

For instance, in February, a group of graduate researchers from Ubon Ratchathani University (Thailand) embarked on an educational journey to study agriculture and riverine culture in the Mekong Delta, with a focus on climate change adaptation. Organized by Haiau Educursions (Cần Thơ City), the program offered hands-on experiences at various locations, including the Tư Việt seasonal rice fields, pineapple plantations, the Cái Lớn–Cái Bé sluice gates (Kiên Giang), and the Cái Răng floating market (Cần Thơ). These visits provided insights into local life and how communities adapt to climate change. According to Ms. Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Sương, CEO of Hải Âu Cần Thơ Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Co., Ltd. (SeaCorp Academies), “The study program for Thai graduate students in the Mekong Delta is one of the specialized educational tourism initiatives we are expanding this year. Besides Thailand, we are also collaborating with institutions in Japan, the U.S., Canada, Singapore, and Malaysia to develop educational tourism products.” Notable among these are a seven-day program for Japanese visitors and a 12-day itinerary for Canadian participants, focusing on agriculture and culture in Southern Vietnam and the Mekong Delta.

Educational tourism comes in various forms, including study tours, heritage education, volunteer-based educational travel, and specialized research tourism. Each program is tailored to different age groups and interests. However, a significant challenge in this field is the need for precise and in-depth knowledge delivery coupled with well-designed experiential activities. Mr. Lý Văn Bon, owner of Bảy Bon floating fish farm in Cần Thơ, frequently welcomes educational tour groups interested in fish farming on the Hậu River. He acknowledged the complexities of the role, stating, “Hosting these programs is not easy. When visitors ask questions, we need to have the knowledge to answer them. My responses are based on my studies in aquaculture combined with decades of hands-on experience. If I know the answer, I’ll share it, and if not, we engage in discussions to learn together. The beauty of educational tourism is that it fosters mutual learning between locals and visitors.”

Travelers can learn about history, culture, life skills, and indigenous wisdom through these educational journeys. This process helps reshape perspectives and deepen the understanding of real-world issues—especially for younger participants, such as students, who are poised to drive future change. “The younger generation is highly adaptable and open to learning. Educational tourism allows them to learn from real-life experiences and interact directly with local communities. Through these immersive encounters, we hope travelers will develop a deep emotional connection to what they have experienced, inspiring them to take action in preserving and spreading the cultural values of these regions,” Ms. Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Sương remarked.