This destination is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 but is expected to reopen at a later date.

Located on an island in the Dong Nai River, the Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Center is a unique rehab facility for mistreated and injured animals. Unfortunately, many primates in Vietnam are used as pets, gifts, experiments, food, and tourist attractions.

The mission of this center is to assist in bringing an end to illegal animal trading and help the ones given to them heal and become healthy again. The center has 30 hectares/74 acres of partially forested area on the island, which is used to tree train the animals and prepare them for eventual release.

The facility was founded in 2008 thanks to the Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development partnership, Cat Tien National Park, and Monkey World Ape Rescue-UK. Visitors can get tours of the center; however, it’s not like a zoo and is more like a walk in a natural habitat.

Wild Gibbon Trek

A fun and eye-opening experience is the center’s Wild Gibbon Trek, which starts at dawn and offers visitors a chance to see these endangered primates in their natural environment. A Cat Tien guide begins by bringing a group of up to four people maximum into the jungle, where trekkers learn how to listen for the gibbons’ singing.

While watching these beautiful monkeys, other animals such as boars, deer, and many types of birds might be spotted. This is both a very relaxing and exciting activity, and due to its popularity, it’s wise to plan a visit well in advance to ensure getting a reservation.

If possible, people going on this trek should wear comfortable shoes and dark clothing. Leech socks and forest shirts will be provided. Food and smoking are not allowed in the forest, but bringing lots of water is critical. The age minimum for this tour is 12 years old, and anyone under 16 has to be accompanied by an adult.

All proceeds from this tour go directly to the center’s conservation efforts. Additionally, treks should only be booked from their office and not third-party companies. Their contact information is: namcattien@yahoo.com.vn / +84 (0) 613669228.

Details

Address: CCMM+G8M, Dong Nai, Đạ Tẻh, Lâm Đồng, Vietnam

Phone: +44 (0)1929 401005 (general) or +84 (0) 613669228 (for booking a trek)

Season: Year-round, unless announced otherwise.

Hours: Tours are offered at 8:30 am & 2 pm

Website: go-east.org/primate-rehabilitation