Trip 1 | Start: 12nd July 2025 | End: 13rd July 2025 | Meeting location: Ho Chi Minh City | Spaces available: 3/8

Trip 2 | Start: 30th August 2025 | End: 31s August 2025 | Meeting location: Ho Chi Minh City | Spaces available: 1/8

Trip 3 | Start: 20th September 2025 | End: 21st September 2025 | Meeting location: Ho Chi Minh City | Spaces available: 0/8

***Tailor-made tour (Private Tour): If you don't have time to join our scheduled itinerary trips or prefer a private tour, customized specifically to your needs, feel free to message us on WhatsApp or Instagram so we can create a personalized itinerary just for you.

Introduction

Wildlife-watching Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve — **Herping Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve: A 1-Day 1-Night Eco-Tourism Expedition in Southern Vietnam’s Herping Paradise**

For passionate nature explorers and wildlife photographers, the Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve in Southern Vietnam is quickly becoming a must-visit destination. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, this eco-tourism paradise is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating amphibians and reptiles, including endemic Rhacophorus helenae and World Biggest Gaur Species . With its untouched natural beauty, primary forests, and diverse ecosystems, Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve is a sanctuary for biodiversity and **one of the top herping destinations in Southern Vietnam and all of Vietnam**.

Why Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve is One of the Best Herping Spots in Vietnam ?

Our 1-day and 1-night Herping Tours on Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve allow you to explore the reserve’s rich habitats, from coastal forests to dense, lush interiors. You’ll have the chance to experience Herping Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve and observe Vietnam’s diverse amphibian and reptile species. This reserve is a must-see for any serious herper or wildlife enthusiast, providing the perfect environment for wildlife tours in Southern Vietnam.

Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve has become one of the most ideal herping destinations in Southern Vietnam, particularly for those seeking a Herping tour near HCMC (Ho Chi Minh City). Its proximity to the city makes it a convenient choice, with only a 2-hour drive required to reach the reserve. This short travel time allows for easy access, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape for nature enthusiasts. The terrain is also family-friendly, offering safe and manageable routes that accommodate both children and adults.

What to Expect from a 1-Day Herping Tour on Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve ?

Considered one of the best herping spots in Vietnam, Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve provides an ideal setting for exploring herpetofauna highlights. Guided by expert herpetologists, our tours maximize your opportunities to encounter a remarkable variety of species, from snakes and lizards to frogs and turtles. Our extensive experience in the area allows us to uncover the most biodiverse hotspots in this eco-tourism paradise.

Images from Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve Herping Tour hosted by Viet Herping

Conservation and Sustainable Tourism Focus:

At Viet Herping, we are deeply committed to conservation and sustainable tourism. Our tours are designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing your experience with nature. By participating in our Herping Tours on Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve, you contribute to the preservation of the reserve’s delicate ecosystems. Our expert guides educate participants on the importance of biodiversity and the role each visitor plays in maintaining the natural balance of Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve. Together, we strive to promote responsible tourism that benefits both the environment and the local communities.

By joining the Viet Herping Tour, you actively support the conservation of snakes in Vietnam. In partnership with Viet Snake Rescuer, we contribute to various conservation initiatives and provide sponsorships to snake preservation efforts. Our expert guides offer in-depth education on biodiversity, highlighting each participant's crucial role in preserving Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve's natural equilibrium. Together, we are committed to promoting responsible tourism that fosters environmental sustainability while benefiting local communities.

DescriptiDescription Day 1:
- Depart at Conmeco Hang Xanh gas station at 8:00 am by car and arrive in Dong Nai at 11am.
- Have lunch and check in to have a short rest.
- At 2:00 pm, we will depart into the forest for the first time to observe hornbill birds and small reptiles.
- Go out at 5pm and have dinner.
- 8:00 pm Return to the forest and follow a trail or along the stream to learn about and observe night reptiles and amphibians. The tropical monsoon climate creates dense and cool forests that are home to many creatures, beneath the trees you can find many species of snakes here such as Trimeresurus rubeus, Naja kaouthia, Bungarus candidus, Boiga cyanea, Boiga multomaculata, Calloselasma rhodostoma, Lycodon sp, Xenopeltis unicolor or python like burmese - reticulated and small reptiles, amphibians.
- Return to the motel and rest.
Day 2: Wake up and have breakfast and return to Ho Chi Minh City.
Difficulty of the trip: Most of the trip we travel on flat roads, there are some slopes that have to go up and down with a moderate slope that is not dangerous. You will also have to wade through streams where the water will be higher than your ankles. Therefore, waterproof shoes are not effective.text goes hereon text goes here

Pricing and Discounts

Only $100 Deposit Required | Groups of 4 or more: 5% discount | Returning customers receive a 7% discount

Cost: 200$/per

The above price is for groups of 2 or more. If you are traveling alone or in a larger group, please message me for a quote and special offers.

