Escape the city for a day exploring Can Gio’s mangroves, meet hundreds of macaques on Monkey Island, and visit the hidden Rung Sac Guerrilla Base. This eight-hour tour combines calm boat canals, short forest walks, local lunch, and hands-on wildlife moments.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low-slung boat slips from a concrete pier and pushes into a channel threaded with dark roots and green light. Mangrove trunks lean like weathered oars and the air tastes of salt and soil. Within an hour from Ho Chi Minh City the trees open to a tangle of creeks where macaques claim small islands and life moves in close to the water.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with short, low-elevation walks on uneven ground; able to board small boats.
Wildlife
History
Can Gio’s waterways were strategic during the Vietnam War; the Rung Sac Guerrilla Base used the mangrove cover for transport and resistance operations.
Conservation
As a mangrove biosphere reserve, Can Gio is protected for shoreline protection and biodiversity; visitors should avoid trampling roots and disposing of plastic to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Explore Monkey Islands and Gio Mangrove Forest From Ho Chi Minh today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a refillable water bottle
Eight hours in heat and humidity means frequent hydration — refill where permitted or pack extra so you won’t rely on limited stops.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Trails can be muddy and uneven; sturdy shoes give better traction for short treks into the mangrove forest.
Keep a safe distance from monkeys
Monkeys are habituated to people but can bite or grab food — follow your guide’s instructions when feeding or photographing them.
Pack insect repellent and sun protection
Mosquitoes and sun exposure are common; bring repellent and a wide-brim hat for comfort during boat transfers and shore stops.
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout an 8-hour day in humid tropical conditions.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Protects feet on muddy trails and when boarding boats.
Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
Helps prevent mosquito bites in mangrove and river-edge habitats.
summer
Light rain jacket or poncho
Short tropical showers are common—pack a waterproof layer for comfort.
rainy-season