Dong Tam Snake Farm

Dong Tam Snake Farm (Trại Rắn Đồng Tâm) is a wildlife conservation, research and tourism facility in Dong Thap Province, known for its collection of venomous and non-venomous snakes. Established in 1977, the facility was originally developed to research snake venom and produce antivenom while also treating people bitten by snakes. Over time, it expanded into a larger centre for animal conservation, scientific research and public education. Today, the farm offers visitors an unusual opportunity to learn about snakes and other local wildlife while seeing how venomous species are managed in a controlled environment.

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Overview

• Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DXTqCmxMcMaMECMK9
• Address: Kim Son, Dong Thap
• Province: Dong Thap Province
• Category: Wildlife conservation, research and tourism facility
• Opening Hours: Information is currently unclear.
• Entrance Fee: Information is currently unclear.
• Visit Duration: About 1-2 hours
• Best For: Wildlife, snakes, science, families and educational visits

Pronunciation

Trại Rắn Đồng Tâm

Why Visit Dong Tam Snake Farm

Dong Tam Snake Farm is different from a conventional zoo because its history is closely connected with medical research and the treatment of snakebite. The facility allows visitors to see several species of snakes while learning about venom, antivenom and the practical challenges of handling dangerous reptiles. It is therefore particularly suitable for travellers interested in wildlife and science rather than simply looking for an animal attraction.

Things To Do

See Venomous Snakes

The farm keeps several species of venomous snakes found in Vietnam. Enclosures are designed to keep the animals separated from visitors while allowing them to be observed at close range. Information displays help explain their characteristics and behaviour.

Learn About Snake Venom

One of the most distinctive aspects of the farm is its connection with venom research. Visitors can learn about the effects of snake venom and the importance of antivenom in treating serious snakebite cases. This gives the attraction an educational dimension that goes beyond wildlife viewing.

Explore the Animal Collection

Although snakes are the main focus, the facility also houses other animals, including crocodiles, turtles and selected species of birds and mammals. The collection provides a broader introduction to wildlife found in southern Vietnam.

Observe Different Snake Habitats

The farm presents snakes in different types of enclosures according to their characteristics and living environments. Observing species with different sizes, colours and behaviours can help visitors understand the diversity of snakes found in Vietnam.

Visit the Research and Conservation Areas

Parts of the facility are connected with animal care, conservation and scientific work. While not every research area is accessible to tourists, the overall layout demonstrates that the site has a function beyond tourism.

History

Dong Tam Snake Farm was established in 1977 under the management of the Military Region 9 medical system. Its initial purpose was closely linked to the medical problems caused by snakebites in the Mekong Delta. Researchers worked with snake venom and developed antivenom products, while the facility also treated patients suffering from snakebite.

As its activities expanded, Dong Tam became an important centre for research, conservation and breeding of snakes and other animals. The facility gradually opened its doors to visitors, creating a public space where people could observe wildlife and learn about the scientific work associated with venomous animals.

The farm's medical history remains an important part of its identity. Rather than keeping snakes solely as exhibits, the facility developed around the practical need to understand venom and reduce the consequences of snakebite. This combination of medical research, animal management and public education distinguishes Dong Tam from many conventional wildlife attractions.

Wildlife and Environment

The farm is situated in the Mekong Delta, where warm temperatures and abundant waterways create suitable conditions for a wide range of reptiles and other wildlife. Its collection includes both venomous and non-venomous snakes, representing different ecological adaptations. Other animals kept at the facility add to the diversity of the site and provide visitors with a broader view of regional fauna.

Best Time to Visit

Dong Tam Snake Farm can be visited throughout the year. Because most of the experience takes place within managed enclosures and buildings, weather is less important than it is for outdoor nature attractions. Morning visits can be a comfortable choice, particularly when travelling with children or combining the farm with other attractions around My Tho and the Mekong Delta.

How to Get There

Dong Tam Snake Farm is located near My Tho and can be reached by road from the city centre. Private vehicles, taxis and organized tours are practical options. The farm can be included in a wider Mekong Delta itinerary together with other attractions around My Tho and the surrounding countryside.

Travel Tips

• Follow all safety instructions and do not attempt to touch or approach the animals.
• Keep children close to adults when viewing venomous species.
• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear for walking around the facility.
• Do not feed animals unless feeding is specifically permitted by staff.
• Photography rules may vary between different areas, so follow local instructions.
• Allow around one to two hours for a general visit.

FAQ

Conclusion

Dong Tam Snake Farm combines wildlife conservation with a long history of medical and scientific research, making it an unusual attraction in the Mekong Delta. Its collection of snakes and other animals provides an accessible introduction to local wildlife, while its work with venom and antivenom explains why the facility has played an important role beyond tourism for decades.

Nearby attractions

(Distances shown are straight-line estimates, not actual travel distance.)

• Thoi Son Island - Canals, Orchards and River Life (about 3 km south)
• Rach Gam Xoai Mut Historical Site - The 1785 Battle Between Tay Son and Siamese Forces (about 7 km southwest)
• Lan Vuong Tourist Area - Gardens, Canals and Rural Games (about 18 km southeast)
• Vĩnh Long Pottery Village - The Red Kilns of Mang Thit (about 29 km southwest)
• Cai Be Floating Market and Tan Phong Islet - Orchards, Canals and River Culture (about 30 km west)
• Vo Van Kiet Memorial Site and Vung Linh Lake - History in Vung Liem (about 32 km south)

• Dong Thap Travel Guide