The ministry issued the request on Saturday after weather authorities warned of flash floods, landslides, land subsidence and flooding across northern Vietnam and Thanh Hoa Province.
It urged 16 provinces and cities, including Hanoi, Haiphong, Quang Ninh, Lang Son, Lao Cai, Son La and Thanh Hoa, to urgently review tourist sites, routes and tours, particularly forest and water-based activities.
Authorities were told to suspend tourism activities and keep visitors away from unsafe areas, particularly mountains, rivers, streams, waterfalls, lakes, coastal areas and steep terrain.
They must also publish and regularly update lists of suspended or restricted sites, routes and activities, specifying affected areas, the duration of restrictions and conditions for reopening.
Tour operators, accommodation providers, transport companies and tourist attractions were instructed to closely monitor weather forecasts and disaster warnings and adjust travel plans accordingly.
Tours should be changed, postponed, shortened or cancelled when conditions are unsafe, with tourists promptly informed of any changes and policies on cancellations, refunds and other entitlements.
High-risk destinations were also told to update emergency plans covering warnings, evacuations, safe assembly points, rescue personnel and equipment, as well as communications in the event of power, network or transport disruptions.
Safety inspections will also be stepped up, with action taken against operators that take tourists into areas under warnings or suspension orders.
Localities must maintain round-the-clock emergency contacts during periods of severe weather to respond quickly to incidents involving tourists.
