What is Dai Nam Park?
The official name of the complex is Lạc Cảnh Đại Nam Văn Hiến, though most people simply call it Dai Nam Park or Dai Nam Tourist Complex. Opened in 2008, it was built on a massive 450-hectare site in Binh Duong with the ambition of becoming Vietnam’s largest theme park.
Inside the grounds you’ll find a bit of everything: a large amusement park with rides, a 12.5-hectare open zoo, an artificial sea with wave pools, cultural temples, a man-made mountain range, a shopping area, and even hotels and campgrounds. It was designed as an all-in-one leisure destination, especially for families and big groups.
For foreign travelers, it’s important to set expectations. Dai Nam Park is hugely popular with Vietnamese visitors but less of a must-see for international tourists. The attractions lean more toward domestic tastes, with a mix of patriotic monuments, kid-friendly rides, and record-breaking “largest of Vietnam” features. If you’re looking for authentic culture or natural landscapes, this is not the place. But if you want a break from sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City and have kids who just want a fun day out, it can be worth the trip.
Dai Nam Open Zoo
Overview
The Dai Nam Open Zoo covers about 12.5 hectares and is known as Vietnam’s first open-style zoo. Instead of traditional cages, animals are separated from visitors by streams, moats, or landscaped barriers. The collection includes more than 70 species, ranging from giraffes, hippos, and lions to more unusual residents like white tigers, white peacocks, and white hippos.
Unique features
- Rare animals: The zoo is particularly proud of its white animals, which are rarely seen in Vietnam.
- Open concept: Enclosures are larger than in most Vietnamese zoos, giving some animals more space.
- Night zoo option: Dai Nam offers Vietnam’s first “night zoo,” where visitors can tour after dark to see nocturnal behavior — something uncommon in the country.
Honest impressions
While the scale is impressive for Vietnam, the zoo is not up to international standards. Some animals, especially elephants and bears, appear to live in isolation or cramped conditions, and reviews often mention concerns about welfare. If you’ve visited major zoos in Europe or the US, expectations should be adjusted.
Practical Tips
- Size: The zoo is big — renting a bicycle or electric cart makes getting around easier.
- Tickets: Entrance fees are cash only, so bring Vietnamese dong.
- Timing: Early mornings are quieter and cooler, making it easier to explore before crowds and heat build up.
- Facilities: Shade and rest areas are available, but food options inside are basic.
Dai Nam Temple & Cultural Zone
Overview
At the heart of the complex lies the Dai Nam Van Hien Temple, a sprawling 5,000 m² structure modeled after the grand imperial temples of Hue. Surrounding it are monumental constructions such as Bao Son Mountain, a lotus-shaped flag tower, and a long wall inspired by the Great Wall of China. This part of the park was designed as a cultural and historical showcase rather than just entertainment.
Symbolism & Monuments
- Altars to national heroes: Inside the temple are altars honoring key figures in Vietnamese history, including Ho Chi Minh, Tran Hung Dao, and the Trung Sisters.
- Bao Son Mountain: At 65 meters tall and 250 meters long, this man-made mountain is the largest of its kind in Vietnam. It represents the five elements (metal, wood, water, fire, earth) and includes towers and statues.
- Lotus flag tower: A 9-meter-high flagpole designed in the shape of a lotus, symbolizing purity and patriotism.
- Enclosure wall: The 13.5-kilometer wall surrounding the complex adds to the sense of scale and is styled to resemble historical fortifications.
Honest Impressions
For many Vietnamese visitors, this zone holds spiritual and patriotic meaning. For foreign travelers, however, it may feel more like a monumental display than a deeply cultural site. The temple and mountain are visually striking, but the atmosphere is more that of a modern-built attraction than a historical heritage site. If you’re expecting ancient architecture, this part of the park can feel artificial.
Practical Tips
- Dress respectfully when entering temple areas, even though it’s inside a theme park.
- Expect lots of walking between the monuments — wear comfortable shoes.
- Visiting in the morning or late afternoon avoids the hottest part of the day, as shade is limited in open areas.
- If short on time, the temple and Bao Son Mountain are the most distinctive features to prioritize.
Amusement Park & Attractions
Overview
The amusement park area of Dai Nam is designed to rival places like Suoi Tien or VinWonders, with a mix of thrill rides, family-friendly games, and themed zones. Spread across a large section of the complex, it includes roller coasters, racing tracks, water rides, and even a winter-themed play zone.
Main attractions
- Roller coasters & F1 racing: The park features several coasters, including a horizontal roller coaster and a racing-style track that mimics Formula 1, adding a bit of adrenaline to the otherwise family-oriented vibe.
- Water rides & boat crashes: Classic amusement park staples where visitors can cool off while navigating splash zones or deliberately colliding bumper boats.
- Themed zones: Dinosaur-themed play areas, haunted houses, and jungle-inspired rides provide variety for kids.
- Snow World: A unique feature in Vietnam — this artificial winter environment is kept at 3–5°C, where you can try simple snow activities like skiing or snow play. Gloves and hats are recommended as it feels surprisingly cold.
- 4D cinema: Shows short animated films with motion seats and effects, a fun distraction for younger visitors.
- Ngu Lan Palace (18 levels of hell): A Buddhist-inspired walkthrough that takes you past dramatic dioramas depicting punishments of the afterlife. It’s kitschy and unusual, but can be memorable.
- Ferris wheel & family rides: A more relaxed option for younger children or those who don’t enjoy thrill rides.
Honest impressions
The amusement park offers plenty of variety, but it’s not on the same modern level as VinWonders in Nha Trang or Phu Quoc. Rides can feel dated, and some areas may not be fully maintained. That said, kids and families still tend to enjoy it — especially Snow World, which is a novelty in tropical Vietnam. For adults traveling without children, this section may feel skippable.
Practical tips
- Most rides have separate fees (usually 30,000–100,000 VND each), so budget accordingly.
- The haunted house and Ngu Lan Palace are more about spectacle than real scares — suitable even for older kids.
- Weekdays are calmer; weekends often see long lines at the most popular rides.
Dai Nam Beach (Artificial Sea)
Overview
One of the standout features of Dai Nam Park is its artificial sea, covering about 22 hectares and promoted as the largest in Vietnam. Built with imported technology from Scotland and Sweden, it recreates a seaside experience complete with white sand, palm trees, and wave machines. The capacity is enormous, with space for up to 30,000 people at peak times.
Features
- Artificial waves: The wave machines can generate swells up to 1.6 meters high, making the pool feel more like the ocean than a swimming pool.
- White sand beach: A long stretch of soft sand surrounds the pool, giving the impression of a real coastal beach.
- Facilities: Changing rooms, shaded areas, and snack stalls are located nearby. Lifeguards are usually present, though safety standards may not match international resorts.
Honest Impressions
For families with children, the artificial sea can be the highlight of a visit. Kids enjoy the waves, and the beach-like setting is a novelty so close to Ho Chi Minh City. That said, the atmosphere depends heavily on timing: weekends and holidays can feel overcrowded, while weekdays are much quieter. Don’t expect the cleanliness or ambiance of Vietnam’s real beaches — it’s more of a large water park pool with sand around it.
Practical Tips
- Arrive early: Mornings are calmer, and the water is cleaner before the big crowds arrive.
- No re-entry: Once you leave the beach area, you can’t return on the same ticket. Plan your visit accordingly.
- Bring swimwear & towels: Rentals are limited, and buying inside can be more expensive.
- Family focus: This attraction is best suited for kids — adults may find it less impressive compared to Vietnam’s real coastal destinations.
Other facilities
Go-Kart Track
Dai Nam features one of the largest go-kart racing tracks in Vietnam, designed for both casual visitors and group events. The track layout is long and technical, offering a rare chance to experience motorsport-style driving in the country. It’s a popular choice for those seeking something more adrenaline-fueled than the standard rides.
Campground
The park also includes a camping area, set in a shaded part of the grounds with small cottages and plenty of space for tents or hammocks. A nearby lake and tree cover make it a relatively relaxing spot for visitors who want to spend more time outdoors without leaving the complex.
Dai Nam Great Wall Hotel
For overnight stays, the Dai Nam Great Wall Hotel provides accommodations directly inside the park. Its design blends elements of the Hue Citadel and Co Loa Fortress, giving it a fortress-like appearance. The hotel caters mostly to domestic guests, but staying here makes it easy to explore the park over two days.
Shopping & Dining
Within the complex, there are several shopping and dining areas. Most food options are Vietnamese and family-oriented, ranging from simple noodle dishes to snacks and drinks. English is not widely used, so ordering may require some pointing and gestures. Shops sell souvenirs, clothing, and small toys, adding to the “theme park” feel rather than offering anything unique to the region.
How to get there from Ho Chi Minh City
By Car or Taxi
The fastest and most convenient way is to go by private car or taxi, which takes about 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic. A one-way trip usually costs between 600,000 and 900,000 VND. For families or groups, this is the easiest option since you can head directly to the park without transfers.
By motorbike
For independent travelers, going by motorbike is possible, following National Highway 13 north out of Ho Chi Minh City. The ride is around 35–40 km, but traffic can be heavy, especially near Binh Duong. It’s best for confident riders who are used to Vietnamese roads.
By bus
Budget travelers can take bus No. 616 from Ben Thanh Bus Station, which runs directly to Dai Nam. Tickets cost only a fraction of a taxi, but the journey is longer and less comfortable, with frequent stops along the way.
Traffic considerations
On weekends and holidays, traffic is noticeably heavier, especially between 9:00 and 11:00 am. Leaving early in the morning is the best way to avoid delays and to enjoy the park before the crowds arrive.
Tips for visiting Dai Nam Park
Avoiding Ccrowds
The park can get very busy on weekends and holidays. For a calmer experience, visit on weekdays and aim to arrive early in the morning.
Exploring the Zoo
The zoo covers a large area, so renting a bicycle or electric cart will save time and energy. Bring your own water as walking under the sun can be tiring.
Visiting the Artificial Sea
If you plan to swim, it’s best to go early in the day when the water is cleaner and there’s more space. Keep in mind that there is no re-entry once you leave the beach area.
Food & Drinks
Dining options inside the park are limited and basic, with mostly local dishes. If you’re picky or traveling with children, it’s wise to bring some snacks or light food with you.
Clothing & Comfort
Wear light clothing suitable for hot weather, but pack gloves and a hat if you plan to enter Snow World — the temperature inside drops to just a few degrees above freezing. Comfortable shoes are also recommended, as the complex involves a lot of walking.
Language
Most signage and staff communication are in Vietnamese. A translation app or some basic Vietnamese phrases will be helpful.
Animal welfare
The zoo does not match Western standards, and some enclosures may feel small or sparse. Keep expectations realistic — it’s more about the novelty of seeing exotic animals in Vietnam than about conservation-focused practices.
Is Dai Nam Park worth visiting?
For families with kids or expats living in Vietnam, Dai Nam Park can be a fun break from the city. The mix of a zoo, water park, rides, and cultural displays means there’s enough variety to fill a day, and children especially will find plenty to enjoy.
For international tourists focused on Vietnam’s culture, history, or natural landscapes, Dai Nam Park is not a must. The temples and monuments here are modern recreations, and the overall atmosphere leans more toward a large domestic amusement park than an authentic cultural site.
As a recommendation: if you are already based in Ho Chi Minh City and want to give your kids a different kind of outing, it can be worth the trip. Otherwise, for limited time in Vietnam, there are many other destinations that better represent the country’s culture and scenery.
