One of the most striking impressions when trekking through Con Dao’s sacred forests is the presence of massive climbing vines—hundreds of years old—twisting, looping, and weaving around ancient trees. These natural sculptures create unforgettable sights for trekkers exploring the island.
According to a botanical survey conducted by the Southern Sub-Institute of Forest Planning and Investigation (2002), Con Dao National Park recorded 1,077 plant species, belonging to 640 genera and 160 families of vascular plants. Remarkably, Con Dao is home to 137 species of climbing vines, found throughout the park’s diverse forest ecosystems. Over decades and centuries, they have grown into extraordinary shapes, forming natural artworks deep within the jungle.
Among the most iconic is the O-shaped ancient vine, a popular check-in spot for visitors to Con Dao National Park. An information sign onsite refers to these vines as “clever opportunists,” because to reach sunlight needed for photosynthesis, they skillfully coil around larger trees, using them as natural ladders to climb upward.
The famous O-shaped vine belongs to the Bam Bam group—a type of woody climber commonly found in Con Dao’s forests. In traditional Eastern medicine, Bam Bam vines have a slightly bitter and astringent taste, neutral properties, and are used to relieve rheumatism and poor blood circulation. Its seeds taste sweet and astringent, and though mildly toxic, are believed to help reduce cramps, relieve pain, and act as a diuretic.
Another magnificent Bam Bam vine can be found on the western side of Con Dao, along the trekking route from Bai Bang to Bai Dat Tham. Here, nature has shaped the vines into graceful, unusual curves, adding a unique touch to the landscape and making the trekking trails of Con Dao National Park even more magical.
These ancient forest vines are more than just plants—they are living witnesses to the passage of time, symbols of the island’s resilience, and unforgettable highlights for every traveler seeking the wild beauty of Con Dao.
