Can Gio Mangrove Forest and Monkey Island Full Day Tour

The Can Gio Mangrove Forest and Monkey Island Full Day Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Vietnam’s lush biodiversity and rich history. Just a short drive from Ho Chi Minh City, this UNESCO biosphere reserve provides a captivating glimpse into the country’s remarkable ecosystem. From feeding the resident monkeys to exploring the Sac guerrilla camp, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature and history enthusiasts alike. With a delectable Vietnamese lunch and a chance to encounter crocodiles, this all-encompassing adventure leaves one eager to uncover more about this hidden gem.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion to the UNESCO biosphere reserve of Can Gio Mangrove Forest, featuring interactions with over 1,000 monkeys on Monkey Island.

• Priced from $41.63 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a small group size limit of 11 participants.

• The tour includes transportation, ferry tickets, entrance fees, a Vietnamese lunch, and access to a swimming pool.

• Visitors can explore the rich biodiversity of the mangrove forest, learn about its role in coastal protection, and discover the area’s cultural and historical significance.

• Recommended items include a swimming suit, towel, and comfortable shoes, as the tour involves boat rides, monkey interactions, and exploration of the mangrove ecosystem.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Can Gio Mangrove Forest Tour offers visitors a full-day excursion to explore the UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, located 25km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City.

Priced from $41.63 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

With a small group limit of 11 participants, the 1-day tour provides an intimate experience exploring the diverse mangrove ecosystem.

Highlights include a visit to the monkey island, crocodile sanctuary, and a historical tour of the Sac guerrilla camp.

The package covers transportation, ferry tickets, entrance fees, Vietnamese lunch, and access to amenities like a swimming pool.

Location and Biodiversity

Situated 25km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, at the mouth of the Saigon River, lies the Can Gio Mangrove Forest.

Recognized as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, this unique ecosystem boasts a remarkable biodiversity. Over 200 species of fauna and 52 species of flora call the mangroves home.

The region is particularly known for its large population of more than 1,000 monkeys.

Significant rehabilitation efforts have transformed Can Gio into one of the world’s largest restored mangrove sites, showcasing the resilience of this vital natural habitat.

Itinerary Highlights

Kicking off the day, the tour starts with pickup from hotels in Districts 1, 3, or 4 in Ho Chi Minh City.

Visitors then venture into the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve teeming with diverse flora and fauna. The highlight is the encounter with the forest’s famous monkey residents, where guests can feed and interact with the primates.

The tour also includes a visit to a crocodile sanctuary, offering an optional crocodile fishing experience.

Afterward, guests explore the historic Sac guerrilla camp to learn about the region’s wartime past.

The day culminates with a traditional Vietnamese lunch and a relaxing visit to a local fish market and the Can Gio Resort.

Inclusions and Amenities

A professional English-speaking tour guide accompanies visitors throughout the day, catering to other language preferences upon request.

Air-conditioned transportation and ferry round tickets are provided, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Refreshments like sugarcane juice and bottled water, as well as entrance fees to Can Gio Monkey Park, are included.

Visitors can feed the monkeys and enjoy a speedboat ride.

A Vietnamese-style lunch is served, and access to the swimming pool and shower room at Can Gio Resort is provided.

The tour also includes alligator fishing fees and tips and gratuities for guides and drivers.

Guests are encouraged to bring recommended items like swimsuits, towels, and comfortable shoes.

Preparation and Notes

Preparation for the Can Gio Mangrove Forest Tour begins with the recommended items visitors should bring. These include a swimming suit, towel, personal travel box, hat, and comfortable shoes. Tickets for the tour do not apply on holidays, and there are additional charges for pickups outside the designated districts, costing 150,000 VND.

Important Notes
Ticket Prices	Do not apply on holidays
Pickups	Additional charges for pickups outside Districts 1, 3, or 4	150,000 VND

Visitors should come prepared to make the most of their day exploring the lush mangrove forests and interacting with the friendly monkeys.

Mangrove Forest Exploration

Once guests arrive at the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, they’ll be awestruck by the lush, verdant landscape.

The UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve boasts over 200 species of fauna and 52 species of flora, creating a mesmerizing ecosystem.

Guests will embark on a boat tour, gliding through the intricate network of waterways and mangrove trees.

Along the way, they’ll spot a diverse array of wildlife, including monkeys, rare birds, and even crocodiles at the nearby sanctuary.

The tour guide will provide insights into the important role these mangroves play in coastal protection and environmental conservation efforts.

Visitors will leave with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable natural wonder.

Monkey Island Experience

After exploring the lush mangrove forest, guests venture across the river to the famous Monkey Island. This unique experience allows visitors to interact with over 1,000 monkeys that call the island home. A highlight of the tour, guests can observe the monkeys up close and even feed them. The island’s biodiversity is remarkable, with 52 species of flora and over 200 species of fauna. Visitors can learn about the island’s ecology and the conservation efforts that have protected this important ecosystem.

Monkey Island Activities
Observe Monkeys	Feed Monkeys	Explore Island Trails	Visit Monkey Sanctuary	Learn About Conservation

Cultural and Historical Insights

During the tour, visitors gain valuable cultural and historical insights into the region’s past.

One key highlight is the visit to the Sac guerrilla camp, where guests can learn about the critical role this site played during the Vietnam War.

The tour also explores:

• The strategic location of Can Gio, situated at the mouth of the Saigon River
• The significant rehabilitation efforts that have transformed this area into a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve
• The traditional Vietnamese cuisine served for lunch, which provides a glimpse into the local culinary heritage
• The bustling fish market, offering a window into the region’s vibrant maritime economy
• The Can Gio Resort, where visitors can relax and soak up the area’s unique atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

While the tour includes meals and refreshments, travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks. However, it’s best to confirm this with the tour operator beforehand to ensure adherence to any specific policies.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Guests can inquire with the tour provider about adding more time to explore the mangrove forest or Monkey Island at an additional cost.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour provider offers private tour options upon request, which may have a higher per-person cost but provide a more personalized experience.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Life Jacket for the Boat Ride?

No, life jackets are typically provided for the boat ride. The tour includes all necessary equipment and amenities, so you don’t need to bring your own life jacket. Just focus on enjoying the experience.

Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for Children on the Tour?

The tour does not have any age limits or restrictions for children. Families with kids of all ages are welcome to participate in the tour’s activities and enjoy the natural sights and experiences.

Recap

The Can Gio Mangrove Forest and Monkey Island Full Day Tour offers an immersive experience into Vietnam’s stunning biodiversity and rich history. Participants can enjoy a range of activities, from monkey feeding to a visit to a crocodile sanctuary, while exploring the lush landscapes and learning about the area’s cultural and historical significance. This tour provides a comprehensive and unforgettable adventure for those seeking to discover the natural wonders of Vietnam.