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Adventure · Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City

Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Kayak & Monkey Island Tour

  • DifficultyEasy to moderate
  • DistanceApproximately 50 km / 1.5-2 hours by road from central Ho Chi Minh City
  • Best seasonNovember-April (dry season)
  • Price₫700,000-₫1,400,000 (~$27-$54) including transport
  • OperatorVam Sat Eco-Tourism site tours; also offered by HCMC day-tour operators

Can Gio is a UNESCO-recognized mangrove biosphere reserve southeast of the city, and the Vam Sat eco-tourism site offers kayaking through mangrove channels alongside a boardwalk crocodile enclosure, a bird sanctuary tower, and a stop at the reserve's semi-wild long-tailed macaque colony, often called Monkey Island.

Can Gio is a UNESCO-recognized mangrove biosphere reserve southeast of the city, and the Vam Sat eco-tourism site offers kayaking through mangrove channels alongside a boardwalk crocodile enclosure, a bird sanctuary tower, and a stop at the reserve's semi-wild long-tailed macaque colony, often called Monkey Island.

Practical information for Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Kayak & Monkey Island Tour
Price ₫700,000-₫1,400,000 (~$27-$54) including transport
Duration Full day (8-9 hours including transport)
Difficulty Easy to moderate
Season November-April (dry season)
Age limit Suitable for ages 6 and up
Address Vam Sat Ecological Tourist Site, Can Gio District, Ho Chi Minh City

Activity facts

Where
Can Gio District (approx. 50 km southeast of central Ho Chi Minh City)
Skill level
No prior kayaking experience needed

Equipment

Kayak and life jacket provided, insect repellent recommended

Location

Vam Sat Ecological Tourist Site, Can Gio District, Ho Chi Minh City

10.5167, 106.9333 View on map

Highlights

  • Kayak through quiet mangrove channels
  • Monkey Island long-tailed macaque colony
  • Bird sanctuary observation tower
  • Crocodile feeding area

Tips for visiting

  • Keep food and shiny objects secured around the macaque colony, as the monkeys are habituated to grabbing bags
  • Apply insect repellent before starting since mangrove areas have mosquitoes
  • Combine with a stop at a local seafood restaurant on the way back, common on organized tours

When to visit

Morning departure to complete the full loop before afternoon heat

Accessibility

Boardwalk sections are accessible; kayaking segment is not wheelchair accessible

Frequently asked questions