Phu Quoc South Island Cable Car Day Trip

If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines breathtaking views, cultural insights, and relaxing beach time, the Phu Quoc South Island Cable Car Day Trip might just be your perfect day out. While we haven’t personally ridden it (yet!), this tour promises a well-rounded experience of the island’s highlights, packed into an approximately 8.5-hour adventure. It’s been rated a solid 5.0 by travelers, which suggests many find it an outstanding value and memorable outing.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning cable car journey—at nearly 8 kilometers long—offers panoramic views of the islands and turquoise sea. Second, the diverse stops, from a pearl farm to a historic prison, give you a taste of local culture and history. Third, the beach time at Sao Beach allows for genuine relaxation in a picture-perfect setting.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite packed with activities, so if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each stop, you might find it a little rushed. But overall, this trip is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, scenic experiences, and beach bliss. It suits those who love a bit of adventure, cultural sights, and stunning vistas—all in one day.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The world’s longest sea-crossing cable car provides incredible scenery.
• Cultural Highlights: Stops at Ho Quoc Temple and Phu Quoc Prison add depth to your trip.
• Beach Relaxation: Two hours at Sao Beach gives you time to unwind.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Lunch, bottled water, and guided commentary enhance the experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pickup make logistics easy.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 25 travelers, it offers a more personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour kicks off at the Coi Nguon Museum in Duong Dong around 9:00 am. The provided hotel pickup and drop-off—for an extra fee if outside the main area—means you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable start to your day.

Phu Quoc Town and Beyond

Our first stop is a brief 30-minute visit to Phu Quoc Centre, giving a quick introduction to the island’s layout and history. This is a practical way to orient first-time visitors and get a sense of the island’s vibe.

Next, you’ll visit the Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm. Here, you’ll see the process of pearl cultivation—an art that’s been mastered locally—and get a chance to browse their jewelry collection. If you’re into souvenirs or jewelry, it’s a good spot to pick up a special gift, with the added bonus of understanding the craftsmanship behind each piece.

Cultural and Historical Highlights

A visit to Ho Quoc Pagoda offers sweeping views of the sea, complemented by striking architecture and a 30-meter tall Guanyin statue. This stop, lasting around an hour, combines spiritual tranquility with scenic beauty, making it a favorite for many. Reviewers often mention how impressive the views are, and how the guide’s commentary adds context.

Then, a short stop at the Phu Quoc Prison History Museum provides insights into the island’s past, especially during wartime. The exhibits, including replica scenes, offer a sobering glimpse into the local history, appreciated by those interested in Vietnam’s story.

Relaxing at Sao Beach

After the cultural stops, around 2 hours are dedicated to Bai Tm Sao. Known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking in the natural beauty. One reviewer describes it as “serene” and perfect for leisurely strolls and photos, emphasizing how restorative that time can be.

The Highlight: Hon Thom Cable Car

The centerpiece of the day is the Hon Thom Cable Car ride—the longest sea-crossing cable car in the world. It spans nearly 8 kilometers from An Thoi to Hon Thom, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and ocean. Expect about 3.5 hours for this part, which is free of extra charge, and a chance to snap some spectacular photos. The journey is widely praised, with one reviewer calling it “amazing,” and the views as “breathtaking.”

Sunset and Return

Finally, the tour concludes at Sunset Town, where the vehicle will take you back to your hotel. This 30-minute transfer caps off a day filled with diversity—culture, nature, adventure, and relaxation.

What We Loved About the Experience

One standout feature is the knowledgeable guides. Reviewers mention guides who are friendly, well-informed, and able to share interesting insights about each stop. It makes a huge difference when the commentary adds context and history, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The scenic cable car ride is a major draw, especially for those who love panoramic views. Sitting comfortably in the cable car, you get a bird’s-eye view of the islands, with the sea stretching on endlessly—a truly memorable moment.

The variety of stops means you get a rounded picture of Phu Quoc. From the luxury of the pearl farm to the serene spirituality at Ho Quoc Pagoda, each place offers something unique. Plus, the two hours at Sao Beach allow for genuine relaxation, a chance to cool off and unwind amid paradise.

Finally, the value for the price shines through. At $75 per person, including lunch, bottled water, and all entrance fees, this tour packs a full day of diverse experiences—no hidden costs or surprises.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While packed with activities, the schedule can feel a bit tight for those who prefer more time per stop. If you’re someone who loves lingering at each site or taking countless photos, you might find it slightly rushed.

Also, the tour is designed for a maximum of 25 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, but during peak seasons, it’s advisable to book well in advance—about 26 days on average—to secure your spot.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

Transportation is included in the form of a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup from your hotel (for an extra fee outside Duong Dong). The tour starts at 9:00 am and ends back at the initial meeting point, around 5:30 pm, making it a full but manageable day.

Meals and drinks are covered with a provided lunch and bottled water, so you won’t need to worry about finding food during the day. Vegetarian options are available if you make arrangements in advance.

Children under 1 meter tall ride free, and the cable car fares are included for children from 1 to 1.4 meters, making it family-friendly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning each step. It’s perfect for those interested in scenic rides, cultural sites, and beach relaxation all in one package.

If you’re into photography, history, or simply scenic beauty, you’ll find plenty to love. However, if you prefer a slower pace or more free time, you might want to customize your day or explore certain stops independently.

Final Thoughts

The Phu Quoc South Island Cable Car Day Trip offers a fantastic way to experience a slice of the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness in just one day. The highlights—particularly the cable car journey and the picturesque Sao Beach—make it a memorable adventure.

Travelers will appreciate the well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and the opportunity to see some of the most iconic sights of Phu Quoc, all at a reasonable price. It’s a great choice for those wanting a hassle-free, diverse day out that leaves plenty of time for photos, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

This tour is especially suited for first-time visitors or anyone who wants a well-rounded snapshot of what makes Phu Quoc special. With the right mix of adventure and leisure, it promises to be a day to remember.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup (for an extra fee if outside Duong Dong), all entrance fees, a guided commentary, lunch, bottled water, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the cable car ride last?
The cable car journey itself takes about 20 minutes each way, but the entire experience at Hon Thom, including the scenic views and photos, takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 1 meter ride free, and children from 1 to 1.4 meters pay a reduced fare for the cable car. The overall tour is family-friendly but should be suitable for most ages.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, camera, and a swimsuit if you’d like to swim at Sao Beach. Comfortable clothes and walking shoes will make the cultural stops easier.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, if you inform the tour operator in advance, they will prepare vegetarian meals for you.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Not really. Most stops involve walking and standing, but no strenuous activities are required.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour date for a full refund.

How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This tour is pre-arranged, but you may be able to request adjustments by contacting the tour provider directly.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
The tour starts at 9:00 am, and timing is generally good year-round. Check the weather forecast, especially for the cable car, as cloudy or windy days might affect visibility.

In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich day in Phu Quoc, this tour has a lot to offer. It balances adventure with relaxation, making it an excellent choice for a memorable escape on this stunning Vietnamese island.