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Con Dao Island

Con Dao, Vietnam: From ‘Hell on Earth’ to an island paradise

28/11/2024 815 views

Once known for its dark history as a French colonial prison, Con Dao Island has emerged as one of the most captivating tourist destinations in Vietnam. With pristine beaches, lush national parks, and rich historical sites, Con Dao Island should be on the bucket list of any traveler.

1. Overview of Con Dao Island

Con Dao, also commonly known as Con Dao Island, is a stunning archipelago in southeastern Vietnam, governed by Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province. It is located approximately 185 kilometers away from Vung Tau and about 230 kilometers away from Ho Chi Minh City. This archipelago spans an area of 76 km² and includes 16 smaller islands.

Con Dao Island

Con Dao Island fascinates travelers worldwide (Source: Collected)

Historically, Con Dao Island is known as a site where political prisoners were held during the French colonial period and during the era of American-backed South Vietnam. It is infamous for its tiger cages, which were used to imprison and torture these prisoners. This dark chapter has made Con Dao Island a significant landmark in Vietnamese revolutionary history.

Today, Con Dao Island is a popular tourist destination. With pristine beaches often ranked among the best in the world and luxurious resorts, it has become a haven for relaxation.

2. Helpful info to know about Con Dao before your departure

2.1. Weather

The weather in Con Dao features an oceanic climate with an average annual temperature of 26°C. The island has two seasons: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April.

The best time to visit Con Dao, Vietnam is from March to September. While this period falls within the rainy season, the seas around the eastern and northeastern islands remain calm, allowing for safe outdoor activities. Afternoon showers are typical, making it a good time to explore historical sites on the main island.

Another great time to visit Con Dao Island is between July and September, as this is the peak nesting season for sea turtles. From October to March, strong monsoonal winds bring large waves to Con Son Bay. If you visit during this time, you can consider the western and southwestern areas, which are more sheltered.

weather in Con Dao

The weather in Con Dao, Vietnam invites travelers year-round (Source: Collected)

Check out: Con Dao wind season: Is it worth your travel? What to do?

2.2. Transport

To get to Con Dao Island, you have several options:

  • By air: Taking a flight to Con Dao Island is the fastest way to reach this destination. Vietnam Airlines operates flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao, which cost around VND 1.5 million one way. 
  • By boat: If you prefer a scenic journey, you can travel by boat to Con Dao Island. Travel time ranges from 2.5 to 4 hours, and there are several operators who provide services.
    Superdong offers trips from Tran De Port (Soc Trang) to Con Dao, with fares ranging from VND 280,000 to 390,000. They also offer trips from Cau Da Port (Vung Tau) to Con Dao, with fares between VND 550,000 and 1.2 million.
    Con Dao Express also provides multiple options: From Ninh Kieu Port (Can Tho) to Con Dao (VND 550,000 – 990,000), from Cau Da Port (Vung Tau) to Con Dao (VND 660,000 – 1.2 million), and from Tran De Port (Soc Trang) to Con Dao (VND 260,000 – 500,000).
  • By helicopter: Currently, there is a direct route from Vung Tau to Con Dao Island with two flights per week (Friday and Sunday). One-way tickets are priced at VND 2.2 million for adults, VND 1.98 million for children aged 2-12, and free for children under 2 years old.

To get around Con Dao Island, you can opt for regular taxis (VND 12,000 per kilometer) or electric shuttles (VND 20,000 per kilometer). For group travels, you can rent a tourist car for approximately VND 1.5 million per day.

How to get to Con Dao Island

How to get to Con Dao Island? – You have options like flights, boats, and even helicopters (Source: Collected)

*Note: These details are for reference purposes only and may be subject to change. Check the latest updates with the boat operators before planning your trip.

2.3. Accommodation

Con Dao accommodation offers a wide range of options to suit different needs. You can choose from luxurious resorts, comfortable hotels, or budget-friendly guesthouses, either near the bustling town center or in quieter areas. Room rates vary widely, starting from VND 200,000 to over VND 10 million per night.

