(TITC) – Con Dao National Park in Ho Chi Minh City is one of Vietnam’s premier marine and island eco-tourism destinations, preserving diverse ecosystems, pristine landscapes, and significant historical value. Visitors here can not only enjoy the unspoiled beauty of nature but also participate in conservation activities, learn about the environment, and contribute to safeguarding the island’s marine and forest ecosystems for future generations.
Immersing in Pristine Forests and Vibrant Ocean Life
A visit to Con Dao National Park offers an immersive experience in nature with a wide range of activities. One of the most popular is trekking through the primary forest. Trails wind through dense canopies and lush vegetation, home to over 1,000 plant species and hundreds of animal species, including rare inhabitants such as the Con Dao black squirrel, blue-faced thrush, and endemic reptiles. The experience is enriched when visitors take part in tree-planting programs, actively contributing to environmental conservation, supporting ecological balance, and helping create a healthier living space. These journeys allow tourists to sense the rhythm of nature, hear the wind merging with bird calls, observe the island’s biodiversity firsthand, and feel a meaningful connection to the community and nature.
Beyond the forest, Con Dao is renowned for having one of the most diverse coral ecosystems in Vietnam. Visitors can snorkel or dive at Hon Bay Canh, Hon Tai, or Hon Cau to admire vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life. Schools of colourful fish, blue starfish, sea anemones, and thriving coral reefs create a mesmerizing underwater world, providing awe-inspiring and immersive experiences. Guides explain coral protection practices to ensure visitors interact responsibly with the marine environment.
Participating in the Sea Turtle Conservation Program
A particularly remarkable and meaningful activity is joining the sea turtle conservation program. From April to October each year, female turtles return to lay eggs on beaches at Hon Bay Canh and nearby islands. Visitors can register in groups under the guidance of rangers to observe egg-laying, incubation, and the release of hatchlings into the sea. Witnessing hundreds of baby turtles reach the ocean for the first time evokes deep emotions and reinforces the importance of marine ecosystem protection. In 2025 alone, the park supported and relocated 1,800 turtle nests and safely released 120,000 hatchlings.
Connecting History, Nature, and Responsible Tourism
Con Dao is also historically significant, preserving remnants of struggles during the anti-French and anti-American wars. Combining visits to historical sites with nature experiences helps visitors understand the island’s remarkable transformation from a “hell on earth” to a peaceful and restorative destination today.
Eco-tourism in Con Dao National Park encourages responsible travel. Every activity is regulated to minimise environmental impact, including reducing plastic use, avoiding littering, and respecting the natural life of marine and forest species. Visitors’ awareness and compliance form the foundation for preserving Con Dao’s pristine beauty.
Experiencing Con Dao National Park is not only relaxing but also a journey of empathy between humans and nature. Visitors listen to the waves, feel the breath of the forest, gently release hatchlings into the ocean, and develop a deep appreciation for the natural world. Through these encounters, each visitor becomes a partner in the ongoing mission to conserve, protect, and sustainably develop Con Dao for today and the future.
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