Dong Tam Snake Farm 2 in Duong To, Phu Quoc Special Zone, is a branch of the original Dong Tam Snake Farm in Tien Giang under the Logistics – Technical Department of Military Region 9. Since opening in June 2018, the facility has served not only as a conservation center for medicinal resources and the genetic preservation of Phu Quoc’s two rare venomous snake species—the cobra and king cobra—but also as one of the island’s most unique educational and experiential attractions.
Situated on more than 27 hectares of open land surrounded by forest, the center plays a dual role: protecting wildlife and providing survival knowledge for residents and visitors on the island.
A conservation hub for venomous snakes and a survival-skills education center
Captain Nguyen Tan Loc, head of Dong Tam Snake Farm 2, shared that the center regularly organizes outdoor educational activities for local schools, helping students and visitors learn how to identify snakes, understand their behavior, prevent snakebites, and give first-aid treatment. These skills are especially important for people living in a tropical island environment like Phu Quoc.
Beyond its conservation work, the center also supports the local Medical Center and clinics in treating severe snakebite cases. In 2024 alone, the facility assisted more than 50 venomous snakebite patients in Phu Quoc. For complicated cases, the team works directly with the main base in Tien Giang to provide timely treatment.
Extracting snake venom—one of the farm’s most dangerous tasks—is performed only by experienced technicians. The venom is used to produce medicinal products, most notably Cobratoxan, known for relieving muscle and joint pain.
A unique and memorable experience for visitors
Visitors to Dong Tam Snake Farm 2 can enjoy a variety of eye-opening and interactive activities. They can take photos with gentle, non-venomous pythons; observe the process of caring for rare snake species; learn to distinguish between venomous and non-venomous snakes; and watch technicians demonstrate venom extraction—a highly precise and specialized procedure. Guests also gain valuable insight into the importance of preserving snake genetics for biomedical research.
Many international visitors have praised the experience.
Ms. Tereza Machová from the Czech Republic said: “I held a snake for the first time here. It was thrilling and exciting. Watching the venom extraction was amazing—very unique. This is definitely a place worth visiting in Phu Quoc.”
Ms. Le Thi Hong Tham from Ho Chi Minh City added: “I’ve always been afraid of snakes, but this was an unforgettable experience. Seeing how the caretakers work with such dangerous animals made me appreciate their dedication even more.”
Dong Tam Snake Farm – the “Kingdom of Snakes” in Southern Vietnam
The main facility in Tien Giang is often referred to as a miniature “snake kingdom,” home to more than 1,000 snakes representing over 50 species—from king cobras, cobras, and banded kraits to green pit vipers. It was recognized as the first snake museum in Vietnam with the most diverse species collection.
For nearly 45 years, Dong Tam Snake Farm has saved tens of thousands of people bitten by venomous snakes using specialized antivenom. Remarkably, all treatment services—except the antivenom cost—are provided free of charge.
Guided by the philosophy “raise snakes to cure snakebites – use poison to treat poison,” the center has become a leading medical and scientific institution in the region.
Toward ecological and educational tourism in Phu Quoc
With its large natural area, Dong Tam Snake Farm 2 aims to develop into a distinctive ecological and educational tourism model, where visitors can learn about medicinal plants, wildlife, and essential survival skills.
Activities available at the center include:
- Touring the snake-breeding zone and wildlife enclosures
- Viewing preserved specimens and venom-derived products
- Watching live venom-extraction demonstrations
- Purchasing OCOP products such as python fat balm, Cobratoxan, snake wine, and honey
- Visiting the flower island area, gardens, mini landscapes, and children’s play zone
In the coming years, the center plans to expand partnerships with travel agencies and upgrade its facilities to provide an even better visitor experience.
Contact Information – Dong Tam Snake Farm 2, Phu Quoc
📞 Hotline/Zalo: 0898 408 408
📍 Address: Ap Suoi Da – Duong To – Phu Quoc Special Zone – An Giang Province
🎟️ Entrance Fee: 30,000 VND per person
