Nam Hoi An River Safari Experience: Vietnam's Unique Riverine Zoo

Central

Da Nang

Hoi An

Sovaba.travel

Updated at: 24/09/2026

1. Overview of River Safari Nam Hoi An

Nam Hoi An River Safari is part of the VinWonders Nam Hoi An entertainment complex, located in Thang An commune, Da Nang city (near Hoi An, former Quang Nam province). Opened in 2018, this is the first semi-wild animal sanctuary in Vietnam featuring river boat exploration. It is not just an ordinary zoo, but an ecological conservation model where more than 550 animals from over 50 species are cared for in a natural-like environment. 

This area is designed like a long river where visitors can cruise by boat to observe animals from a close distance without affecting them. The most unique feature is the combination of Central Vietnam's river elements and animals from all over the world, creating a rare "river safari". If you love wildlife but don't want to travel far to Africa or Asia, Nam Hoi An River Safari offers a similar experience right here at home.

Exploring the River Safari sanctuary by boat
Photo: Exploring the River Safari sanctuary by boat 

2. How to get to River Safari Nam Hoi An

From the center of Hoi An, it only takes about 20-30 minutes by car or motorbike to reach Nam Hoi An River Safari. The exact address is Vo Chi Cong Street, Thang An Commune, Da Nang. If starting from Da Nang, the travel time is about 45 minutes. Popular transportation options include:

  • Personal motorbike or car: Follow the direction of Cua Dai Bridge, go straight towards Nam Hoi An. There is a spacious parking lot at the complex.
  • Bus or taxi: From Hoi An, you can take a taxi for about 200,000 - 300,000 VND. Services like Grab or hotel shuttles are also very convenient.
  • Available tours: Many travel companies organize day tours including shuttle, entrance ticket, and meals, suitable for families or large groups.

Note: This area is close to famous tourist spots such as Hoi An Ancient Town or An Bang Beach, so you can combine them into your Quang Nam - Da Nang travel itinerary to save time.

3. Ticket prices and opening hours

Nam Hoi An River Safari is open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, within the overall operating hours of VinWonders Nam Hoi An (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday, and until 7:00 PM on weekends). The entrance ticket includes access to the entire complex, including River Safari, so you do not need to buy a separate ticket.

Below is the updated ticket price list for 2026 (subject to seasonal change, please check the official website for the latest information):

Ticket TypeAdult (above 140cm)Children (100-140cm) / Seniors (above 60 years old)Children under 100cm
Standard Ticket (All Day)650,000 VND450,000 VNDFree
After 14:00 Ticket450,000 VND340,000 VNDFree

Ticket prices include activities such as river cruises, bird shows, and exploring other areas within VinWonders. If you want an additional buggy service (internal electric vehicle), you can purchase a combo with a discounted price of around 150,000 VND extra. Tickets can be purchased online via the VinWonders website or at the counter to avoid queuing.

Conservation of wild animals
Photo: Conservation of wild animals 

4. Highlight activities at River Safari

The main experience at Nam Hoi An River Safari is the river boat trip, lasting about 15-20 minutes. You will cruise on an artificial river, observing animals from both banks without having to leave the boat. This is a safe and eco-friendly approach, helping visitors feel as if they are in a real tropical rainforest.

In addition, there are other activities:

  • Animal feeding: Some tours allow visitors to feed elephants or giraffes (additional fee of about 50,000 VND).
  • Bird performance: Watch bird species perform flying and interaction, taking place twice daily (9:45-10:15 and 14:00-14:30).
  • Explore neighboring areas: Combine with other parts of VinWonders such as Water World (water park), Adventure Land (thrill rides), or Folk Culture Island to learn about Vietnamese handicrafts.

If traveling with children, these activities are highly educational, helping kids learn about animal conservation and biodiversity.

5. Animals you can encounter

Nam Hoi An River Safari is home to more than 50 animal species from all continents, distributed by geographical themes to create an authentic feel. Here are some notable species:

  • Asian animals: Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, monkeys, gibbons 
  • African animals: Giraffes, antelopes, hippos, zebras 
  • Australian animals: Kangaroos, camels.
  • Waterbirds and waterfowl: Flamingos, black swans, wild ducks 

This area emphasizes conservation, featuring breeding programs and educating visitors about threats to wildlife. 

Rhinos at Nam Hoi An River Safari
Photo: Rhinos at Nam Hoi An River Safari 

6. Dining and amenities in the area

Inside River Safari and VinWonders Nam Hoi An, there are many dining options from Vietnamese to international cuisine. Some prominent restaurants:

  • Riveria: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, specializing in riverside dishes.
  • Deliland Buffet: From 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, priced at around 300,000 VND/person.
  • Chingu BBQ: Open until 6:30 PM on weekends, suitable for families.

In addition, there are souvenir shops selling animal-related gifts. The area has lockers, clean restrooms, and basic medical services. If traveling with young children, bring sunscreen and drinking water as the weather in Central Vietnam can be hot and sunny.

7. Tips for visiting River Safari Nam Hoi An

Before starting your journey to explore Nam Hoi An River Safari at VinWonders Nam Hoi An, visitors should take note of several important tips for a safer, more convenient, and complete tour. The following small but useful tips will help you proactively manage your time, prepare proper attire, and comply with regulations when visiting this unique riverine zoo: 

  • Ideal time: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather. Avoid public holidays to skip long waits.
  • Preparation: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes as there may be some walking involved. If you want to feed animals, purchase food on-site to ensure safety.
  • Combine itinerary: Spend at least half a day at River Safari, and the other half in other areas of VinWonders to make the most of your ticket.
  • Environmental protection: Do not litter and comply with regulations not to touch the animals to support conservation efforts.
Observing wild animals up close
Photo: Observing wild animals up close 

The journey to explore Nam Hoi An River Safari is not simply a zoo visit, but a close encounter with nature in a completely unique way. Sitting on a boat winding through lush green space and witnessing wild animals in a semi-wild environment with your own eyes, visitors will clearly feel the harmony between humans and nature. Located within the VinWonders Nam Hoi An entertainment complex in Hoi An, River Safari is a worthy stop for families, groups of friends, or anyone who loves exploration. If you have the chance to visit Central Vietnam, do not miss the opportunity to experience this unique riverine zoo in Vietnam.

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