Included in the tour

Our Expert Herpetologist at Viet Herping is a highly skilled and passionate specialist with deep knowledge of Vietnam’s diverse reptile and amphibian species. With years of experience in field research, species identification, and habitat conservation, they bring unparalleled expertise to every herping tour. Not only are they adept at locating rare and elusive species, but they are also committed to educating participants about the importance of wildlife conservation and the ecological role of these fascinating creatures. Whether you're a seasoned herpetology enthusiast or a curious beginner, our expert guide ensures a safe, informative, and unforgettable experience in the world of reptiles and amphibians.
The private car will pick you up at your hotel and then take you to the reserve. It will also take you back to your hotel after the trip ends.
We will rest at the 3-star Ma Da motel. There are 2 types of small rooms for individuals or large rooms with 2 beds for families or 2 companions. The room is comfortable and clean, has a refrigerator, air conditioner, hot water, electric sockets to charge technology devices.
- Regarding food, we will dine at local restaurants with dishes such as rice, pho, noodles, ...
- Each person will be provided with 3 liters of water. If you want to eat more or use other drinks (beer, soft drinks, etc.), you must pay for them yourself. We will provide purified water and exactly 3 meals for you.

FAQs:

The best time to visit Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve for herping enthusiasts is actually during the rainy season, from May to November. The rainy season brings out a greater abundance of amphibians and reptiles, making it the prime time for spotting diverse species in their natural habitats. While the trails might be more challenging, the lush greenery and heightened wildlife activity provide an authentic and rewarding herping experience. The rain brings life to the ecosystem, offering ideal conditions for those passionate about wildlife observation and photography.
DescriptionDong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve is an ideal destination for a wide range of travelers, offering a blend of biodiversity and historical significance that appeals to nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers alike. Here are the key groups who will find Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve the perfect choice for their next eco-tour:
1. Families with Children (8+ years old): DNCNR is a fantastic option for families looking to introduce their children to nature and history. With easy-to-navigate trails and no strenuous physical demands, it’s suitable for kids as young as 8. Parents can combine their herping adventure with lessons about Vietnam's rich wartime history, as the reserve is home to several historical landmarks. This makes it an educational and enjoyable trip for both children and adults.
2. Nature Enthusiasts and Wildlife Photographers: As one of the most biodiverse regions in Southern Vietnam, DNCNR is a haven for nature lovers. Whether you're interested in herping, birdwatching, or simply exploring the tropical landscape, the reserve offers unique opportunities to observe rare species in their natural habitats, making it a prime location for wildlife photography.
3. Tourists Seeking a Quick Escape from Ho Chi Minh City: Located just a 2-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, DNCNR is the closest herping destination to the bustling city. It's perfect for travelers looking for a short yet immersive escape into nature without needing to commit to a multi-day journey. The reserve’s proximity makes it easy to plan a 1-day 1-night tour, offering a refreshing break from the urban environment.
4. Educational and Adventure Groups: For schools, scout troops, or other educational organizations, DNCNR presents a unique opportunity to combine environmental education with historical learning. The reserve’s rich flora and fauna offer countless educational moments for young learners, while its wartime relics provide a powerful backdrop for understanding Vietnam’s history. text goes here
During the day the weather is hot and humid but at night it is quite cold, the temperature can drop to 20 degrees Celsius, in the rainy season it can be colder and the spring water is very high and dangerous. During the trip, there is a lot of walking from 5-8km of forest roads at night so you need to have a certain level of health. The recommended age is over 13 years old.
Because in the forest there are many insects such as mosquitoes and ants that can sting you, and the environment is cold and wet at night, so I suggest you bring the following:
- Clothes need to be guaranteed: warm clothes, at least 2 sets of clothes, 1 pair of sandals, 1 pair of shoes with good adhesion or high boots.
- Personal backpack is suitable because there is no porter.
- Backup battery charger
- Head or handheld flashlight and battery.
- Essential personal belongings.
- Allergy and fever medications, insect repellents, and sunscreen.