Guide de voyageTripadvisor

Con Dao island

10/04/2019 1.365 Views
The remote Con Dao group of islands is about 180km from Vung Tau, and has a local population of around 5,000. The main island, Con Son, was a much-feared former penal colony until 1975. Most of the archipelago is now a National Park with some good beaches, clear water with pristine coral, lush tropical forest with many flowers, coconut groves, and few visitors. Accommodation is limited, but a new air link is starting to generate interest in visiting this largely unspoilt area.

History of Con Dao 

Once known as ‘Poulo Condor’ and long considered a Southeast Asian ‘Devil's Island’, Con Son is the largest island in the archipelago. The infamous Con Son prison complex was established by the French colonial authority early in the nineteenth century. From then until 1975 the French colonial administration, followed by the Saigon government, incarcerated political prisoners in brutal conditions, often in tiny underground boxes known as ‘tiger cages’. The Hang Duong cemetery holds the remains of the many prisoners that died there.
Con Dao was long considered a Southeast Asian ‘Devil''s Island’
Con Dao was long considered a Southeast Asian ‘Devil's Island’

Throughout the colonial period and its use by the Saigon regime, Con Dao’s only inhabitants were the prisoners, their guards, and a small contingent of soldiers and administrators. The true extent of the appalling treatment of inmates only became known after victory and reunification in May 1975. Since then, a small town has developed on the western side of Con Son in and around the old penal colony complex. It’s an attractive community with excellent civic amenities and a road layout that would put most Vietnamese towns to shame, despite its size.
The stunning beauty of beaches in Con Dao íland
The stunning beauty of beaches in Con Dao íland

The weather
Con Dao is located at a point where cool and warm ocean currents converge and create a localised climatic system. From June to September, frequent fierce squalls buffet the west facing aspects of the islands whilst the east is sheltered. In September, the currents and winds reverse thus exposing the east of the islands to bad weather until January. The weather is calm all over the archipelago during the remainder of the year. This unusual weather pattern allows swimming, snorkelling and diving to be an all-year-round activity.
This unusual weather pattern allows swimming, snorkelling and diving to be an all-year-round activity in Con Dao
This unusual weather pattern allows swimming, snorkelling and diving to be an all-year-round activity in Con Dao

The National Park
The French wardens forced prisoners to collect live coral and turn it into lime. The coral reefs survived, but only to face further damage from uncontrolled and destructive fishing. The National Park was established in 1977, but protection extended only to the flora and fauna on land. The park now covers fourteen of the sixteen islands and their surrounding marine areas.
Enjoy your fresh air at Con Dao national park
Enjoy your fresh air at Con Dao national park

The forest cover on the islands is dense: a sizable proportion is in pristine condition, particularly the humid hill forest growing above 500m above sea level. Even though control over the exploitative use of the sea was established as late as 1993, and despite the damage wreaked by the French, over a thousand hectares of Con Dao National Park's coral reefs survive in the shallow waters - a stark contrast to other areas of Vietnam that have low coral cover as a result of overexploitation, destructive fishing, and sedimentation.
The forest cover on the islands is dense
The forest cover on the islands is dense

The entire marine area is rich in biodiversity: over 1,300 species of sea animals have already been identified. The ecosystems on Con Dao are favourable habitats for rare species such as the Hawksbill and Green Turtles, and Dugong, the strange creatures popularly known as ‘sea cows’ and believed to be the source of the ‘mermaid’ legends from their habit of sunbathing on rocks.

Conservation efforts
The World Wide Fund for Nature has been active in protecting sea turtles and dugong. Since 1995, more than 300,000 baby turtles have been released to the sea and nearly 1,000 mature turtles have been tagged. Con Dao National Park is now considered one of the best examples of marine conservation in Vietnam, complete with regulations to limit fishing activities and prohibit destructive fishing, and is a model for marine conservation throughout the country. There are plans for eco-friendly development within the park’s boundaries.

The future
Con Dao has significant value for many types of conservation and eco-friendly tourism development. Five-star PADI scuba diving will soon be available: there are several outstanding dive sites offering sightings of dolphins, turtles and dugong as well as a wide range of other species. Con Dao is definitely a place for nature lovers, but also an opportunity to visit an unspoilt tropical island before development. There is little doubt that it will soon become a popular destination, so if you want peace and solitude in a pristine setting, now’s the time to go.
Con Dao National Park is now considered one of the best examples of marine conservation in Vietnam
Con Dao is definitely a place for nature lovers

Possible activities.
There is a small museum in what used to be the French Governor’s residence overlooking the main bay. Its four rooms cover the islands’ history, most of which centres upon the penal colony. The first room contains general information about the archipelago. The second is called ‘Hell on Earth’. On its walls are faded photographs, illustrations and paintings depicting the inhuman treatment meted out by their gaolers.
Visit Con Dao prison
Visit Con Dao prison

Under the French, there was some semblance of order and control. Prisoners incarcerated for relatively minor offences could gain privileges for co-operation and be released to the mainland. Under the Saigon regime, prisoners were treated even more brutally. Pictures of the comfortable life of the prison administrators and their guests contrast eerily with the squalor of the inmates. Various artefacts, memorabilia and examples of the instruments of torture are on display – particularly poignant are fragments of paper weapons and costumes made by inmates as props for New Year celebration performances.

The third room has a wall of photographs of prominent Vietnamese agitators and revolutionaries who underwent slow execution in the tiger cages, and other prisoners who served time and later rose to prominence after liberation. There is also a display of makeshift weapons. The final room depicts the years since liberation. The museum arranges a tour of the complex with a guide. However, the level of English spoken is low, so patience and a phrase book are necessary. The tour should take a couple of hours.
Con Dao beaches
Con Dao beaches

The main island offers good camping, hiking and trekking opportunities – the National Park Headquarters on the outskirts of the town can provide you with information about suitable trails and paths. There are no organised water sports, but there are opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling. The Diving Centre is located on the seafront. Services are limited at present, but the centre should be in full operation later this year. Boat services are a bit problematic at present, but should improve soon. There are some good beaches on Con Son. Some can be reached on foot, but the better locations involve a long hike or hiring a motorbike. There are many secluded beaches on the on the other islands.

Getting there
A fast boat service linking Vung Tau with Con Lon was established last year, and in May 2004, the national flag carrier, Vietnam Airlines, began operating six flights a week from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao. The aeroplane takes about 50 minutes, and the boat takes twelve hours.
Explore Con Dao beach by motorbike

Facilities
There are no taxis on the islands, and virtually no ‘xe oms’ (motorbike taxis). However, it’s easy to hire a small motorbike to get around the island. Prices are somewhat higher than on the mainland.
Visitors can reach Con Dao island by boat
Visitors can reach Con Dao island by boat

