Learn how to get to Con Dao Island from Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau Ward with updated ferry/flight prices, schedules, and eco-friendly travel tips. Book sustainable tours with Legend Travel Group!
Photograph the aerial allure of Con Dao’s biodiversityCon Dao Island, part of the Con Dao Archipelago in Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is a breathtaking eco-destination attracting over 150,000 visitors annually, located 230 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Con Dao, formerly under Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, is now within Ho Chi Minh City, offering pristine beaches, coral reefs, and Con Dao National Park’s lush forests. The main island, Con Son, spans 76 km² across 16 sub-islands, with 80% protected, hosting unique species like the Con Dao black squirrel and sea turtles. With free beach access and activities costing $2–$15 (50,000–375,000 VND), Con Dao is a haven for nature lovers, history buffs, and eco-tourists seeking a sustainable 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 embraces eco-friendly practices like solar-powered resorts and turtle conservation, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s “Green Metropolis” vision. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours make reaching and exploring Con Dao seamless, ensuring a responsible journey. Book via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative system now operates at province/city and commune/ward levels, merging Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City. Con Dao falls under Vung Tau Ward, simplifying navigation with ward-based maps and signage.
With over 17 years leading sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, Legend Travel Group offers eco-friendly tours to Con Dao, combining seamless travel logistics with cultural and natural immersion. Our low-impact transport options, like electric shuttles and eco-boats, paired with English-speaking guides, highlight Con Dao’s ecology, history, 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 hassle-free experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and travel to Con Dao responsibly!
Capture the scenic gateway to Con Dao’s eco-haven (Source: Internet)Con Dao Island, in Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is 230 km from District 1 and 190 km from Vung Tau Ward, accessible by air, sea, or private tours. Below are the most reliable and sustainable travel options, with updated pricing and schedules:
Details: Vietnam Airlines operates 9–15 daily flights from Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) to Con Dao Airport (VCS, also called Co Ong Airport), a 45-minute journey. From the airport, a 15-km taxi ride to Con Son town costs $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).
Cost: One-way: $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND); round-trip: $160–$250 (4,000,000–6,250,000 VND). Prices peak March–September; book October–December for lower fares.
Schedule: Flights depart hourly from 6:00 AM–6:00 PM. Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance, especially during holidays, as seats fill quickly.
Eco-Friendly Note: Opt for airlines with fuel-efficient aircraft; minimize plastic waste on flights.
Tip: Use Vietnam Airlines’ website or Legend Travel Group for bookings; arrive 40 minutes early to avoid delays.
Details: Phu Quoc Express operates direct high-speed ferries from Nha Rong Port (District 4) to Ben Dam Port (Con Son), a 5-hour journey. A taxi from Ben Dam to Con Son town (10 km) costs $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).
Cost: One-way: $40–$50 (1,000,000–1,250,000 VND); round-trip: $80–$100 (2,000,000–2,500,000 VND). Economy: $40; VIP: $50. Weekends may cost more.
Schedule: Departs 8:00 AM daily; returns 1:30 PM. Check schedules in advance, as rough seas (November–February) may cause cancellations.
Eco-Friendly Note: Ferries reduce emissions compared to older boats; avoid single-use plastics onboard.
Tip: Book via Baolau or Legend Travel Group; arrive 40 minutes early. Seas are calmest March–July.
Details: Phu Quoc Express ferries depart from Ben Da Port (Vung Tau) to Ben Dam Port (Con Son), taking 3.5–4 hours. A taxi from Ben Dam to Con Son town costs $3–$5.
Cost: One-way: $35–$45 (875,000–1,125,000 VND); round-trip: $70–$90 (1,750,000–2,250,000 VND). Economy: $35; business class: $45. Children (6–11) and seniors: $25–$30 (625,000–750,000 VND).
Schedule: Departs 8:00 AM daily; additional 7:00 AM service in summer (June–August). Returns 1:30 PM. Confirm schedules, as windy season (November–March) may disrupt service.
Eco-Friendly Note: Modern ferries use fuel-efficient engines; support local operators to sustain eco-tourism.
Tip: Book via Con Dao Dive Center or Legend Travel Group; avoid Ben Dam Port if mobility is limited.
Details: Southern Helicopter Company offers private flights from Vung Tau Airport to Con Son Airport, a 60-minute journey, with 2 weekly flights (Fridays and Sundays, 1:30 PM–2:30 PM).
Cost: $200–$300/person (5,000,000–7,500,000 VND), depending on group size (4–6 passengers).
Schedule: Limited to Fridays and Sundays; book 2–4 weeks in advance via travel agents.
Eco-Friendly Note: Less sustainable due to high fuel use; offset with eco-activities like beach cleanups.
Tip: Ideal for luxury travelers; contact Legend Travel Group for bookings.
Details: Includes flight or ferry from Ho Chi Minh City or Vung Tau Ward, with private transfers to Con Son town, guided tours, and eco-friendly transport.
Cost: $100–$150/person (2,500,000–3,750,000 VND) for groups of 20+, including guide and fees.
Schedule: Customizable; departs daily with 24–48 hours’ notice.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group tours reduce per-person emissions; includes sustainable activities like turtle-watching.
Tip: Book 24–48 hours ahead for tailored itineraries; includes airport/port transfers.
Details: Take a bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Soc Trang (209 km, 3.5 hours), then a Superdong or Phu Quoc Express speedboat from Tran De Port to Ben Dam Port (2–2.5 hours). Taxi from Ben Dam to Con Son: $3–$5.
Cost: Bus: $7–$10 (175,000–250,000 VND); speedboat: $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND). Total round-trip: $44–$60 (1,100,000–1,500,000 VND).
Schedule: Buses depart hourly 6:00 AM–7:00 PM; speedboats depart 8:00 AM. Check for weather-related cancellations.