2.4. Festivals

Con Dao Vietnam hosts many festivals throughout the year, including:

  • The Lady Phi Yen Festival (18th day of the 10th lunar month): A celebration honoring Lady Phi Yen – a protective deity of the locals.
  • Vo Thi Sau Death Anniversary (January 22-23): A tribute to Vo Thi Sau, a heroic female martyr.
  • The Commemorative Ceremony for Martyrs (July 26-27): A solemn event honoring martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country.
  • The Rafting Race Festival (April 30): A local race commemorating the resilience and determination of Con Dao’s prisoners.

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3. Famous attractions on Con Dao Islands

3.1. Beautiful beaches & islands

Con Dao, Vietnam is a paradise of beaches and islands. Here are some notable beaches in Con Dao:

  • Nhat Beach: This hidden gem is revealed only during low tide, renowned for its smooth sand and colorful pebbles. The crystal-clear water and gentle waves here add to the picturesque scenery.
  • An Hai Beach: This Con Dao beach is famous for its long stretch of white sand and blue water. The calm sea, protected by surrounding mountains, is ideal for swimming and relaxing.
  • Lo Voi Beach: Featuring emerald water, sandy shore, and casuarina trees, this beach is perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Ong Dung Beach: This beach is where the forest and mountain embrace the sea. Its rocky shore reveals reefs with unique shapes and diverse marine life during low tide.
  • Dam Trau Beach: Travelers are captivated by this beach’s golden sand and dramatic cliffs. Two large rocks resembling a pair of affectionate birds add a romantic touch to the beach.
  • Cau Island: This is a paradise for snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine species. Here, you can also explore a sea turtle conservation area and turtle nesting sites.
  • Bay Canh Island: Here, you can snorkel among coral reefs, explore mangrove forests, and witness sea turtles laying eggs.
  • Ba Island: This island is an adventurous spot for hiking to the Love Peak. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including rare species.
Con Dao beach

Every Con Dao beach has its own charm (Source: Collected)

3.2. Con Dao National Park

Con Dao National Park is a must-see for nature enthusiasts exploring Con Dao Island. It spans both land and sea, featuring vibrant coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangrove forests. The park is home to a rich ecosystem, with 1,077 species of vascular plants and over 155 species of wildlife, including rare animals like the dugong and sea turtle.

Con Dao National Park currently offers three popular eco-tourism tours:

  • Sea turtle tour: Highlights of this tour include releasing baby turtles into the ocean, observing turtles nesting at night, and trekking to Dam Tre Bay or Dat Tham Beach.
  • Marine ecology tour: In this tour, you can try snorkeling or diving to explore coral reefs, paired with a visit to Bay Canh Island – Cau Island or Tai Island – Bay Canh Island.
  • Forest ecology tour: This tour takes you through lush rainforests. The trails include Ma Thien Lanh – Hang Duc Me – Heritage Tree, Ma Thien Lanh – So Ray, or trekking to Dam Tre Bay.

3.3. Hang Duong Cemetery

Hang Duong Cemetery is a solemn site in Con Dao, Vietnam. It is the resting place of prisoners who died due to brutal torture methods during wartime. Many visitors come here to pay respects, especially at the grave of Vo Thi Sau, a national heroine. Her grave is considered spiritually significant, with people often lighting incense and making offerings, particularly at night. Hang Duong Cemetery is not only a tribute to the past but also a powerful reminder of the resilience of Vietnamese people.

Hang Duong Cemetery in Con Dao island

Hang Duong Cemetery honors Vietnam’s heroes with a solemn atmosphere (Source: Collected)

3.4. Nui Mot Pagoda

Nui Mot Pagoda, also known as Van Son Pagoda, sits on Nui Mot Mountain. Originally built in 1964 during the American-backed South Vietnam, it was a spiritual site for officials and soldiers on the island. After 1975, the pagoda became a revered Buddhist sanctuary for the locals. Nui Mot Pagoda is a masterpiece of harmony between architecture and nature. Nestled against the mountain and facing the sea, it appears to float amidst the sky. Its design reflects the Zen architecture of the Truc Lam Yen Tu sect, with the main hall standing as the heart of the structure. Surrounding features include an ancestral house at the back, bell and drum towers on both sides, and a pavilion in front.

