Monkey Island Vietnam: North to South Guide for Vietnam Package Tours

Quick Map: Where Are the Monkey Islands in Vietnam?

Monkey Island Vietnam is not a single island – it’s three awesome places throughout the country where you can find wild monkeys, beautiful nature, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a quick overview:

North – Monkey Island Cat Ba, Lan Ha Bay, Hai Phong

Set in the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay, this island is ideal for lazy beach days and encounters with the resident friendly monkeys. Just a quick boat ride from Cat Ba Island, it’s one of the best of the monkey island tours Vietnaese. If you want to enjoy the beach, you can also stay at Monkey Island Resort or elsewhere for a more peaceful getaway.

Central – Hon Lao, Nha Trang (Vinh Nha Phu)

Just 18km from Nha Trang, this isle is famous for its more than 1,500 monkeys. It has monkey shows, beach games, and a luminous monkey island Vietnam avis. It’s one of the most thrilling Monkey Island resort Vietnam things to do for families and tour groups.

South – Monkey Island Can Tho, Ho Chi Minh City

Located in the Can Tho mangrove biosphere reserve, this site makes for an excellent day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. So, yes, you can find the wild monkeys here – just make sure to keep your belongings close!

Whether you are on the way to the north or to the central, or south, Monkey Island Vietnam should be added to your best islands in Vietnam and Vietnam Tour Luxury Escapes.

Monkey Island Cat Ba – Hidden Gem of Northern Vietnam

Exact Location

• Monkey Island Cat Ba is located 2 km southeast of Cat Ba Town, Cat Hai District, Hai Phong City.
• GPS: 20.7085° N, 107.0765° E
• It is part of the Lan Ha Bay group, which also includes hundreds of Limestone karsts and floating fishing villages.

How to Get to Monkey Island Cat Ba

It’s not as difficult as you’d expect to reach Monkey Island Vietnam in Cat Ba and this is half the fun!

From Hanoi (Ha Noi):

1. Option 1: Bus + Ferry (Most popular & direct)

• • Book a combo bus-ferry ticket from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island through operators like Good Morning Cat Ba, Cat Ba Express, or Daiichi.
  • Price: ~300,000–350,000 VND
  • Duration: 4.5–5.5 hours
  • Includes:
    • Bus Hanoi → Hai Phong (2 hours)
    • Speedboat Hai Phong → Cat Ba Island (30 mins)
    • Minivan transfer → Cat Ba Town

2. Option 2: Train + Bus + Ferry

• • Train from Ha Noi → Hai Phong: ~1.5–2 hours
  • Then take a bus/taxi to Ben Beo Pier (~20 mins)
  • From Ben Beo, take a boat to Monkey Island: 15–20 minutes
  • Boat ticket: ~80,000–100,000 VND/person

From Hai Phong City:

• Taxi or bus to Ben Beo Pier
• Same boat transfer to the island

Ben Beo Pier Address: To dan pho 14, Thi tran Cat Ba, Huyen Cat Hai, Thanh pho Hai Phong

What to Do at Monkey Island Cat Ba

Meet the Monkeys

Perched high above the tree tops are over 20 playful monkeys, who sit calmly around or boldly approach the visitors. These monkeys are used to people, but that doesn’t mean you can outrun them. Hold bags tightly, do not feed or provoke them.

Meet the Monkeys (Source: lanhacruises)

Relax at Cat Dua 1 & Cat Dua 2 Beaches

These two crescent beaches are serene and clean, ideal for a swim or a seaside picnic. Cat Dua 1 is busier with tourists, while Cat Dua 2 is smaller and quieter – perfect if you’re a couple or traveling alone.

Relax at Cat Dua 1 (Source: bevivu)

Water Activities: Kayaking & Snorkeling

Hire a kayak and paddle through the peaceful waters of Lan Ha Bay. Or sign up for a snorkeling tour to take in colorful coral reefs and sea life. It’s one of the great Places to visit in Monkey Island Vietnam for boat trips.

Kayaking in Ha Lan Bay (Source: sinhtour)

Hike to the Panorama Viewpoint

A brief, rocky climb would lead to 360° views of all of Lan Ha Bay and its surrounding islets from the top of the island. Arrive for sunset shots you won’t soon forget.

Stay at Monkey Island Resort Vietnam

Want to stay overnight? The first thing you might want to do is book a room at Monkey Island Resort, right on Cat Dua 1 beach. This resort comes with wooden bungalows amidst jungle and ocean – great for digital detox or honeymooners.

• Facilities: beachfront bar, local seafood restaurant, kayak rentals
• Room price: from 900,000 VND/night
• The staff is accommodating, and the experience is rated high in Monkey Island Vietnam avis.

Monkey Island Resort Vietnam (Source: uncovervietnam)

Entry Fees and Costs

Monkey Island Nha Trang – Central Vietnam’s Primate Paradise

 Location

Monkey Island Nha Trang, or Hon Lao, lies calm in Nha Phu Bay just 18 km from Nha Trang City. Included in the Long Phu Tourist Zone, this island paradise tops the list of places to see at any Monkey Island tour Vietnam.

Long Phu Pier, the city center, is about 30 minutes away by car or taxi. From there, it’s a beautiful 15-minute boat ride across crystal-clear blue waters straight to the island’s shores, where the monkeys are eagerly awaiting to greet you!

Unique Experiences You Can’t Miss

Over 1,500 Monkeys!

Monkey Island Vietnam is home to more than 1,500 monkeys, most belonging to the Macaca category – curious, social and endlessly entertaining. You’ll see them jumping through trees, lolling on the beach, or politely (and sometimes cheekily!) asking for snacks. For their love of playfulness, this island ranked in many Monkey Island Vietnam avis.

Monkey Circus & Cultural Shows

Be sure to catch the renowned Monkey Circus – here, trained monkeys demonstrate tricks, ride bicycles, and even lift weights, with the help of dedicated and long-term staff. The island is also the site of a Fruit Festival, and there is a fun, theatrical twist with the legend of the “Monkey King” that adds a folklore aspect to the magnificence of the walk. Water Park & Beach Activities

Monkey Circus at Monkey Island Nha Trang (Source: vietnamairlines)

Water Park & Beach Activities

Need more action? Check out the humongous inflatable water park bobbing in the sea –Vietnam’s biggest! Or have some fun jet-skiing, ziplining, and kayaking through placid bays. If you feel like a rest, the crystal-clear beaches and sheltered spots make for a perfect family picnic.

Water Park at Monkey Island Nha Trang (Source: vinpearl)

Facilities & Entry Fees

Monkey Island Vietnam in Nha Trang, has its advantages as rest areas, souvenir shops, and a beachfront resort-style zone are at your fingertips where you can enjoy a meal, rest, and the scenery.

• Entrance fee:
  • Adults: 120,000 VND
  • Children (1m–1m39): 80,000 VND
• Boat Info:
  • From Long Phu Pier, managed by Long Phu Tourist
  • Boats run frequently from 08:00 to 16:30

Tip: The best way to visit a guided tour from Nha Trang that usually includes transportation, lunch, and activities – perfect for tourists who want a fun and easy tour.

Monkey Island Can Tho – Gateway to the South’s Biosphere

Location & Setting

Monkey Island Can Tho is located in the heart of Can Tho Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized wetland with abundant natural species as well as historical sights. In short, it’s a must-see for eco-tourists, families, and weekend warriors taking a trip to Monkey Island from the city center of Ho Chi Minh City.

Address for Visitors: Lam Vien Can Tho, Duong Ly Nhon, Xa Long Hoa, Huyen Can Tho, Tp. Ho Chi Minh

Meet the Monkey Troop

Over 2,000 long-tailed macaques live in the southern branch of Monkey Island Vietnam, where they wander around the trails, bridges, and mangrove boardwalks. They are not at all timid – don’t be surprised if they run across your path, trail you in hopes of snacks, or even brazenly swipe a water bottle left unattended!

These monkeys are wild, smart, and sassy – one of the big stars in many a Monkey Island Vietnam. Some are playful, some distant, and some just plain sneaky. Keep that tight grip on your stuff, and remember: no feed, no tease. 

Meet the Monkey Troop (Source: ssttravel)

What to Expect on Your Visit

• Mangrove Canoe Tours: Paddleboat or motor through shaded waterways and experience the unspoilt beauty of the Can Gio mangrove biosphere reserve, one of Vietnam’s most important ecosystems.
• Rung Sac Relic Site: The nearest is the Rung Sac guerrilla base of the Vietnamese during the two wars, where you can learn about wartime history. It is a rare intersection of jungle and history, side by side.
• Monkey Watching Walks:  Wander along spiraling trails through the forest where the monkeys reign. Anticipate close encounters – they’re all over the place!

Entry Fees & Tips

• Ticket Price: From 35,000 VND/person
• Boat Tour (optional): ~50,000–150,000 VND
• Open daily: 07:00 – 17:00

Pro Tips:

• No long, dingly things or shiny objects to wear regularly.”
• The front is where your bag always is
• Monkeys are fast learners, so make the challenge more difficult by using plastic bottles with caps.
• Do not allow the use of space with infants and young children if you are traveling on a flight.

How to Get There from Ho Chi Minh City

Option 1: Motorbike/Scooter (adventurous)

• Ride via Huynh Tan Phat Street → Binh Khanh Ferry → Rung Sac Road
• Duration: ~1.5–2 hours

Option 2: Bus + Ferry (budget-friendly)

• Catch the Bus 75 or 20 from Ben Thanh to Can Tho Ferry Terminal
• Then take a local taxi/motorbike to Monkey Island.

Option 3: Private Tour

• There are many companies that provide half day or 1 day Monkey Island tour Vietnam with city transfer and a guide.

Suggested Itineraries for Exploring Monkey Island Vietnam

1-Day Itinerary: Monkey Island Vietnam Can Tho (From Ho Chi Minh City)

6:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Leave Ho Chi Minh City and travel towards the south, to Can Tho District. You cross the Binh Khanh Ferry and drive on Rung Sac road to get to Lam Vien Can Tho, the gateway to Monkey Island Vietnam Can Tho.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
On your way out, discover Monkey Island, where 2,000 long-tailed macaques live. You’ll stroll along forest paths where monkeys swing from trees and play just steps away. Hold your stuff close – and never leave your bag hanging open!

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cruise through the shaded canals of the Can Gio mangrove biosphere reserve on a canoe tour. You’ll also tour the Rung Sac guerrilla base, an important relic site from the Vietnam Wars – a convergence of history and nature.

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Lunch on board before enjoying a seafood lunch at the local restaurant. Opt for grilled prawns, clams, and fried fish – local specialities which go well with an ice-cold coconut.

2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Chill, do some souvenir shopping, then go back to Ho Chi Minh City. It’s one of the most comfortable and fulfilling Monkey Island tour Vietnam day trips, particularly for those who love nature and travel with family.

Monkey Island Can Tho (Source: ssttravel)

3-Day 2-Night Itinerary: Monkey Island Vietnam Cat Ba + Lan Ha Bay

Day 1: Transfer from Hanoi – Explore Monkey Island Vietnam

7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Get picked up and transferred by limousine van or express bus (Cat Ba Express, Daiichi Travel …) to Hai Phong City from Ha Noi. The road is pretty good, and there are a few short stops for resting.

9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Arrive at Got Pier in Hai Phong, ferry to Cat Ba Island (about 10 minutes), and minivan to Ben Beo Pier.

10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Get on the boat to visit Monkey Island Vietnam. The 15–20-minute journey travels through floating fishing villages and past picturesque limestone islets.

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Get to Monkey Island, check in at Monkey Island Resort Vietnam. Check in, drop your bags, and start fresh with a welcome drink.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Rest on Cat Dua beach, take your shoes off to let your feet step on sand, imagine the feel as you travel to Lan Ha’s Beaches.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch at the beachside restaurant at the resort. Opt for local Vietnamese dishes or fresh seafood.

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Rest or nap in your bungalow. Hear the waves and relax under the trees. 

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Hang out with the neighborhood monkey gang (more than 20 long-tailed macaques). Take pictures, watch them play, but please guard your stuff!

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Trek to the vista point. The 15-minute climb has panoramic views over Lan Ha Bay, a photographer’s dream.

6:00 PM – 7:30 PM:  Dinner in the resort. Grilled fish, squid, or steamed clams with local fresh ingredients.

7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Free by the beach. Relax under the stars or sit for a drink at the bar before retiring to your Monkey Island Vietnam resort bungalow.

Monkey Island Cat Ba (Source: localvietnam)

Day 2: Lan Ha Bay Kayaking & Island Hopping

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Resort breakfast. You can also start your day with eggs, toast, fruit, and Vietnamese coffee with a view of the bay.

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Get on your Lan Ha Bay kayak cruise boat. Life preservers, paddles, and a guide briefing are included.

8:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Kayak in the hidden lagoons, peaceful channels, and around small uninhabited islets. Take a break to rest and swim at quiet beaches.

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Head back to the tour boat for a seafood lunch on the boat = it’s usually prawns, squid, along with rice and stir-fried vegetables.

