Wildlife, Mangroves and Natural Wonders — Can Gio & Vam Sat Day
Embark on a Full-Day Adventure from Sai Gon to Can Gio: Explore Vietnam’s Rich Wildlife and Historical Heritage in Pristine Ecosystems
Details
Summary
– Full Day Tour
– Bookings Available Year-Round
– Departs from Sai Gon
– Private tours for individuals or small groups with options for larger groups available upon request
Prices Starting From: (Full Day)
Single Person: $310 per person
Group of 2: $190 per person
Group of 3: $165 per person
Group of 4: $145 per person
Wildlife, Mangroves and Natural Wonders — Can Gio & Vam Sat Day
Tour Code: CG0101
Summary
Embark on a full-day journey from the bustling metropolis of Sai Gon into the pristine mangrove and forest ecosystems of Can Gio and Vam Sat on our exclusive wildlife and natural history tour. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and curious travellers alike, this tour offers a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s wildlife and rich natural heritage beyond the cityscape.
Your adventure begins before dawn with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation. Greeted by your expert wildlife guide and private driver, you’ll start the day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast and coffee as you depart the city. A short ferry ride brings you to Can Gio, where lush mangroves, sprawling paddy fields, and stunningly preserved ecosystems await.
Your first stop is the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, a sanctuary for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers. As you explore the mature mangrove forests and paddy field wetlands, keep your eyes peeled for an array of bird species such as the Collared Kingfisher, Malaysian Pied Fantail, Racket-tailed Treepie, Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, Cinerous Tit and the Blue-tailed Bee-eater.This is an ideal spot for photographers, with countless opportunities to capture the vibrant wildlife in its natural habitat.
Before lunch, delve into the area’s historical significance at the Rung Sac Guerrilla Base, an important Viet Cong stronghold during the Vietnam War. Here, you’ll walk in the footsteps of history as your guide shares stories of the courageous guerrillas who operated from this remote base, using the dense mangrove forests as cover from enemy forces.
For lunch, enjoy an authentic Vietnamese meal in Can Gio, sampling local delicacies that reflect the flavours of the region. Afterward, transfer to the Vam Sat Eco-Park, where you’ll embark on a boat ride through the mangrove channels, searching for unique flora and fauna. Be on the lookout for playful Long-tailed Macaques, the vividly coloured Boddart’s Blue-spotted Mudskipper, and the rare Irrawaddy Dolphin. Amongst a possible 50+ different bird species, listen for the sweet musical song of the Golden-bellied Gerygone, a beautiful melodic song unique to the mangroves.
As the day draws to a close, visit the natural spectacle of thousands of Large Flying Fox (the 2nd largest bat in the world) amongst the trees of the Bat Lagoon, a mesmerizing display of life that will leave you in awe. Conclude your day with a drive back to Binh Khanh Ferry and gentle cruise as you make your way back to Sai Gon and your accommodation.
Top Target Birds
The Can Gio area has recorded over 290 different species of bird, so expect many exciting species. Here are some of the most iconic: Pink-necked Green Pigeon, Slaty-breasted Rail, Little Ringed Plover, Greater Painted Snipe, Nordmann’s Greenshank, Lesser Adjutant, Oriental Darter, Cinnamon Bittern, Black-crowned Night Heron, Striated Heron, Purple Heron, Shikra, Common Kingfisher, Asian Green Bee-eater, Coppersmith Barbet, Laced Woodpecker, Black-naped Monarch, Ashy Tailorbird, Yellow-bellied Prinia, White-crested Laughingthrush, Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, Ornate Sunbird, White-headed Mania, and Asian Golden Weaver.
Top Target Mammals
Long-tailed Macaque, Northern Pig-tailed Macaque, Large Flying Fox, Irrawaddy Dolphin, Pallas’ Squirrel
Top Target Herps
Common Water Monitor, Neo Van Tri’s Lady Butterfly Lizard, Spotted Forest Skink, Ayeyarwady Forest Agama, Vietnamese Leaf Turtle, Southeast Asian Bockadam, Ruby-eyed Green Pitviper, Banded Krait, Malayan Pit Viper, Little File Snake, White-bellied Mangrove Snake, Mangrove Frog, Asian Painted Frog, Spot-legged Tree Frog, Annam Wart Frog and Nongkhor Asian Tree Frog.
