The Perfect Con Dao Island Itinerary (3-5 Days): Combining History & Scuba Diving
Con Dao island is an archipelago of breathtaking contrasts. It’s a place where a somber, profound history whispers through prison walls, while just meters away, a vibrant, protected marine ecosystem thrives beneath the waves. For the discerning traveler, especially certified divers and nature lovers, Con Dao offers an experience unlike any other in Vietnam.
But how do you balance these two powerful narratives? How do you pay respect to the past while celebrating the island’s incredible natural present? This 3-to-5-day itinerary is designed to do just that, creating a journey that is both deeply moving and exhilarating.
Why Choose Con Dao Island for Your Next Getaway?
Con Dao is not your typical tourist hotspot. Its designation as a National Park and a strictly protected Marine Protected Area (MPA) has preserved its raw beauty.
- For Divers: The reefs are among the healthiest in Vietnam, boasting massive table corals, diverse macro life, and the country’s most significant sea turtle nesting grounds.
- For History Buffs: The island was once known as “Hell on Earth,” serving as a political prison for over a century. The well-preserved sites offer a chilling and essential look into Vietnam’s fight for independence.
- For Nature Lovers: Beyond the water, lush jungle trails lead to stunning viewpoints and secluded beaches.
Planning Your Trip: How to Get to Con Dao Island
Reaching this secluded paradise is part of the adventure. Here’s a quick guide on how to get to Con Dao island.
By Air (The Fastest Route)
The most direct way is to fly into Con Dao Airport (VCS).
- From Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): Several daily flights (approx. 1 hour).
- From Hanoi (HAN) & Can Tho (VCA): Less frequent direct flights are also available.
Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as flights fill up quickly.
By Sea (The Scenic & Budget-Friendly Route)
High-speed ferries offer a scenic alternative, though they are weather-dependent.
- From Vung Tau: A journey of approximately 3.5 – 4 hours.
- From Soc Trang (Tran De Port): A shorter sea crossing, typically around 2 – 2.5 hours.
The Ultimate Con Dao Itinerary (3-5 Days)
This schedule balances the island’s two main attractions. We recommend the 5-day option if time allows, but the 3-day itinerary covers the essentials.
The 3-Day “Immersion” Itinerary (Compact)
- Day 1: Arrival & Historical Deep Dive
- Arrive, check into your accommodation.
- In the afternoon, confront the island’s history. Visit the Con Dao Museum for context, followed by the Con Dao Prison complex (specifically the “Tiger Cages”).
- In the evening, consider a respectful visit to Hang Duong Cemetery to see the grave of Vo Thi Sau, a site of great spiritual importance to locals.
- Day 2: The Underwater World with Amadive
- This is your dive day. Join the Amadive Con Dao Dive Center for a 2-tank morning dive.
- Explore protected dive sites around the outer islands, encountering vibrant reefs and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles and rays.
- Afternoon: Relax on a quiet beach like Dam Trau Beach near the airport.
- Day 3: Nature & Departure
- Morning: Rent a motorbike and drive the scenic coastal road.
- Visit the Con Dao National Park headquarters to learn about their conservation efforts (especially the sea turtle program).
- Grab some final souvenirs or a local coffee before heading to the airport for your departure.
The 5-Day “Explorer” Itinerary (Recommended)
- Day 1: Arrival & Coastal Exploration
- Arrive, settle in.
- Rent a motorbike and get your bearings. Drive south along the coast to Nhat Beach for a stunning sunset view over the “Shark Cape” (Mui Ca Map).
- Day 2: A Journey Through History
- Dedicate the day to understanding the past. Start at the Con Dao Museum.
- Systematically explore the different prison sites: Phu Hai, Phu Son, and the harrowing “Tiger Cages”.
- Evening: Visit Hang Duong Cemetery.
- Day 3: Scuba Diving with Amadive Con Dao Dive Center
- Full dive day! As certified divers, you’ll join Amadive Con Dao Dive Center for a memorable 2-tank or 3-tank trip.
- Our professional guides will take you to the best sites based on conditions, focusing on biodiversity and safe diving practices.
- Enjoy lunch on the boat, surrounded by the stunning archipelago.
- Day 4: Exploring Con Dao National Park & Bay Canh Island
- Morning: Take a guided trek through the National Park to Ong Dung Beach for snorkeling.
- Afternoon: Arrange a trip (seasonal, permit required) to Bay Canh Island. This is the primary turtle nesting site. You can snorkel the reef and visit the turtle hatchery to learn about the vital conservation work.
- Day 5: Local Life & Departure
- Morning: Wake early to visit the Con Son Market to see the local catch of the day.
- Enjoy a final, relaxing coffee in town.
- Head to the airport, filled with memories of Con Dao island‘s profound history and natural wonder.
Con Dao Thing To Do: Diving with Amadive
While history is the soul of Con Dao, diving is its heartbeat. As a PADI 5-Star Dive Center, Amadive Con Dao Dive Center is your ideal partner for exploring this underwater realm.
- Fun Dives: We offer daily trips for certified divers, keeping groups small and professional.
- PADI Courses: Want to advance your skills? We offer a full range of PADI courses, from Advanced Open Water to specialty courses perfect for Con Dao’s environment.
- Conservation: We are passionate about protecting what we love. Our briefings always include marine conservation guidelines to ensure our dives are sustainable.
Your Con Dao Island Adventure Awaits
Con Dao island is a journey that changes you. It’s a rare destination that educates, inspires, and awes in equal measure. Whether you have 3 days or 5, balancing its poignant history with its world-class marine life is the key to unlocking its true essence.
Are you ready to discover the depths of Con Dao, both historical and marine?
Amadive – Dive Safety & Truly Experience Diving Con Dao island
🌐 Website: amadive.com.vn
📞 WhatsApp: +84 392 419 241
📧 Email: book.amadive@gmail.com