Can Gio Monkey Island & Crocodile Farm Day Trip from Ho Chi Minh

Summary

Ho Chi Minh to Can Gio for monkeys, crocs, forest trails and fresh seafood

You’ll head out from Ho Chi Minh City for a day trip to Can Gio—walking among cheeky monkeys on Monkey Island, seeing crocodiles up close at the farm, trekking or canoeing through Sac Forest’s wartime history, then sharing lunch and laughs over Southern Vietnamese dishes before browsing the lively seafood market. It’s a day that lingers quietly in your mind afterward.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the monkeys to be so bold in Can Gio — one of them actually tried to unzip my backpack while our guide, Tam, just grinned and handed me a stick (not to hit them, just to wave). The air was thick with that salty-muddy smell you get near mangroves. We’d barely left Ho Chi Minh City an hour ago but it already felt like another world. There’s something about those tangled roots underfoot that makes you slow down and watch where you step — I almost slipped once but Tam caught my elbow and laughed. “Happens every day,” he said.

The crocodile farm was next. I’m not sure what I expected — maybe something more zoo-like? But it’s open-air and humid, with these prehistoric-looking creatures lounging just meters away. The guide explained how they’re part of local conservation efforts. I remember the quiet there, except for the occasional splash or birdcall. Afterward we could choose: trek through Sac Forest or hop on a canoe (canoe costs extra). Most of us walked. The path felt soft underfoot, all shaded green light and sudden bursts of birdsong. Tam pointed out old bunkers from the war era — honestly, standing in that silence thinking about what happened here gave me chills.

Lunch came as a relief — rice, fish cooked with peppery sauce, some kind of crunchy salad I still can’t name (Tam tried to teach me but I forgot instantly). Sitting by the water eating Southern Vietnamese food is its own kind of peace. Then we wandered through Can Gio’s seafood market where the smell of fresh shrimp nearly knocked me over — in a good way. People haggled in rapid-fire Vietnamese; one woman waved a crab at us and laughed when I jumped back.

The ride back was quiet — everyone sort of sunk into their seats watching the city lights creep up again after all that wild green space. I keep thinking about those monkeys and that strange hush in the forest; it sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Can Gio Trek and Wildlife Visit

• Pickup from hotel in Districts 1 and 4
• Depart to Can Gio
• Visit Monkey Island
• Visit Hoa Ca crocodile farm
• Trek to Sac Forest Revolutionary Base
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Visit Seafood Can Gio Market
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Top questions

How long does the Can Gio Monkey Island & Crocodile Farm tour take?

The tour lasts about 8-9 hours including round-trip travel from Ho Chi Minh City.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup is included in Districts 1 and 4 for shared tours; private tours can also include Districts 3 and 5.

What animals will I see on Monkey Island?

You’ll see monkeys roaming freely as well as tropical birds along the walkways.

Is lunch provided during the Can Gio tour?

Yes, lunch featuring Southern Vietnamese cuisine is included at a local restaurant.

Can I take a canoe instead of trekking in Sac Forest?

Yes, you can choose to ride a canoe for an extra fee instead of trekking to the Revolutionary Base.

Are entrance fees included in this tour?

All entrance fees are covered as part of your booking.

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

The tour suits most fitness levels but isn’t recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Will we visit a seafood market during this day trip?

Yes, you’ll explore Can Gio’s bustling seafood market in the afternoon before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from central districts, entry fees for all sites including Monkey Island and the crocodile farm, round-trip ferry tickets across the river, bottled water throughout the journey, an English-speaking local guide who shares stories along the way, air-conditioned transport between stops, plus lunch at a seaside restaurant before returning late afternoon.