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Further cruise into the Bay passing the various islands and islets such as the Vietnamese fishing village, Tien Ong Cave, and the limestone title, have your camera ready once again before you return to the harbour. Relax and observe the serene sights, or take a nap on deck.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Back to Monkey Island. Have a quick dip or shower at the resort.

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Downtime: Take a walk on the beach, chat with other travelers, write some postcards while taking in the view.

6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Dinner at the resort. Another serving of fresh seafood and, if you choose, vegetarian recipes using seasonal local veggies.

7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Free evening. Chillax at beach games, in your room, or enjoy the silence of relaxing moonlit nights at Monkey Island Vietnam. 

Lan Ha Bay Kayaking (Source: daiichitravel)

Day 3: Farewell & Return to Hanoi

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Rise and eat breakfast. Take pictures of the sunrise if the weather is cooperating.

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Pack up your suitcases, say goodbye to the monkeys, and leave our Monkey Island Vietnam resort.

9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Return by boat to Ben Beo Pier.

9:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Minivan to Cat Ba Town, ferry and bus to Hai Phong.

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Ha Noi Arrival – Say farewell to a thrilling 3-day adventure of wildlife, water, and wonder. This is a simply unforgettable three-day ride!

Cat Ba Town (Source: catbavision)

Half-Day Itinerary: Monkey Island Vietnam Nha Trang (Hon Lao)

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Leave Nha Trang and drive to Long Phu Pier, situated in Vinh Luong  Ward, 18 km from the city to the north.

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM: Embark on a boat trip to see Monkey Island Vietnam (Hon Lao). Take in the sights of Nha Phu Bay and its neighboring islets as you drive.

9:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Arrive and visit Monkey Kingdom, where more than 1,500 macaques live. See monkey circus shows, meet the island’s “Monkey King” and enjoy fun water-based and beachside activities. One of the things that people love about Monkey Island Vietnam avis is that they are cheeky as anything, but are approachable.

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Chill out or have fun at the inflatable water park, ziplining, or paddleboarding. Then reward your hard work with a light seafood lunch overlooking the ocean afterwards.

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Then head back to Nha Trang feeling revitalised and rejuvenated. Ideal for guests staying in beachside resorts! This half-day Monkey Island tour Vietnam is one of the prime options for Vietnam Tour Luxury Escapes.

Monkey Island Vietnam (Hon Lao) (Source: vietnamdiscovery)

Conclusion

From cheeky macaques to gorgeous beaches and mangrove pursuits, Monkey Island Vietnam has a wild medley of fun, nature, and discovery in store for visitors. Whether you’re enjoying downtime at Monkey Island Resort Vietnam, kayaking Lan Ha Bay, or trekking through the jungles of Monkey Island Vietnam Can Tho, we promise there’s an extra handful of special touches dotted in every encounter. It’s no surprise these locations make it to the list of best islands in Vietnam and also turn up in the premium Vietnam Tour Luxury Escapes. So pack light, bring smart, and prepare to let the monkey magic commence!

FAQ 

Is Monkey Island, Vietnam worth it?

Absolutely! Monkey Island Vietnam is the only place that you can see the wild monkeys and the funny show with many tricks for you to enjoy at a cheap price at Monkey island Vietnam. Whether it’s the peaceful views of Monkey Island Vietnam Cat Ba, the bubbling shows in Nha Trang, or the feral stretches of mangrove in Monkey Island Vietnam Can Gio, this is a top pick for families and eco-travelers, one of the best islands in Vietnam.

How do I get to Monkey Island, Vietnam?

 That depends on which island you’re heading to!

• That will depend on your island! There are boats, too, from Ben Beo Pier to Monkey Island, Cat Ba; to get there from Ha Noi, take a bus or train to Hai Phong.
• Head 18km north of Nha Trang to Long Phu Pier, from where a boat to Monkey Island Vietnam (Hon Lao) departs.
• Depart Ho Chi Minh City heading south into the Can Gio area and take the Binh Khanh Ferry, followed by driving along Rung Sac Road until you arrive at Lam Vien Can Gio to reach Monkey Island Vietnam Can Gio.

Can you stay on Monkey Island?

Yes – but only at certain places. At Monkey Island Vietnam Cat Ba you can stay at Monkey Island Resort Vietnam with beachfront bungalows and all facilities. Accommodation on site for Monkey Island Nha Trang is for Long Phu Tourist and large group bookings only. Monkey Island Vietnam Can Gio visited on a day trip, as there is no accommodation on-site.