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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Baby turtle season

Con Dao National Park
Best Time
Baby turtle season

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lush island sanctuary for sea turtles and diverse wildlife, offering hiking, snorkeling, and a less-touristy escape.
"Less touristy and peaceful, with green hills, turquoise water, and opportunities to release baby turtles."

🐢 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 .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Forest Hiking Trails
Various trails
Trek through lush greenery, spot diverse wildlife like monkeys and squirrels, and discover hidden beaches and caves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Turtle Season
Prepare for the Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 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.
🌊 Beach Conditions
Some beaches are rocky and shallow. Trash can wash ashore, so manage expectations for pristine swimming spots.
🦈 Dive with Sharks
Amadive offers permitted dives to protected sites for a chance to see Blacktip Reef Sharks.
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.
🥾 Hike Smart
Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for hikes. Be prepared for heat and humidity. Monkeys can be aggressive, so keep your distance.
🌊 Beach Conditions
Some beaches are rocky and shallow. Trash can wash ashore, so manage expectations for pristine swimming spots.
🦈 Dive with Sharks
Amadive offers permitted dives to protected sites for a chance to see Blacktip Reef Sharks.
🐒 Wildlife Encounters
Expect to see monkeys, squirrels, lizards, and possibly wild boar. Admire from a safe distance.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Tickets can be purchased at the official entrance booth, which is located about 250m north of the visitor center on the main road.
While specific hours for the park itself can vary, the popular baby sea turtle release tours typically start around 7 AM. 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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of lush green hills meeting turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and the heartwarming sight of baby sea turtles being released. Sunsets and sunrises also offer beautiful photographic moments.
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.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, especially for capturing landscapes and wildlife. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly beautiful.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some beaches might be rocky, the overall island experience, with its friendly locals [^R], lush landscapes, and potential wildlife sightings like monkeys and squirrels, can be captivating for younger visitors. It's advisable to supervise children closely, especially around wildlife, as monkeys can sometimes be aggressive. The less touristy nature of Con Dao compared to other Vietnamese islands can also offer a more relaxed and authentic family travel experience.
🐠 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
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. 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.
🏖️ Beach Lovers & Relaxation Seekers
However, it's worth noting that some beaches within the park can be rocky and shallow, and occasionally affected by washed-up trash. 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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation Efforts: Sea Turtles
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. 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.
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.
Exploring the Trails: Hiking and Wildlife
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. 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. 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. 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.
Diving and Snorkeling Adventures
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. 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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit