The Dong Nai River is 586 km/364 miles long and originates northwest of Da Lat in the central highlands of southern Vietnam, and is the longest river entirely in the country. It flows south and southwest until it reaches the Thanh My District of Ho Chi Minh City, where it divides to become the Nha Be River and Long Tau River and ultimately ends in the East Sea.

The Dong Nai River travels through several provinces, including Lam Dong, Dak Nong, Binh Phuoc, Dong Nai, Binh Duong, and also serves as a natural border at Ho Chi Minh City at some points.

Activities by Song Dong Nai

Especially during the summer months, activities along the Dong Nai River are fun ways to spend time outdoors.

Long Thanh Golf Course

Long Thanh Golf Course. Photo: facebook.com/LongThanhGolfClub

Spend a day on the greens while teeing off on one of Vietnam’s finest golf courses, surrounded by nature and river views. Long Thanh Golf Course is a popular destination for getting some playtime in a luxurious location while enjoying the fresh air at the same time.

Wildlife Boat Tour

See the best side of Cat Tien Park by booking a wildlife boat tour on the Dong Nai River. The ride offers plenty of opportunities to see animals, plants, and birds while getting to sit comfortably on the viewing deck. Sunrise and sunset time slots are available and terrific for capturing some incredible photos of the Central Highlands.

The tour runs for about two hours and can be booked online or by contacting the Green Hope Lodge Nam Cat Tien.

Tri An Lake

Tri An Lake is a large body of water located on the Dong Nai River just northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. The lake offers plenty of its own outdoor activities on the river, with places to swim, boat, fish, hike, and camp. Several vacation rentals in this area can provide a “glamping” experience for some relaxation and a break from the busy city environment.

River Fishing

Dong Nai river. Photo: Prince Roy

There are many spots along the Dong Nai river to drop a line and do a little fishing. Several types of fish are present in the water, including catfish, black carp, Chinese bighead carp, red river giant catfish, and more.

District 9 in Ho Chi Minh City is a popular area for fishing along the riverbanks, but locals would suggest other spots too. Whether you want to book an organized fishing trip through a tour guide service or head out into the wild on your own, there are many opportunities to fish on the river.