Vam Sat Biosphere & Monkey Island Tour From Sai Gon

Experience the Natural and Historic Wonders of Vam Sat & Monkey Island from Saigon

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Saigon and dive into a day filled with nature, wildlife, and a touch of history, this tour offers a compelling mix. For just $51 per person, you’ll visit the Vam Sat Biosphere Reserve, known for its expansive mangrove forests, and the lively Monkey Island, home to over a thousand playful monkeys. Led by friendly guides like Lan or Minh, this full-day adventure lasts from early morning until late afternoon, offering a variety of sights and activities that balance nature, history, and local flavor.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines wildlife encounters—feeding monkeys and observing crocodiles—with historical insights at the Sac Guerrilla Camp. The inclusion of a traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch and a visit to a local mango farm adds a flavorful and authentic touch that makes the experience memorable.

One potential consideration is the pace; with so many stops, it can feel a bit rushed for those who prefer a more relaxed, unhurried day. Also, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues, as some walking and boat rides are involved.

This tour suits travelers who love nature and wildlife, are curious about Vietnamese history, and want a full, active day outside the city. It’s also a good fit for those eager to explore local markets and rural farm life without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters with monkeys and crocodiles make this tour uniquely engaging.
• The speedboat trip and visits to historic wartime sites add depth and variety.
• The local seafood lunch and mango farm stop bring authentic Vietnamese flavors.
• The tour offers all-inclusive convenience, with guides, entrance fees, and transportation.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and boat activities.
• The price reflects good value for a full day of varied experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the Vam Sat Biosphere & Monkey Island Tour

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Travel to Can Gio

Our journey begins at 8:15 AM, when the guide arrives at our hotel for a seamless pick-up. The comfortable vehicle quickly takes us out of the busy city streets and into the countryside. The roughly 2-hour drive to Can Gio (also called Monkey Island) provides a chance to get acquainted with local life and scenery, setting the stage for the day ahead.

Arrival at Can Gio and the Monkey Island

Once we arrive, the real fun starts. We step into the mangrove forest, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve teeming with life. The highlight? The over 1,000 monkeys—from tiny juveniles to full-grown mischievous adults—who practically come running when they see the food provided by the guides. “Feeding the monkeys was a highlight,” remarked one traveler, adding that the playful animals are surprisingly tame but still quick to snatch a snack.

Besides the monkeys, the forest is alive with bird calls and the rustling of leaves. The lush greenery offers excellent photo opportunities, especially with the monkeys’ antics. This is a prime chance to observe wildlife in a natural setting, making it more than just a tourist trap.

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The Alligator Farm and Optional Alligator Fishing

Next is the alligator farm, a short walk away. Here, massive alligators from the wartime era are kept in enclosures, giving a glimpse of Vietnam’s wartime history and its landscape’s role in survival. For those interested, the guide offers an optional alligator fishing activity, which can be quite the thrill. While not everyone chooses to participate, it’s a fun way to connect with local traditions.

Speedboat Adventure: Exploring the Sac Guerrilla Camp

One of the tour’s standout moments is the speedboat ride across the water to the Sac Guerrilla Camp. This site was a wartime hideout for Vietnamese soldiers and offers a gritty, authentic look into Vietnam’s resistance history. The boat ride itself adds a sense of adventure and allows you to appreciate the mangrove landscape from the water—a viewpoint not available from land.

Fresh Seafood Market and Delicious Lunch

After the historical site visit, we stop at a local seafood market. It’s a lively place where vendors display a stunning array of fresh seafood, from octopus and crabs to lobster and more. This is a fantastic chance to see what the local fishermen harvest daily—an authentic slice of rural life.

Following the market visit, we enjoy a Vietnamese-style seafood lunch at a nearby beach resort. The meal includes fresh catch grilled or steamed, served alongside rice and local vegetables. Many travelers comment on the quality and flavor, describing it as “simple but delicious.” You’ll also have the chance to swim in the resort’s pool and shower afterward, perfect for cooling down after the morning’s activities.

Afternoon: Mango Farm and Relaxing Return

Post-lunch, we head to a mango farm. Here, you can stroll through lush gardens and sample freshly picked mangoes, a sweet and juicy treat. This stop offers a restful break and a chance to appreciate rural Vietnamese agriculture.

We begin our return journey around 4:30 PM, arriving back in Saigon around 5:30 PM. The trip leaves you with a sense of having experienced much of what makes this region special—its wildlife, history, and local life.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour provides a comprehensive package—your guide, transportation, entrance fees, monkey food, speedboat ride, and lunch are all included. The comfort of having everything arranged means you can relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.

However, there are a few points to keep in mind. The duration can be quite full, so if you prefer a slow-paced day, some parts might feel rushed. Also, since activities include walking and boat rides, those with mobility challenges may find it difficult. Also, note the holiday surcharge is not included in the listed price, so check at booking if traveling during peak times.

What to Bring

Travelers should pack sunglasses, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. The weather can get hot and sunny, especially during the dry season. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited on the tour, aligning with safety and local regulations.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it easier to plan even if your schedule isn’t yet set in stone.

Why This Tour Is Worthwhile for You

This experience is well-suited for adventurous travelers curious about Vietnamese history and culture and eager for a day of nature and wildlife without straying too far from Saigon. Families, nature lovers, and those interested in local life will find plenty to enjoy.

If you’re after authentic experiences—feeding monkeys, exploring wartime sites, sampling fresh seafood—this tour delivers on all fronts. It also offers a good value for the price, considering the range of activities, transportation, and meals included.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those wanting an active day outdoors with a mix of wildlife encounters and historical insights. It’s especially good if you prefer organized excursions that handle logistics while giving you a taste of the local environment. However, it’s less suited for travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a very relaxed, slow-paced day.

You’ll come away with a richer understanding of Vietnam’s natural landscapes and wartime resilience, along with some fantastic photo memories of monkeys and mangroves. The combination of nature, history, and local flavor makes this a well-rounded adventure for curious travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour starts at 8:15 AM, so it’s best to be ready a few minutes early for pickup to avoid missing the start.

What’s included in the price?
Your guide, transportation, entrance fees for the monkey park, monkey food, the speedboat ride, lunch, and access to the swimming pool and shower are included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, children should be comfortable with walking and boat rides. The activities involving animals are fun but may not be suitable for very young children or sensitive travelers.

Can I participate in all activities?
Most activities are optional—feeding monkeys, alligator fishing, and exploring the wartime sites. You can choose what interests you most.

How much free time is there?
The day is quite packed, but there’s some free time at the beach resort for swimming and relaxing after lunch.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and boat activities involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, lightweight clothes suitable for warm weather, along with sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera.

Are there any restrictions on bringing alcohol or drugs?
Yes, alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the tour for safety reasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

This full-day tour offers a fantastic mix of Vietnam’s wildlife, history, and local flavors, making it a worthwhile addition to your Saigon itinerary. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for an authentic experience outside the city, this trip combines adventure with cultural insight—all at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: