Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Con Dao offers two main options: a quick flight or a scenic journey through the Mekong Delta followed by a ferry ride. Whether you’re after the convenience of flying or the adventure of combining destinations, here’s everything you need to know about getting from Saigon to Con Dao.
Route introduction: Saigon – Con Dao
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam, famous for its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and bustling streets. As a major transportation hub, it has one of the busiest international airports in Vietnam (Tan Son Nhat International Airport), along with extensive bus and train networks connecting to the north and other regions of the country.
Con Dao
Con Dao is a remote island group located off the southern coast of Vietnam, known for its untouched natural beauty, stunning beaches, and historical significance as a former prison colony. The island is accessible by a small airport that handles limited daily flights. There are also ferry connections to the mainland, although these are less frequent.
Tip: Before you plan your trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao, make sure to check the weather and best time to visit. Con Dao’s beaches can be less appealing during the rainy season, so timing is key to enjoy this tropical paradise at its best.
Direct boats from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao (temporarily) suspended
For a short time, there was a direct speed ferry service connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao. Launched in mid-May 2024, the service was intended to provide a new way for travelers to reach the islands. Unfortunately, due to limited interest, logistical issues, and operational challenges, the service was suspended in July 2024, just a few months after it began.
Several factors contributed to the lack of popularity. The departure point, Sai Gon – Hiep Phuoc Port, was located over 20 kilometers from the city center, requiring additional transportation. Passengers were also charged port entry fees, and weather conditions often affected the service. Despite offering a free shuttle bus service from District 1, the ferry operator ultimately decided to cease operations.
The ferry, named Thang Long, had a capacity of over 1,000 passengers, and ticket prices ranged from 26 to 43 euros per trip. Although the service had promise, it didn’t gain the traction needed to continue.
Option 1: Flights between Saigon and Phu Quoc
The fastest and most convenient way to travel between Ho Chi Minh City and Con Dao is by taking a flight. Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City offers several daily flights to Con Dao, landing at the small airport on Con Son, the largest island in the Con Dao Archipelago. While this is the most straightforward option, it’s important to note that all flights to Con Dao are currently operated by Vietnam Airlines, meaning there are no budget airlines offering cheaper alternatives.
Despite the frequent flights, ticket prices are relatively high compared to flights to other domestic destinations like Phu Quoc. This is largely due to the lack of competition and the limited number of flights each day.
Flight Schedule:
- Flight Time: Approximately 50 minutes
- Number of Flights: Around 10 flights daily
- Airline: Vietnam Airlines
- Price: Starting from 55 euros and up
Option 2: Speed ferry from the Mekong Delta
For those already planning to explore the Mekong Delta, taking a speed ferry from the Delta to Con Dao can be a great way to combine a cultural experience with your island getaway. Instead of returning to Ho Chi Minh City, you can travel through the Mekong Delta and take the ferry to Con Dao from Tran De Harbour, located in Soc Trang Province.
This option allows you to spend a night in the Mekong Delta, experiencing local life, cycling, and taking boat tours. The next morning, you can take the ferry from Tran De to Con Dao, a journey that is more time-consuming than flying but offers a unique blend of landscapes and experiences.
Boat schedule:
- Departure Time: 07:00–08:30 AM daily
- Operator: Superdong
- Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours
- Note: Ferries can be canceled due to bad weather, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast and confirm the schedule in advance.
Tip: Tour from Ho Chi Minh City via the Mekong Delta to Con Dao
If you have extra time and want to experience both the Mekong Delta and Con Dao, a tour is a great option. This tour combines the vibrant cultural landscape of the Mekong Delta with a relaxing trip to Con Dao. It can be done in either direction—starting from Ho Chi Minh City or from Con Dao. Below is an example of a three-day itinerary starting from Ho Chi Minh City:
Day 1:
- Morning: Depart from Ho Chi Minh City and drive to the Mekong Delta, specifically to a local homestay outside of Can Tho.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing cycling tour with a local guide through the countryside, passing rice paddies, fruit orchards, and small villages. This is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the peaceful rural life of the Mekong Delta.
- Evening: Stay overnight at a charming homestay by the canal, enjoying authentic Mekong cuisine and hospitality.
Day 2:
- Early Morning: Head out on a boat tour to visit two of the most famous floating markets in the Mekong Delta: Cai Rang, the largest floating market, and Phong Dien, a more intimate local market. Afterward, explore local workshops, visit a fruit orchard, and take in the daily life along the river.
- Evening: Return to the homestay for another night in the Delta, soaking up the serene atmosphere.
Day 3:
- Morning: Travel to Tran De Harbour for the speed ferry to Con Dao. The ferry leaves early, so staying overnight in the Mekong Delta ensures you won’t miss the boat. After a 2.5-hour ferry ride, you’ll arrive at Con Dao, ready to explore the island.
This tour gives you the chance to experience the unique culture of the Mekong Delta before heading to the peaceful beaches of Con Dao, making it a great option for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
