Discover the tranquil beauty of the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, just a short speedboat ride from the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh. Glide through the serene mangrove forests, spot native wildlife, and witness the incredible crocodile hatching process. This exhilarating journey offers a remarkable contrast to the urban landscape, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of this UNESCO-recognized ecosystem. But the adventure doesn’t end there – prepare to be captivated by the vibrant interactions with long-tailed monkeys and the stunning views from the iconic suspension bridge.
Key Points

- Depart Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Cang pier at 8 AM on a comfortable speedboat for a journey to the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve.
- Enjoy a light breakfast on board as the boat transitions from the bustling city to the lush mangrove forests.
- Explore the serene mangrove swamps by rowing through narrow waterways and observe the diverse flora and fauna.
- Visit the Giant Bat Lagoon and a bird conservation area to witness the natural habitats of the region’s wildlife.
- Witness the crocodile hatching process and have an intimate encounter with wild long-tailed monkeys at the biosphere reserve.
👉 Check out our guide to the 3 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Ho Chi Minh City
Contents
- Key Points
- Departure From Tan Cang Pier
- Light Breakfast on Board
- Rowing Through Mangrove Swamps
- Giant Bat Lagoon and Birds
- Crocodile Hatching Process
- Feeding Wild Long-Tailed Monkeys
- Crossing Suspension Bridge
- Inclusions and Restrictions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Customize the Tour Activities to My Preferences?
- What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Excursion?
- Are There Any Dietary Requirements for the Light Breakfast?
- Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
- Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment for Photography?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Ho Chi Minh City
- More City Tours in Ho Chi Minh City
- More Tour Reviews in Ho Chi Minh City
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City we have recnetly reviewed
Departure From Tan Cang Pier

The day begins with a prompt 8 AM departure from Tan Cang pier in Ho Chi Minh City, where visitors board the speedboat for their journey to Can Gio Biosphere Reserve.
The boat is equipped with comfortable seating and a light breakfast is served on board, allowing guests to fuel up for the adventure ahead.
As the speedboat departs, travelers get a glimpse of the bustling city’s riverfront before the landscape shifts to the lush mangrove forests of the biosphere reserve.
This efficient start sets the tone for a day of exploration and immersion in the natural wonders of this UNESCO-listed destination.
Want to dig deeper into Ho Chi Minh City? We've also reviewed these city tours
Light Breakfast on Board

As the speedboat departs Tan Cang pier, a light breakfast is served on board, providing guests with sustenance for the adventure ahead. The spread includes freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, and steaming cups of coffee or tea.
This casual meal allows travelers to fuel up before delving into the mangrove forests and wildlife encounters to come. The attentive crew guarantees everyone is comfortably seated and has everything they need to enjoy the repast.
With full stomachs, the group can now focus on taking in the stunning scenery as the boat speeds towards the biosphere reserve, ready to enjoy the natural wonders of Can Gio.
Rowing Through Mangrove Swamps

After the light breakfast, the group boards a small wooden boat and glides through the serene mangrove swamps of Can Gio Biosphere Reserve.
The guide expertly navigates the narrow waterways, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the lush, verdant landscape. Towering mangrove trees line the banks, their tangled roots emerging from the shallow waters, creating a tranquil and otherworldly atmosphere.
The boat silently moves through the intricate network of channels, offering glimpses of the diverse wildlife that thrives in this protected ecosystem. Passengers have the opportunity to observe birds, crustaceans, and other flora and fauna unique to the mangrove forests.
This peaceful rowing excursion provides a serene and immersive introduction to the natural wonders of Can Gio.
Giant Bat Lagoon and Birds

Next, the group visits the Giant Bat Lagoon, a serene waterway known for its large colony of fruit bats that roost in the mangrove canopy. The guide points out the bats hanging upside down from the branches, their leathery wings folded as they rest during the day.
The tour then proceeds to a nearby bird conservation area, where a variety of native bird species can be spotted, including:
- Herons
- Egrets
- Kingfishers
Guests have the chance to observe these vibrant creatures in their natural habitat, gaining a deeper appreciation for the diverse wildlife thriving within the biosphere reserve.
More Great Tours NearbyCrocodile Hatching Process

The tour then takes visitors to a crocodile farm, where they witness the fascinating crocodile hatching process.
Guests observe the farm staff carefully monitoring the incubation of the crocodile eggs, ready to assist the newborn hatchlings as they emerge from their shells. The staff meticulously track the eggs’ progress, ensuring the ideal temperature and humidity for the crocodiles to hatch successfully.
Visitors can see the tiny, vulnerable hatchlings take their first steps, still wet from the experience. It’s an enthralling glimpse into the delicate cycle of crocodile life, providing a unique educational opportunity for the tour participants.
Feeding Wild Long-Tailed Monkeys

Brimming with excitement, visitors enthusiastically await the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing sight of wild long-tailed monkeys being fed during the biosphere reserve tour.
As the boat nears the designated feeding area, the guides distribute handfuls of fresh fruits and vegetables.
The monkeys, known for their agility and curiosity, swiftly descend from the trees, ardently snatching the offered treats.
Visitors delight in observing the monkeys’ natural behaviors, such as:
- Playful interactions with one another
- Careful examination of the food items
- Deft maneuvering through the mangrove canopy
This intimate encounter allows guests to appreciate the delicate balance of the biosphere reserve and the importance of preserving the region’s biodiversity.
Crossing Suspension Bridge

As the speedboat glides through the mangrove waterways, visitors soon approach a towering suspension bridge spanning the tranquil waters.
This incredible structure, built to traverse the lush ecosystems, offers a unique opportunity to take in the biosphere’s natural wonders.
Constructed with sturdy cables and wooden planks, the suspension bridge sways gently as visitors cross, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mangrove forests.
The experience heightens the sense of adventure and connection with the environment, as guests carefully make their way across the bridge, feeling the gentle movement beneath their feet.
This iconic crossing is a highlight of the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve excursion, seamlessly blending the thrill of exploration with the beauty of the protected landscape.
Inclusions and Restrictions

This excursion to Can Gio Biosphere Reserve includes a range of amenities to guarantee the experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off in District 1, boat coverage, and all entrance fees are covered.
Visitors will also receive the services of an English-speaking guide, as well as refreshments like mineral water, a light breakfast, and wet towels during the journey.
However, certain restrictions apply – the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, and large bags or pets aren’t permitted.
The key inclusions are:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Boat coverage and entrance fees
- English-speaking guide and refreshments
Plus, visitors should note the restrictions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable excursion.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Activities to My Preferences?
Yes, many tour operators allow customers to customize their excursions. Travelers can typically request modifications to the itinerary, activities, or inclusions based on their interests and needs. However, some restrictions may apply.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Excursion?
The maximum group size for the excursion is not explicitly stated. However, based on the details provided, it appears to be a small-group tour, as it includes personalized activities like rowing a wooden boat and observing wildlife.
Are There Any Dietary Requirements for the Light Breakfast?
The tour operator does not specify any dietary requirements for the light breakfast. Passengers should notify the operator in advance of any special dietary needs they may have to guarantee their needs are accommodated.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Guests have the option to add extra time to explore the mangrove forests and observe more wildlife. The duration can be customized based on individual preferences.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment for Photography?
Yes, visitors can bring their own camera equipment for photography on the tour. However, they should be mindful of the weight and size restrictions, and avoid disturbing the wildlife or the local environment during the excursion.
Ho Chi Minh City: Can Gio Biosphere Reserve by Speedboat
Recap
Departing from the bustling city, this speedboat tour offers an engaging glimpse into the natural wonders of the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve.
From spotting native wildlife to witnessing the crocodile hatching process, the journey immerses visitors in the tranquil mangrove forests and bridges the gap between the urban and the untamed.
An exhilarating experience that showcases the diversity of Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here:





























