From Ho Chi Minh City: Monkey Island Excursion by Boat

Nestled within the UNESCO-recognized mangrove forest reserve of Vietnam lies an enchanting excursion that whisks travelers away from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. The Monkey Island Excursion by boat offers a captivating journey into a serene ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna. From observing crocodiles in their natural habitat to ascending the Tang Bong Tower for panoramic vistas, this immersive experience promises to immerse visitors in the natural wonders of this iconic Vietnamese destination. But the true allure of this excursion lies in the opportunity to encounter the thousands of monkeys that roam freely within the Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone, a natural bird reserve that showcases the region’s remarkable biodiversity.

Key Points

• Depart from Ho Chi Minh City and embark on a boat journey to explore the Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone, a protected area home to thousands of monkeys.
• Witness the diverse flora and fauna of the UNESCO-recognized mangrove forest reserve, including crocodiles and a variety of bird species.
• Ascend the 30-meter Tang Bong Tower for panoramic views of the expansive wetlands and mangrove forests.
• Observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, gaining insights into their behavior and the biodiversity of the region.
• Discover the historical significance of the area, including the military hiding place used during the Vietnam War.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Explore the Mangrove Forest Reserve

Visitors can explore the UNESCO-recognized mangrove forest reserve near Ho Chi Minh City by boat, where they’ll discover over 40,000 hectares of lush, planted and natural mangroves that serve as the city’s ‘green lungs‘.

During the 30-minute guided tour, guests will witness the vibrant ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna. They’ll learn about the critical role these mangroves play in maintaining the region’s ecological balance and protecting against coastal erosion.

The tranquil boat ride offers scenic views of the verdant landscape, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling city. This excursion offers a unique opportunity to take in Vietnam’s natural wonders and appreciate the importance of conserving these precious resources.

Travel to the Excursion Site

The tour begins with a pickup from Ho Chi Minh City, followed by a 105-minute bus or coach ride to the launching point for the speedboat.

Guests then board a speedboat for a 15-minute ride to the Rừng Đước mangrove forests. After a 30-minute guided tour of the mangroves, the group takes a 5-minute speedboat ride to an electric car that transports them to the Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone.

Here, they enjoy a 30-minute guided tour and sightseeing, including wildlife viewing. The excursion then moves to the Tang Bong Tower for a 30-minute visit and guided tour before a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant.

Visit Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone

After the guided tour of the mangrove forests, guests board an electric car that transports them to the Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone.

At the eco-tourist zone, guests can enjoy a 30-minute guided tour and sightseeing, including opportunities for wildlife viewing.

The eco-tourist zone is home to a natural bird reserve, where visitors can observe a variety of feathered species in their natural habitat.

Plus, guests can visit the crocodile swamp and learn about the incubation process of baby crocodiles.

The highlight of the visit is the chance to climb the Tang Bong Tower, which offers panoramic views of the biosphere reserve and the chance to spot thousands of monkeys in the area.

Observe the Crocodile Swamp

From the Tang Bong Tower, guests can move on to the crocodile swamp, where they’ll get a chance to learn about the incubation process of baby crocodiles.

Here, they’ll observe the crocodiles basking in the sun and learn how they’re cared for before being released into the wild. The guide will explain the importance of conserving these incredible creatures and their delicate ecosystem.

Guests can get an up-close look at the crocodiles, while maintaining a safe distance, and gain a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity of the Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone.

This unique experience provides visitors with an opportunity to witness the natural wonders of Vietnam’s lush mangrove forests.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Climb the Tang Bong Tower

Ascending the Tang Bong Tower grants visitors panoramic vistas of the biosphere reserve, showcasing the sweeping beauty of the lush mangrove forests.

From the 30-meter high observation platform, guests can:

• Gaze out over the expansive wetlands teeming with avian life
• Spot the thousands of monkeys that inhabit the protected area
• Marvel at the striking contrast between the vibrant green canopy and the winding waterways
• Gain a deeper appreciation for the ecological significance of this UNESCO-recognized natural wonder

This vantage point offers a unique chance to fully take in the serene splendor of the Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone, leaving a lasting impression of Vietnam’s natural treasures.

Spot the Monkeys

Amongst the lush mangrove forests of the Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone, visitors can spot the thousands of monkeys that call this protected biosphere home. These primates roam freely, swinging from branch to branch and scurrying across the forest floor.

The guide will point out the different species, including long-tailed macaques and pig-tailed macaques, and share insights into their behavior and habitat. Visitors may even catch a glimpse of the mischievous monkeys raiding the local crops or playing in the treetops.

It’s an incredible opportunity to witness these intelligent animals in their natural environment and gain a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity of the region.

Discover the Military Hiding Place

Visitors to the Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone can explore the region’s wartime history by exploring a hidden military encampment once used by North Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War.

This underground shelter provided a strategic hideaway, allowing troops to monitor and coordinate operations in the surrounding mangrove forests and waterways.

Guests can:

• Descend into the bunker’s dark tunnels and chambers to get a sense of the harsh conditions faced by the soldiers
• Examine the remnants of communication equipment, weaponry, and other artifacts left behind
• Learn about the vital role this hiding place played in the broader conflict
• Imagine the tension and danger that permeated the area during the war’s most intense battles

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and bottled water, as well as travel insurance.

However, it excludes any services not specified in the program, personal expenses, and gratuities. Travelers should plan accordingly and budget for these additional costs.

The comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

From traversing the lush mangrove forests by boat to exploring the wartime hiding place, the excursion offers a unique blend of adventure and education, ensuring an unforgettable journey for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes bottled water, but personal snacks and beverages are permitted. Participants should respect any restrictions or guidelines set by the tour operators.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There may be options to extend the tour duration, but this would need to be arranged directly with the tour operator. Additional fees would likely apply. Travelers should inquire about tour customization and extension possibilities when booking.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the activities on this excursion. The tour is suitable for all ages, though parental supervision is recommended for young children during the boat trips and hiking portions of the tour.

Can I Rent Equipment Like Life Jackets or Binoculars?

Yes, the tour typically provides life jackets and binoculars for guests to use during the boat trip and wildlife viewing activities. Guests can inquire about renting any additional equipment when booking the tour.

Is There an Opportunity to Interact With the Local Wildlife?

Yes, the tour provides opportunities to interact with the local wildlife. Visitors can observe baby crocodiles, thousands of monkeys, and a variety of bird species in the mangrove forest and Vam Sat Eco-Tourist Zone.

Recap

The Monkey Island Excursion from Ho Chi Minh City offers a captivating glimpse into the UNESCO-recognized mangrove forest reserve.

Travelers can enjoy the serene splendor of this remarkable ecosystem, observing crocodiles, spotting thousands of monkeys, and ascending the Tang Bong Tower for panoramic views.

This excursion provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the ecological importance and natural wonders of this iconic Vietnamese destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: