Escaping the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can embark on a captivating day trip to the Can Gio Mangrove and Monkey Island. This excursion offers a chance to take in the natural wonders of Vietnam, from exploring the thriving mangrove forest to witnessing the playful antics of over 1,000 resident monkeys. With a range of activities and an included Vietnamese lunch, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the country’s rich wildlife and cultural heritage. However, the true highlight may lie in what awaits beyond the mangrove waterways.
Key Points
- A day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to explore the mangrove forest and Monkey Island, home to over 1,000 monkeys.
- Priced between $52.05 to $65.06 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes hotel pickup, transportation, local lunch, and access to the Can Gio Resort.
- Highlights include a visit to a crocodile conservation area and a fast motorboat ride to the historic Sac Guerilla Camp.
- Travelers advised to bring appropriate gear and be aware of restrictions on feeding the monkeys.
Trip Overview and Pricing
The Can Gio Mangrove & Monkey Island Day Trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Can Gio region, located just outside Ho Chi Minh City.
Priced from $52.05 to $65.06 per person, the one-day excursion provides a chance to discover the mangrove forest home to over 1,000 monkeys.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this trip is both flexible and convenient.
The package includes hotel pickup, transportation, a local lunch, and access to the scenic Can Gio Resort, making it an affordable and comprehensive experience.
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Itinerary Highlights
Kicking off at 7:30 a.m. with hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City, the Can Gio Mangrove & Monkey Island Day Trip whisks travelers on an adventure-filled journey.
Participants will explore the mangrove forest teeming with over 1,000 monkeys. They’ll also visit a crocodile conservation area and have the option to try crocodile fishing.
A thrilling fast motorboat ride takes them to the historic Sac Guerilla Camp. After a traditional Vietnamese lunch, the tour heads to a bustling fish market and the Can Gio Resort, where travelers can swim and stroll along the beach before returning to Ho Chi Minh City around 5:30 p.m.
Inclusions and Services
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off services for hotels located in Districts 1, 3, and 4 of Ho Chi Minh City, with an additional charge for hotels outside these areas.
An English-speaking guide, along with guides in other languages, will accompany the group.
Transportation via air-conditioned vehicle, ferry tickets, water, and sugarcane juice are provided.
The tour includes a Vietnamese-style lunch and beverages at the resort.
Additional costs may include the alligator fishing fee, tips, and personal expenses.
Important Information
Travelers should bring sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, and clothes that can get dirty when visiting the Can Gio Mangrove and Monkey Island.
Guests should be aware of the following:
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Surcharges: Prices increase by 30% during public holidays like New Year and Tet Festival.
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Itinerary Changes: The itinerary may vary based on weather or guide’s discretion.
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Dietary Needs: Travelers should notify the local operator for vegetarian or special food requests.
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Photography Restrictions: Feeding the monkeys is restricted, and photography may be limited in certain areas.
Customer Feedback
Based on 14 reviews, the Can Gio Mangrove and Monkey Island day trip has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5. The guide received a perfect 5-star rating, while the transportation and value for money were both rated 4.5/5. Customer experiences were mostly positive, though some noted fewer monkeys and restrictions on feeding them.
| Criteria | Rating |
| — | — |
| Overall | 4.5/5 |
| Guide | 5/5 |
| Transportation | 4.5/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.5/5 |
| Customer Experiences | Positive, with some restrictions |
Exploring the Mangrove Forest
As visitors venture into the lush mangrove forest of Can Gio, they’ll be greeted by a diverse ecosystem teeming with life.
The highlight is the colony of over 1,000 monkeys that call these forests home.
Visitors can:
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Observe the monkeys as they climb and play amongst the twisted roots and branches.
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Spot a variety of bird species, including herons, storks, and kingfishers, that thrive in the wetland environment.
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Learn about the importance of mangrove forests in providing flood protection and supporting coastal ecosystems.
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Explore the intricate network of waterways by boat, gliding through the serene, verdant landscape.
Visiting the Crocodile Conservation Area
After exploring the lush mangrove forests and observing the monkeys, the tour then takes visitors to the nearby crocodile conservation area.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see these ancient reptiles up close in their natural habitat. The guide will provide information about the conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these endangered species.
Visitors can observe ancient crocodiles up close and learn about conservation efforts to protect these endangered species.
You may even have the option to try your hand at crocodile fishing, though this activity comes with an additional fee.
The visit to the crocodile conservation area offers a unique and educational experience during the day trip.
Experiencing the Historic Sac Guerilla Camp
Next, the tour takes visitors on a fast motorboat ride to the historic Sac Guerilla Camp. This site was a key base for the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
Visitors can:
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Explore the underground tunnels and bunkers used by the guerrilla fighters.
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Learn about the camp’s strategic importance in harassing and ambushing enemy forces.
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See memorabilia and artifacts from the war era on display.
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Gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnamese people’s resilience and determination during the conflict.
The Sac Guerilla Camp offers a poignant glimpse into the region’s turbulent past.
Since You Asked
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, making it a suitable family-friendly activity. However, parents should ensure their children’s safety and supervision throughout the day.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour includes a Vietnamese-style lunch, so bringing additional items may not be necessary. It’s best to check with the local operator for any specific policies.
Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites?
Yes, photography is generally allowed at all the sites visited during the day trip. However, visitors are advised to respect any restrictions or rules regarding photography, especially in sensitive areas or around wildlife.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Activity?
The itinerary allots approximately 1 hour for exploring the mangrove forest and monkey island, 1 hour for the crocodile conservation area, 1 hour for the Sac Guerilla Camp, and 2 hours for relaxing at the Can Gio Resort.
Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The pricing is fixed at $52.05 per person, with a potential 20% savings off the standard $65.06 rate.
Final Words
The Can Gio Mangrove & Monkey Island Day Trip from Ho Chi Minh City offers an immersive experience in Vietnam’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Travelers can explore the lush mangrove forest, observe the resident monkeys, and visit a crocodile conservation area, all while enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch. This excursion provides a memorable escape into the captivating beauty and wildlife of the region.
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