Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve wilderness guide
Biosphere Reserve · Ho Chi Minh City

Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve is a sprawling area of biodiverse wetlands just outside Ho Chi Minh City. It offers unique ecological experiences and a chance to view abundant wildlife in a protected setting.

Biosphere Reserve187,0751+ Trails

Designation

Biosphere Reserve

Total Wilderness Area

187,075

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve is a sprawling area of biodiverse wetlands just outside Ho Chi Minh City. It offers unique ecological experiences and a chance to view abundant wildlife in a protected setting.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve spans over 75,740 hectares in southern Vietnam, just about 40 kilometers from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Serving as a green lung for the metropolis, the reserve is a vital ecological zone with a rich history of ecological recovery from wartime defoliation. This UNESCO-listed site comprises diverse environments, including mangrove forests, swamps, and mudflats, hosting a plethora of species such as migratory birds, monkeys, and saltwater crocodiles. Visitors are drawn to the reserve not only for its striking landscapes and calming habitats but also for recreational pursuits like birdwatching, hiking through the mangroves, or taking boat tours to explore the myriad waterways. The importance of the reserve is underscored by its educational role in conservation efforts, providing insight into mangrove ecosystems and the challenges they face in a rapidly developing region.

Field Guide · Biosphere Reserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Vàm Sát Ecological Tourist Area✦ Monkey Island✦ Hang Duong Market✦ Rừng Sác Guerrilla Base
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees may apply for specific attractions within the reserve.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Vàm Sát Campground

Located near the Vàm Sát Ecological Tourist Area with facilities and easy access to trails and attractions.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Vũng Tàu, Ba Ria - Vung Tau
⌖ 10.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Vũng Tàu, Ba Ria - Vung Tau

Vũng Tàu, a coastal gem in southern Vietnam, offers exciting adventures across sea and land. Its beaches are ideal for surfing and kiteboarding, while its trails invite hikers and bikers alike.

December to April
Explore Town
Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Vietnam
⌖ 14.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Vietnam

Ba Ria-Vung Tau is a coastal paradise where adventure meets relaxation. From hiking pristine beaches to exploring marine life, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

December to April
Explore Town
Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
⌖ 28.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Hồ Chí Minh offers a dynamic blend of urban thrills and nearby natural escapes for outdoor adventurers. Discover thrilling motorbike routes, river kayaking at dawn, day hikes, and cave explorations just beyond the city’s bustling pulse.

December to April
Explore Town
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
⌖ 28.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling hub where urban life and outdoor adventure blend. Explore by bike, kayak the Saigon River, and delve into the city's rich history and vibrant street food scene.

November to March
Explore Town
Hồ Chí Minh City
⌖ 28.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hồ Chí Minh City

Hồ Chí Minh City blends bustling urban life with outdoor exploration. From cycling scenic streets to kayaking the Saigon River, it's a dynamic destination for adventure seekers.

Dry Season (December to April)
Explore Town
Phường 2, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
⌖ 32.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Phường 2, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Phường 2 in Hồ Chí Minh offers an energetic blend of city adventure and green escapes. From kayaking on the Saigon River to cycling leafy streets and vibrant night markets, it's a lively urban playground for outdoor lovers.

December to April
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cần Giờ Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Vũng Tàu in Eight Hours: A Private Shore Excursion from Phu My
ADVEXPEDITION
Vũng Tàu, Ba Ria - Vung Tau
City TourADV Bookable

Vũng Tàu in Eight Hours: A Private Shore Excursion from Phu My

An 8-hour private tour that takes cruise passengers from Phu My Port to Vũng Tàu’s markets, rice-wine traditions, Long Phuoc Tunnels, lighthouse vistas, colonial White Palace and a seafood lunch.

City TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Saigon Frame by Frame: A Private District 1 Photoshoot
ADVEXPEDITION
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Hồ Chí Minh
Photography TourADV Bookable

Saigon Frame by Frame: A Private District 1 Photoshoot

A private, guided walking photoshoot through District 1’s colonial landmarks and lively streets—designed to produce story-driven images for couples, families, solo travelers, and special occasions.

Photography TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Through the Scarred Landscape: A Private Day into Quang Tri’s DMZ from Hue
ADVEXPEDITION
Hue, Thua Thien-Hue
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

Through the Scarred Landscape: A Private Day into Quang Tri’s DMZ from Hue

A private, nine-hour exploration from Hue into Quang Tri’s Demilitarised Zone visiting La Vang, The Rockpile, Khe Sanh, Hien Luong Bridge and the Vinh Moc Tunnels — a concise field guide to what you’ll see and how to prepare.

Sightseeing TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip