HCM: Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, Monkey Island & Salt Kingdom

This 12-hour tour from Ho Chi Minh City promises a unique blend of natural wonders and culture. Explore the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, home to over 2,000 long-tailed macaques, and cycle through fishing villages while learning about the region’s salt-making traditions. Savor local culinary delights and enjoy a complimentary Vietnamese lunch – all for just $96 per person. Uncover the hidden gems of this remarkable destination and experience the vibrant essence of Southern Vietnam.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, home to a diverse mangrove ecosystem and over 2,000 long-tailed macaques on Monkey Island.
• Set out on a cycling tour through charming fishing villages and learn about the local salt-making processes.
• Participate in making traditional Southern cakes and enjoy a complimentary lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine.
• The 12-hour tour departs from Ho Chi Minh City and is available in Vietnamese and English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is priced from $96.00 per person, with a limit of 9 participants and pickup available in District 1 and District 4.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "HCM: Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, Monkey Island & Salt Kingdom," offers an immersive experience priced from $96.00 per person.

Enjoy the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve with a tour priced from $96.00 per person.

Lasting 12 hours, the tour is limited to 9 participants and available in Vietnamese and English.

Pickup locations include District 1 and District 4, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour explores the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, where they’ll witness wildlife and participate in local activities like cycling and salt-making.

Itinerary Highlights

At 6:00 AM, the tour departs Ho Chi Minh City for the picturesque Can Gio Monkey Island, a 1.5-hour drive away.

Upon arrival at 7:30 AM, guests explore the island, home to over 2,000 long-tailed macaques.

After transferring to a local boat station at 8:30 AM, they board a boat at 9:00 AM for an immersive travel experience.

At 10:00 AM, they’re welcomed at the ferry bridge, receive conical hats, and begin a cycling tour.

At 11:00 AM, they learn about the salt-making process in Thieng Lieng, which produces over 20,000 tons of salt annually.

The tour returns to Can Gio Monkey Island at 1:15 PM and arrives back in Saigon at 5:30 PM.

Exploring Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Why not explore the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, a unique and diverse ecosystem on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City?

This tour takes you deep into the heart of the mangrove forests, where you’ll discover an abundance of wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and a vast array of bird species.

Cycle through the charming fishing villages, learn about the local salt-making process, and learn about the tranquil surroundings.

With its pristine natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Can Gio promises an unforgettable experience just a short drive from the bustling city.

Encountering the Monkey Residents

Arriving at Can Gio Monkey Island, visitors find themselves amidst a captivating community of over 2,000 long-tailed macaques.

These primates roam freely, offering a unique opportunity to observe their natural behaviors.

Visitors can:

• Witness the monkeys’ playful interactions and social dynamics

• Spot them foraging for food or grooming one another

• Avoid direct contact, as the monkeys can be territorial

• Bring snacks, but refrain from feeding them to maintain a healthy ecosystem

• Capture memorable photos, while respecting the monkeys’ space and avoiding flash photography

This immersive experience allows travelers to connect with the vibrant wildlife of the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve.

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Cycling Tour of Thieng Lieng Island

After exploring the vibrant community of monkeys on Can Gio Island, the tour takes visitors on a cycling adventure through the scenic landscapes of Thieng Lieng Island.

Participants receive a traditional conical hat upon arrival and embark on a leisurely bike ride.

Donning traditional conical hats, participants embark on a leisurely bike ride through the scenic landscapes.

The cycling tour offers a unique perspective on the island’s salt-making heritage, with opportunities to learn about the meticulous process that produces over 20,000 tons annually.

Riders enjoy the rural ambiance, enjoying picturesque views and engaging with the local community.

This immersive cycling experience complements the wildlife encounters from the earlier part of the day.

Learning the Salt-Making Process

As the cycling tour progresses, visitors gain insight into the intricate salt-making process that sustains Thieng Lieng Island’s economy.

They learn how the island’s production of over 20,000 tons of salt annually is a vital source of livelihood.

The key steps include:

• Pumping seawater into shallow ponds

• Evaporating water through solar energy

• Harvesting salt crystals from the dried salt beds

• Refining the salt by washing and drying

• Packaging the salt for distribution and sale

This immersive experience provides a deeper appreciation for the hard work and resourcefulness of the local community.

Culinary Experiences and Regional Specialties

Beyond the salt-making operation, the tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the local culinary traditions of the region. Visitors can participate in making Southern cakes, a regional specialty, and sample other delicacies. The tour includes a complimentary lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine. To give you a taste of what’s in store:

| Dish | Description | Ingredients |

| — | — | — |

| Southern Cakes | Traditional Vietnamese pastries | Rice flour, coconut, mung bean |

| Fish Hotpot | Savory stew with freshwater fish | Fish, aromatics, herbs |

| Tropical Fruits | Seasonal fruits from the region | Mangoes, dragonfruit, rambutan |

Indulge in the flavors of Can Gio and discover the culinary delights that make this region unique.

Planning Your Visit and Additional Information

When planning your visit to the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, it’s important to consider a few key details.

The tour is offered daily, with pickup from select locations in Districts 1 and 4. Booking in advance is recommended, as group sizes are limited to 9 participants.

The tour is available in both Vietnamese and English, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours prior. For inquiries, travelers can contact the tour operator, Viet Fun Travels, via WhatsApp or email.

Plus, guests should provide their hotel information before departure and be aware that personal expenses and gratuities aren’t included.

Guests should provide their hotel information before departure, as personal expenses and gratuities are not included in the tour.

• Daily tour departures

• Limited group size (max 9)

• Bilingual guides (Vietnamese, English)

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours

• Contact via WhatsApp or email

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, the activities may not be suitable for very young children. It’s recommended to check with the tour operator about the appropriateness for families with young kids.

Are Any Animal Interactions or Feeding Allowed During the Tour?

The tour allows visitors to observe the monkeys from a distance but does not permit any direct interactions or feeding. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of both the participants and the wildlife.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, but allowing personal items provides flexibility and lets travelers enjoy the experience at their own pace.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. The tour pricing starts from $96 per person for a group tour, but a private tour can be arranged upon request for an additional fee.

Can the Pick-Up Location Be Customized for Individual Participants?

The tour pickup location can be customized for individual participants. Travelers can request pickup from their hotel or another agreed-upon location within the designated pickup areas of District 1 and District 4.

The Sum Up

The "HCM: Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, Monkey Island & Salt Kingdom" tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Vietnam’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Travelers can enjoy the UNESCO-listed mangrove ecosystem, encounter the captivating long-tailed macaques, and learn about the traditional salt-making process. With a blend of outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and regional culinary experiences, this tour provides a well-rounded and memorable experience for visitors to Ho Chi Minh City.

You can check availability for your dates here: