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Con Dao Tours
Con Dao tours include boat trips to remote islands, turtle spotting on protected beaches, and exploring historic prison sites. You can also reach Con Dao by speed ferry from the Mekong Delta, making it easy to combine with a southern Vietnam itinerary.
View tours >>The Best Con Dao Tours & Local Experiences
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Not sure what Con Dao tour to choose?
Whether you’re looking for the best group tour, private experience, a custom made tour or just a private driver to bring you around, we’re here to help. Our local team knows Con Dao inside out and can give you honest, expert advice—no pressure, just good suggestions.
About Con Dao
Con Dao is a small island group off Vietnam’s southern coast, known for its quiet beaches, clear waters, and historical significance. Once a site of political prisons during French and American rule, the main island now offers a mix of nature and history. The coastline is dotted with empty beaches and coral-rich bays, while the inland hills are covered in forested national park. Popular activities include boat tours to nearby islands, snorkeling, and visiting turtle nesting sites in season. You can also explore the old prison buildings and memorial sites in Con Son town. Con Dao is ideal if you’re looking for a quiet escape, with a mix of nature, culture, and a more off-grid atmosphere compared to Vietnam’s mainland beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sapa tours
When is the best time to visit Con Dao?
It depends on what you want to do. November to April is the dry season, with sunny weather and ideal conditions for relaxing on the beach or exploring the island by motorbike. If you’re planning boat trips, diving, or snorkeling, the best time is March to September, when the sea is calmer. Turtle nesting season runs from June to early September—a unique highlight if you’re interested in wildlife.
What’s the weather like year-round on Con Dao?
Con Dao has two main seasons. The dry season (November to April) is sunny and cooler, but seas can be rough. The wet season (May to October) brings more rain but calmer water—ideal for snorkeling, diving, and boat tours. Even in rainy months, showers are often short and tours still operate.
How many days should I stay in Con Dao?
Most travelers spend 2 to 4 days in Con Dao. A 2-day stay is enough to see the historic sites and enjoy a beach or two. With 3 or 4 days, you can take a boat trip, visit nearby islets, explore more beaches, or go snorkeling. Longer stays are great if you want to relax.
Do I need a tour to explore Con Dao?
Many sights on the main island can be visited independently by scooter or taxi, including beaches and prison sites. However, turtle watching, island-hopping, and snorkeling tours require a guide or licensed boat operator. Booking a tour also helps with logistics, especially during turtle season or for visiting remote islands.
How do I get to Con Dao from the mainland?
You can reach Con Dao by speed ferry from Soc Trang or Vung Tau, or fly from Ho Chi Minh City. The ferry takes around 2.5–4 hours, depending on the departure point. Flights are quicker but more expensive. Many travelers combine Con Dao with a trip through the Mekong Delta.
What happens if it rains during a Con Dao tour?
Light rain usually won’t cancel tours, but boat trips may be delayed or rescheduled during rough seas. If weather conditions are unsafe, operators will often offer an alternative activity or refund. During the wet season, it’s best to keep your plans flexible and check the latest local weather updates.
10 Highlights in Con Dao Tours
1. Relax on Beaches
Con Dao has some of Vietnam’s most peaceful beaches, with soft sand, clear water, and barely any crowds—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just doing nothing.
2. Go Diving
Protected waters and healthy coral reefs make Con Dao a top diving spot in Vietnam. You might see turtles, rays, and even explore a rare shipwreck dive site.
3. Trek in the National Park
The island’s forested hills offer quiet trails, old trees, and ocean views. A guide is recommended, especially if you plan to hike to the national park peak.
4. Visit Con Dao Prisons
Explore haunting prison sites used by the French and Americans. Tiger cages, Phu Hai Prison, and Phu Binh Camp tell a powerful story of Vietnam’s history.
5. Island Hopping by Boat
Take a boat tour to nearby islands with untouched beaches and amazing snorkeling. Some islands are remote and feel completely disconnected from the mainland.
6. Watch Sea Turtles
Between June and September, you can join a tour to see turtles nesting or hatchlings being released. Bay Canh Island is the best place for this unique experience.
7. Drive Around Con Son
With almost no traffic and only one road, Con Son Island is ideal for exploring by scooter. Discover quiet beaches, forest trails, and scenic coastal drives.
8. Learn at Con Dao Museum
This small museum covers both the island’s prison history and its biodiversity. It’s a good place to start before visiting the historic sites around town.
9. Visit the Night Market
In the evening, head to Con Son’s night market for fresh seafood, local snacks, and a relaxed island vibe. It’s small but worth a stroll after dinner.
10. Hang Duong Cemetery
This peaceful cemetery honors the many prisoners who died on the island. It’s a meaningful stop for those interested in Vietnam’s past and its national heroes.