Hòn Lao Island, affectionately called Monkey Island, promises an exciting and adventurous day trip from Nha Trang. It provides a captivating kingdom where thousands of wild macaque monkeys roam freely. This destination is perfect for nature lovers and families seeking an interactive wildlife experience.
History and the Monkey Population
The island’s history traces back to the 1970s. Specifically, in 1975, Soviet experts brought macaque monkeys to Hòn Lao to establish a site for breeding and scientific research. These monkeys subsequently flourished on the island. Today, the population has grown significantly, making the island a safe haven for the macaques. Park staff actively manage the monkey population and ensure their well-being, even offering scheduled feeding times for visitors to observe.
Activities and Entertainment
Hòn Lao offers a mix of natural beauty and organized entertainment, guaranteeing a full day of fun.
Monkey Interaction: The primary attraction is the free-roaming monkeys. They greet visitors shortly after arrival. Guests should note that while the monkeys are accustomed to humans, they remain wild animals. Therefore, keeping food secured and avoiding sudden movements is crucial.
Unique Shows: The island hosts several unique animal performances daily. The most popular include the “Monkey Swimming Race,” where trained macaques compete, and entertaining dog and monkey circus shows. These events provide unique photo opportunities and entertainment.
Recreational Sports: For those seeking more adventure, Hòn Lao features various paid activities. Visitors can enjoy Go-Kart racing, paintball, and other fun sports in dedicated areas, thus adding a thrilling element to the island visit.
Nha Phu Lagoon Views: A colorful bridge spans the mountain on the island, offering visitors a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding Nha Phu Lagoon and the mainland.
Essential Travel Logistics
Hòn Lao is accessible only by boat from the mainland pier. It is not located directly in Nha Trang city center, so visitors must plan for transportation to the pier.
| Information Point | Detail | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Main Access Point | Long Phú Tourist Pier (Bến tàu du lịch Long Phú) | Located in Lương Sơn, about 18 km north of Nha Trang center. |
| Transportation to Pier | Taxi/Grab or local bus | A taxi ride costs approximately 200,000 - 300,000 VNĐ from the city center. |
| Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily) | Boats operate frequently from the Long Phú Pier during these hours. |
| Entrance Ticket Price (Includes round-trip boat transfer) | Adults: 180,000 VNĐ | Children (1m - 1.39m): 100,000 VNĐ |
| Tips for Interaction | Secure personal belongings, especially sunglasses and hats. | Do not feed the monkeys unless instructed by the staff, as it can cause aggressive behavior. |
| Phone Number | Contact Long Phú Tourist Company for the pier and ticket information. | Often listed on tour operator websites. |
Visitors are encouraged to book a package tour if they prefer all-inclusive transportation and guidance. Otherwise, they can easily reach the Long Phú Pier and purchase tickets directly.
