Tourist’s banana stunt with wild monkeys ignites backlash in Vietnam
A foreign tourist has sparked controversy after using bananas to lure wild monkeys on Vietnam’s Sơn Trà Peninsula. The incident, captured on video, shows the man wrapping ripe fruit around his body to attract the animals—despite clear warnings against feeding them. Local authorities have now pledged stricter enforcement of wildlife protection rules.
The incident took place on January 18, when an unidentified tourist taped bananas to his torso on the Sơn Trà Peninsula in Đà Nẵng. The man’s actions drew the attention of wild monkeys, which approached to eat the fruit. Staff from a nearby resort quickly intervened, warning him to stop feeding the animals.
A local guard also confronted the tourist, ordering him to end the behaviour. After the confrontation, the man left the area on a motorbike. The scene was recorded and later shared online, prompting widespread debate over the disregard for wildlife protection regulations.
The peninsula already has multiple warning signs strictly prohibiting the feeding of monkeys. In response to this incident, the Management Board of the Sơn Trà Peninsula and Đà Nẵng’s tourist beaches announced plans to increase patrols. They will also enhance communication efforts to remind visitors of the rules.
The board’s measures aim to protect the peninsula’s natural ecosystem and uphold its reputation as a safe tourism destination. Stricter supervision and clearer reminders will now be enforced to prevent similar incidents. Visitors are expected to comply with regulations to avoid further disruptions to wildlife.
