Con Dao Archipelago: Travel Guide, Things to Do & How to Get There
The Con Dao Archipelago is one of Vietnam’s most stunning and historically significant destinations. It is a remote cluster of islands where untouched natural beauty coexists with a profound and somber past. Once the site of an infamous penal colony, it has transformed into a protected national park, offering a unique travel experience far from the mainland's hustle. This complete GTrip guide provides everything you need to know, from transportation and the best activities to insider tips for an unforgettable trip. We will cover the archipelago's pristine nature, its poignant history, and the unique experiences that make it a must-visit destination.
Overview of Con Dao Archipelago in Ho Chi Minh City
To truly understand why Con Dao stands out among Vietnam’s island destinations, it helps to start with its geographical setting. Knowing where the Con Dao Archipelago is located also explains its pristine landscapes and sense of isolation.
Where is the Con Dao Archipelago?
Location: Con Dao Special Administrative Zone, South of Ho Chi Minh City
The Con Dao Archipelago is a largely unspoiled destination located approximately 97 nautical miles (180 km) off the coast of Vung Tau, now within the administrative area of Ho Chi Minh City. The archipelago comprises 16 islands, most of which are uninhabited, with Con Son Island being the largest and serving as the main hub for tourism and local life. The landscape is defined by dramatic granite mountain ridges that form sheltered bays, with Thanh Gia Peak standing as the highest point at 577 meters.
Best time to visit Con Dao Archipelago
The Con Dao Archipelago has a distinct tropical climate with two main seasons, each offering a unique experience. The dry season runs from November to April, characterized by calm seas, lower humidity, and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities and island hopping. The rainy season, from May to October, sees more frequent, yet typically brief, afternoon showers. Despite the rain, this period is considered high season for a special reason: it is the peak time for sea turtle nesting and hatching, offering a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter. For the best balance of good weather and natural wonders, the best time to visit Con Dao is from March to September, when the seas are generally calm and the chances of seeing turtles are high.
The best time to visit Con Dao Archipelago is from March to September
What makes Con Dao Archipelago unique?
Con Dao's uniqueness lies in its powerful dual identity. It is a place of breathtaking natural beauty juxtaposed with a history of immense suffering and resilience. This rare combination of attractions is what sets it apart from any other destination in Vietnam. The archipelago offers serene, empty beaches, such as the globally recognized Dam Trau Beach, and a protected national park teeming with unique wildlife. This blend allows travelers to engage in diverse activities. You can try diving in vibrant coral reefs and witnessing sea turtles nesting, reflecting on Vietnam's revolutionary past at the Con Dao Prison and Hang Duong Cemetery. It’s an island that captivates the mind and the heart in equal measure.
How to get to Con Dao Archipelago?
Reaching the remote Con Dao Archipelago is part of the adventure, offering several distinct travel options from the Vietnamese mainland. Depending on your budget, timeline, and starting point, you can choose to travel by plane, helicopter, or sea ferry.
Plane
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the islands. Modern services operate from major southern hubs directly to Con Dao Airport (VCS) on Con Son Island.
- Flights from Tan Son Nhat Airport (HCMC) - Con Dao: 45 minutes
- Flights from Can Tho City Airport - Con Dao: 1 hour (fewer transfers, 1 flight per day)
Helicopter
For a truly exclusive and scenic journey, a helicopter service connects the mainland with Con Dao. This premium option offers spectacular aerial views of the coastline and archipelago.
- Route: Vung Tau - Con Dao, operating twice weekly on Fridays and Sundays
- Duration: approximately 60 minutes
- Departure - Arrival: Vung Tau Airport (38 30/4 Street, Vung Tau Ward) - Con Dao Airport (Con Dao Archipelago)
- Book tickets directly on the website below: dulichxanh.com.vn
Sea ferry
Traveling by sea ferry is a more budget-friendly and adventurous option, allowing you to experience the vastness of the South East Sea. You must travel to Vung Tau Ward (formerly Vung Tau City) or Can Tho City (formerly Soc Trang Province) to take a ferry to the Con Dao Archipelago.
