Con Dao National Park
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Con Dao National Park

4.5
·369 reviews·, Vietnam

A lush island sanctuary for sea turtles and diverse wildlife, offering hiking, snorkeling, and a less-touristy escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

April - September

Baby turtle season

CrowdMedium
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Con Dao National Park

Con Dao National Park

Best Time

April - September

Baby turtle season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A lush island sanctuary for sea turtles and diverse wildlife, offering hiking, snorkeling, and a less-touristy escape.

4.5
(369 reviews)

"Less touristy and peaceful, with green hills, turquoise water, and opportunities to release baby turtles."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐢 Turtle Tour Booking

Book turtle tours in advance, especially if you're a foreigner. Online payment can be difficult; consider visiting the office .

🥾 Hike Smart

Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for hikes. Be prepared for heat and humidity. Monkeys can be aggressive, so keep your distance .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baby Sea Turtle Release

Baby Sea Turtle Release

Various locations

Participate in a heartwarming conservation effort by releasing baby sea turtles into the ocean. A truly unforgettable experience!

Snorkeling and Diving

Snorkeling and Diving

Protected dive sites

Explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter marine life, including sharks, in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Con Dao.

Forest Hiking Trails

Forest Hiking Trails

Various trails

Trek through lush greenery, spot diverse wildlife like monkeys and squirrels, and discover hidden beaches and caves.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Turtle Season

The prime time to witness baby sea turtles being released into the ocean is from April to September. Tours typically start early, around 7 AM, and include snorkeling. Booking in advance is recommended, especially if you're a foreigner, as online payment might be tricky.TikTok

Prepare for the Hike

Con Dao National Park offers hiking trails, but be ready for heat and humidity. Wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water. While some trails lead to beaches and a cave, the waterfall's flow is seasonal. Wildlife sightings are common, but keep a safe distance from monkeys.Reddit

Best Times

When
April - September
Why
Baby turtle season
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings
Why
Best for turtle tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Côn Đảo, Vietnam | Release baby turtles into sea🐢 🐢Price: 2500k for rent speedboat (cano)+ 60k ticket for entry national park + 50k release baby turtle. 🐢Season to join release turtles activity:Apr- Sep. ⏰Time: 7:10-10:00 (including releasing turtles and snorkeling. ✦ Reviews of Con Dao👉#someonein_condao #vietnamtravel #vietnam #vietnamcondao #condao #babyturtleconcervation
someoneinvn
91 likes • 5.4K views

🐢 Turtle Tour Booking

Book turtle tours in advance, especially if you're a foreigner. Online payment can be difficult; consider visiting the office.Reddit

🥾 Hike Smart

Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for hikes. Be prepared for heat and humidity. Monkeys can be aggressive, so keep your distance.Reddit

What a beautiful island ! 🏝️🇻🇳 Con Dao is less touristy and that makes it so peaceful ! A big part of the main island is a national park, so you will see green hills everywhere. Adding to this, turquoise water, palmtrees, sunsets, sunrises, doggies and cute little coffee places ! #condao #vietnam #vietnamtravels #vietnamisland #southvietnam
allisee.on.earth
86 likes • 3.9K views
#seaturtles #iucnseaturtlevolunteer #iucntnvruabien #iucnvietnam #sinhradesonghoangda #borntobewild #VQGConDao #condaonationalpark #vietnam
kobe_bambino
25 likes • 373 views

🌊 Beach Conditions

Some beaches are rocky and shallow. Trash can wash ashore, so manage expectations for pristine swimming spots.Reddit

🦈 Dive with Sharks

Amadive offers permitted dives to protected sites for a chance to see Blacktip Reef Sharks.Instagram

Con Dao 🏝️🇻🇳 . #cônđảo #ísland #islandlife #vietnam #southvietnam #hicking #motorbike #beachvibes #vietnamhystory #prison #condaonationalpark #condaoprison #specialfood #coconutcoffee
lisl_mrie
44 likes • 621 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐢 Turtle Tour Booking

Book turtle tours in advance, especially if you're a foreigner. Online payment can be difficult; consider visiting the office.Reddit

🥾 Hike Smart

Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for hikes. Be prepared for heat and humidity. Monkeys can be aggressive, so keep your distance.Reddit

🌊 Beach Conditions

Some beaches are rocky and shallow. Trash can wash ashore, so manage expectations for pristine swimming spots.Reddit

🦈 Dive with Sharks

Amadive offers permitted dives to protected sites for a chance to see Blacktip Reef Sharks.Instagram

🐒 Wildlife Encounters

Expect to see monkeys, squirrels, lizards, and possibly wild boar. Admire from a safe distance.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(369 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Con Dao National Park offers a unique conservation experience, particularly with its sea turtle programs and opportunities for wildlife spotting during hikes. While some visitors found the beaches rocky and the park maintenance lacking, others praised the island's natural beauty, friendly locals, and the chance to explore less-crowded natural landscapes.