3.5. Con Dao Museum

Con Dao Museum,located on Nguyen Hue Street, Con Son Town, is dedicated to preserving the profound history of Con Dao Island. Inside, you will find a welcoming hall and four main themed exhibitions: Con Dao – Nature and People, Con Dao – Hell on Earth, Con Dao – Frontline and School, and Con Dao Today. The museum holds over 2,000 artifacts and documents, tracing the island’s history from prehistoric times to its modern development. Key displays include photographs, letters, and tools used by political prisoners.

Con Dao Museum

Visiting Con Dao Museum is a highlight of what to do in Con Dao Island (Source: Collected)

3.6. Con Dao Prison

Con Dao Prison is Vietnam’s largest and oldest prison complex, operating for 113 years (1862-1975). Known as “Hell on Earth,” it was used to detain Vietnamese political prisoners. Key attractions within the complex include:

  • Governor’s Residence: This colonial building was the home of prison administrators. It offers a glimpse into the life of those who oversaw the prison system.
  • Phu Hai Camp: This was the oldest prison camp on the island, where prisoners endured harsh conditions. The camp included 10 collective cells, a labor zone for breaking rocks, and more.
  • Pier 914: This pier witnessed the suffering of prisoners as they first arrived on the island. The name “914” commemorates the estimated number of prisoners who died during its construction due to forced labor and accidents.
  • Ma Thien Lanh Bridge: An unfinished bridge built through forced labor. Today, it is a reminder of the cruelty inflicted on prisoners and a spot with scenic views.

Explore: Con Dao map: Best spots & experiences you can’t miss

4. Cool things to do in Con Dao, Vietnam

4.1. Experience diving and snorkeling

Diving in Con Dao and snorkeling in Con Dao are among the best things to do here. The islands’ crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and diverse marine life provide stunning playgrounds for enthusiasts. When snorkeling or diving, you can explore the coral and encounter exotic creatures in their natural habitat. Popular spots for these activities include Tre Lon Island, Cau Island, Ong Dung Beach, and Bay Canh Island.

Diving in Con Dao

Diving in Con Dao, Vietnam reveals colorful coral reefs (Source: Collected)

4.2. Paddle a transparent kayak

Exploring Con Dao’s waters on a transparent kayak is another fascinating experience. The clear-bottom design lets you peer into the underwater world, revealing coral reefs and marine creatures beneath your feet. Transparent kayaking is a popular activity often included in a Con Dao tour, particularly island-hopping adventures such as a 4-island tour (Tai Lon Island, Tai Nho Island, Trac Lon Island, Trac Nho Island) or a 5-island tour (Bay Canh Island, Tai Lon Island, Tai Nho Island, Trac Lon Island, Trac Nho Island).

4.3. Conquer the roof of Con Dao

Mount Thanh Gia, also known as the “roof of Con Dao,” is the highest peak in Con Dao, standing at 577 meters above sea level. Climbing this mountain is a thrilling experience that tests your endurance and rewards you with breathtaking views. The trail takes you through a lush landscape of endemic flora and fauna. At the summit, you will be greeted by panoramic views of Con Dao Island. The tropical forest stretches below, meeting the vast sea, while Con Son Town lies in the distance.

Conquer the roof of Con Dao

Don’t miss the excitement of reaching Mount Thanh Gia during your Con Dao travels (Source: Collected)

4.4. Watch sea turtles lay eggs

An unmissable activity on Con Dao Island is watching sea turtles lay their eggs. The nesting season runs from April to September, with the peak period from July to September. Bay Canh Island is the most popular spot to see this natural wonder. Under the soft glow of moonlight, you will observe a mother turtle crawling ashore, digging a nest, and carefully laying her eggs. Another touching experience is releasing baby turtles back into the ocean. This usually happens in the early morning when the hatchlings emerge. You can help guide the baby turtles toward the sea, watching as they take their first steps into the wild. 