Other Notable Species
Boddart’s Blue-spotted Mudskipper, Long-legged Hermit Crab, Giant Mudskipper, Mangrove Murex, Ring-legged Fiddler Crab, Pink-and-white Fingered Vinegar Crab, Rare-spined Murex, Common Fruit-piercing Moth, Yellow Orange Tip and Atlas Moth
Tour Pace
Easy to Moderate. Mainly well-maintained tracks and paths for easy walking, sometimes muddy in parts
Group Size
Private tours for individuals or small groups with options for larger groups available upon request
Habitats
Cần Giờ encompasses diverse habitats, including mangrove forests, tidal wetlands, sandy shorelines, freshwater wetlands, and paddy fields. The mangroves support various bird, reptile, and aquatic species, while the tidal wetlands, with their brackish water and mudflats, are essential for numerous invertebrates and fish. Additionally, freshwater wetlands and paddy fields provide habitats for wading birds and amphibians. Visitors should prepare for humid and muddy conditions, making lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and sturdy, waterproof footwear advisable for exploring these varied environments
Climate & Weather Conditions
Cần Giờ experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from December to April, brings warm and relatively stable weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C. During this period, the air is less humid, and mornings and evenings can feel pleasantly cool, especially near the coast. The wet season, from May to November, sees higher humidity and frequent rainfall, often in the form of short, intense downpours. Temperatures remain warm, usually between 26°C and 34°C, but the combination of heat and humidity can make the conditions feel particularly sultry.
Total Species & Full Target List
For dedicated wildlife watchers, we can provide a checklist of animals you might encounter. However, if you’re interested in targeting specific species, our specialised Sai Gon Bird & Wildlife Tours may better suit your interests.
Tour Inclusions
- Private guide specialising in wildlife and natural history
- Private Boat & Ferry Tickets Included
- Dedicated driver for convenience
- Pickup and drop-off from your accommodation
- Breakfast and lunch
- Non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day
- Water bottles and snacks available in the vehicle
- All necessary entrance tickets and permits
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- First aid and a COVID-safe environment
Photography Opportunites & Notes
Excellent wildlife photography opportunities are available and a camera is highly recommended. We have cameras and binoculars available for hire. However, for those seeking specialised wildlife photography, our focused wildlife tours to Can Gio (accompanied by a photography guide) may be more suitable.
Related Tours & Experiences
If you’re interested in other natural history tours around the Saigon and Southern Vietnam, we suggest exploring the options below to complement your trip to Can Gio experience. Let us know if you’re considering multiple tours, as we may be able to create a tailored package for you.
A 3-day private and custom wildlife tour in one of Indochina’s premier national parks, seeking out the region’s most iconic and elusive species. Also available: (2 day / 1 night) and (4 day / 3 night)
Discover vibrant birding experiences in Southern Vietnam’s expansive mangroves, scenic coastlines, spectacular evergreen forests, and renowned wetlands. Choose from Half-Day, Full-Day, Spotlighting, or Custom Tours
Wild Mekong: Wildlife & Natural History Tour
Discover the Untamed Beauty of the Mekong Delta: A Tour Showcasing the Region’s Unique Flora and Fauna
Why Choose Us?
Our Wildlife, Mangroves, and Natural Wonders: Can Gio & Vam Sat Day Tour offers an immersive exploration of one of Vietnam’s most diverse and unique ecosystems. This expertly designed tour provides an exceptional opportunity to discover the rich wildlife and stunning natural landscapes of Can Gio and Vam Sat Biosphere Reserve. With a private guide fluent in your language, you’ll enjoy a personalised and insightful adventure that goes beyond the typical tourist experience.
We take you through lush mangrove forests, tranquil waterways, and vibrant wildlife habitats, offering exclusive access to hidden corners and lesser-known spots within the biosphere. Whether you’re spotting rare bird species, encountering playful monkeys, or marvelling at the unique mangrove environment, our knowledgeable guide will provide expert commentary and enhance your understanding of this critical ecological area. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders and conservation efforts in the region.
From your initial inquiry to the conclusion of your tour, our 24-hour support ensures a seamless and enriching experience, renowned for our exceptional service and attention to detail. Beyond this day tour, Next Continent offers a range of tailored experiences across Vietnam, helping you explore and appreciate the country’s diverse natural beauty and wildlife in ways that perfectly match your interests.
Tailor Your Experience
Looking to enhance your experience? Whether it’s adding an extra day, making an additional stop, arranging pick-up from a distant location, hiring a camera, or combining your tour with another one of our amazing experiences, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch today, and let our experts craft a private, customised itinerary with dates and prices tailored to your needs
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