Discover the top places to visit on Con Dao Island, Ho Chi Minh City’s eco-paradise! Explore historical prisons, pristine beaches, sustainable tours, and pricing with Legend Travel Group. Book now!
Dive into the serene charm of Con Dao TravelCon Dao Island, part of the Con Dao Archipelago in Con Dao Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is a captivating destination drawing over 150,000 visitors annually, located 230 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Con Dao, once under Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, is now a ward of Ho Chi Minh City, renowned for its haunting history as a penal colony and its pristine ecosystems. The main island, Con Son, spans 76 km² across 16 sub-islands, with 80% protected as Con Dao National Park, home to endemic species like the Con Dao black squirrel and sea turtles. Historical sites cost $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) to enter, while activities range from $2–$15, making Con Dao a must-visit for history buffs, nature lovers, and eco-tourists seeking a sustainable escape.
With 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 like turtle conservation and plastic-free campaigns, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s “Green Metropolis” vision. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through Con Dao’s top attractions, ensuring a responsible journey. Book via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or 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 is now Con Dao 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, natural adventures, and cultural immersion. Our low-impact transport, like electric shuttles and eco-boats, paired with English-speaking guides, showcases Con Dao’s heritage, 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!
Capture the haunting essence of Con Dao’s historical gem (Source: Internet)Con Dao Island, in Con Dao Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is a unique blend of historical landmarks and natural wonders. From the somber Con Dao Prison to the vibrant coral reefs of Bay Canh, its 80% protected national park and sustainable tourism initiatives make it a model eco-destination. Below are the top places to visit, offering history, nature, and serenity.
Phu Hai Prison: Built in 1862, this French-era prison held thousands of Vietnamese prisoners in infamous “tiger cages.” Entry costs $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND), best visited at 9:00 AM for guided tours detailing its brutal past.
Hang Duong Cemetery: A solemn site with 2,000 graves, including heroine Vo Thi Sau’s, honoring prisoners from 1862–1975. Free entry; guided tours $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND), best at 8:00 AM or dusk.
Con Dao Museum: Located on Ton Duc Thanh Street, it showcases artifacts from the colonial era, costing $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND). Visit at 10:00 AM to explore Vietnam’s resistance history.
Phu Binh Camp: American-built in 1971, known for its “American Tiger Cages” with harsh conditions. Entry $2–$3, best paired with Phu Hai Prison tours.
Dam Trau Beach: A pristine white-sand beach near Con Dao Airport, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Free entry; umbrella rentals $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Best at 7:00 AM for tranquility.
Bay Canh Island: A snorkeling haven with vibrant coral reefs and sea turtle nesting sites, accessible by boat for $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND). Visit at 8:00 AM for clear waters.
Con Dao National Park: Covering 80% of the archipelago, it features 370+ plant species and trails to spot black squirrels. Guided hikes cost $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND), best at 7:00 AM.
Hon Cau Island: Known for turquoise waters and coral reefs, ideal for island-hopping tours costing $10–$15. Best visited March–September for calm seas.
These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$15, immerse you in Con Dao’s history and nature:
Explore the “tiger cages” at Phu Hai Prison for $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND), best at 9:00 AM, learning about colonial-era struggles from local guides.
Cost: $2–$3.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local historians; avoid littering.
Tip: Pair with Con Dao Museum; included in Legend Travel Group’s Con Dao Historical Eco-Tour ($60–$90).
Dive into Bay Canh’s coral reefs for $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND), best at 8:00 AM, spotting marine life in Vietnam’s premier Marine Protected Area.
Cost: $10–$15.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use reef-safe sunscreen; tours fund conservation.
Tip: Book via Con Dao National Park; included in Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120).
Join turtle-watching tours from September to November at 8:00 PM for $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND), witnessing nesting sea turtles.
Cost: $12–$15.
Hours: Nightly, 7:00 PM–10:00 PM (seasonal).
Eco-Friendly Note: Tours support turtle conservation; no flash photography.
Tip: Reserve via National Park; included in Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120).
Trek through dense forests for $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND), best at 7:00 AM, spotting endemic wildlife like long-tailed macaques.
