Can Gio: Monkey Island, Guerilla Camp, Mangrove Forest

Thinking about adding a day trip outside Ho Chi Minh City that combines wildlife encounters, history, and relaxing beach time? Then the Can Gio tour offers a well-rounded experience. While it’s not perfect—some reviews mention rushed stops and language barriers—it’s a compelling way to see Vietnam’s lush mangrove forests, meet over 1,000 monkeys, and learn about guerrilla life during the war.

What we love about this tour is the chance to get close to wildlife in a natural setting, the thrill of riding a speedboat through the mangroves, and the opportunity to visit a historic guerrilla camp that played a key role during Vietnam’s conflicts. Plus, the local seafood lunch and beachside relaxation add a layer of authenticity and leisure.

One thing to consider is that the itinerary might feel a bit hurried, especially if you’re hoping for in-depth exploration or more personal interaction with guides. The group size and pace aren’t specified, so expect some moments of waiting or quick transitions.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, history, and cultural insights, and don’t mind a full day of activities. It’s especially appealing if you want a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, history lessons, and a taste of local life.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters are front and center, with over 1,000 monkeys at Can Gio Monkey Park.
• Historic guerrilla camp offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime jungle survival.
• Speedboat rides through mangroves create an exciting and scenic journey.
• Local cuisine and beach time provide a relaxing end to a busy day.
• Tour duration is around 9 hours, with some reviews mentioning a rushed feel.
• Language barriers can occur, particularly with guides who might speak limited English.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

Starting Point and Travel to Can Gio

Most tours begin with a hotel pickup in District 1, making logistics straightforward for travelers staying in the city center. From there, it’s roughly a 2-hour drive to Can Gio, setting the tone for a full-day adventure. The bus ride offers an initial chance to settle in and get excited about the day ahead.

Monkey Park and Mangrove Forest

Once at Can Gio, the highlight is the Monkey Park, home to over 1,000 monkeys. As you walk through the forest, you’ll be surrounded by these lively primates, often curious and eager for food. Feeding the monkeys is usually permitted, and many visitors enjoy snapping photos as monkeys climb on their shoulders or investigate bags.

One reviewer, quoting her experience, noted the “superb” opportunity to interact with the primates, which truly feels like an up-close wildlife encounter. However, others have expressed a desire for more time to truly enjoy the experience, suggesting that the allotted time may feel too brief for some.

Crocodile Area and Optional Fishing

A short walk leads to the crocodile enclosure, where large crocodiles are kept as part of the area’s conservation efforts—remnants from the American war. Here, you have the chance to try crocodile fishing (on weekends, at your own expense), which adds an adventurous twist. A reviewer mentioned that the activity isn’t always well-organized, with some expressing frustration over extra charges or unclear procedures.

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The “Sac” Guerrilla Camp

Next up is the speedboat ride to the “Sac” guerrilla camp, an authentic site built deep in the jungle. Once there, you can explore the camp, which offers insight into jungle wartime living. This spot has become a popular tourist attraction, giving visitors a taste of Vietnam’s guerrilla history.

One guest described the experience as “an eye-opener,” highlighting how this visit offers a different perspective on the war—beyond textbooks and museums. Be aware that some reviews note the camp visit feels expedited—either a quick walk or watching a short video—so if you’re craving deeper storytelling, you might find it lacking.

Lunch and Market Exploration

After the camp, a local Vietnamese-style lunch is served, often at a nearby restaurant or market. Expect a hearty, authentic meal that hits the spot after a morning of activity. Several reviews praise the food as “a real feast,” emphasizing the quality and freshness of the dishes.

Following lunch, there’s time to visit a seafood market, where you’ll find octopus, lobster, dried seafood, and more. This is an excellent moment for some casual browsing, buying souvenirs, or simply soaking in local life.

Beach and Relaxation at Can Gio Resort

The final activity involves swimming at Can Gio Resort, located near the beach. Here, you can unwind, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy the natural scenery. Many travelers appreciate this relaxing break, especially after a busy morning.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

The tour concludes with a return trip around 5:30 PM, giving you a full 9 hours of exploration. The ride back provides a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights—and maybe even nap if you’re tired.

The Realities and Some Caveats

While this experience offers a well-rounded look at Can Gio, some reviews highlight practical issues. One traveler found the “Guerrilla Camp was quickly rushed” and had hoped for more detailed explanations from the guide. Others mentioned language barriers—guides with limited English could make some parts feel less engaging or clear.

There are also comments about the tour feeling hurried, especially for those wanting to spend more time interacting with wildlife or learning about the history. The extra charges for activities like crocodile fishing or boat rides are not always clearly explained upfront, so budget accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

Most of the experience is conducted via speedboat and bus, which offer a comfortable way to traverse the mangrove area and reach the camp. The exact size of the group isn’t specified, but reviews hint at small, intimate groups, which can be advantageous for more personalized attention.

Price and Value

Considering the full-day itinerary—including transport, boat rides, wildlife encounters, and a traditional Vietnamese lunch—the price seems reasonable, especially for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and education. However, be prepared for the activities that might be optional or have additional costs, like crocodile fishing.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers who want more than just a scenic boat ride. If you’re interested in wildlife, Vietnam’s wartime history, and local culture, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also suitable for those willing to tolerate some rushed segments or language barriers for the sake of authentic experiences.

Travelers with a sense of adventure, especially when it comes to interacting with animals and exploring mangroves, will find this tour rewarding. It’s also a good choice for families or groups wanting a full day of varied activities, from wildlife to history to beach time.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

The Can Gio tour offers a solid snapshot of southern Vietnam’s natural environment and historical sites. The wildlife experience at Monkey Island is genuinely fun, and the guerrilla camp adds depth for those interested in Vietnam’s wartime stories. The local food and beach time round out the day, offering a bit of leisure amidst the action.

However, it’s important to go in with realistic expectations—some parts may feel rushed, and guides might not always provide in-depth explanations or fluent English. Still, if you’re craving an active, diverse day away from the city’s hustle, this tour can deliver a memorable snapshot of Vietnam’s lush landscapes and complex history.

It suits travelers who appreciate adventure, wildlife, and cultural insights but don’t mind a busy schedule or some logistical quirks. For a genuine, if slightly hurried, experience blending nature and history, it’s definitely worth considering.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning around 5:30 PM, making it a full-day commitment.

What should I bring?
It’s best to pack a hat, swimsuit, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities. Don’t forget your towel if you plan to swim.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities like wildlife encounters and beach time are generally family-friendly, but parents should consider their children’s comfort with animals and outdoor conditions.

Are activities like crocodile fishing included?
Crocodile fishing is an optional activity available on weekends at your own expense. It’s not included in the standard tour price.

How is the guide’s English?
Some reviews mention that guides may speak limited or broken English, which can affect the depth of explanations, especially at the guerrilla camp.

Can I buy souvenirs or seafood at the market?
Yes, the market offers various seafood and dried foods, making it a good spot for souvenirs or tasting local flavors.

Is swimming at the beach safe?
Most travelers find the beach safe for swimming, especially at Can Gio Resort, but always check local conditions and follow safety advice.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, this tour is a solid choice for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and history—just go with an open mind and a sense of curiosity.

You can check availability for your dates here: