Ultimate Guide to Explore Đồng Nai: Comprehensive and Informative

Đồng Nai, bordering Ho Chi Minh City, boasts mesmerizing waterfalls, picturesque streams, and the charming scenery typical of the Southeastern region. It serves as a gateway to the economically thriving Southeastern region, leading in economic development. It's also an ideal tourist destination during holidays, renowned for attractions like Giang Dien Waterfall, Bò Cạp Vàng tourist area, and Chua Chan Mountain. To fully experience the beauty of Đồng Nai, follow the latest travel handbook from A to Z.

Traveling to Đồng Nai – A Destination Near Saigon (Photo by ST)

Introduction to Đồng Nai

Đồng Nai Province lies within the key economic zone of the South, part of the Southeast region, with a natural area of 5862.73 km2. To the North, it borders Lâm Đồng and Bình Dương provinces, to the East, it borders Bình Thuận province, to the South, it borders Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu province and Ho Chi Minh City. Đồng Nai has an extensive transportation system connecting it with other regions nationwide, including the Bien Hoa military airport. It plays a vital role in economic, political, and national security development, contributing significantly to the growth of the key economic zone in the South, linking the Southeast and Central Highlands regions.

Map of Đồng Nai (Photo by ST)

Đồng Nai is a fertile land formed and developed over 300 years by the Dong Nai River depositing rich alluvial soil. Its history of ups and downs has endowed this cultural micro-region with a unique ethnic identity. Đồng Nai boasts a rich folk culture due to its diverse ethnic groups, primarily Vietnamese but also including Chinese, Xtiêng, Chơ Ro, Cham, and others.

A picturesque sunset on the Đồng Nai River (Photo by ST)

Đồng Nai is a modern city, always attracting many tourists for sightseeing. The beauty of its landscapes, lifestyle, and people leaves an indelible mark on visitors who have ever set foot here.

Đồng Nai boasts both mountains and forests, rivers, and lakes (Photo by ST)

Best Time to Visit Đồng Nai

Located in the tropical monsoon region, Đồng Nai enjoys a mild climate, making it suitable for tourism year-round as every season offers stunning scenery. However, if you enjoy tasting ripe fruits, it's best to visit from May to August when the locals harvest fruits, enhancing your travel experience.

Every season in Đồng Nai has its own unique beauty (Photo by ST)

Getting to Đồng Nai

Đồng Nai is a destination with a convenient transportation system, featuring major routes such as National Highway 1A, National Highway 20, National Highway 51, the North-South railway, proximity to Saigon port, and Tan Son Nhat International Airport. This makes it very convenient for tourists to travel here.

There are numerous ways to reach Đồng Nai, with many roads connecting to other provinces and cities (Photo by ST)

1. Public Transportation

• Bus

In most provinces and cities across the country, such as Hanoi, Ca Mau, Tra Vinh, Soc Trang... there are bus routes to Đồng Nai. You can contact ticket offices at the central bus stations in your province to learn more and book tickets.

• Plane, Train

For provinces that are far away, you can buy plane tickets to Saigon and then use ferries, buses, or taxis to travel to destinations in Đồng Nai. Alternatively, you can also take the train to the city of Biên Hòa.

• Bus

If you live in Ho Chi Minh City, you can travel by bus, which is cheaper but time-consuming. Tourists can take bus route number 5: Ben Xe Bien Hoa - Ben Xe Dong Nai with a travel time of 95 minutes, averaging every 20-30 minutes per trip, operating from 5:00 AM to 5:45 PM daily. Or bus route number 601 Ben Xe Mien Tay - Ben Xe Bien Hoa with a travel time of about 100 minutes, every 15-20 minutes per trip, operating from 5:00 AM to 6:30 PM daily.

Traveling to Đồng Nai by train (ST Photo)

2. Personal Transportation

From Ho Chi Minh City to Đồng Nai is only about 30km, so traveling by motorbike or private car is quite convenient and cost-effective, although it may be a bit tiring. Traveling by motorbike or private car allows tourists to explore many new routes, be proactive in discovering Đồng Nai's attractions and cuisine. However, when traveling within the province of Đồng Nai, tourists need to strictly adhere to the speed limits, follow the rules, and remember to carry their documents as there are many speed checkpoints here.

Đồng Nai also opens up many expressway routes (ST Photo)

Traveling around Đồng Nai

If using public transportation to get to Đồng Nai, you can explore Đồng Nai using various types of transportation available here.

• Renting a car

If you want the freedom to explore tourist destinations in Đồng Nai, you can rent a car for transportation. Tourists can inquire about rentals at the hotels, guesthouses where you stay, or at rental shops with signs indicating car rentals.

• Bus

Buses are a popular choice for many tourists because they are inexpensive, move quickly, and the bus system in Đồng Nai is extensive, allowing tourists to travel everywhere in the province.

• Taxi

Traveling by taxi is quite comfortable, convenient, and saves a lot of time, but the prices are expensive.

You can travel by taxi in Đồng Nai (Photo by ST)

Famous tourist destinations not to be missed in Đồng Nai

1. Chua Chan Mountain

• Address: Xuân Lộc District, Đồng Nai Province
• More details: https://www.mytour.vn/cam-nang/kinh-nghiem-leo-nui-chua-chan

Chua Chan Mountain, also known as Gia Ray Mountain, stands at an altitude of 800m above sea level, making it the second highest mountain in the Southern region and the Mekong Delta. This mountain is considered the 'spiritual land' in Đồng Nai due to the mysterious presence of water streams flowing day and night from the rock crevices, providing richness and lushness to the entire mountainous area.

A corner of Đồng Nai seen from Chứa Chan Mountain (Photo by ST)

Visiting Chứa Chan Mountain, tourists can explore Gia Lộc Pagoda and the twin-trunk banyan tree. For adventurous souls, trekking to the mountain peak, wandering through the forests, camping overnight, or cloud hunting in the early morning are exhilarating options.

Ascending to the mountain peak for cloud hunting is very exciting (Photo by ST)

2. Đá Hàn Waterfall

• Address: Hamlet 5, Song Trau Commune, Trang Bom Town, Trang Bom District, Dong Nai Province
• Ticket Price: 15,000 - 20,000 VND/person

Đá Hàn Waterfall sits amidst the orchards of local farmers, making the journey to explore the rock waterfall refreshing and fragrant. The waterfall carries the majestic appearance of nature, with a wild yet gentle and peaceful charm of the countryside in the summer days, helping you forget the daily hustle and bustle.

Đá Hàn Waterfall is a beautiful destination in Dong Nai (Photo by ST)

The sound of rushing water at the waterfall makes tourists feel one with nature, while the glistening white water creates a beautiful scene of the mountainous landscape. This is an ideal spot for camping and exploring in groups in Dong Nai. Prepare your food before arriving here and have a feast right by the stream at the foot of the waterfall.

Travelers can swim at the waterfall but should rent life jackets (Photo by ST)

3. Buu Long Tourist Area

• Address: Huynh Van Nghe Ward, Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province
• Ticket Price: From 20,000 - 40,000 VND

Buu Long Tourist Area covers an area of ​​about 84 hectares, built around a large artificial lake called Long An Lake, which is tens of hectares wide, located about 6km southwest of the city center.

The natural landscape at Buu Long, with its lakes, mountains, and trees, is likened to a miniature Halong Bay of Dong Nai. Here, there are high mountains, vast lakes, entertainment areas, swimming spots, and unique religious architecture.

The artificial lake is the highlight of Buu Long tourist area (Photo by St)

Visitors to Buu Long can not only explore many tourist attractions but also participate in various fun activities such as zip-lining, fishing, rowing, paddle boating, providing them with incredibly relaxing moments. Beside Buu Long tourist area are two low mountains, on which stands the famous Linh Son Tu Bao Long Pagoda. After enjoying Buu Long, visitors can climb the mountain to visit the pagoda, seeking tranquility and good fortune.

Camping and outdoor activities at the tourist area are extremely enjoyable (Photo by ST)

4. Nam Cat Tien National Park

• Address: Located within the territories of 3 provinces: Binh Phuoc, Lam Dong, and Tan Phu district

Nam Cat Tien National Park covers an area of about 74,300 hectares, recognized by UNESCO as one of the 6 largest biosphere reserves in the world. It is a vast mountainous forest area with a diverse and abundant system of vegetation, providing ample oxygen to regulate the air.

Here, you will discover landmarks such as Ben Cu Rapids, Mo Vet Waterfall, Heaven Falls - Rising Falls, botanical gardens, and eco-tourism...

The ecosystem in Nam Cat Tien National Park is incredibly diverse (photo by ST)

Nam Cat Tien National Park boasts an immensely rich plant system, with many rare species such as orchids, medicinal plants, and precious wood species...

Additionally, this place is home to many animal species such as pheasants, peacocks, wild boars, deer, and civets... and a vast lake area with various bird species and crocodiles called Bau Sau. The national park is a wonderful destination for nature lovers who want to appreciate the pristine beauty of the endless forests.

Walking through the forest, you'll encounter many fascinating discoveries (photo by ST)

5. Golden Scorpion Eco-tourism Area

– Address: Hamlet 3, Phuoc Khanh Commune, Nhon Trach District, Dong Nai Province

– Ticket Prices for Golden Scorpion Eco-tourism Area:

• Weekdays + weekends: 50,000 VND/adult, 25,000 VND/child
• Holidays: 60,000 VND/adult, 30,000 VND/child

Golden Scorpion Eco-tourism Area is surrounded by water on all four sides with an area of nearly 4 hectares. It boasts over 200 elevated bamboo huts and cottages accommodating over 2,000 visitors. Moreover, it mesmerizes tourists with the charming beauty of lush green nature, making it an ideal destination for those who love outdoor excursions and exploring the countryside scenery of Vietnam.

Golden Scorpion Eco-tourism Area – an enticing weekend getaway destination (Photo by ST)

Visitors to Golden Scorpion Eco-tourism Area can not only enjoy the sight of characteristic golden flowers spread throughout the tourist area but also immerse themselves in nature with various water-based activities typical of the riverine region. Tourists can freely indulge in underwater activities such as sliding, jumping on the water trampoline, water ball, etc. Experience the thrill of water sports with the unique Water Trampoline Jump, making its debut at the Golden Scorpion Eco-tourism Area, or engage in the exhilarating pursuit of canoe chase and water gun battles.

Water Trampoline Jump – an exciting and appealing activity for tourists (Photo by ST)

6. Mango Garden Tourism Area

• Address: 537 Đinh Quang Ân Street, Tan Cang Hamlet, Phuoc An Commune, Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province

Mango Garden Tourism Area covers an area of over 50 hectares, making it an ideal destination for visitors to explore the zoo, engage in outdoor activities, entertainment, relaxation, dining, and event organization. Upon arrival at Mango Garden Tourism Area, visitors feel like they are immersed in a vast wilderness, with winding narrow roads extending along streams, lush coconut palm trees, greenery, chirping birds, and the sound of murmuring streams blending together to create a peaceful and picturesque Mango Garden.

Ideal tourist destination Mango Garden Eco-tourism Area (Photo by ST)

When visiting, tourists not only immerse themselves in the wild natural world but also participate in various physical activities to relax and enhance their health.

After days of exhausting work and study, visitors should come to Mango Garden to enjoy engaging and exciting new games such as:

• Grass sliding.
• Ostrich riding.
• Elephant riding.
• Crocodile fishing.
• Paddling, Kayaking, Paintball…

Paddling is the most attractive activity for tourists (Photo by ST)

Dong Nai Specialties

1. Bien Hoa Fish Salad

Address: Restaurants along the Dong Nai River in Tan Mai Ward or Hiep Hoa Commune

Clustered along the riverbanks of Dong Nai, Bien Hoa fish salad has long been a specialty of this region. This dish simply consists of fish meat, broth, and various herbs, creating a rustic and distinctive local delicacy.

The ingredients for this dish are easy to find, just need fish such as: carp, catfish, or red tilapia, freshly sliced and marinated with spices like onions, garlic, lemongrass, and ginger to reduce the fishy smell. The secret lies in the delicious dipping sauce and fresh accompanying herbs, ensuring the fish remains fresh, resulting in a dish that is both fragrant and sweet.

Bien Hoa Specialty Fish Salad (Photo: ST)

2. Tan Trieu Pomelo

Address: Tan Binh Commune, Vinh Cuu District, Dong Nai

Tan Trieu Pomelo Village is famous for its long-standing tradition of pomelo cultivation, with lush pomelo orchards and various pomelo-based dishes and drinks such as pomelo salad and pomelo wine. Known for its sweet, juicy, and fragrant taste, Tan Trieu pomelo is renowned far and wide.

