Ho Chi Minh City is known for its vibrant energy and bustling streets, but if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find some incredible spots that are perfect for wildlife lovers and photographers alike. From lush mangrove forests to tranquil rivers and cultural gems, this city offers a variety of places that will leave you in awe.
Whether you’re looking to capture local wildlife or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, these 15 wildlife and photography spots are a must-visit. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these hidden gems!
Mekong Delta – A Hidden Paradise for Photographers
Address: Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
| Type | Day Trip |
| Time to Spend | 6-8 hours |
If you’re into taking photos of rural life, rivers, and floating markets, the Mekong Delta will not disappoint! The scenic boat rides, lush greenery, and vibrant villages create an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Vinh Trang Pagoda is a great spot to shoot architectural details while exploring the delta’s stunning nature. This is the perfect spot to snap some iconic nature shots that truly showcase Vietnam’s rural charm.
Cu Chi Tunnels – Nature Meets History
Address: Phú Hiệp, Củ Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| Type | Historical & Wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 4-6 hours |
The Cu Chi Tunnels not only offer a fascinating historical experience but also provide a perfect blend of nature for photography. The area is surrounded by thick jungle, making it an ideal spot to capture the juxtaposition of human-made tunnels amidst the wild, green landscapes.
It’s a place to mix history with natural beauty, and you’ll get the chance to capture both the heritage and serenity of the surroundings.
Can Gio Mangrove Forest
Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| Type | Wildlife & Nature |
| Time to Spend | 5-6 hours |
For an authentic Vietnamese wilderness experience, Can Gio Mangrove Forest is a must-visit. It’s a nature lover’s paradise where you can snap photos of monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
The tranquil rivers and towering mangrove trees add to the charm, making it the perfect place for staying untouched nature. It’s a peaceful escape from the city, and every corner has something unique to photograph.
Ben Tre – The Heart of the Mekong Delta
Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| Type | Rural Exploration, Photography |
| Time to Spend | 5-7 hours |
Ben Tre is a hidden gem in the Mekong Delta that offers quiet, serene vibes perfect for nature photography. Its coconut plantations, peaceful rivers, and small local villages create the perfect backdrop for your photos.
The laid-back atmosphere lets you capture the essence of traditional Vietnamese life, far from the tourist crowds. A boat ride through the waterways is the best way to experience and photograph this lush region.
Monkey Island – Playful Wildlife in Its Natural Habitat
Address: Long Hòa, Cần Giờ, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| Type | Wildlife Photography |
| Time to Spend | 4-5 hours |
Just outside Ho Chi Minh City, Monkey Island offers a playful escape for wildlife photographers. Monkeys roam freely in their natural habitat, creating an amazing opportunity to capture their antics.
The lush island surroundings, with towering trees and peaceful rivers, create a beautiful, vibrant setting for wildlife photography. If you’re into candid shots and want to photograph some fun wildlife, this place won’t disappoint.
Dalat – A Nature Lover’s Dream
Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| Type | Landscape & Nature Photography |
| Time to Spend | Full Day |
Dalat is a picturesque town that’s perfect for capturing landscapes, with its cool weather, pine forests, and breathtaking lakes. The area is rich in both natural beauty and peaceful vibes, making it ideal for photographers who love shooting serene and dreamy scenes.
Whether you’re wandering through flower gardens or snapping a shot of the tranquil lakes, Dalat provides endless opportunities for stunning photos.
Cat Tien National Park – Explore Vietnam’s Wildlife
Address: CCCH+J9H, ấp 1, Tân Phú, Đồng Nai 76813, Vietnam
| Type | Wildlife & Eco-tourism |
| Time to Spend | Full Day |
Cat Tien National Park is one of Vietnam’s most biodiverse spots, making it a must-visit for wildlife photographers. It’s home to rare species like the black-shanked douc langur, various bird species, and lush greenery.
Capture the beauty of Vietnam’s native flora and fauna while exploring the park’s walking trails. This is a place where adventure meets photography, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos of diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
Tan Son Nhat Bird Sanctuary – A Quiet Escape
Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| Type | Birdwatching & Wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 2-3 hours |
For those who love birdwatching, the Tan Son Nhat Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful place to spend a few hours. It’s located just outside the busy city center, providing a quiet spot to escape the hustle and bustle.
With a variety of bird species, lush greenery, and calming sounds of nature, it’s the perfect location for wildlife photography. Don’t forget to bring your zoom lens to capture these beautiful birds in their element!
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens – A Blend of Nature and History
Address: 2 Đ. Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
| Type | Wildlife & Nature |
| Time to Spend | 2-4 hours |
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens offer a wonderful mix of animals and plants, making it an ideal spot for photography. The zoo is home to various animals, including elephants, tigers, and birds, while the botanical gardens add a layer of natural beauty.
Whether you’re photographing the animals or the lush greenery, this spot blends history, nature, and wildlife in a way that’s perfect for snapping some memorable shots.
Thien Hau Temple – A Perfect Blend of Culture and Nature
Address: 710 Nguyễn Trãi, Phường 11, Quận 5, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
| Type | Cultural & Nature Photography |
| Time to Spend | 2-3 hours |
The Thien Hau Temple in Ho Chi Minh City provides a stunning backdrop for photography with its intricate architecture and beautiful surroundings.
The temple’s cultural and historical significance, combined with the peaceful gardens and trees around it, creates a harmonious blend of nature and culture. It’s a great spot to snap some photos that showcase both the rich history of Vietnam and the natural beauty surrounding the temple.
Can Gio Nature Reserve – A Wild Escape from the City
Address: Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
| Type | Eco-tourism & Wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 5-6 hours |
Can Gio Nature Reserve is a UNESCO-listed site and one of the most preserved eco-destinations near Ho Chi Minh City. It’s teeming with wildlife like monkeys and crocodiles, as well as a variety of bird species.
If you’re passionate about nature and wildlife photography, this place is an absolute must. The peaceful mangrove forests and wild animals create the perfect setting for capturing both landscape and wildlife shots.
Hoc Mon District – Rural Vietnam at Its Best
Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| Type | Rural & Landscape Photography |
| Time to Spend | 4-5 hours |
Located just outside the city, Hoc Mon District offers a more traditional and rural side of Vietnam that’s perfect for photographers looking for a unique experience.
The expansive rice fields, local farms, and simple village life make this spot ideal for capturing authentic, down-to-earth scenes. It’s a great opportunity to photograph real Vietnam, away from the usual tourist spots.
Suoi Tien Cultural Amusement Park
Address: 120 Song Hành Xa Lộ Hà Nội, Phường Tân Phú, Thủ Đức, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
| Type | Cultural & Nature Photography |
| Time to Spend | 3-4 hours |
Suoi Tien is a unique cultural park that blends nature with creative installations. You’ll find beautiful gardens, vibrant nightlife, and water features, all of which make for a fun and colorful photography session.
If you love capturing both cultural and natural beauty, this place is perfect for a more lighthearted, yet visually captivating photography experience.
Vung Tau – A Beach Getaway with Stunning Views
Address: Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
| Type | Beach & Landscape Photography |
| Time to Spend | Full Day |
Vung Tau is a coastal city just a short drive from Ho Chi Minh City, and it’s perfect for capturing beach scenes, fishermen at work, and stunning sunsets.
The vibrant fishing villages along the coast make it a great location for both landscape and cultural photography. Whether you’re shooting the beach or the bustling harbor, Vung Tau provides breathtaking shots at every turn.
Tuyen Lam Lake – Serenity in Nature
Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| Type | Landscape & Nature Photography |
| Time to Spend | 4-6 hours |
Located in Dalat, Tuyen Lam Lake is a tranquil paradise surrounded by pine trees and rolling hills. This serene spot offers picturesque views, making it perfect for photography.
Whether you’re capturing the misty mornings or the bright afternoon skies, the calm waters of the lake will make your photos feel peaceful and dreamlike. It’s the perfect place to snap some stunning nature shots.