Accommodation is basic and limited - the best hotel on the island is lower than our ‘local’ standard. Restaurants are few and far between, and the cuisine is rudimentary. Don’t be misled by tales of exotic fruits in abundance – it’s mainly bananas and coconuts. Everything else comes from the mainland. However, the seafood is first-rate.
ONLY WITH US : 100 % MONEY BACK GUARANTEE within 10 days from the date of booking if not satisfied.
For further information, or simply a free quote, please contact us at any time via our email: info@galatourist.com, our experienced consultants will reply to you within 48 hours.
Sincerely yours & see you soon!
GALATOURIST since 2005.
Related Articles
Coronavirus situation by traveller in Vietnam on February 4, 2020
Coronavirus situation by traveller in Vietnam on February 4, 2020
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, which cause illnesses ranging from a simple cold (some seasonal viruses are coronaviruses) to more severe conditions such as MERS or SARS. The virus identified in Wuhan in December 2019 is a novel coronavirus. It was named 2019-nCoV.
Top 29 best places to visit in Hanoi Vietnam
Top 29 best places to visit in Hanoi Vietnam
As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi still retains its leisurely pace in a quiet atmosphere compared to the more bustling Ho Chi Minh City. However, Hanoi deserves to be the capital of Vietnam thanks to its typical culture accumulated along the passage of time which defines best what Vietnam is. The article will show you 29 best places to visit in Hanoi for your choices.
Admire the majestic but charming beauty of Dai Yem Waterfall in Moc Chau
Admire the majestic but charming beauty of Dai Yem Waterfall in Moc Chau
Located in the heart of Moc Chau, Vietnam, Dai Yem Waterfall is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Known for its breathtaking beauty and tranquil surroundings, this hidden gem is the perfect escape from the bustling city life. If you're wondering what to do in Moc Chau, Vietnam, a trip to Dai Yem Waterfall should be at the top of your list. In this article, we'll explore the best ways to experience this natural wonder and share tips for making the most of your visit. Stay tuned to the Vietnam travel blog by Galatourist for more insights!
Activities in Ha Giang Viet Nam: Meo Vac Town what to do
Activities in Ha Giang Viet Nam: Meo Vac Town what to do
Meo Vac, located in Ha Giang, Vietnam, is a stunning location renowned for its imposing limestone cliffs, magnificent scenery, and diverse ethnic cultures. Meo Vac, which is tucked away in the untamed mountains of northern Vietnam, gives daring visitors the chance to take in the breathtaking scenery and the lively local way of life. Here are the suggestions for Meo Vac Town what to do.
Ha Giang 1 day tour: What to do for a day tour in Ha Giang Loop
Ha Giang 1 day tour: What to do for a day tour in Ha Giang Loop
Are you up for an exciting journey through the best-kept secret in Vietnam? When you come on our Ha Giang 1-Day Tour in Ha Giang Loop, you can expect to be astounded by the stunning scenery and fascinating cultural experiences that lie ahead of you.
Hue night acitivities with experiencing Hue Folk Songs on Perfume River
Hue night acitivities with experiencing Hue Folk Songs on Perfume River
Hue's folk music offer one of the most captivating ways to discover the spirit of the city's cultural tapestry. Let's explore the enchanted evening pursuits this culturally diverse city has to offer.
Specialties Ninh Bình ? What to eat in Ninh Bình
Specialties Ninh Bình ? What to eat in Ninh Bình
Ninh Bình specialties can be an exemple for a trip of streetfood because the term "What to eat in Ninh Bình" is really curious for the touristes who traveled here
Hue Handcraft Discovery: Thuy Xuan Incense Stick-making Village (Thuỷ Xuân)
Hue Handcraft Discovery: Thuy Xuan Incense Stick-making Village (Thuỷ Xuân)
One of the most alluring Hue tourist attractions is Incense Villages like Thuy Xuan Incense Stick-making Village (Thuỷ Xuân). This is where you may capture a ton of gorgeous pictures and learn about the art of creating incense sticks. Hue has long been known for its rich cultural and historical past as well as its distinctive craft villages, the most well-known of which is Thuy Xuan Incense Village (Thuỷ Xuân) in Hue, which is said to contain the essence of this historic capital. With vibrant and eye-catching incense bundles, Thuy Xuan Village (Thủy Xuân) maintains a nostalgic charm that is alluring even though it isn't very busy or exciting.
Hue itinerary with traditional handcraft: Phu Cam Conical Hat Village
Hue itinerary with traditional handcraft: Phu Cam Conical Hat Village
Hue conical hat or Phu Cam Village (Phú Cam) is not only elegant in shape but also subdued in colour. It appears to be piercing through light since it is so thin and light. If you plan for a Hue day tour and wonder about things to do for a day in Hue, Phu Cam Village is a highly recommended place to visit.
Best ways to get to Hue: From all parts of Vietnam for Hue itinerary
Best ways to get to Hue: From all parts of Vietnam for Hue itinerary
Located in the centre of Vietnam, between the well-known cities of Hanoi, Hoi An and many other Vietnam famous tourist destinations, is the lovely city of Hue. It's a must for travellers nationwide and a wonderful place to spend a Hue Vietnam tour. There are numerous ways to get Hue from all parts of Vietnam. From Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Sai Gon, and Phu Quoc, you can easily travel to Hue and vice versa. Here is a comprehensive guide for the transport to Hue.
What to do in 3 days in Hue: Hue itinerary for culture lovers
What to do in 3 days in Hue: Hue itinerary for culture lovers
You may explore the most fascinating Hue attractions in Hue Vietnam tour, take advantage of the nightlife, and eat a lot of the mouthwatering cuisine from Central Vietnam in just 3 days in Hue.
2 days in Hue itinerary: Comprehensively Hue what to do and see 
2 days in Hue itinerary: Comprehensively Hue what to do and see 
Hue is located in central Vietnam, between the well-known cities of Hanoi and Hoi An. It's a must for travellers nationwide and a wonderful place to spend 2 days in Hue. It doesn't take long to view Hue attractions. Many people try to fit everything into one day, but for a more leisurely Hue Vietnam tour, 2 days in Hue are ideal. I suggest coming early on Day 1 and departing late on Day 2 to get the most out of your 2 days in Hue. Because of this, you’ll have plenty of time to view everything without feeling hurried.
Filter articles
Top
free telephone appointment
tripadvisor
call
Customize your trip
Customize
Leave a message
Contact
(+84)
Call now!
WhatsApp
WhatsApp
Messenger
View Google Map
Google Map