Ho Chi Minh City: Can Gio Monkey Island Day Trip Review

Okay, so you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City and maybe you’re looking for something different, that’s very exciting, but maybe something outside the constant activity of the city, you know? Well, the Can Gio Monkey Island Day Trip could just be what you’re after! A popular pick for tourists wanting a peek at nature not far from the city. It has monkeys, mangroves, plus some local culture, so what’s not to love?

What to Anticipate on Your Trip

The tour generally starts bright and pretty early, at around 8:00 AM. It will typically involve a drive of approximately one and a half to two hours outside Ho Chi Minh City. You’re going to see that it’s quite different from the busy cityscape! As you approach Can Gio, that so called “green lung” of Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll get to observe the landscape change and you get the anticipation of fresh air too.

Firstly, there’s going to be the mangrove forest. This special area was heavily affected during the Vietnam War. The great news is that it’s now been reborn, a testament to the resilience of nature. This area is viewed either by boat, for a close-up feel of the plants and local birdlife, or via pathways, and that makes the experience relaxing as you take it all in.

Of course, the main draw is, very obviously, Monkey Island! The island teems with hundreds of monkeys, mostly the long-tailed macaques. That should give you the ability to get very close to the monkeys! Be warned even, they are cheeky and really quite unafraid of people; that means keeping a very secure grip on your things is incredibly important. Food, drinks, sunglasses – if they’re loose, the monkeys will probably think about grabbing them!

Another part of the tour typically includes a visit to a local market. That is, a taste of Vietnamese everyday life and chances to try some local foods. Maybe you can purchase some keepsakes to bring home! Lastly, some tours might include a visit to a crocodile farm; that provides another glimpse into the different wildlife that the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve offers.

Getting Ready and Staying Safe Around the Monkeys

Some common advice for the Monkey Island trip is centered around making the trip safe and very pleasant. Sunscreen and bug repellent should honestly be your very best friends, mostly because you’re spending a lot of time outdoors. Also, you’re advised to wear clothes that are comfortable. Also, it’s very advisable that clothes are perfect for hot and humid climates, because Vietnam’s climate is going to hit you in the face the very second that you get off the airplane. Footwear should definitely be suitable for light walking or a short hike. Moreover, water is basically the main thing when you’re dealing with hot, tropical weather!

Also, respect the monkeys. Don’t make any rapid moves, and definitely do not attempt to touch or feed them (regardless of how tempting that may be). Secure your things really carefully; as said, these monkeys are super quick! Should a monkey grab something, it’s really important not to try to forcefully take it back. Tour guides have experience with this behavior and generally, they might assist in retrieving it without any harm to anyone.

About Lunch and What Local Cuisine You Might Expect

Usually, lunch is included within the day trip, and often is set at a local restaurant, providing a relaxed break and a taste of real Vietnamese cooking. Be ready to enjoy many shared dishes including seafood (especially due to Can Gio’s seaside location). There are typically vegetable dishes and rice or noodles involved too.

Drinks aren’t always included; therefore it’s usually good to clarify or maybe budget a bit to purchase your own. This gives a perfect opportunity to test regional drinks or even fresh fruit juices. Always bear in mind, food options may be set in advance by the tour provider; that makes informing them of any kind of dietary needs you might have, is important when you reserve. Some common options for vegetarians can typically be agreed with advance notice.

Is the Can Gio Monkey Island Day Trip Worth Doing?

So, is this journey an adventure you need to have while in Ho Chi Minh City? Mostly, that relies on what you’re seeking from the experience. If a really relaxing, calm, natural setting isn’t your thing, then probably this isn’t your thing, but those who love animals and plants will love it!

Here are the basic pros:

Close interaction with monkeys.
Learning more about mangrove ecosystem.
Taking a short break from city environments.
Chance to enjoy real Vietnamese food.

Here are some things to consider:

Can be touristy.
Monkeys sometimes get aggressive.
Longer drive times and hotter climate.

Basically, so long as you go with realistic expectations, this day journey could honestly make a significant highlight to a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, offering a blend of enjoyment, training and insight to the area all around.

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