"not worth it to be honest. we expected something more than just paved roads that lead to rocky and dirty beaches. the hike itself was okay, but there was not really anything beautiful to see on the way, except some monkeys and lizards. You can't swim cause the first beach is full of rocks and shallow water and the second beach is the same, but even worth. Also, a lot of trash gets washed up the shore. For a national park with entrance fee that should be better maintained. the walk up to the cave is not worth it, it's just a tiny cave with an altar and Jesus. the waterfall stream was non existent, but maybe it's better in wet season.
I wouldn't go again. no nice views, no nice beaches, and just lots of sweat."

Tia Rlin

"a good place for hiking in the forest, beautiful waterfall, beautiful beaches, beautiful ocean!"

Han Nguyen

"I spent only a few hours and did not explore outside of ONE trail but it is a very solid hike.

If I had more time to explore, I would have. It seems very promising — similar to a less dense Hong Kong or Taiwan with less robust mountains"

Justin Lui

What People Like

Baby sea turtle releases
Wildlife encounters
Less crowded island

What People Dislike

Rocky, trash-strewn beaches
Seasonal waterfall
Park maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Con Dao National Park is located on Con Dao Island, Vietnam. Access is typically via ferry or flight from mainland Vietnam, usually from Vung Tau or Ho Chi Minh City. Once on the island, you can rent a motorbike or hire a taxi to reach the park entrance.Instagram

Yes, renting a motorbike is a popular and convenient way to explore Con Dao Island and reach the national park. Taxis are also available. Some accommodations may offer shuttle services.Instagram

You can ride a scooter to the entrance, either by going around the island or cutting through from the town past the national park visitor center. There's an official entrance with a ticket booth about 250m north of the visitor center.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for the national park is around 60,000 VND. Additional costs apply for specific activities like releasing baby turtles (around 50,000 VND) or renting a speedboat for tours.TikTok

Tickets can be purchased at the official entrance booth, which is located about 250m north of the visitor center on the main road.Reddit

While specific hours for the park itself can vary, the popular baby sea turtle release tours typically start around 7 AM.TikTok It's advisable to check locally for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, booking tours in advance is recommended, especially for activities like the baby sea turtle release. For foreigners, it might be easier to book in person at the office if online payment is an issue.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Activities include hiking through lush forests, snorkeling and diving in clear waters, observing wildlife like monkeys and sea turtles, and participating in baby sea turtle release programs during the nesting season.TikTokInstagram+1

You can encounter various wildlife, including monkeys, squirrels, monitor lizards, birds, and even wild boar. During the nesting season, sea turtles are a major attraction.InstagramReddit

Some visitors have noted that certain beaches can be rocky and shallow, with trash sometimes washing ashore. While the water can look nice, swimming conditions may vary.Reddit

The hiking trails can be challenging due to the heat and humidity. The descent to the beach and the climb back up can be strenuous. Proper footwear and hydration are essential.Reddit

Trails can lead to beaches, a small religious cave with an altar, and a waterfall. Wildlife sightings are a highlight, but the waterfall's flow is seasonal.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of lush green hills meeting turquoise waters,Instagram pristine beaches,Instagram+1 and the heartwarming sight of baby sea turtles being released.TikTok Sunsets and sunrises also offer beautiful photographic moments.Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned as designated viewpoints, the hiking trails offer opportunities to capture the island's natural beauty. The beaches themselves provide scenic backdrops.Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, especially for capturing landscapes and wildlife. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly beautiful.Instagram

Yes, you can photograph the diverse wildlife, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Be mindful of monkeys, as they can become aggressive.Reddit

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens would be beneficial for capturing wildlife from a distance. Waterproof protection for your gear is advisable if you plan on water activities.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Con Dao National Park offers a unique blend of nature and adventure that can be engaging for families. The baby sea turtle release program is a particularly heartwarming and educational activity for children.TikTok It provides a tangible connection to conservation efforts and the natural world. Hiking trails offer opportunities for exploration, but parents should be mindful of the heat and humidity, ensuring children stay hydrated and wear appropriate footwear.Reddit

While some beaches might be rocky, the overall island experience, with its friendly locals [^R], lush landscapes,Instagram and potential wildlife sightings like monkeys and squirrels,Reddit can be captivating for younger visitors. It's advisable to supervise children closely, especially around wildlife, as monkeys can sometimes be aggressive.Reddit The less touristy nature of Con Dao compared to other Vietnamese islands can also offer a more relaxed and authentic family travel experience.Instagram

🐠 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts

For those passionate about nature and wildlife, Con Dao National Park is a must-visit. The park is a vital sanctuary for endangered sea turtles, offering a chance to witness their nesting and release programs during specific seasons.TikTokInstagram The underwater world is equally captivating, with opportunities for snorkeling and diving to see diverse marine life, including sharks in protected areas.Instagram

The island's interior is a haven for terrestrial wildlife. Hiking through the dense forests allows for sightings of monkeys, squirrels, monitor lizards, and various bird species.Reddit The rugged terrain and natural beauty provide an immersive experience for hikers. Remember to respect the environment, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and be prepared for the tropical climate.Reddit

🏖️ Beach Lovers & Relaxation Seekers

While Con Dao National Park is primarily known for its conservation and hiking, it does offer beautiful coastal scenery. Some visitors highlight pristine beaches and turquoise waters as part of the island's charm.Instagram+2 The less touristy atmosphere compared to other Vietnamese islands contributes to a more peaceful and relaxing experience.Instagram

However, it's worth noting that some beaches within the park can be rocky and shallow, and occasionally affected by washed-up trash.Reddit For those seeking pure relaxation and swimming, it might be beneficial to research specific beach conditions or opt for accommodations with private beach access. The overall tranquility of the island, however, makes it a great escape for those looking to unwind amidst nature.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Conservation Efforts: Sea Turtles

Con Dao National Park is a crucial breeding and feeding ground for endangered species, most notably the hawksbill and green sea turtles.Instagram+1 From April to September, visitors have the unique opportunity to participate in conservation efforts by releasing baby sea turtles into the ocean.TikTok This experience is often guided by knowledgeable individuals who share insights into turtle biology and the importance of conservation.Reddit Some resorts, like Six Senses Con Dao, are actively involved in safeguarding nesting sites and protecting these vulnerable creatures.Instagram+1

Participating in a turtle tour typically involves an early start, often around 7 AM, and may include snorkeling in beautiful coral reefs. It's important to note that booking these tours, especially for international visitors, might require visiting the local office for arrangements.Reddit The experience is not just about releasing turtles; it's an educational journey into marine conservation, highlighting the delicate balance of the ecosystem and the role tourism can play in supporting it.Reddit

For those truly passionate about marine life, an overnight stay to witness turtles laying eggs is an option, though not always guaranteed. The success of these conservation programs relies on continued support and awareness, making visitor participation a valuable contribution to protecting these ancient mariners.Reddit

Exploring the Trails: Hiking and Wildlife

The hiking trails within Con Dao National Park offer a chance to immerse yourself in the island's lush, tropical environment. While the trails can be demanding due to the heat and humidity, they reward hikers with opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife.Reddit Keep an eye out for giant black squirrels, monkeys, monitor lizards, and numerous birds.Reddit Some visitors have even encountered wild boar, so it's wise to be aware of your surroundings.Reddit

The trails often lead to secluded beaches and a small cave with a religious altar. However, the presence and flow of a waterfall are highly dependent on the season, and it may be dry during certain times of the year.Reddit The beaches themselves can be a mixed bag; while some offer attractive waters, they might be rocky and lack shade, and occasionally, trash can be found washed ashore.Reddit It's advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry ample water to stay hydrated throughout your trek.

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, some trails offer a descent to the beach followed by a challenging climb back up.Reddit While the park is less developed than some other tourist hotspots, its natural beauty and the thrill of encountering wildlife make it a worthwhile destination for nature enthusiasts.Instagram+1

Diving and Snorkeling Adventures

Con Dao National Park boasts pristine waters that are ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Amadive Con Dao, in particular, is permitted by the National Park to access special, highly protected dive sites.Instagram This exclusivity allows divers an intimate and respectful encounter with the marine ecosystem.

These protected areas are known for their rich biodiversity, offering a chance to admire majestic creatures in their natural habitat. A notable highlight is the opportunity to see Blacktip Reef Sharks.Instagram The vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish populations make for an unforgettable underwater experience. It's recommended to wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeve rash guard and full leg cover, to guard against jellyfish stings while snorkeling.Reddit

Beyond shark sightings, the waters around Con Dao are teeming with marine life, making it a prime location for underwater exploration. The clear visibility and healthy coral formations contribute to the appeal for both novice and experienced divers and snorkelers.Instagram