Dive into the history of Con Dao Archipelago, Ho Chi Minh City’s storied islands! Explore prison sites, eco-tours, activities, and pricing with Legend Travel Group. Book your historical adventure now!
Capture the haunting essence of Con Dao’s historical gemCon Dao Archipelago, located in Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is a historical and ecological treasure attracting over 150,000 visitors annually, 230 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Con Dao, once part of Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, now falls under Ho Chi Minh City, renowned for its dark yet captivating history as a penal colony and its pristine natural beauty. The main island, Con Son, spans 76 km² across 16 sub-islands, with historical sites like Con Dao Prison and Hang Duong Cemetery offering a window into its past. Entry to historical sites costs $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND), with activities from $2–$15, making Con Dao ideal for history buffs and eco-tourists seeking a meaningful escape.
Set in a tropical climate (dry season: November–April, 25–32°C or 77–90°F; rainy season: May–October, 26–34°C or 79–93°F), Con Dao blends its historical significance with eco-friendly initiatives, such as solar-powered facilities and turtle conservation, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s “Green Metropolis” vision. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours immerse you in Con Dao’s past and present, ensuring a responsible journey. Book via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s streamlined administrative system now operates at province/city and commune/ward levels, merging Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City. Con Dao is part of Vung Tau Ward, simplifying navigation with updated ward-based maps.
With over 17 years leading sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, Legend Travel Group crafts eco-friendly tours to Con Dao, blending historical exploration with natural beauty. Our low-impact transport, like electric shuttles and boats, paired with English-speaking guides, delves into Con Dao’s colonial history, ecology, and green practices. Supporting local communities, we align with Ho Chi Minh City’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and explore Con Dao responsibly!
Experience Con Dao Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Con Dao Archipelago, 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, is anchored by Con Son Island, infamous as a penal colony from 1862 to 1975 under French and later American control. Known as “hell on earth,” it detained over 20,000 prisoners, primarily Vietnamese independence fighters, in brutal conditions within “tiger cages” at Phu Hai and Phu Binh Prisons. Sites like Hang Duong Cemetery, with 2,000 unmarked graves, and Vo Thi Sau’s memorial honor the fallen. Today, Con Dao’s preserved prisons and museums, alongside Con Dao National Park’s 80% protected ecosystems, offer a poignant blend of history and conservation. Sustainable practices, including biodegradable materials and local employment, make Con Dao a model of eco-tourism, drawing visitors to reflect on its past while enjoying its serene beaches and coral reefs.
These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$15, immerse you in Con Dao’s history and nature:
Explore Phu Hai Prison’s “tiger cages” at 9:00 AM for $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND), learning about colonial-era captivity from local guides.
Cost: $2–$3.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local historians; avoid littering.
Tip: Wear modest clothing; included in Legend Travel Group’s Con Dao Historical Eco-Tour ($60–$90).
Pay respects at Hang Duong Cemetery at 8:00 AM, free, with guided tours for $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND), honoring 2,000 prisoners.
Cost: Free; tours $2–$4.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Tours fund maintenance; respect memorials.
Tip: Visit Vo Thi Sau’s grave; included in Con Dao Historical Eco-Tour ($60–$90).
Discover artifacts and prisoner stories at Con Dao Museum, best at 10:00 AM, for $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Cost: $2–$3.
Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports preservation; use reusable bags.
Tip: Pair with prison tours; included in Con Dao Historical Eco-Tour ($60–$90).
Snorkel Bay Canh’s reefs, near former prison routes, at 8:00 AM for $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND), blending history with nature.
Cost: $10–$15.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use reef-safe sunscreen; tours support conservation.
Tip: Book via National Park; included in Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120).
Rent bicycles for $3–$5/day (75,000–125,000 VND) to visit prison sites and memorials, best at 8:00 AM, along Con Son’s 20-km paths.
Cost: $3–$5.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Bikes reduce emissions; stay on trails.
Tip: Start at Ton Duc Thanh Street; carry water.
Learn Con Dao’s historical legacy with expert insights (Source: Internet)Visit from November to April for dry weather (25–32°C or 77–90°F), ideal for exploring historical sites and cycling. The rainy season (May–October) offers quieter visits (2,000–5,000 daily visitors vs. 10,000–20,000 in peak season), but showers may affect outdoor tours. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) are less crowded than weekends, especially during Tet (January/February). Early mornings (7:00–10:00 AM) provide cooler temperatures for prison visits, while evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) suit reflective cemetery tours.
