Con Dao is not only known as one of the most mysterious archipelagos in the world but also as a land deeply marked by Vietnam’s cultural and historical heritage. The island system is closely associated with the notorious prison complex from the French and American eras, as well as Hang Duong Cemetery — the resting place of thousands of revolutionary martyrs, including the famed heroine Võ Thị Sáu.
Located off the southern coast of Vietnam, Con Dao is an island district under Ba Ria–Vung Tau Province. The archipelago lies 97 nautical miles from Vung Tau City and 45 nautical miles from the Hau River estuary. It consists of 16 islands, with 14 clustered together and two — Big Egg and Small Egg — lying separately to the west.
A Land Rich in Historical Significance
Con Dao is home to one of the most brutal prison systems in Indochina, featuring the infamous Phu Hai, Phu Son, Phu Tuong, and Phu Binh prisons, as well as the French–American Tiger Cages, Cow Cages, and the former residence of the Island Governor. Generations of revolutionary soldiers and patriots were imprisoned, tortured, and exiled here.
A must-visit site on the island is Hang Duong Cemetery, a sacred destination where many national heroes and revolutionaries rest, including Nguyen An Ninh, General Secretary Le Hong Phong, heroine Võ Thị Sáu, and martyr Cao Van Ngọc. Tens of thousands of visitors come each year to pay tribute and honor their memory.
Pristine Nature and Pleasant Climate
Beyond its historical value, Con Dao captivates visitors with serene natural beauty. The island enjoys a mild climate year-round, averaging 26–27°C, fresh air, and lush canopies of ancient tropical almond trees. With its quiet streets and low population density, Con Dao offers tranquility that is increasingly rare in modern life.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities:
- Swimming and beach relaxation
- Exploring historical sites
- Eco-tourism: snorkeling, diving, fishing, trekking
- Discovering tropical forests and diverse marine life
Rapidly Improving Tourism Infrastructure
In recent years, Con Dao has experienced significant development. Roads, the airport, and seaports have been upgraded, tourism services have improved, and visitor numbers continue to grow. Local residents mainly work in tourism services and agriculture.
How to Get to Con Dao
Travelers can reach Con Dao by both air and sea:
✔ By Air:
- Ho Chi Minh City → Con Dao
- Can Tho → Con Dao
- Helicopter route: Vung Tau → Con Dao
✔ By Sea:
- High-speed ferry from Vũng Tàu (approx. 4 hours)
- High-speed ferry from Trần Đề – Sóc Trăng (approx. 1 hour 45 minutes)
- High-speed ferry from Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 6 hours)
Luxury Resorts and Modern Amenities
To meet the rising demand of tourists, Con Dao now offers several high-end resorts equipped with restaurants, bars, pools, private villas, airport transfers, 24-hour reception, and free Wi-Fi.
Some popular resorts include:
- Six Senses Con Dao
- Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa
- Tan Son Nhat Con Dao Resort
- Con Dao Sea Travel Resort
- Saigon – Con Dao Resort
