Nestled in Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, the Long Dien salt fields are not only one of Vietnam’s largest salt-producing areas but also a mesmerizing attraction for visitors and photographers eager to capture the timeless craft of salt farming.
Located less than 100 kilometers from HCMC, Long Dien is among the few places in Vietnam where traditional salt farming has been preserved for generations. Spanning approximately 500 hectares, the salt fields are divided into rectangular plots that, when viewed from above, reflect sunlight, creating a breathtaking mosaic of shimmering light.
With its long coastline, abundant sunshine, and ideal climate, Long Dien has become a hub for salt production. Each day, local farmers toil under the intense sun, carefully harvesting pure white salt crystals infused with the briny essence of the Long Hai coastline.
Photographer Van Ngo, who has spent time documenting the region, describes the life of a salt farmer as both demanding and dependent on nature. “A typical day begins at sunrise, as farmers take advantage of the hottest hours to extract salt from seawater. The stronger the sun, the faster the salt crystallizes, leading to higher yields,” he explains.
By 2 p.m., the salt begins to crystallize, and workers move quickly to rake and gather it into neat piles, allowing excess water to drain before transporting it to collection points. Once harvested, the fields are refilled with seawater, preparing for the next cycle.
The salt-harvesting season runs from the ninth lunar month to the fourth lunar month of the following year, coinciding with the dry season—when limited rainfall and high temperatures create the optimal conditions for salt production.
Salt from Long Dien is prized for its high crystal quality and balanced salinity, making it particularly sought after for fish preservation and fish sauce production. Most of the salt is consumed within the Mekong Delta region, with fishing boats and seafood processors being its primary buyers.
Beyond its economic value, the Long Dien salt fields offer a unique cultural and visual experience. The vast salt pans stretch toward the horizon, mirroring the sky, while neatly arranged white salt lines contrast beautifully against the earthy terrain. The sight of hardworking farmers, silhouetted against the glowing salt flats, has made Long Dien a favorite subject among photographers and a must-visit destination for those looking to witness a piece of Vietnam’s rich heritage.
