Monkey Island & Can Gio Mangrove Forest Day Tour
Escape the City and Discover Vietnam’s Unique UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Looking for a refreshing escape from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City? Just 50 km southeast of the city lies Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, a fascinating coastal ecosystem recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve in 2000.
Often called Monkey Island, Can Gio is home to thousands of long-tailed monkeys, dense mangrove forests, saltwater crocodiles, abundant birdlife, and a historic guerrilla base hidden deep within the jungle. This full-day adventure combines nature, wildlife, history, and relaxation, making it one of the most unique day trips from Ho Chi Minh City.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, history lover, or simply looking to experience a different side of Vietnam, this tour promises an unforgettable journey.
Tour Information
Departure: 8:00 AM
Return: Approximately 5:30 – 6:00 PM
Duration: Full Day
Destination:
- Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve
- Monkey Island
- Can Gio Museum
- Crocodile Swamp
- Rung Sac Guerrilla Base
- Can Gio Beach
Tour Highlights
- Scenic drive through southern countryside
- Cross the Binh Khanh Ferry
- Explore a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve
- Meet over 1,000 wild long-tailed monkeys
- Visit the Can Gio Museum
- Observe crocodiles at Crocodile Swamp
- Speedboat journey through mangrove forests
- Discover the historic Rung Sac Guerrilla Base
- Relax at Can Gio Beach
- Enjoy fresh local seafood (optional)
Full-Day Itinerary
Hotel Pick-up & Journey to Can Gio
Travel approximately 50 km southeast toward Can Gio, passing peaceful countryside, rivers, and lush green landscapes.
Along the way, you’ll cross the Binh Khanh Ferry, offering beautiful views of the surrounding waterways before continuing deeper into Vietnam’s largest mangrove forest.
Monkey Island
Watch these playful monkeys as they:
- Search for food
- Climb through the trees
- Interact with one another
- Occasionally jump onto visitors for memorable photos
Your guide will explain the behavior of these fascinating animals and share tips for safely interacting with them.
Travel Tip: Keep sunglasses, hats, cameras, snacks, and mobile phones securely stored, as the monkeys are naturally curious and may grab loose belongings.
Can Gio Museum
Continue to the nearby Can Gio Museum, where you’ll learn about the unique ecosystem of the mangrove forest.
The museum features exhibits showcasing:
- Mangrove biodiversity
- Native wildlife
- Archaeological discoveries
- Local history
- The role of Can Gio during the Vietnam War
This visit provides a deeper understanding of why the reserve is considered one of Vietnam’s most valuable ecological treasures.
Crocodile Swamp
Learn about crocodile conservation and breeding while observing these impressive reptiles up close.
For adventurous visitors, there is an optional opportunity to try crocodile fishing under staff supervision (additional fee applies).
Explore the Mangrove Forest by Boat
Cruise beneath towering mangrove trees while learning about this remarkable ecosystem, which protects Vietnam’s southern coastline from erosion and provides habitat for countless species of birds, fish, reptiles, and mammals.
The quiet surroundings offer excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.
Rung Sac Guerrilla Base
Deep within the forest lies the historic Rung Sac Guerrilla Base, a hidden military base used by Vietnamese special forces during the Vietnam War.
Accessible only by boat, the base demonstrates how soldiers lived and operated within the dense mangrove jungle.
Your guide will explain the strategic importance of the area and share stories of the courageous soldiers who carried out operations in these challenging conditions.
Lunch at Can Gio Beach
Fresh seafood is one of the highlights of Can Gio, although other Vietnamese dishes are also available.
After lunch, you’ll have free time to:
- Relax on the beach
- Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline
- Enjoy the sea breeze
- Capture memorable photos
- Unwind before returning to Ho Chi Minh City
Return to Ho Chi Minh City
After a relaxing afternoon by the sea, begin the return journey to Ho Chi Minh City.
Arrive back at your hotel between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM, depending on traffic conditions.
End of Services
Tour Includes
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Ferry tickets
- English-speaking guide
- Motorboat through the mangrove forest
- Entrance fees
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Bottled drinking water
Tour Excludes
- Personal expenses
- Drinks during lunch
- Optional crocodile fishing fee
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This tour is ideal for:
- Nature lovers
- Wildlife enthusiasts
- Families
- Couples
- Solo travelers
- Birdwatchers
- Photographers
- History enthusiasts
- Travelers seeking a unique day trip from Ho Chi Minh City
Travel Tips
- Wear lightweight clothing suitable for warm, humid weather.
- Choose comfortable walking shoes or sandals.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and insect repellent.
- Keep valuables securely stored when visiting Monkey Island, as the monkeys are curious and quick to grab loose items.
- A camera with a zoom lens is ideal for capturing wildlife and the beautiful mangrove scenery.
Ready to Explore Vietnam’s Wild Side?
From playful monkeys and ancient mangrove forests to hidden wartime history and relaxing coastal scenery, the Can Gio Mangrove Forest & Monkey Island Day Tour offers a completely different perspective on Southern Vietnam. It’s the perfect escape for travelers who want to experience nature, wildlife, and local history—all within easy reach of Ho Chi Minh City.
Book your adventure through our trusted affiliate partners:
Compare the best flights to Vietnam
Reserve hotels with flexible cancellation
Book Can Gio day tours in advance
Arrange airport transfers and private transportation
Stay connected with a Vietnam eSIM
Shop travel essentials including binoculars, cameras, waterproof bags, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, sun hats, reusable water bottles, and travel accessories
Reserve your Monkey Island & Can Gio Mangrove Forest Day Tour today and discover one of Vietnam’s most remarkable UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.
