Kai Reisen: Con Dao

Con Dao Vietnam

Con Dao, an isolated archipelago off Vietnam’s southern coast, feels like a world apart. Once a notorious prison island under French and later South Vietnamese rule, today it is a peaceful sanctuary where history and nature coexist. The main island, Con Son, is small enough to explore by scooter, with quiet roads winding past jungle-covered hills, sleepy fishing villages, and stretches of empty shoreline. Unlike many of Vietnam’s more famous beach destinations, Con Dao still retains a sense of remoteness, making it ideal for travelers seeking calm and authenticity. The island’s past is never far from view. A visit to Con Dao Prison and the Phu Hai and Phu Son complexes offers a sobering look at Vietnam’s struggle for independence, with preserved “tiger cages,” memorials, and detailed exhibits. Nearby Hang Duong Cemetery, where many revolutionary prisoners are buried, is an important pilgrimage site for Vietnamese visitors, especially at night when candles and incense transform it into a sea of flickering lights. Exploring these sites provides valuable context and a deeper understanding of the country’s modern identity. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore. Con Dao National Park protects large areas of primary forest, coral reefs, and sea grass beds, home to rare species such as green sea turtles and dugongs. Hiking trails lead to viewpoints overlooking bays of turquoise water, while guided boat trips offer snorkeling among colorful coral and tropical fish. Many beaches feel wonderfully undeveloped: Dam Trau, with its golden sand and clear water, is perfect for swimming and sunset drinks, even as planes occasionally glide low overhead to land at the nearby airstrip. Practicalities are part of the charm. Con Dao is reachable by a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho, and once you arrive, the pace slows naturally—there are limited nightlife options and only a handful of mid-range and high-end accommodations. Fresh seafood is a highlight, from simple street stalls grilling squid to restaurants serving local specialties like bun rieu and hotpot. Come to Con Dao if you want time to reflect, explore Vietnam’s complex history, and enjoy pristine landscapes before the island inevitably grows busier.

Recommended airport

Co Ong Airport (VCS)

Nearby destinations

Con Son a 5.65 km

Con Dao, Vietnam

Con Dao Vietnam