The coffee capital of Vietnam's Central HighlandsBuon Ma Thuotwas chosen for National Geographic's "Best of the World 2026"15 best for foodIt was the only selection from Vietnam. As the world's Robusta capital, it was highly rated for its unique coffee culture and its "from picking to roasting" experience ecosystem. Coffee has become a tourism resource not just to "drink" but to "tour."
"The world's Robusta capital"
Buon Ma Thuot (Dak Lak Province) is one of the world's leading Robusta-growing regions. National Geographic praised its unique coffee culture and the richness of experiences tied to the Central Highlands identity. Being chosen among the world's 15 best for food is rare for Asia in itself, marking recognition of "drink tourism" by global standards.
The farm-to-cup experience
Visitors can experience everything themselves — picking, roasting, and brewing — on vast plantations. From the traditional coffee rituals passed down among the indigenous Ede people, to open gardens overlooking misty valleys from colonial-era mansions, hundreds of independent cafés are scattered throughout. The most recent Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival drew 120,000 visitors, and the World Coffee Museum and heritage forums also serve as cores for cultural outreach.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | NatGeo "Best of the World 2026" 15 best for food |
| Positioning | The world's Robusta capital (the only Vietnamese selection) |
| Experience | From picking to roasting to brewing; the Ede people's rituals |
| Event | 120,000 visitors at the coffee festival; the World Coffee Museum |
Background: from quantity to quality and experience
Vietnam is one of the world's leading coffee producers, but its reputation has long leaned toward "quantity." As the shift to specialty coffee advances, the move to turn the growing regions themselves into tourism resources is accelerating. Combined with the emergence of a world-champion taster and results at various competitions, Buon Ma Thuot is cementing its position as the center of "drink tourism."
Impact on readers
For lovers of Vietnamese coffee, a trip to "walk the growing region" — not just drink the product — becomes an option. The cool climate of the Central Highlands doubles as a summer escape during the intense heat. It is easier than ever to build an itinerary centered on coffee. Plantation experiences and Ede rituals offer time you can find nowhere else.
Summary
Buon Ma Thuot's selection is proof that Vietnamese coffee has expanded from a "product" to a "destination." A journey that walks the story behind a single cup is now being discovered by the world.
Related reading:
・Vietnam Amazing Cup 2026, with 182 lots participating
・Da Lat's sky-high café, Horizon Coffee
・The first Vietnamese World Cup Tasters Champion is born
Source:VnExpress International / Việt Nam News
