Ho Chi Minh City Herping Tour Report (May - November 2025)
* Ho Chi Minh city - a surprising haven for reptiles and snakes,
where unforgettable wild encounters await just beyond the urban edge.November 3rd, 2025
November 3rd, southern Vietnam. The night reveals a quieter, more delicate side of the wild—where each species stands out in its own way. Among the branches, Ahaetulla fusca stretches like a living vine, its slender body blending effortlessly with the foliage, elegant and almost invisible until it moves.
On the forest floor, Rhabdophis siamensis adds contrast with its patterned body. Closer to the water, Hypsiscopus murphyi glides along the muddy edge, smooth and adapted, moving with a quiet confidence between land and water. Nearby, Malayemys Subtrijuga rests at the bank, its textured shell and steady stillness bringing a sense of balance to the scene.
Together, these encounters capture the essence of herping—finding beauty that most people pass by.
May 29, 2025
Under the soft glow of headlamps, a young couple steps into the quiet of the night, discovering a world they’ve never seen this close. What begins as curiosity quickly turns into fascination—gentle hands, careful movements, and moments of surprise as snakes rest calmly across their palms.
With guidance and a respectful approach, they learn to slow down, to observe, and to appreciate the beauty of each creature up close. There’s a mix of excitement and calm in every interaction—nervous smiles turning into genuine wonder.
More than just a herping experience, it’s a quiet connection with nature—simple, real, and unforgettable.
May 1st, 2025
Under the cover of night, our small group of wildlife enthusiasts stepped into the humid edge of the forest, headlamps cutting through the darkness. What started as a quiet walk quickly turned into a focused search—eyes scanning branches, leaf litter, and the thin lines of movement that only trained eyes can catch. Snakes emerged from the shadows, some resting quietly on branches, others gliding through the undergrowth, as we photographed them respectfully in their natural habitat.
Between adjusting lights and sharing quiet excitement, the night unfolded as both adventure and creative process. From quick encounters to carefully composed shots, the trip captured what herping is all about: discovery, respect for wildlife, and the thrill of a hidden world coming alive just beyond the light.
