Con Dao: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Vietnam's Most Untamed Island

Overview of Con Dao

Con Dao, located in southern Vietnam, is truly an underexplored gem. After spending 12 years traveling throughout the country, I can confidently say that no place has left a mark on me quite like Con Dao, a destination many, including beach lovers, have yet to visit. The lack of tourist infrastructure, unlike that of Phu Quoc or Nha Trang, makes a trip here feel like a genuine adventure.

About 80% of the island is covered by a stunning national park, while its poignant history surrounding the prison, ghost stories, and war heroes adds to its unique allure. Con Dao boasts pristine beaches that remain largely untouched by tourism. However, the lack of guidance may make it challenging to fully appreciate this beautiful destination.

What Makes Con Dao Unique

Con Dao stands out among other Vietnamese destinations for three main reasons:

• Cleanliness: Public areas in Con Dao are remarkably clean, with no litter in sight. The locals have a high awareness of environmental protection, helping the island maintain its pristine beauty.
• Safety: Con Dao is virtually crime-free. You can easily leave your motorbike unlocked and stroll around at night without a care in the world. This is a refreshing experience compared to other parts of Vietnam, where one must be more cautious about petty crime.
• Seclusion: While many rural areas in Vietnam are not crowded, Con Dao offers vast, beautiful public spaces that remain sparsely populated. The hardworking locals spend little time gathering in public areas.

Where to Stay in Con Dao

Con Dao is divided into three main areas: the main town, the western part, and the eastern part of the island. Most accommodations are located in the main town, which has plenty of services like restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores.

I stayed at Little Home Homestay, a fantastic place that costs only $20 per night for a spacious, clean room with charming wooden decor. Here are a few other hotels I recommend:

• Con Son Island Hotel: Beautiful rooms, a great cafe area, and close to the beach ($26/night).
• Havana Con Dao Hotel: Stunning views of the mountains and city ($28/night).
• Hoang Gia Hotel: Very affordable yet comfortable and clean ($17/night).

Exploring Con Dao

Con Dao offers countless exciting activities: from exploring the national park with its pristine beaches, snorkeling to discover the rich underwater life, to historical visits at sites like the Con Dao prison. If you visit during the turtle nesting season, you might even witness this breathtaking spectacle at Orson Hotel & Resort.

Getting to Con Dao

Con Dao has an airport located on the eastern side of the island, about 15 km from the town. You can book a flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho with a short flight time of approximately 40 minutes. Choose Vietjet if you want to save money, or Vietnam Airlines if you prefer to avoid potential delays.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

When planning your trip to Con Dao, keep in mind the visa requirements. If you are a Vietnamese citizen, you do not need a visa. Flight prices from Ho Chi Minh City typically range from 1,200,000 to 1,800,000 VND, depending on when you book. The currency used on the island is VND, and the time in Con Dao is the same as in Vietnam.

The best time to visit Con Dao is from March to September when the weather is dry and pleasant. If you prefer tranquility, consider visiting during the low season from October to November.

Conclusion

Con Dao is not only a unique destination for its natural beauty but also a place rich in history and culture. It's perfect for those seeking a different travel experience away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots. If you want to uncover a treasure of Vietnam and find peace, Con Dao is an excellent choice.

This article is adapted from: Indie Traveller