Con Dao Vietnam has gained popularity not only for its rich historical significance but also for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors to Con Dao island are greeted by warm tropical breezes, pristine beaches, and numerous historical landmarks. This comprehensive travel guide to Con Dao trip will equip you with all the information you need for a memorable vacation.
Where is Con Dao island?
Con Dao Archipelago, located off the coast of Ba Ria – Vung Tau, is a stunning collection of 16 islands, with Con Son Island being the largest. Situated approximately 185 kilometers from Vung Tau, 230 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, and 83 kilometers from Can Tho, this pristine archipelago offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. With well-developed tourism infrastructure, Con Dao trip has become popular for both leisure travelers and those seeking a deeper connection with Vietnam’s past.
Con Dao Archipelago
What is the best time for a Con Dao trip?
The ideal time for a Con Dao trip is from March to September. Although it’s still the rainy season, the seas are calm, especially on the eastern and northeastern islands. Days in Con Dao island are sunny and perfect for snorkeling and photography. While evenings often bring short showers, making it a great time to explore the historical sites on the main island.
The ideal time for a Con Dao
July to September is the peak season for sea turtle nesting, offering a unique wildlife experience in Con Dao trip. The rest of the year, from October to March, is the windy season with rough seas in Con Son Bay, Con Dao Vietnam. However, the western and southwestern parts of the main island remain calm and sunny, providing alternative destinations.
How to get to Con Dao?
Traveling to Con Dao by Air
Flying is the quickest way for a Con Dao trip. Here are some popular airlines and routes:
- Bamboo Airways: Offers direct flights from Hanoi to Con Dao, taking approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Vietnam Airlines: Provides direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho to Con Dao. These flights typically take around 50 minutes.
Traveling to Con Dao by Air
Traveling to Con Dao by Sea
If you prefer a more leisurely journey, you can experience Con Dao ferry. Here are some popular ferry terminal for Con Dao trip:
- Vung Tau: Many tourists opt for a bus to Vung Tau followed by a 5-hour ferry ride to Con Dao.
- Tran De Port (Soc Trang): This route is shorter, taking only 2 hours, and is a more popular choice for those coming from the Mekong Delta region.
Traveling to Con Dao by Sea
What to do on a Con Dao trip?
The Con Dao Islands, a group of 14 islands such as Hon Trung, Hon Cau, Hon Ba, Hon Bay Canh, Hon Bong Lan, Hon Tre, Hon Troc, and Hon Trung, are renowned for their natural beauty. This interconnected island system is home to numerous pristine beaches, offering visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate. So what can you do on a Con Dao trip?
1. Visiting Con Dao Prison – A Historical Witness
Before 1975, Con Dao was one of the most feared and mysterious prisons in the world, housing political prisoners captured by the French and American governments. Built by the French, Con Dao Prison includes Phu Hai Prison, the tiger cages, the cow cages, Phu Phong Camp, and Phu Tuong Camp. Today, the prison remains remarkably well-preserved and offers visitors on a Con Dao trip a glimpse into the harsh realities of the past.
Con Dao Prison
2. Admiring the ocean’s beauty of Con Dao
Con Dao trip offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Vietnam’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems. The national park is home to nearly 1,800 hectares of coral reefs, supporting approximately 400 species. Visitors can embark on boat trips to islands like Hon Tai, Hon Bay Canh, Hon Cau, and Dam Tre Bay to snorkel or dive among these colorful reefs. With the guidance of experienced instructors, you can discover the hidden beauty of the underwater world and encounter a variety of marine life.
Con Dao ocean’s beauty
3. Night squid fishing in Con Dao trip
Night squid fishing has become a popular activity for backpackers on Con Dao trips. Typically, fishing boats depart around 5 pm as darkness falls and return a few hours later. Embarking on a fishing trip at sunset, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the ocean and the thrill of reeling in their catch. The freshly caught squid can be prepared and enjoyed right on the boat, either as ceviche or grilled.
Night squid fishing on Con Dao trips
4. Discovering a hidden paradise on Con Dao trip
One of the highlights of any Con Dao trip is exploring the smaller islands by boat. The An Thoi Archipelago, located in the southeastern part of Phu Quoc, is a must-visit for those seeking a more secluded and pristine experience. These islands boast stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine ecosystems, making them a paradise for nature lovers.
An Thoi Archipelago
5. Exploring Dam Trau Beach – Con Dao’s most beautiful beach
Dam Trau Beach, often hailed as Con Dao’s most beautiful, boasts crystal-clear waters, soft sandy shores, and dramatic cliffs on either side. The lush greenery that surrounds the beach adds to its natural charm, creating a truly stunning coastal landscape. This is no doubt one of the best destinations on a Con Dao trip, providing a stunning backdrop for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing.
Dam Trau Beach, Con Dao
This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need for an unforgettable Con Dao trip. Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Con Dao!