| Cover | Oct. 28, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 28, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 1-9025 |
| Entity Registrant Name | VISTA GOLD CORP. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000783324 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 00-0000000 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | A1 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 7961 Shaffer parkway |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | suite 5 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | littleton |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CO |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 80127 |
| City Area Code | 720 |
| Local Phone Number | 981-1185 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Shares |
| Trading Symbol | VGZ |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSEAMER |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
