BlogIf you’re craving a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, look no further than Vam Sat Can Gio. Located just 45 km southeast of the city center, this hidden ecological gem offers a rare blend of biodiversity, serenity, and soft adventure—all within a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a nature lover, or simply someone in search of a peaceful retreat, Vam Sat Can Gio delivers an immersive experience that feels worlds away from the city.
Where Is Vam Sat Can Gio?
Vam Sat Can Gio is nestled within the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a vast wetland that has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. It covers over 75,000 hectares of protected land and water and is home to a unique ecosystem where fresh and saltwater mix. The area acts as a green lung for Southern Vietnam and plays a crucial role in climate regulation and coastal protection.
This protected environment remains one of the most biologically diverse mangrove forests in the country, featuring hundreds of plant and animal species—including rare birds, saltwater crocodiles, and giant bats. The trip here from Ho Chi Minh City typically involves a scenic ferry crossing at Binh Khanh, followed by a pleasant drive through local countryside roads.
Top Things to Do in Vam Sat Can Gio
1. Boat Tour Through the Mangrove Forest
Begin your journey with a tranquil boat ride along narrow canals lined with dense mangrove trees. The calm waters and whispering foliage make for a meditative start to the adventure. It’s the best way to appreciate the scale and stillness of this ecological wonder.
2. Visit the Bat Lagoon
Board a small sampan boat to glide silently through Bat Lagoon, where enormous fruit bats roost high in the treetops. Watching these creatures in their natural habitat is a calming, almost surreal experience—especially at dusk when the bats stir and prepare to take flight.
3. Explore the Crocodile Swamp
Get up close with saltwater crocodiles at a protected crocodile conservation area. Elevated walkways and safety platforms allow you to observe these ancient reptiles from a safe distance. Adventurous visitors can even try crocodile fishing—a popular and safe activity that adds a fun, thrilling edge to the visit.
4. Climb the Tang Bong Observation Tower
Standing 26 meters tall, the Tang Bong Tower offers sweeping panoramic views of the mangrove forest below. On clear days, you can see the winding canals stretch far into the horizon—a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
5. Bird Watching in the Sanctuary
From May to October, the bird sanctuary comes alive with the sounds and colors of over 20,000 birds, including herons, storks, and other migratory species. Silent electric boats are used for closer observation, ensuring minimal disruption to the wildlife.
Beyond the Main Attractions: Authentic Local Activities
In addition to its headline eco-experiences, Vam Sat Can Gio also offers visitors a taste of traditional rural life through a range of hands-on activities:
- Walk across suspension bridges and along wooden boardwalks through the forest
- Spot monkeys, wild boars, and even the occasional deer along forest trails
- Try your hand at crab catching or traditional fishing using bamboo traps
- Savor a rustic meal at one of the open-air restaurants in the reserve
Each experience deepens your understanding of how nature and local culture coexist harmoniously in this region.
What to Eat in Vam Sat Can Gio?
No trip is complete without enjoying some local flavors. Here are a few must-try dishes when you visit:
- Grilled shrimp or fish—freshly caught from the mangrove waters and grilled to perfection
- Salt-roasted crab—savory and packed with umami, a local delicacy
- Bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes)—served with fresh herbs and wild vegetables sourced from nearby forest patches
Many eateries in the area use local ingredients and traditional cooking methods, making each dish feel both authentic and memorable.
Feel free to contact us to plan your trip!
