Phu Quoc 1 Day Tour Discovering the South Island Cable Car

Traveling to Phu Quoc? If you’re looking for a balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun — all wrapped into one day — this 1-day tour around the southern part of the island offers a lot for the price. With a focus on the Hon Thom Cable Car, plus visits to historical sites, serene beaches, and family-friendly attractions, it’s a well-rounded way to get a taste of what makes this island so special.

What really makes this experience stand out is the stunning aerial views from the cable car, the chance to explore local cultural landmarks, and the opportunity to relax on pristine beaches like Sao Beach. The tour is generally praised for its knowledgeable guides and great value for money. However, it’s worth considering that the full day can be quite packed, and some may prefer a more relaxed pace.

If you’re someone who loves diverse experiences—from scenic views to cultural insights—this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing multiple outings themselves.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenic Views: The cable car offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding islands.
• Cultural Insights: Stops at Ho Quoc Temple and Phu Quoc Prison give a meaningful glimpse into local spirituality and history.
• Family Friendly: The Hon Thom Water Park makes it ideal for families, with modern water attractions.
• Good Value: At $75 per person, this tour packs in a variety of experiences, including lunch and entrance fees.
• Convenient Transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup/drop-off make logistics straightforward.
• Limited Flexibility: With a tightly packed itinerary, some may find the pace a bit rushed, especially during beach time.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start at Phu Quoc Centre

The tour kicks off around 9 am, with a pickup from your hotel in Duong Dong. Setting out early is a good move, as you’ll want to make the most of your day. The first stop, lasting about 30 minutes, is at the Phu Quoc Centre, where you’ll get a brief orientation and perhaps pick up some local souvenirs.

Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm

Next, you visit the Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm for another half hour. This stop is a treat for those curious about Vietnamese craftsmanship. You can watch how pearls are cultivated from oyster to jewelry, and maybe pick up a unique souvenir or two. The guide often explains the traditional art involved, adding an educational element. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to see the process firsthand, describing it as “interesting to witness how pearls are farmed and crafted.”

Ho Quoc Temple

Moving on, you’ll spend an hour at the Ho Quoc Pagoda, perched on a hilltop overlooking the ocean. This spot offers sweeping views and a chance to absorb some local spirituality. The architectural beauty of the pagoda, combined with serene surroundings, makes it a highlight for many visitors. One reviewer noted that this was “a peaceful, beautiful place with a panoramic view of the sea,” which adds to the overall tranquil vibe of the day.

Phu Quoc Prison History Museum

History buffs should appreciate the Phu Quoc Prison, also known as the Coconut Tree Prison. It’s about a half-hour stop where you can explore exhibits related to Vietnam’s wartime past. The displays of replica torture scenes and prison layouts give a sobering, authentic insight into the island’s darker history. Guests have commented that this addition provided a meaningful perspective, making the tour more than just sightseeing.

Bai Tm Sao (Sao Beach)

After the cultural stops, it’s time to relax. The tour dedicates two hours to Sao Beach, one of the island’s most beautiful spots. Its white sand and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect place to unwind, swim, or just soak up the sun. The reviews highlight that the beach’s tranquil setting offers a “peaceful escape,” ideal for recharging before the next adventure.

Hon Thom Island and Water Park

The highlight for many is the Hon Thom Cable Car, which transports you to Hon Thom Island. Spanning nearly 8 km, the cable car ride provides spectacular views of the sea and islands, making it a must-see. As one reviewer pointed out, “the cable car is the best part,” offering scenery that’s worth the trip alone.

On the island, you can visit the Hon Thom Water Park for about three hours. It’s a lively spot with modern water slides and attractions, perfect for families or those wanting to add some fun to the day. Entrance is free, and the variety of rides means there’s something to keep everyone entertained.

Sunset at Sunset Town

Finally, the tour wraps up with a sunset at Sunset Town, where you’ll get a chance to enjoy the fading light and reflect on the day. The car then returns you to your hotel, typically around 5 pm. Many guests find this a lovely way to end the trip, with some describing it as a “beautiful, relaxing moment” after a busy day.

The Experience of the Cable Car

The Hon Thom Cable Car is undoubtedly the star of the show. Stretching over 7,899 meters, it’s one of the longest over-sea cable cars in the world. From the cabins, you get uninterrupted views of the turquoise waters, islands, and lush landscapes—views that photos simply don’t do justice.

Travelers have noted that the cable car ride is smooth and comfortable, with some mentioning that the viewpoints are so panoramic that it’s a perfect photo opportunity. The experience is further enriched by the knowledgeable guides who often share facts about the surrounding geography and the engineering marvel of the cable car system.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest remarked, “Pagoda and cable car are the best parts,” emphasizing how the scenic ride and spiritual site left a lasting impression. Another appreciated the value, noting that the $75 price includes entrance fees, lunch, and guided service, making it a fairly affordable way to see a lot in one day.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Start early to maximize your time at each stop.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around cultural sites and the beach.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially for the beach and outdoor temples.
• The cable car rides are weather-dependent, so check the forecast and be prepared for possible delays in windy conditions.
• Pack a towel, swimsuit, or change of clothes if you want to swim at Sao Beach or Water Park.
• Consider bringing cash for souvenirs or snacks, though most entrance fees and lunch are included in the tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded day without the stress of planning each stop. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers looking to see the best of southern Phu Quoc in a structured, guided setting. If you love scenic views, cultural sites, and beach time, this tour hits many notes.

Travelers seeking a more relaxed experience might find the packed schedule a bit tiring, but most appreciated the great value and variety. It’s not a deep dive into any one aspect but rather a balanced sampler platter of everything the island has to offer.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, lunch, and entrance fees to all stops.

How long does the cable car ride last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the cable car spans over 7.8 km, offering breathtaking views during the ride.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since the Water Park is family-friendly, and the group size is limited to 25 travelers, making it manageable for kids.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for walking, and swimwear if you plan to enjoy the beach or water park.

Can I participate if I stay outside Duong Dong?
Yes, but a small extra fee (around $9) applies for pickup outside the main area.

How long is the overall tour?
Approximately 8 hours, from 9 am to 5 pm.

Is the tour available all year round?
The data doesn’t specify seasonal restrictions, but weather can affect certain activities, especially the cable car.

What if I want a more relaxed experience?
You might prefer to skip some stops or extend your time at the beach, but keep in mind the tour’s scheduled nature.

Final Thoughts

This Phu Quoc 1-day tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural understanding, and fun. The highlights—particularly the cable car ride—provide spectacular visuals that make the trip memorable. The inclusion of cultural sites like Ho Quoc Temple and Phu Quoc Prison adds depth to the experience, making it more meaningful than just sightseeing.

The value for money is noteworthy, considering the comprehensive itinerary, guided service, and included meals. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see a wide range of what the south of Phu Quoc has to offer without the hassle of organizing multiple activities.

While some may find the schedule a little tight, most will appreciate the effort to showcase the island’s best sights in a single day. For those wanting a convenient, engaging, and scenic way to explore, this tour is a solid choice.

To sum it up, if you’re after an affordable, adventure-filled day with incredible views and cultural stops, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for curious travelers, families, or anyone wanting a taste of Phu Quoc’s diverse charm—all wrapped into one practical package.