4.5. Capture the plane’s touchdown moment

Witnessing planes land up close is another must-try in Con Dao, Vietnam. The best spot for this experience is Dam Trau Beach, located about 14 kilometers away from the town center. Standing beneath a low-flying plane as it approaches the runway is exhilaratingly unforgettable. It is also a perfect chance to snap an incredible photo. With approximately 20 flights landing daily in Con Dao, you have plenty of opportunities to catch this moment. 

Capture the plane's touchdown moment in Con Dao Island

Con Dao Island offers a unique experience of watching planes touch down (Source: Collected)

5. Popular sightseeing routes in Con Dao, Vietnam

With 27 tours available on Con Dao Island, you can enjoy everything, from historical excursions to eco-tourism adventures. Additionally, nighttime experiences like visiting Hang Duong Cemetery or watching sea turtles lay eggs have become highlights of every Con Dao tour.

Here are 8 popular sightseeing routes you can consider:

  • Governor’s Residence – Pier 914 – Cong Quan House – Phu Hai Camp – Phu Son Camp – Con Dao Museum – French Tiger Cages – American Tiger Cages
  • Con Dao Town – Chuong Bo (Cow Shed) – Skull Beach – Ma Thien Lanh Bridge – Phi Yen Temple – Nui Mot Pagoda – So Co – Con Dao Museum
  • Pier 914 – Cong Quan House – Con Dao Museum – Hang Keo Cemetery – Hang Duong Cemetery – Con Dao Memorial Site – Ma Thien Lanh Bridge
  • Con Dao Center – Hang Duong Cemetery – Con Dao Memorial Site – Chuong Bo – Phi Yen Temple – An Hai Lake – Nui Mot Pagoda
  • Snorkeling and fishing tour
  • Con Dao Town – Con Dao National Park Headquarters – Ma Thien Lanh Bridge – Ong Dung Beach
  • Governor’s Residence – Pier 914 – Phu Hai Camp – Phu Son Camp – Shark Cape – Nhat Beach – Ben Dam Bay
  • Ocean discovery tour with diving experiences
Popular sightseeing routes in Con Dao Vietnam

Is Con Dao worth visiting for eco-tourism adventures? – Absolutely! (Source: Collected)

6. Must-try local dishes in Con Dao

Con Dao Island offers a variety of local specialties, including:

  • Oyster porridge: A comforting bowl of rice porridge cooked with fresh oysters and aromatic herbs
  • Moon crab: Known for its shell patterns resembling a moon, this crab offers sweet, tender meat
  • Shark salad: A zesty dish featuring thinly sliced fish mixed with green bananas, starfruit, and herbs
  • Vu nang snails: A rare and chewy snail often grilled or boiled, served with a tangy dipping sauce
  • Red lobster: Freshly caught and grilled, this dish highlights the natural sweetness of lobster meat
  • Red grouper: A local favorite, often served steamed or as a salad

7. Top Con Dao specialties to buy as gifts

Con Dao Island has various specialties that will make excellent gifts for your loved ones. Popular choices include tropical almond jam, dried seafood like squid, grouper, and stingray, as well as handcrafted souvenirs made from seashells such as bracelets and wind chimes. If you are seeking health-conscious options, products like cordyceps, mountain ginseng, and mountain pineapples are thoughtful picks.

Con Dao specialties to buy as gifts

Bring home some specialties from Con Dao, Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Con Dao Island combines rich history, natural beauty, and unique activities. Whether you are drawn to historical sites, pristine beaches, or marine biodiversity, this island has something special for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for a journey you won’t forget!

While exploring Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to visit other captivating destinations like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Ha Long, and Hoi An. Each destination offers stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences that are well worth your time.

For added excitement, visit VinWonders, Vietnam’s top entertainment complex chain. With thrilling games, engaging shows, and exciting activities for all ages, VinWonders guarantees fun for everyone.

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Craft beautiful moments at the entertainment complexes of VinWonders

Craft beautiful moments at the entertainment complexes of VinWonders

For a luxurious stay, consider the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. Offering premium accommodations and top-notch amenities, Vinpearl ensures your Vietnam travel is both relaxing and memorable.

 

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