Vam Sat Ecological Tourist Center
Vam Sat will be a wise choice for travelers who want to venture into the wild but can not afford to travel far from Ho Chi Minh City.
Location & History
Located in Can Gio District, Vam Sat lies between the Vam Sat and Long Tau rivers. The area previously belonged to Dong Nai Province before being incorporated into Ho Chi Minh City in 1978. During the Vietnam War, Vam Sat suffered extensive destruction from bombs and defoliants. However, thanks to a reforestation initiative launched in 1996, it has transformed into a stunning biosphere reserve rich in mangrove forests, which is now recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve since 2000.Photo: internet
Photo: ginkgovoyage.com
Salt-Marsh Forest Ecological Tourist Zone
The Vam Sat Tourist Center offers an extensive range of activities that encompass ecological exploration and recreational fun. Key attractions include observing the unique ecological systems of the mangrove forests, visiting Bat Swamp, a crocodile farm, and enjoying bird-watching. Bat Swamp is particularly noted for its breathtaking scenery featuring flying foxes hanging from the high mangroves. One of the most thrilling activities here is crab angling, allowing visitors to indulge in fresh local cuisine. The crocodile farm also provides an exciting experience as visitors witness the reptiles devour fish thrown by daring onlookers.Photo: getyourguide.com
Even after dark, visitors can engage in traditional fishing activities like catching crabs and shrimp. Adding to the experience, campfires and karaoke sessions are popular, especially for groups and team-building events.
How To Get There
Reaching Vam Sat from Ho Chi Minh City takes about 3 hours by motorbike or car. The route is straightforward: first, take Nguyen Tat Thanh Street in District 7, pass through Binh Khanh Ferry, continue onto the only road leading to Can Gio Sea for approximately 15 km, then turn right at the Ly Nhon intersections. After passing over Vam Sat Bridge, turn left at Goc Tre Bridge, and you will find the tourist center nearby.
Alternatively, you can access Vam Sat by taking the Hiep Phuoc – Doi Lau Boat route, which is more suited for motorbike riders.
Public transport is also an option. You can take bus number 20 from Ben Thanh Bus Station to Binh Khanh Ferry. After crossing the river by ferry, switch to the Binh Khanh – Can Thanh bus route and get off at Dan Xay Bridge to reach Vam Sat Station. From here, a scenic boat trip awaits you.
Additionally, a new sailboat service has been introduced, departing from Bach Dang Wharf in District 1 early each morning, providing another charming way to arrive at the Vam Sat tourist center.
Useful Information
- Location: Vam Sat
- Best for: Family
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Distance to city center: 41.2km (25.6 mi)

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