Con Dao, in Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is 230 km from District 1, accessible by air or sea:
By Flight: Vietnam Airlines from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Con Dao Airport (45 min, $80–$120 or 2,000,000–3,000,000 VND one-way), then taxi to Con Son (15 km, $3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND). Round-trip: $160–$250 (4,000,000–6,250,000 VND).
By Ferry (Con Dao Express): High-speed ferry from District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, to Con Son (4.5 hours, $30–$40 or 750,000–1,000,000 VND one-way; weekdays: $30, weekends: $40). Departs 8:00 AM; returns 1:30 PM. Round-trip: $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).
By Private Tour (Legend Travel Group): Flight or ferry with transfers, $100–$150 (2,500,000–3,750,000 VND)/person for 20+ people, including guide.
From Vung Tau Ward: Ferry from Vung Tau Port (3.5 hours, $25–$35 or 625,000–875,000 VND one-way). Round-trip: $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND). Navigation Tip: Save “Con Son, Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow airport/port signs. Parking: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Ferries and group tours reduce emissions; avoid single-use plastics on boats.
Safety: Secure valuables; confirm ferry schedules. Flights may be weather-dependent.
Seize the profound spirit of Con Dao Travel (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:
Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes for historical sites; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; modest attire for prisons.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, hat.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, notebook for reflections, camera for historical shots.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Snacks for tours; cash for small vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for entry ($2–$3) or snacks ($1–$3); secure valuables at sites.
Entry and Activity Fees
Phu Hai Prison: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Hang Duong Cemetery Tour: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).
Con Dao Museum: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Snorkeling Tour: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Bicycle Rental: $3–$5/day (75,000–125,000 VND).
Local Snacks (Bánh Mì, Seafood): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Drinks (Water, Coconut): $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).
Souvenirs (Historical Crafts): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from District 1)
Flight: $160–$250 (4,000,000–6,250,000 VND).
Ferry (Con Dao Express): $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).
Private Tour: $100–$150 (2,500,000–3,750,000 VND)/person.
Airport/Port Taxi: $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND).
Parking: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$35 (ferry, snacks, prison entry).
Mid-range: $50–$80 (flight, guided tour, activities).
Luxury: $120–$200 (private tour, premium lodging).
Tip: Budget for activities ($2–$15) and transport ($60–$250); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).
Begin your Con Dao Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)Timing: Visit at 7:00–10:00 AM for cooler weather; November–April for dry conditions. Weekdays for fewer crowds (2,000–5,000 vs. 10,000–20,000 on weekends). Avoid Tet for quieter sites.
Booking: Buy prison/museum tickets on-site; reserve guided tours via Con Dao National Park or Legend Travel Group 24–48 hours ahead. Confirm ferry/flight schedules.
Sustainability: Support local guides; use reusable bottles. Buy souvenirs from local vendors ($2–$5).
Navigation: Save “Con Son, Vung Tau Ward” in offline maps; ask locals at port/airport for directions. Avoid night travel due to limited lighting.
Safety: Secure valuables; respect historical sites. Check weather for ferry travel; carry a flashlight for evening tours.
Weather: Dry season for safe site visits; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and waterproof bags ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at prisons/cemeteries (cover shoulders); greet locals with “xin chào.” Avoid loud conversations at memorials.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Our eco-friendly tours highlight Con Dao’s historical and natural legacy:
Con Dao Historical Eco-Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Flight or ferry to Con Son for Phu Hai Prison, Hang Duong Cemetery, and Con Dao Museum, with local lunch ($3–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120/person, 1 day): Historical sites plus Bay Canh snorkeling and Dam Trau Beach. Includes meals, guide.
Ho Chi Minh City & Con Dao Odyssey ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Con Dao’s history, Mekong Delta, and Cu Chi Tunnels with homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Con Dao Archipelago, a historical haven in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Region, Ho Chi Minh City, located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ben Thanh Ward, captivates over 150,000 visitors annually with its haunting past as a penal colony. Explore the tiger cages of Phu Hai Prison ($1–$2 entry, 25,000–50,000 VND) and the solemn graves of Hang Duong Cemetery, where revolutionary martyrs rest, preserved through sustainable practices like local conservation efforts. Legend Travel Group’s Con Dao Tours guide you through this reflective journey, ensuring a green, immersive Con Dao Travel experience with activities like touring prisons, cycling to memorials, and visiting Dam Trau Beach. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to uncover the history of Con Dao Archipelago? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a transformative historical escape!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Con Dao History Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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