Ho Chi Minh City: Can Gio – Monkey island by Motorbike

Exploring the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City through a motorbike tour offers an exciting way to see Vietnam’s natural beauty and history up close. This adventure takes you through the lush mangrove forests of Can Gio, to Monkey Island, and beyond, blending wildlife encounters with local culture and history—all while riding a scooter.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning scenery of Vietnam’s largest mangrove forest, second, the personal touch provided by knowledgeable guides, and third, the authenticity of eating seafood at a busy local market. The only potential downside? The tour involves riding motorbikes, which may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers.

It’s best suited for adventurous souls who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and local flavor, and who are comfortable riding on two wheels. Expect a full day of discovery, fun, and some adrenaline along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines scenic riding, wildlife, and local culture
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious guides like Tin and Long
• Value for Money: Around $65 for a full, 7-hour adventure with all food and insurance included
• Unique Transportation: Riding motorbikes offers a personal and flexible way to explore
• Wildlife & Nature: Close encounters with monkeys, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife
• Cultural Insights: Visit to a guerrilla base and local markets enriches understanding

This tour is a great way to get out of the busy city and into Vietnam’s natural landscapes. Starting early at 7:30 AM, the journey kicks off with hotel pickup from districts 1, 3, 4, and 5, making it convenient for many travelers. From there, it’s a scenic 7-hour ride that balances adventure, culture, and wildlife, all wrapped in a fun, guided experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Road to Can Gio: A Scenic Ride

The ride itself is part of the charm. As your guides expertly maneuver through the streets and out into the countryside, you’ll enjoy views of Vietnam’s bustling urban life giving way to quiet, green landscapes. The highlight here is the road lined with mangrove forests on both sides, a sight that’s difficult to find elsewhere. It’s a vivid reminder of Vietnam’s diverse ecosystems and the vital role these mangroves play in coastal protection and biodiversity.

What’s particularly nice about this journey is the chance to see Vietnam’s rural side. As you cruise along on the motorbike, the fresh air and open vistas make the experience feel more personal and connected than a typical bus tour. Plus, your guides—like Tin and Hai—are full of interesting facts about the area, making the ride both fun and educational.

Breakfast and Ferry Ride: A Local Welcome

Before arriving at Can Gio, you’ll stop for a local-style breakfast, offering a taste of Vietnamese hospitality. The meal is simple but satisfying, featuring local flavors that set the tone for the day. After breakfast, the group takes a ferry from Saigon to Can Gio, adding an extra element of adventure and a chance to enjoy views of the river and coastline.

This ferry ride stands out as a special aspect. It’s a reminder that even in busy Saigon, there are quiet waterways and untouched landscapes waiting to be explored. The ferry is also a cool, relaxed way to transition from city hustle to nature’s calm.

Exploring the Mangrove Forest and Monkey Island

Once on the other side, the real adventure begins. The largest mangrove forest in Vietnam provides a unique ecosystem full of wildlife. The guides—praised for their knowledge and friendliness—share stories about the area’s flora and fauna, making it a learning experience as well as a sightseeing one.

The trip includes a visit to Monkey Island, home to hundreds of monkeys. Past guests like Anthony John mention that their guides, such as Tin, are great at keeping everyone safe around the playful primates, even recommending bringing snacks like fruit or nuts for feeding. Charles notes that the guides are especially helpful in giving tips about not losing belongings to the monkeys, which can be quite cheeky.

Beyond the monkeys, the island was also a hiding spot for guerrilla fighters during the Vietnam War. This layer of history adds depth to the visit, giving a raw glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

Market and Beach: Savoring Local Flavors and Relaxation

Next, the tour visits Can Gio Market, an energetic hub where dozens of seafood varieties are sold daily. It’s a vibrant place to observe local life and sample fresh seafood in its natural setting. Travelers often comment on the authenticity of the experience—no touristy gimmicks, just genuine local commerce.

Later, the group heads to Can Gio Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Many reviewers, like Lauren, appreciated the balance of sightseeing and downtime, noting the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.

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Return and Farewell Feast

Back in Ho Chi Minh City, the day concludes with a delicious meal of grilled pork vermicelli and spring rolls, giving you a satisfying end to a full day. As one reviewer sums it up, the value is impressive—a full day of adventure for just $65 including all food, insurance, and transportation.

Your guides, such as Chow and Long, get rave reviews for their friendliness and local knowledge. They’re attentive to details, making sure everyone feels safe and engaged.

This tour offers excellent value. The price of around $65 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, motorbike transportation, high-quality helmets, all food and drinks, and accident insurance. The small group size—max 10 participants—ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

The tour runs rain or shine, so packing a rain poncho and wearing comfortable clothes is advisable. The guides are fluent in English, making communication easy, and they often go beyond the basics—sharing stories, tips, and insights that make the experience memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re comfortable riding a motorbike and love outdoor adventures, this tour is a fantastic way to see a less-visited side of Vietnam. It’s especially appealing to those interested in wildlife, local culture, and history, thanks to stops at Monkey Island and the guerrilla base.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant travelers, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, as the activity involves riding on motorbikes and walking around uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This motorbike tour to Can Gio and Monkey Island offers a lively, authentic taste of Vietnam’s natural and cultural treasures. It combines scenic rides, wildlife encounters, and visits to local markets, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides who make safety and fun their priority.

The experience is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for more than just sightseeing—a chance to connect with Vietnam’s landscapes and history in a personal way. While the ride might not be for everyone, those willing to hop on a scooter will find this trip rewarding, memorable, and great value for the price.

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a genuine, active experience outside Ho Chi Minh City. The combination of wildlife, local culture, and scenic riding makes it perfect for those who enjoy adventure and authenticity.

It’s especially ideal if you want to see Vietnam’s mangroves and wildlife, learn about its history from guides like Tin and Long, and taste fresh seafood in a lively setting—all in a manageable, well-organized package.

The small group size, inclusive pricing, and knowledgeable guides create a relaxed atmosphere that feels personal and safe. Whether it’s your first trip to Vietnam or a return visit, this tour offers a fun, insightful, and worthwhile day away from urban hustle.

If you’re after a lively, hands-on outdoor adventure that captures the spirit of Vietnam, this motorbike trip to Can Gio and Monkey Island deserves a spot on your list.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is best suited for those comfortable riding motorbikes. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

What should I wear on this tour?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be riding and exploring outdoors. Bringing a rain poncho is advised if it rains.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, starting around 7:30 AM, with pickup and drop-off included.

Does the price include food and drinks?
Yes, all food and drinks are included, from breakfast on the way to Can Gio to the final local meal back in Ho Chi Minh City.

Are helmets provided?
High-quality open-faced helmets are included for safety and comfort during the ride.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see hundreds of monkeys on Monkey Island, crocodiles, and various bird species in the mangrove forests.

Is there historical significance on the tour?
Yes, the guides share stories about the guerrilla fighters who hid in the forest during the Vietnam War, adding a meaningful layer to your visit.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need previous riding experience?
While not explicitly stated, a certain level of comfort riding a motorbike is implied, as the tour involves traveling on scooters through varied terrain.

This adventure offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture that’s hard to find in a typical tour. For anyone eager to see a different side of Vietnam, it’s a worthwhile, fun-filled option.

You can check availability for your dates here: