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Can Gio Vietnam

Can Gio Vietnam: A comprehensive guide for travelers

09/01/2025 1.144 views

Can Gio, Vietnam, is a unique coastal district in Ho Chi Minh City. It is known for its lush mangrove forests and rich biodiversity, offering visitors a peaceful escape with activities like wildlife spotting and exploring local seafood markets.

1. Is Can Gio Vietnam worth visiting?

Can Gio Island

Can Gio Island, Vietnam is worth your visit (Source: Collected)

If you wonder, “Is Can Gio worth visiting?” the answer is a resounding yes. Can Gio is a coastal district located southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, about 50 kilometers from the city center. It has become an increasingly popular destination thanks to its diverse and captivating landscapes of forests, seas, and mountains; clean environment; and friendly and hospitable people. Moreover, Can Gio boasts a rich cultural heritage, folk traditions, and significant milestones in Vietnam’s resistance against foreign invasions.

Can Gio, Vietnam, offers immense potential for various forms of tourism, including ecotourism, resort stays, craft village tours, and cultural tourism. Visitors can explore the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, with its rich and diverse flora and fauna. They can stroll along the beach and enjoy fresh seafood or participate in traditional festivals, explore historical sites, visit community-based tourism destinations, and craft villages.

Explore: Map of Ho Chi Minh City’s districts & useful travel tips

2. Must-visit attractions on the map of Can Gio District

The journey to discover Can Gio Vietnam promises a vibrant mix of history, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s delve into what this unique destination has to offer.

2.1. Can Gio Beach

Can Gio Beach

Stroll along the beach and immerse yourself in nature (Source: Collected)

The first must-visit destination in Can Gio, Vietnam, is Can Gio Beach. Located where the river meets the sea, the beach is distinguished by its vast stretches of black sand. Here, visitors can take leisurely walks along the beach, meet fishermen casting nets near the shore, and purchase freshly caught fish directly from them. 

You can also try clam digging along the coast and prepare freshly cooked clam dishes. Other activities at Can Gio Beach, Vietnam, include capturing scenic photos along rugged stone paths leading to the sea, camping by the beach, swimming, savoring seafood, or engaging in outdoor activities such as paddleboarding, fishing, and crabbing.

2.2. Vam Sat Ecotourism Site

The Vam Sat Ecotourism Site is a haven for nature lovers in the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, Vietnam. Spanning 5.7 hectares, it offers various immersive experiences. Visitors can take a boat ride under lush green canopies to explore three wildlife sanctuaries: the Bat Sanctuary, home to thousands of rare bats; the Waterbird Sanctuary, which hosts over 30 species and approximately 20,000 individual birds; and the Crocodile Sanctuary.

Other exciting activities include camping, cycling through the forest, and savoring diverse culinary delights. Tang Bong Tower provides the perfect vantage point for those seeking a panoramic view of the mangroves.

2.3. Monkey Island

Monkey Island in Can Gio

Monkey Island is a must-visit on the Can Gio Vietnam map (Source: Collected)

Another fascinating destination within the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, Vietnam, is Monkey Island, home to over 2,000 monkeys of various species. The playful and adorable monkeys allow visitors to feed them and observe their amusing antics up close. On weekends and holidays, entertaining circus performances add to the fun.

In addition to meeting the monkeys, visitors can take boat rides along scenic creeks, admire the lush greenery, and winding rivers, and enjoy the refreshing, pristine atmosphere.

2.4. Sac Forest War Base

Sac Forest in Can Gio, Vietnam, attracts visitors with its untouched natural beauty. The area also has a storied past tied to Vietnam’s resistance efforts from 1966 to April 30, 1975, as it was home to the brave special forces of the 10th Regiment.

Designated as a National Historic Site in 2004, the Sac Forest War Base preserves historical relics, including underground bunkers, logistics houses, and medical facilities. Visitors can view exhibits and reconstructions depicting the soldiers’ daily life and heroic battles, including the legendary battles at the Nha Be fuel depot. These stories, along with the sacrifice of 915 martyrs, vividly illustrate the resilience and courage of the Vietnamese people.

2.5. Dan Xay Ecotourism Site

Dan Xay Ecotourism Site

Discover conservation efforts of the diverse ecosystem at Can Gio Mangrove Forest, Vietnam (Source: Collected)

For those seeking a connection with nature in Can Gio, Vietnam, the Dan Xay Ecotourism Site is not to be missed. Spanning 47.53 hectares within the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, this site offers insights into the restoration and sustainable development of the mangrove ecosystem. Activities include kayaking, boat or canoe tours through the mangroves, forest trekking, camping, tree planting, and fishing.

Visitors can also savor dishes made from unique forest vegetables or relax in accommodations with views of the river and mangroves. These romantic settings are ideal for enjoying sunrise and sunset while observing the area’s diverse ecosystem.

2.6. Tomb of Ong Thuy Tuong

Beyond its natural attractions, Can Gio, Vietnam, boasts remarkable cultural sites. One prominent example is the Tomb of Ong Thuy Tuong, located on Duyen Hai Street, Can Thanh Town. The temple dates back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries, reflecting the maritime traditions of local fishermen. 

Visitors to this historical site can listen to fascinating legends about whales rescuing fishermen, marvel at its unique architecture, and explore artifacts such as worship paintings, statues, and incense burners. A standout feature is the 12-meter-long whale skeleton, prominently displayed in a dedicated chamber. Annually, the temple hosts the Nghinh Ong Festival, offering traditional ceremonies and vibrant activities.

2.7. Thieng Lieng Island

Thieng Lieng Island

Cycle and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at Thieng Lieng Island (Source: Collected)

Thieng Lieng, an isolated and picturesque islet in Thanh An Commune, Can Gio, Vietnam, is a haven of greenery and blooming flowers. This serene spot is perfect for those seeking an escape from urban life, making it an ideal destination for Ho Chi Minh City bike tours. Along the journey, you can leisurely explore sites like Giong Chua Mountain (the city’s only rocky mountain) and Ba Ngu Hanh Temple.

Visitors can also admire vast salt fields, lush mangroves, and tranquil rivers, creating a unique blend of nature’s colors. Other experiences include participating in traditional salt-making with locals, enjoying rustic cuisine, listening to “don ca tai tu,” or hiking up Giong Chua Mountain.

2.8. Can Thanh Night Market

Among the night markets in Ho Chi Minh City, Can Thanh Night Market in Can Gio, Vietnam, may not be the busiest but stands out as the district’s first night market. Located on Tran Van Kieu Street, it combines a vibrant walking street with various food stalls, operating from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM on weekends and public holidays.

The market features over 100 stalls offering fresh seafood, local produce, snacks, beverages, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Visitors cannot miss the chance to sample local specialties like grilled seafood, purchase local products, and immerse themselves in vibrant nightlife.

2.9. Hang Duong Seafood Market

Hang Duong Seafood Market

Savor delicious seafood dishes at Hang Duong Seafood Market (Source: Collected)

alt: Hang Duong Seafood Market

Located just about 200 meters from Can Gio Beach, Hang Duong Seafood Market is a long-standing marketplace in Can Gio, Vietnam. Upon visiting, you will find yourself immersed in a vibrant array of stalls offering a wide variety of fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, crabs, and snails, all at reasonable prices. 

Visitors can choose seafood directly, have it cooked on-site to enjoy in the designated dining area, or take it to the beach for a meal amidst the refreshing sea breeze. The market also features stalls selling beverages, dried seafood like fish and squid, and local specialties like fish sauce and shrimp paste.

Discover: Day trips from Ho Chi Minh City: 15+ must-see destinations

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3. Highly recommended Can Gio Vietnam tours

To fully explore the beauty of Can Gio, Vietnam, there are one-day tours and two-day tours available from reputable agencies. Depending on your schedule and preferences, you can book a suitable tour. Some highly recommended options include:

  • 1-day tour: You will visit Monkey Island and the Hoa Ca Crocodile Sanctuary, then take a canoe ride through the mangrove forest to explore the Sac Forest War Base. Finally, you will relax at Can Gio Beach.
  • 2-day tour:
    • Day 1: Visit Sac Forest Martyrs’ Cemetery, Marine Team 2, and Thieng Lieng Island.
    • Day 2: Explore Monkey Island, Sac Forest War Base, and the Phuong Nam Tourist Area.
Sac Forest War Base in Can Gio

Visitors should stop by the Sac Forest War Base to learn about Vietnam’s history (Source: Collected)

4. Extra tips for first-time visitors to Can Gio Vietnam

Before planning your trip, make sure to research transportation options, accommodations, and the best times to visit.

4.1. How to get there?

From downtown Ho Chi Minh City to Can Gio, you will need to take a ferry. Visitors will start by heading towards Tan Thuan Bridge, then take Nguyen Van Linh Street and Huynh Tan Phat Street towards Binh Khanh Ferry.

Ferry ticket prices vary but are affordable, starting at VND 2,000 for pedestrians and bicycles and going up to VND 220,000 per trip for larger vehicles like trailers. Common options like motorbikes cost VND 4,000, and cars with up to 7 seats cost VND 23,000.

For a budget-friendly and unique experience, visitors can consider taking the bus. Route 75 departs from 23/9 Park in Ho Chi Minh City and travels through streets like Pham Ngu Lao, De Tham, Tran Hung Dao, Ham Nghi, Ton Duc Thang, Nguyen Tat Thanh, and Huynh Tan Phat before reaching Can Gio, Vietnam. Tickets cost VND 30,000 per trip, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, and six trips daily.

4.2. When to visit?

Can Gio, Vietnam, features a tropical monsoon climate, with two distinct seasons: the rainy season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April). The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 29°C. The best time to visit is during the dry season when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities like beach trips and mangrove exploration.

Nghinh Ong Festival in Can Gio

The Nghinh Ong Festival is one of the most unique festivals in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

Visitors can also plan their trip during the Nghinh Ong Festival, a three-day event held from the 15th to the 17th of the lunar month of August. During this time, Can Gio Vietnam comes alive with banners and festival flags.

Guests can witness traditional rituals, such as the procession of the Nghinh Ong Palanquin to the sea on beautifully adorned boats. Cultural highlights include performances of classical Vietnamese opera and fun activities like casting fishing nets, catching ducks in the sea, and savoring delicious local dishes.

4.3. What to eat?

Can Gio, Vietnam, is not only a favorite destination for nature lovers but also an ideal spot for food enthusiasts. It offers a wide variety of unique dishes:

  • ‘Kim leaves’ salad with dried Lep So fish: This dish combines the crispy and rich dried fish with the slightly sour and astringent ‘kim leaves.’ Enhanced with sweet and sour fish sauce, it creates an incredibly unique and appetizing flavor.
  • Sesarmid crab hotpot with ‘buoi leaves’: Made from sesarmid crabs from the mangroves, this hotpot offers a rich and subtly sweet taste. It is served with ‘buoi leaves,’ known for their nutty flavor and medicinal properties.
  • Grilled Can Gio sea duck: This specialty is made from sea ducks raised in the saltwater ponds of Vam Sat. When grilled, the crispy skin pairs perfectly with the tender and aromatic meat. Served with a fragrant pepper-scented dipping sauce, it leaves a lasting impression on diners.
Grilled horseshoe crab in Can Gio

Sea ducks raised naturally in Can Gio, Vietnam, are low in fat and naturally sweet (Source: Collected)

  • Sour fish soup: This dish features soft, sweet bummalo fish in a tangy broth made from pineapple, tamarind, and tomatoes. Additional ingredients like bean sprouts and scallions enhance the tempting aroma, vibrant colors, and add refreshing crunch.
  • Salt-roasted mullet fish: This dish stands out for its unique preparation method—fish is buried in a pan of heated salt until cooked. This technique keeps the fish juicy, sweet, and flavorful. Often wrapped in rice paper with forest vegetables, it delivers a fresh and delightful taste.
  • Grilled horseshoe crab: A must-try specialty in Can Gio, Vietnam, this dish features grilled horseshoe crab meat and eggs mixed with scallions, garlic, chili, and crushed peanuts. It offers a rich, creamy, and naturally sweet flavor that is irresistibly delicious.
Grilled horseshoe crab in Can Gio

Grilled horseshoe crab is a delicious seafood dish loved by many visitors (Source: Collected)

4.4. Where to stay?

While many visitors choose to take a day trip to Can Gio from Ho Chi Minh City, staying overnight offers a different charm. Accommodations in Can Gio, Vietnam, range from homestays and campsites (VND 300,000–600,000 per night) to resorts and hotels (VND 600,000–900,000 per night).

4.5. What to buy?

After exploring Can Gio, visitors can purchase local specialties as gifts for friends and family. Some unique local specialties are Can Gio mangoes, sun-dried fish, sour shrimp paste, anchovy fish paste, nipa palm nectar, bird’s nest, dried squid, and dried shrimp.

*The prices mentioned in this guide are for reference purposes only and are subject to change over time.

A trip to Can Gio, Vietnam, promises a vibrant journey filled with historical, cultural, and natural discoveries. Whether exploring the rich biodiversity of the mangrove forests, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the region’s history and culture, Can Gio has something to offer everyone. Let’s start planning your visit today and uncover the hidden gems of this coastal paradise!

Ho Chi Minh City is a top destination in Vietnam, offering a wealth of fascinating tourist attractions. For an unparalleled entertainment experience, visitors should not miss Grand Park in Thu Duc City. 

Grand Park captivates guests with its diverse attractions. Highlights include the Tropical Island Water Park, Dream Garden Amusement Park, a picturesque beach, and bustling commercial streets like Park Avenue, Broadway, and Ginza. Additionally, the park hosts vibrant festivals and dynamic music events, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.

 

Book Grand Park ticket now

 

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