- Vung Tau Ward - Con Dao Archipelago: 3 hours
- Can Tho City - Con Dao Archipelago: 2.5 hours
You can choose to travel to Con Dao by plane, helicopter, or sea ferry
If you prefer a hassle-free experience, joining a guided Con Dao tour is an excellent option. Carefully designed Con Dao tour packages often combine transportation, accommodation, island activities, and guided visits to historical sites, allowing you to experience the archipelago with ease and deeper insight. GTrip offers curated Vietnam tour packages that can be customized to match your travel style, timeline, and interests.
Things to do on Con Dao Archipelago
From exploring haunting historical relics to immersing yourself in untouched natural wonders, Con Dao offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler. Discover the best experiences this "Pearl of the East Sea" has to offer with our curated list below.
1. Witness sea turtles nesting in Con Dao
Con Dao is the most significant sanctuary for sea turtles in Vietnam. Visiting between May and October, you can witness the emotional moment of mother turtles laying eggs on the sand or participating in releasing tiny hatchlings into the ocean. This life-changing eco-experience is strictly managed by national park rangers to ensure the survival of these endangered species.
- Bay Canh Island: The most popular nesting site with a professional turtle conservation center.
- Hon Cau: A tranquil islet offering a high chance of spotting turtles during the peak season.
- Hon Tai & Hon Tre Lon: Pristine locations for those seeking a more private, nature-focused experience.
Witnessing the sea turtles nesting is one of the signature activities in Con Dao Archipelago
2. Visit Co Sau’s grave
Visiting Co Sau’s grave at Hang Duong Cemetery is one of the most meaningful spiritual activities in Con Dao, deeply rooted in local belief and history. Co Sau, a young revolutionary martyr, is revered for her courage and loyalty, and many people come to pay respects, offer incense, and pray for peace, health, and good fortune. The cemetery is especially quiet and solemn at night, creating a powerful atmosphere of remembrance and reflection that connects visitors with Con Dao’s past and its enduring spiritual traditions.
3. Unwind on Con Dao’s most scenic beaches
The beaches in Con Dao are famous for their raw beauty, featuring turquoise waters and dramatic cliffside backdrops. The archipelago's coastline offers some of the most untouched sands in Southeast Asia.
- Dam Trau Beach: Famous for its unique location near the airport runway and golden sands.
- An Hai & Lo Voi Beach: Conveniently located near the town center with calm, shallow waters.
- Nhat Beach: A stunning stretch of coast that only appears when the tide goes down.
- Dat Doc & Ong Dung Beach: Hidden gems surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers.
The beaches in Con Dao are famous for their blue water and sandy beaches
4. Discover coral reefs through snorkeling
Beneath the crystal-clear waves of Con Dao lies a vibrant underwater kingdom. The archipelago boasts a diverse marine ecosystem with over 340 species of coral. Snorkeling here allows you to swim alongside colorful tropical fish and explore some of the most well-preserved reef systems in Vietnam.
- Hon Cau & Bay Canh: Top-tier spots for observing diverse coral formations and marine life.
- Hon Tai: Known for its clear visibility and rich biodiversity under the sea.
- Ben Dam & Dam Tre Bay: Secluded bays offering calm waters and a peaceful snorkeling environment.
5. Hike up Mount Thanh Gia - The highest point in Con Dao
For those who love a challenge, hiking Mount Thanh Gia is a must. As the highest peak on the island, the trail takes you through thick tropical foliage and diverse flora. Standing at the summit, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire archipelago floating on the deep blue East Sea.
- The "Roof of Con Dao": Reaching an altitude of 577 meters above sea level.
- Scenic trekking trail: A path filled with ancient trees and the sounds of wild birds.
- Photography hub: The best spot to capture the majestic beauty of the islands from above.
Hiking Mount Thanh Gia offers you a panoramic view of Con Dao
6. Trek through the pristine Ong Dung Primeval Forest
Ong Dung Forest is the "green lung" of Con Dao, offering a refreshing escape into nature. The trekking path is well-maintained, leading you through old-growth forests where you might spot rare endemic species like the Con Dao Black Squirrel. The trail ends at a beautiful rocky beach, perfect for a quick dip.
- Ecological diversity: Home to a wide range of rare tropical plants and animals.
- Refreshing environment: A cool, shaded trek suitable for all fitness levels.
- Beach connection: The trail leads directly to Ong Dung Beach for snorkeling right off the shore.