Every year, in the 4th and 5th lunar months, pomelo trees bloom with a fragrant scent throughout the village. From October to December is the pomelo season, attracting numerous buyers from the Mekong Delta, Eastern, and Central regions.

Tan Trieu Pomelo, a top-quality pomelo (Photo: ST)

3. Stir-fried Bat

Located around the Long Khanh fruit orchards

If you think bats are smelly and ugly creatures that can't be turned into a dish, then you must try this incredibly enticing specialty in Dong Nai. Bats of all sizes, from small to large, can be eaten, but larger bats have more meat and are more delicious.

People utilize bats from the fruit orchards to prepare various dishes, among which stir-fried bat is the most famous. After being caught, bats are cleaned and stir-fried to bring out a rich, sweet flavor.

Stir-fried bat, a unique and enticing dish (Photo: ST)

4. Wild Sapodilla Fruit

Sapodilla trees are tall, reaching up to ten meters in height. The fruit is not available every year; sometimes it takes two or three years to harvest, making the price quite high, ranging from 50,000 to 150,000 VND per kilogram. The wild sapodilla fruit looks small from the outside, each fruit only the size of a finger with wrinkled brown skin.

Before eating, it's advisable to soak the sapodilla fruit in water until it expands, then peel it and mix it with sugar water and basil seeds for a refreshing drink, which is quite effective in quenching thirst. If you're lucky enough to travel around April to June, you'll come across roadside vendors selling wild sapodilla fruit, so don't forget to taste the enticing flavor of this specialty in Dong Nai.

Wild sapodilla fruit is famous in Dong Nai (Photo: ST)

Where to Stay in Dong Nai?

In Dong Nai, there are plenty of accommodations ranging from budget to luxury hotels. Depending on the location and scale, the prices of accommodations vary. Before heading to Dong Nai, it's advisable to plan ahead to conveniently book your stay. Here are some quality accommodations you can consider:

1. Aurora Hotel

• Address: 253 Pham Van Thuan, Tan Mai Ward, Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province
• Room rates: From 2,800,000 VND per night
• Book your hotel room here.

This is a 4-star quality hotel with luxurious modern interiors and resort facilities such as hot tubs, children's pool, outdoor pool, gym... making it an attractive destination for travelers visiting Dong Nai.

4-star quality Aurora Hotel Dong Nai (Photo by ST)

2. Wanderer's Inn Guest House

• Address: 73A/5 Nguyen Ai Quoc Street, Tan Bien, Bien Hoa, Dong Nai
• Room rates: From 200,000 VND per night
• Book hotel room.

Finding Lữ Khách Quán might be a bit tricky, but once you arrive, you'll be warmly welcomed and served by the staff here, despite being only a 1-star quality guesthouse, many people are satisfied with the quality.

Guest House - an ideal resting place in Dong Nai (Photo by ST)

3. Gia Tu Guesthouse

Address: 163, KP4, Thong Nhat Ward, Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province

Gia Tu Guesthouse boasts a luxurious space with full amenities, airy, and clean... The newly built guesthouse features 20 rooms including 16 rooms with 1 double bed for 2 people, and 4 rooms with 2 beds equipped with full amenities to meet the needs of customers, tourists. Each guest room is equipped with air conditioning, fan, hot water machine to provide a comfortable feeling for guests when staying, as if they were in the privacy of their own home.

Gia Tu Guesthouse offers affordable prices for tourists (Photo by ST)

4. Green Bamboo Hotel

• Address: 104/04 Hoa Binh Hamlet, Giang Dien Commune, Trang Bom District, Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province
• Room rate: From 400,000 VND/night
• Book hotel rooms.

Green Bamboo Hotel features a garden, children's club, and tennis court, making it a perfect stop for families or sports enthusiasts who enjoy nature. However, the food here is slightly expensive.

In front of the rooms at Green Bamboo Hotel (Photo by ST)

5. Dương Châu Hotel

• Address: 10/36 Le Quy Don, Bien Hoa, Dong Nai Province
• Room rate: From 250,000 VND/night
• Book hotel rooms.

If you simply need a place to spend the night with fully equipped rooms, Dương Châu Hotel is the perfect choice for you. It's a budget-friendly hotel with good quality in Đồng Nai, favored by many.

The clean and airy bedroom design of Dương Châu Hotel (Photo by St)