Cost: $5–$10.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Stay on trails to protect flora; tours support park maintenance.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120).
Lounge on Dam Trau’s sands, free, with chair rentals at $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND), best at 7:00 AM for a peaceful escape.
Cost: Free; rentals $1–$2.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Join beach cleanups; use reusable bottles.
Tip: Bring snacks; included in Con Dao Beach Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Capture the sustainable charm of Con Dao’s ecotourism (Source: Internet)Visit from November to April for dry, sunny weather (25–32°C or 77–90°F), ideal for snorkeling, hiking, and historical tours. The rainy season (May–October) offers lush scenery and fewer crowds (2,000–5,000 daily visitors vs. 10,000–20,000 in peak season), but showers may affect outdoor plans. Turtle-hatching season (August–December) is a highlight, especially on Bay Canh. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) are quieter than weekends, particularly during Tet (January/February). Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) provide cool temperatures, while evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) suit beach strolls or dining.
Con Dao Island, in Con Dao Ward, is 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, reachable by air or sea:
By Flight: Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways 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). Round-trip: $160–$250 (4,000,000–6,250,000 VND).
By Ferry (Phu Quoc Express): High-speed ferry from District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, to Ben Dam Port (5 hours, $40–$50 or 1,000,000–1,250,000 VND one-way). Departs 8:00 AM; returns 1:30 PM. Round-trip: $80–$100 (2,000,000–2,500,000 VND).
From Vung Tau Ward: Ferry from Ben Da Port to Ben Dam (3.5–4 hours, $35–$45 or 875,000–1,125,000 VND one-way). Round-trip: $70–$90 (1,750,000–2,250,000 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. Navigation Tip: Save “Con Son, Con Dao 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.
Safety: Secure valuables; confirm schedules, as weather may affect ferries.
Begin your Con Dao Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:
Clothing: Swimwear, light layers, sturdy shoes for trails; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; modest attire for historical sites.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ reef-safe 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 Grab/BusMap apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, snorkeling gear, camera for scenic 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 trails; cash for vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for entry ($2–$3) or rentals ($1–$2); secure valuables.
Entry and Activity Fees
Phu Hai Prison/Con Dao Museum: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Hang Duong Cemetery Tour: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).
Snorkeling Tour: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Turtle-Watching Tour: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND).
Hiking Tour: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Umbrella/Chair Rental: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 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 (Shell 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 (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).
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 ($70–$250); carry cash, as cards are rarely accepted.
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Con Dao Travel adventures (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 snorkeling/turtle/hiking tours via Con Dao National Park. Book Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. Confirm ferry/flight schedules.
Sustainability: Use reef-safe sunscreen; join turtle conservation or beach cleanups. Support local vendors for snacks ($1–$3) or crafts ($2–$5).
Navigation: Save “Con Son, Con Dao Ward” in offline maps; ask locals for directions. Avoid night travel due to unlit roads.
Safety: Secure valuables; respect historical sites. Check weather for boat tours; carry a flashlight for evening visits.
Weather: Dry season for safe exploration; 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 behavior at memorials.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Con Dao’s historical and natural treasures:
Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120/person, 1 day): Visit Bay Canh for snorkeling, turtle-watching, and Dam Trau Beach, with seafood lunch ($3–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Con Dao Historical Adventure ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Explore Phu Hai Prison, Hang Duong Cemetery, and Con Dao Museum. Includes meals, guide.
Ho Chi Minh City & Con Dao Journey ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Con Dao’s highlights, 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 in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Region, Ho Chi Minh City, located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ben Thanh Ward, enchants over 150,000 visitors annually with historical sites like Phu Hai Prison ($2–$3 entry, 50,000–75,000 VND) and natural gems like Dam Trau Beach (free access). From the solemn Hang Duong Cemetery to vibrant Bay Canh reefs, Con Dao blends history with sustainable practices like turtle conservation and low-impact tours. Legend Travel Group’s Con Dao Tours guide you through this island paradise, ensuring a green, immersive Con Dao Travel experience with activities like exploring colonial relics, snorkeling coral reefs, and visiting Phi Yen Temple. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to visit Con Dao Archipelago’s top attractions? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a transformative 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 Attractions Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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