An Authentic Day Out at Can Gio Mangrove Forest & Monkey Island
Vietnam’s Can Gio Mangrove Forest with Monkey Island offers a mix of nature, wildlife, and history that can appeal to those wanting a break from city life. This guided tour promises an engaging experience with opportunities to see wild animals, learn about Vietnam’s wartime past, and enjoy the tranquility of lush mangroves, all in one day.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see over 1,000 monkeys up close and feed them. Second, the adrenaline rush of crocodile fishing—an activity rare and memorable. Third, the historical insight gained from visiting the “Sac” guerrilla camp. Yet, a consideration is that the full itinerary involves quite a bit of travel, which might be tiring for some.
This tour suits nature lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a genuine outdoor adventure near Ho Chi Minh City. If you’re after an immersive experience that combines wildlife with cultural insights, this could be just right.
Good To Know
- Wildlife Encounters: Over 1,000 monkeys on Monkey Island and crocodile fishing opportunities.
- Historical Insights: Visit the “Sac” guerrilla camp to learn about Vietnam’s wartime history.
- Natural Beauty: Trek through lush mangrove forests and enjoy fresh air away from urban noise.
- Inclusive Activities: All entrance tickets, lunch, and transportation are covered for hassle-free planning.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
- Multilingual Guides: Tours are available with guides speaking multiple languages, making it accessible for many travelers.
- Good To Know
- Discovering Can Gio: A Unique Blend of Nature and History
- Exploring the Mangrove Forest
- Monkey Island: A Mecca for Monkeys and Photographers
- Crocodile Farm and Fishing: A Thrilling Activity
- A Glimpse into Vietnam’s War History
- Lunch and Cultural Flavors
- Practical Aspects and Overall Value
- Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More 1-Day Tours in Ho Chi Minh City
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Discovering Can Gio: A Unique Blend of Nature and History

This Can Gio Mangrove Forest & Monkey Island tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances outdoor adventure with cultural education. The day begins with a hotel pickup, which is a real time-saver and indicates a comfortable, organized start. After a scenic drive out of Ho Chi Minh City, you’re greeted by the fresh, earthy scent of the mangroves—a welcome change from city smog.
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Exploring the Mangrove Forest
Once you arrive, you’ll notice an immediate contrast: the green canopy and calm waters of the mangrove ecosystem. Trekking into the forest, you’ll see the diverse flora that sustains the local wildlife. The experience is both peaceful and invigorating, with many reviewers highlighting the “refreshing” atmosphere and the chance to breathe in genuinely clean air.
The tour emphasizes learning about the typical flora, which adds an educational layer to the walk. Guides often share stories about the ecosystem’s role in protecting the coastline and supporting local communities. The highlight, however, is the opportunity to see a variety of animals in their natural environment—an experience that cannot be replicated in zoos or urban settings.
Monkey Island: A Mecca for Monkeys and Photographers
No visit here is complete without a stop at Monkey Island, home to over 1,000 playful primates. Visitors are encouraged to feed the monkeys—an activity that many find joyful and slightly chaotic. As one reviewer noted, the monkeys are “friendly, curious, and mischievous,” often climbing on visitors’ shoulders or surrounding them for snacks.
Photographers will love the chance to capture these engaging animals up close, but it’s wise to keep belongings secure as the monkeys are quick and clever. Several reviews mention the charm of the mischievous monkeys, making this part of the tour a guaranteed hit for families and animal lovers alike.
Crocodile Farm and Fishing: A Thrilling Activity
Next, the itinerary takes you to a crocodile farm, where you can observe the hatchlings and learn about crocodile farming processes. For those seeking a little adventure, the tour offers an unusual activity—fishing for crocodiles from a boat, which is certainly a memorable experience.
The activity involves standing on a boat and trying to fish for crocodiles, which is both fun and educational. Reviewers have described this as “exciting” and a unique way to connect with local practices. Keep in mind, this is more about observing and participating in a controlled environment rather than true hunting.
More Great Tours NearbyA Glimpse into Vietnam’s War History
The “Sac” guerrilla camp is a significant part of the tour, providing insight into Vietnam’s wartime period. Hidden in the bush, this site offers an authentic look at the military tactics used during the conflict. Some reviewers appreciated the chance to see a different side of Vietnam—its resilience and strategic ingenuity.
Walking through the camp, you’ll be able to imagine the hardships faced by soldiers and civilians alike. This addition to the tour enriches the experience, making it more meaningful for history buffs or those interested in Vietnam’s past struggles.
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Lunch and Cultural Flavors
Midday, you’ll dine at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Vietnamese dishes. The meal is included in the tour price, which enhances the overall value. Reviewers praise the food as “fresh” and “flavorful,” often highlighting the chance to try local specialties that might be missed on a typical tourist trail.
Practical Aspects and Overall Value
Transportation is by air-conditioned car, which is comfortable for the roughly 2-3 hour drive each way. The group size is private, ensuring a personalized experience and more flexibility during stops. The tour includes all entrance tickets and bottled water, removing the hassle of extra expenses.
The price of $152 per person might seem high at first glance, but considering it covers transportation, guides, entrance fees, and lunch, it represents fair value for a full day filled with diverse activities. The fact that you get a well-organized, guided experience means less planning stress and more time to enjoy the sights.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, animal lovers, and history buffs who want an active day outdoors. It’s suitable for travelers looking for a meaningful excursion that combines wildlife, culture, and adventure without complicated logistics. It’s also a good choice for those wanting a family-friendly experience with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging activities.
However, travelers seeking a relaxed, leisurely day may find the packed schedule a bit intense. The long drive between stops might be tiring for some, so a good level of mobility helps enjoy the full experience.
Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly a full day, with departure and return times depending on availability. The start times vary, so checking in advance is recommended.
What is included in the price?
All entrance tickets, transportation via air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, bottled water, and a professional English-speaking guide are included.
Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Motorboat rides and swimming pool fees are not included, so if you want to take a boat for crocodile fishing or swim, you’ll need to pay separately.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying seeing the monkeys and participating in activities like feeding. However, supervision is advised, especially around animals and boats.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering you flexibility if your plans change.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in multiple languages, including English, French, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, Korean, Russian, and German.
How physically demanding is the tour?
Some walking and trekking are involved, particularly in the mangrove forest. It’s suitable for travelers with a moderate level of mobility.
Are the activities safe?
Controlled crocodile fishing and zoo-like animal encounters are supervised by professionals, making the activities generally safe for participants.
Is there free time during the tour?
The itinerary is quite packed, but opportunities for photos and quick explorations are built-in, offering a good balance of guided and free moments.
This Can Gio Mangrove Forest & Monkey Island tour offers a well-rounded, engaging day that blends wildlife, history, and culture. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty and resilient spirit—all in one memorable outing.
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