Con Dao Island
1 day, 1 night
AH-CD04
4/10
$42 USD
WHY THIS TOUR?

This overnight eco-adventure is one of the most meaningful wildlife experiences in Con Dao. It combines a scenic journey through the forest and coastal ecosystem of Dam Tre Bay with a rare opportunity to witness sea turtles nesting at Bay Canh Island under the guidance of national park rangers. With forest exploration, snorkeling, conservation interpretation, an overnight stay at the ranger station, and the chance to release hatchlings the next morning when available, the tour offers a powerful blend of nature, soft adventure, and responsible travel. Bay Canh is one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in Con Dao, and turtle-watching here is one of the destination’s signature eco-tourism experiences.

Highlights

  • Explore the forest and coastal ecosystem of Dam Tre Bay
  • Snorkel in clear waters and observe coral reefs and giant clams
  • Visit Bay Canh Island and learn about sea turtle conservation from park rangers
  • Watch sea turtles nesting at night, subject to natural conditions and ranger guidance
  • Overnight at the ranger station for a deeper national park experience
  • Join a baby turtle release experience the next morning, if hatchlings are available

 

SUMMARY
  • Departure Point: Con Dao

  • Duration: 1 day, 1 night

  • Destination: Con Dao Island

  • Activities: Hiking / Trekking

  • Min : 5 people

  • Best time: Mar - Sep

  • Max : 20 people

  • Difficulty level: 4/10

ITINERARY
Day 1: Dam Tre Bay Discovery & Sea Turtle Nesting at Bay Canh Island

08:00 Meet at 36 Ton Duc Thang Street. Transfer by canoe to Dam Tre Bay.

08:45 Begin a light forest walk to explore the local ecosystem. Along the trail, guests may spot Con Dao black squirrels, monitor lizards, and impressive forest vines stretching through the canopy.

10:15 Go snorkeling to observe giant clams and beautiful coral reefs in the Dam Tre area.

11:15 Return to the ranger station for swimming, showering, and a short rest.

12:00 Lunch at the ranger station.

15:30 Continue by canoe to Bay Canh Island. Visit the pristine mangrove forest, see the turtle hatchery area, and learn about the sea turtle life cycle and conservation work carried out by Con Dao National Park.

18:00 Dinner at the ranger station.

19:30 onwards Join a ranger-guided evening excursion through the mangrove area and continue to Cat Lon Beach to watch sea turtles nesting.
* Note: Turtle nesting time is not fixed and depends on tides and natural nesting conditions. Visitors should follow ranger instructions, keep quiet, and avoid disturbing the turtles.

Overnight at the ranger station.

* Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

 

 

 

Day 2: Sunrise & Return to Con Dao

06:30 Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise. Light breakfast and coffee at the ranger station.

07:30 Release baby sea turtles into the ocean, if hatchlings are available.

08:00 Return by boat to the main island. End of the program.

* Meal included: Breakfast

 

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • Shuttle car
  • 1 night at ranger station 
  • Boat trip to Dam Tre Bay for snorkeling and swimming.
  • Watching sea turtle nesting activity
  • Tour guide & forest ranger
  • Meals as in itinerary
  • Trekking & Snorkelling equipment
  • Drinks & snacks daily
  • Environmental protection and sightseeing fees, tickets
  • Travel insurance

      

Exclusion:

  • Airline or boat tickets to and from Con Dao
  • Personal expenses
  • Alcoholic drink
  • Tips for guides and porters 
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • First-aid kit
  • Headlamp
  • Snorkling equipment 

      What to bring: 

  • Water shoes / water sandals
  • Backpack (10L–30L)
  • Sun protection: hat/cap, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Personal medications
  • Electronics (Mobile phone, camera, power bank...), appropriate waterproof cases
  • ID or passport

   Also recommended:

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Spare clothing
  • Multi - tool 
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Trip Notes

  • Distance: The route is approximately 2 to 3 km per day
  • Terrain: We will explore a small, sheltered bay that extends deep into the mainland, featuring a pristine landscape. The terrain is characterized by a harmonious blend of blue sea, surrounding high mountains, mangrove forests, primary forests, and sandy beaches, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem.
  • Suitability: This route is ideal for most fitness levels, including beginners. Families are welcome, children from 6 to 10 years old are eligible to participate.
  • Watching sea turtles and releasing hatchlings are natural events, so the number of turtles you may see nesting depends on the specific day. Likewise, the opportunity to release baby turtles depends on whether any hatchlings emerge on that particular day.

2. Camping.

  • Overnight accommodation at the ranger station on the night of turtle watching is very basic. The station provides private rooms for 2 people or for groups of 3–4 per room. However, during busy periods, guests may need to sleep in hammocks.

3. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable Reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

4. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.