Explore Monkey Islands and Gio Mangrove Forest From Ho Chi Minh
Day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to the Can Gio mangrove forest: visit the Rung Sac Guerrilla Base, take a scenic boat through mangrove canals, and spend time with the monkeys on Monkey Island. Includes air-conditioned transfer, entrance fees, and lunch. Travel and pickup are operated from Ho Chi Minh City.
In Collaboration with Saigon Homies Tours. Updated on August 5, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Saigon Homies Tours, inspired by the tour Explore Monkey Islands and Gio Mangrove Forest From Ho Chi Minh. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- UNESCO-listed Can Gio mangrove forest
- Rung Sac Guerrilla Base (war history)
- Monkey Island (Can Gio) — hundreds of monkeys
- Scenic boat ride through mangrove canals
- Lunch at Can Gio (local seafood)
Explore all itineraries in Ho Chi Minh City.
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Gio mangrove forest with boat rides, historical site visit, Monkey Island and included lunch. Pickup from hotels in Ho Chi Minh City; drop-off back to city at end of day.
Hotel pickup and depart Ho Chi Minh City
Meet your vehicle and guide for pickup in Ho Chi Minh City. Operator will confirm driver name and vehicle plate the day before. Depart city for Can Gio district by air-conditioned vehicle.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your hotel name and room number ready; the operator will meet you in front of your hotel.
- Bring a light daypack—leave large luggage at the hotel as vehicle space is limited.
- Expect 60–80 minutes driving time depending on traffic; plan for a short comfort stop if needed.
Visit Rung Sac Guerrilla Base & short mangrove walk
Explore wartime history at the Rung Sac Guerrilla Base area and enjoy the surrounding mangrove scenery with short, guided walks and photo stops.
- Monday7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed shoes with good grip — paths can be uneven and muddy in places.
- Carry water and a hat; shaded seating is limited at outdoor displays.
- Photos allowed at most outdoor exhibits; follow the guide’s directions in restricted or memorial areas.
Monkey Island (Can Gio) — visit and wildlife viewing
Boat to Monkey Island and free time to observe and photograph the resident monkeys. The guide will explain safe ways to interact and common precautions.
- Monday7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Do not feed the monkeys and keep phones and small items zipped; monkeys are curious and can grab loose items.
- Keep a safe distance from baby monkeys and follow the guide’s instructions for photography.
- Light, long-sleeved clothing helps protect against sun and insect bites while on the island.
Lunch — local Can Gio restaurant (included)
Lunch at a local restaurant in Can Gio district featuring local seafood and Vietnamese dishes. Meal time provides a break and chance to sample regional specialties.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have food allergies, inform the guide on pickup so the restaurant can be notified in advance.
- Carry small change for drinks or extra snacks not included in the set lunch.
- Expect typical local dining seating; request a quieter table if travelling with a group who prefers more privacy.
Scenic boat ride through Can Gio mangrove canals
Enjoy a guided boat ride through the mangrove canals of the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, observing local birdlife and the forested waterways.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light rain jacket in case of sudden showers during the boat ride.
- Use sun protection (hat, sunscreen) — boat sections have limited shade.
- Secure phones and cameras with straps; the boat may be low and splashes can occur near canals.
Return drive and hotel drop-off in Ho Chi Minh City
Transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City with estimated arrival at the original pickup area. End of service upon drop-off at hotel or central city location.
Tips from local experts:
- Driver and guide information will be shared the day before; confirm exact drop-off point with your guide.
- Traffic returning to the city can be heavier in late afternoon—allow buffer time for onward plans.
- Keep any valuables and travel documents in a small bag you retain on board for the return journey.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Meal, Experience |