7. Explore the history of Con Dao at Con Dao Museum
To truly understand Con Dao, one must look back at its heroic yet tragic past. The Con Dao Museum serves as a gateway to the island's history, housing over 2,000 artifacts and photographs. It tells the story of the "Hell on Earth" and the incredible resilience of the soldiers who were once imprisoned here.
- Historical artifacts: A vast collection documenting the colonial and wartime eras.
- Heroic stories: Exhibits dedicated to the brave political prisoners of Vietnam.
- Modern transformation: Insights into how the island evolved into a peaceful tourist paradise.
To understand the history of Con Dao Archipelago, you can make a visit to Con Dao Museum
8. Step back in time at the Con Dao Prison complex
Known once as the most brutal prison system in Indochina, this complex is a somber reminder of history. Walking through the narrow cells and seeing the infamous "Tiger Cages", visitors gain a profound respect for the endurance and spirit of the Vietnamese revolutionaries who fought for national independence.
- Phu Hai Prison: The oldest and largest ward within the entire prison complex.
- French & American Tiger Cages: Infamous confinement cells designed to break the prisoners' spirit.
- The Cow Sheds: A site of extreme hardship and historical significance.
9. Visit spiritual and historical sites in Con Dao
Spiritual tourism is a cornerstone of the Con Dao experience. Locals and visitors alike flock to these sacred sites to pay respects to national martyrs and pray for peace. The atmosphere at these locations, especially at night, is deeply moving and unlike anywhere else in the world.
- Hang Duong Cemetery: The final resting place of thousands of heroes, including Vo Thi Sau.
- Prince Cai’s Tomb (Mieu Cau): A sacred temple tied to a poignant legend of motherly love.
- Nam Co Temple: A spiritual site dedicated to the Five Elements Goddesses for protection.
- Island Chief’s Palace: A colonial architecture reflecting the island's administrative past.
Hang Duong Cemetery is the final resting place of thousands of heroes
10. Try Con Dao local specialties
Con Dao’s culinary scene reflects its island identity, where fresh seafood and simple preparations let natural flavors shine. Influenced by the surrounding ocean, local dishes are often enjoyed at seaside eateries or small family-run restaurants. Beyond seafood, the island is also known for unique local snacks made from terminalia catappa seeds, a distinctive specialty you won’t easily find elsewhere in Vietnam.
Must-try local dishes include: Oyster porridge, Steamed moon crab, Shark salad, Grilled sea urchin, Con Dao slipper lobster, Red grouper, Oyster fish sauce, Giant clam.
Accommodation on Con Dao Archipelago
Con Dao offers a range of accommodation to suit different budgets, such as ultra-luxury resorts, comfortable mid-range hotels in the main town.
- Six Senses Con Dao: Ultimate Luxury Escape
- The Secret Con Dao: Modern Comfort with a Heritage Touch
- Orson Hotel & Resort Con Dao: Boutique Charm
- Marina Bay Con Dao Hotel: Central Location & Great Value
- Nam Hai Con Dao Hotel: Budget-Friendly Option
Travel tips & useful information in Con Dao Archipelago
To make the most of your trip, keep these essential tips in mind.
- Book flights, ferries, and accommodation well in advance, especially for travel during peak season (May-September) and public holidays.
- Pack essentials such as strong sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and effective insect repellent.
- The best way to explore Con Son Island is by renting a motorbike, which gives you the freedom to discover hidden beaches and remote corners.
- Bring a sufficient amount of cash. While some larger establishments accept cards, many smaller restaurants and shops are cash-only, and ATMs can be limited.
- Dress respectfully when visiting spiritual and historical sites like Hang Duong Cemetery and the prison complex. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
Remember practical travel tips to have a wonderful trip to the Con Dao Archipelago
Read more:
The Con Dao Archipelago truly offers an experience that stays with you long after you leave. It is a destination of contrasts, where the tranquility of its pristine beaches and lush national park creates space for pure relaxation, while its poignant history offers a profound journey into Vietnam’s resilient spirit. This rare blend of serene escape, adventure, and historical depth makes Con Dao one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations. Let GTrip help you craft the ideal island escape with a carefully curated Vietnam tour packages and discover the true soul of this remarkable archipelago.