Eco-Friendly Note: Buses and speedboats are low-impact; use reusable water bottles.
Tip: Book bus via FUTA or speedboat via Baolau; not ideal for tight schedules due to transfers.
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: Choose flights or ferries over helicopters; join Legend Travel Group’s group tours to minimize impact. Safety: Secure valuables; confirm schedules, as weather (November–February) may cause delays. Arrive 40 minutes early for ferries/flights.
Con Dao’s Con Son Island is compact (14 km long), with flat terrain in Con Son town and hilly coastal roads. Here are eco-friendly ways to explore:
Bicycle: Rent for $3–$5/day (75,000–125,000 VND) at Ton Duc Thanh Street. Ideal for town, prisons, and nearby beaches like Dam Trau. Eco-friendly and perfect for 5–10 km rides.
Motorbike: Rent for $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) at guesthouses. Best for hilly roads to Ong Dung Forest or Bay Canh. Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND). Fuel at PV Oil on Nguyen Hue Street.
Taxi: Con Son Taxi (+84 91 8076 345) charges $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) for short trips. Book via Grab app for transparency.
Boat Charter: Rent speedboats for $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND) via Con Dao Dive Center for island-hopping to Hon Tai or Hon Cau. Supports local operators.
Walking: Con Son’s waterfront Ton Duc Thang Boulevard is perfect for strolling to Chua Van Son Pagoda or Front Beach. Free and eco-friendly.Eco-Friendly Note: Bicycles and walking minimize emissions; boats support local livelihoods. Tip: Avoid night driving due to unlit roads; secure valuables on beaches.
Capture the sustainable charm of Con Dao’s ecotourism (Source: Internet)Travel from November to April for dry, sunny weather (25–32°C or 77–90°F), ideal for ferries, flights, and outdoor activities. The rainy season (May–October) offers lush scenery but rough seas, potentially disrupting ferries (2,000–5,000 daily visitors vs. 10,000–20,000 in peak season). Turtle-hatching season (August–December) is a highlight. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) are quieter than weekends, especially during Tet (January/February). Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) ensure smooth travel logistics.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:
Clothing: Light layers, swimwear, sturdy shoes for trails; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; sun hat.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses.
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 Grab/BusMap apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, snorkeling mask, camera for beach shots.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Snacks for travel; cash for vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for taxis ($2–$5) or rentals ($3–$10); secure valuables during transit.
Begin your Con Dao Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)Transportation (Round-Trip, from District 1)
Flight: $160–$250 (4,000,000–6,250,000 VND).
Ferry (Ho Chi Minh City): $80–$100 (2,000,000–2,500,000 VND).
Ferry (Vung Tau Ward): $70–$90 (1,750,000–2,250,000 VND).
Helicopter (Vung Tau): $400–$600 (10,000,000–15,000,000 VND).
Bus + Ferry (via Soc Trang): $44–$60 (1,100,000–1,500,000 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).
On-Island Transport and Activities
Bicycle Rental: $3–$5/day (75,000–125,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).
Taxi (Short Trip): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Boat Charter: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Con Dao Prison: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Snorkeling Tour: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Turtle-Watching Tour: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 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).
Guided Eco-Tour: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $25–$45 (ferry, bike, snacks).
Mid-range: $60–$90 (flight, guided tour, activities).
Luxury: $150–$250 (private tour, helicopter, premium lodging).
Tip: Budget for transport ($44–$600) and activities ($2–$50); carry cash, as cards are rarely accepted.
Timing: Travel November–April for calm seas and reliable ferries/flights. Weekdays for fewer crowds (2,000–5,000 vs. 10,000–20,000 on weekends). Avoid Tet for smoother logistics.
Booking: Book flights 1–2 weeks ahead via Vietnam Airlines; reserve ferries via Baolau or Legend Travel Group 24–48 hours in advance. Confirm schedules, as weather may cause cancellations.
Sustainability: Choose ferries or group tours to reduce emissions; join beach cleanups or turtle conservation programs.
Navigation: Save “Con Son, Vung Tau Ward” in offline maps; ask locals at ports/airports for directions. Avoid night travel due to unlit roads.
Safety: Wear helmets on motorbikes; secure valuables. Check weather for ferry travel; carry a flashlight for evening exploration.
Weather: Dry season for safe travel; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and waterproof bags ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào”; dress modestly at historical sites (cover shoulders). Respect wildlife; avoid touching corals.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Con Dao Travel adventures (Source: Internet)Our eco-friendly tours make reaching and exploring Con Dao effortless:
Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120/person, 1 day): Flight or ferry from Ho Chi Minh City, with snorkeling, turtle-watching, and beach relaxation, including seafood lunch ($3–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Con Dao Historical Adventure ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Ferry or flight to Con Son, visiting Con Dao Prison and Hang Duong Cemetery. Includes meals, guide.
Ho Chi Minh City & Con Dao Escape ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Con Dao beaches, 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 Island, an eco-haven in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Region, Ho Chi Minh City, reachable in 45 minutes by flight ($160–$250, 4,000,000–6,250,000 VND round-trip) from Ho Chi Minh City or 3.5–5 hours by ferry ($70–$100, 1,750,000–2,500,000 VND round-trip) from Vung Tau Ward, enchants over 150,000 visitors annually with its pristine Dam Trau shores and Con Dao National Park’s biodiversity. Sustainable practices like turtle conservation and low-impact tours preserve this island paradise. Legend Travel Group’s Con Dao Tours simplify your journey, ensuring a green, immersive Con Dao Travel experience with activities like cycling Con Son’s trails and visiting Con Dao Prison. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to travel to Con Dao Island? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable island 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 Island Accessibility Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
