How to get to Con Dao

The picturesque Con Dao archipelago, located off the southern coast of Vietnam, attracts travellers with its pristine beaches, dense jungles, and rich history. When planning how to get to Con Dao, consider its island location: air travel remains the primary and fastest connection to the mainland, though sea crossings exist for adventure lovers. This secluded resort is ideal for those seeking tranquility away from bustling metropolises, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical heritage.

The most convenient and fastest way to reach the islands is by air. The local Con Dao Airport (VCS) receives regular flights from major cities in the country, ensuring a reliable link between the archipelago and the mainland. Flying saves significant time compared to the sea route and offers stunning views of the turquoise waters from above.

The airport is situated in a scenic valley and is well-connected to the central part of the island, so the transfer to your hotel usually does not take long. Due to the destination's high popularity and limited number of flights, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Since Con Dao is an island district, a direct rail connection is technically impossible. The railway in Vietnam runs exclusively on the mainland, so a train can only serve as the first stage of your multi-leg journey.

Travellers preferring ground transport can take a train to major transport hubs in the south of the country, for example, to Ho Chi Minh City. From there, you will need to transfer to a bus or taxi to reach coastal ports (Vung Tau or Soc Trang), where boarding for high-speed ferries to the archipelago takes place.

Reaching Con Dao exclusively by bus is impossible due to the water barrier, but this mode of transport is excellent for transit to ferry crossings. Tourists often choose comfortable intercity buses or "sleeper buses" travelling from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho to the port cities of Vung Tau and Soc Trang.

The journey to the coast takes several hours, after which a transfer to a high-speed vessel is necessary. Such a combined "bus plus ferry" route is often chosen by budget-conscious travellers wishing to save on airfare and view the picturesque landscapes of the Mekong Delta along the way.

Travelling by car is relevant only for moving across the mainland to the departure ports. You can take a taxi or a rented car to the piers in Vung Tau or Tran De (Soc Trang province), from where speedboats depart for Con Dao. The travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau is about 2–3 hours.

It is important to remember that transporting a private car to the island is a complex, expensive procedure and is not always available on passenger speedboats. Most tourists prefer to leave their cars in guarded parking lots at the port of departure and rent transport (usually scooters) directly upon arrival at the archipelago.

A trip to Con Dao is an immersion into a world of wild nature and silence, requiring some preparation. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible, consider the following practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Equipment: Bring light clothing made of natural fabrics and comfortable shoes for trekking if you plan to walk in the national park. Be sure to bring modest clothing to cover up when visiting memorials and temples.
2. Island Transport: The most popular way to get around is renting a scooter, as public transport is underdeveloped. The roads here are calm and scenic, but always wear a helmet.
3. Cash: There are few ATMs on the island, and they may be out of service or not accept certain foreign cards. It is recommended to withdraw a sufficient amount of local currency (Dong) while still on the mainland.
4. Insect Protection: Since most of the island is jungle, there are many mosquitoes and sandflies. Be sure to use repellents, especially in the evening and when visiting beaches.
5. Connectivity and Internet: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes, but mobile internet may be unstable in remote parts of the island. Download offline maps of the area in advance.
6. Respect for History: Con Dao is a place with a tragic past and many memorials. Behave with restraint and respect when visiting historical prisons and cemeteries; these are sacred places for the Vietnamese.
7. Nature Conservation: It is strictly forbidden to damage corals or take them with you. Also, be careful during the sea turtle nesting season—do not disturb the animals and do not use flash photography at night.
8. Groceries and Prices: Prices for food and goods are higher here than on the mainland due to logistics. It is better to bring specific medicines or favourite snacks with you.

By observing these simple rules, you can enjoy the unique atmosphere of the archipelago, its deserted beaches, and incredible sunsets, avoiding unnecessary hassles.