Can Gio Monkey Island – Experience the wild nature in Saigon

If you seek tranquility coupled with thrilling adventures, Can Gio Monkey Island stands out as an ideal destination. Dubbed Monkey Island due to its residence of over 2000 monkeys spanning various species, this locale promises unique and captivating experiences. Let’s explore exclusive insights about Can Gio Monkey Island in this article.

How to Get to Can Gio Monkey Island from Ho Chi Minh City

Situated approximately 60 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, Can Gio district is the gateway to the enchanting Can Gio Monkey Island. With its abundant wildlife and scenic vistas, the island promises to delight visitors. For those intending to explore this captivating destination, a range of transportation options is available, catering to different budgets, schedules, and preferences. Below are some of the most favored methods for reaching Can Gio Monkey Island:

By Motorbike or Car:

• Pros: Convenient and flexible, allowing travelers to set their own pace and make stops at their discretion.
• Route: Take the Binh Khanh ferry across the river, with a fee of 4,500 VND for a motorbike and 28,000 VND for a car. The ferry journey spans approximately 10 minutes.
• Navigation: Follow road signs directing towards Monkey Island, approximately 40 kilometers from the ferry point.
• Total Travel Time: About 2 hours.

By Bus:

• Pros: Cost-effective and eco-friendly.
• Cost: Pay 25,000 VND for a one-way bus ticket.
• Route:

     – Take bus number 20 from Ben Thanh bus station in District 1 to Binh Khanh ferry station, an hour-long journey.

     – Transfer to bus number 90 at the ferry station, heading to Can Thanh town, the main town of Can Gio district. This leg also takes around an hour.

     – From Can Thanh town, cover the remaining 10 kilometers to Monkey Island via taxi, motorbike taxi, or local bus.

By Tour:

• Pros: Hassle-free and comfortable, eliminating concerns about transportation, tickets, and guides.
• Inclusions: Typically, tours encompass pick-up and drop-off services, a boat excursion through the mangrove forest, visits to Monkey Island and the crocodile farm, lunch, and additional activities.
• Cost: Tour prices vary based on quality and itinerary, ranging from 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND per person.

What to Do and See at Can Gio Monkey Island

Feed and Interact with the Monkeys:

The primary allure of Can Gio Monkey Island lies in its resident monkeys, numbering over 2,000, renowned for their friendliness and curiosity. Visitors can purchase bananas or peanuts from vendors to feed these playful creatures. 

A word of caution – avoid carrying food or valuables, as the monkeys may attempt to seize them. Witness the monkeys’ playful antics, from jumping to swinging in the trees, capturing these moments through photography. However, it’s imperative not to touch or tease the monkeys, mindful of potential bites or scratches.

Encounter Crocodiles and Diverse Fauna:

Beyond the monkeys, the island boasts a crocodile farm, home to hundreds of crocodiles of varying sizes and species. With the assistance of a guide, visitors can observe these fascinating creatures and even feed them with meat or fish. 

The crocodile farm, situated within a protected area, strictly prohibits entry or direct contact with the reptiles. In addition to crocodiles, the island showcases other wildlife, including bats, birds, turtles, and snakes.

Unwind at the Serene Beach:

For those seeking sun and sand, Can Gio Monkey Island offers a tranquil beach escape. While not overly crowded or developed, the beach exudes a peaceful ambiance. Visitors can indulge in swimming, sunbathing, or partake in water sports along the shore. 

Nearby restaurants provide an opportunity to savor fresh seafood. It’s essential to manage expectations, as the beach may not boast pristine conditions – the water may not be crystal clear, and the sand may lack the pristine white allure.

Ticket prices and operating hours

• Admission Fee: 

Visitors are required to pay an admission fee before entering the parking area. There are two different prices: 

70,000 VND (USD 3.00) for foreigners 

35,000 VND (USD 1.50) for locals. 

For children, the fee is 20,000 VND (0.86 USD) for both locals and foreigners.

• Opening Hours:

The park is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm.

Tips for Visiting Monkey Island:

• Maintain Distance: Despite their familiarity with human presence, monkeys can become aggressive if they sense a perceived threat.
  
• Protect Personal Belongings: Monkeys are cunning and may snatch items like sunglasses, bags, or food. Ensure the safeguarding of personal belongings.

• Avoid Feeding Inappropriate Food: Feeding monkeys unsuitable food can harm their health and disrupt the ecological balance. Exercise caution in selecting suitable items for feeding.

Conclusion: 

Can Gio Monkey Island beckons as a harmonious blend of nature and adventure, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. Embark on your Can Gio Monkey Island adventure today, discovering a unique haven just a few hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. 

Choose your preferred mode of transportation, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Book your journey now and create memories that will last a lifetime!