PHU QUOC LAND 4: Southern Phu Quoc Tour and Cable Car Ride

If you’re looking to experience the highlights of Phu Quoc Island beyond just lounging on its famous beaches, the PHU QUOC LAND 4 tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural spots, and fun activities. This guided day trip, costing around $51 per person, covers some of the most photogenic and historically interesting spots in the south of the island, all wrapped into one well-organized package.

What makes this tour stand out? The spectacular cable car ride over the sea, providing panoramic views you won’t forget, the chance to explore key sites like Ho Quoc Pagoda and Coconut Prison, and the relaxing finish at Sao Beach with optional lunch and water park fun. The experience is perfect if you want a taste of everything—culture, nature, and adventure—without the hassle of planning individual trips.

That said, some travelers note that the schedule can feel a bit rushed, and certain stops like the pearl farm might not be everyone’s favorite. Still, for the price and variety, this tour offers solid value and plenty of authentic moments. It’s ideal for those craving a rundown of southern Phu Quoc, especially if you prefer guided convenience and diverse experiences.

Key Points

• Spectacular Cable Car Ride: The 25-minute journey offers breathtaking sea views from over the water, a true highlight.
• Cultural and Historical Insights: Visits to Ho Quoc Pagoda and Coconut Prison provide meaningful glimpses into local heritage.
• Beach Relaxation & Water Park Fun: Free time at Sao Beach and access to Aquatopia Water Park add a splash of leisure and excitement.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enrich visits with interesting facts and cultural context.
• Value for Money: The price includes transportation, cable car, water park entry, and a guide, making it a cost-effective way to see many sights.
• Mixed Reviews on Stops: Some found certain stops like the pearl farm less relevant or too hectic, so expectations may need adjusting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Southern Phu Quoc Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup & Introduction

Your day begins early, with a pick-up between 8:45 and 9:00 AM from Johns Tours’ office, centrally located in Duong Dong town or your hotel. If your accommodation is outside the main area, there might be an extra fee. This initial part sets the tone—expect a friendly, organized start with a brief overview of what’s ahead.

First Stops: Pearls, Pagoda, and Prison

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Pearl Farm—a somewhat controversial stop, as some travelers find it less informative and more commercial, with reviews describing it as noisy and hectic. One traveler mentioned that the Grafting Technique wasn’t demonstrated, and the large museum and shop felt like a quick showcase rather than an in-depth experience. If pearl jewelry interests you, it might be worth the visit, but others might find it a short, rushed stop.

Next, the Ho Quoc Pagoda offers a peaceful setting and beautiful architecture. Reviewers praise it as a “very beautiful pagoda,” and it provides a calm moment amid the busy day. It’s a great spot for photos and a touch of spiritual peace.

The Coconut Prison is a sobering reminder of Vietnam’s history. Some visitors found the scenes depicting torture and scenes of the prison quite intense, but it’s a significant site to understand the island’s past. One review called the visit “trying,” but historically important for those interested in Vietnam’s struggles.

Lunch & Beach Relaxation

After the cultural sites, you’ll have the option to enjoy lunch at Sao Beach, famous for its white sand and clear waters. Reviewers note that there’s little time to swim or relax in the water before heading to the cable car, which may be a disappointment if your main goal is beach lounging. Still, the beach area is praised for its beauty, and some guests found the free time to be sufficient for a quick swim or sunbathe.

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The Star Attraction: The Cable Car Ride

The 25-minute cable car journey from the mainland to Thom Island is undeniably the highlight. It’s said to offer breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding islands—a perfect Instagram shot. Several reviewers called it “amazing” and “the best part of the day,” noting the expansive, suspended feeling and spectacular scenery.

Thom Island & Water Park

After disembarking, you’ll find Aquatopia Water Park, packed with over 20 modern games. It offers a chance for fun and cooling off, especially appreciated on hot days. Many reviews mention it as a delightful way to unwind after the cultural stops, with enough time allocated for enjoying the slides and pools.

Return & Reflection

By 4:30 PM, the tour concludes with return transfers to your hotel. Some travelers suggest that the transport can be a bit crowded and that the schedule might feel rushed, especially if you want more time at specific stops. Others appreciated the smooth organization, noting that the guides tried to keep everyone engaged and informed.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour package covers round-trip transportation, the cable car ticket, water park entrance, and an English-speaking guide. You’ll also receive a bottle of water during the day.

However, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring your own or budget for a meal at the beach. Personal expenses like souvenirs or additional snacks are also on you. It’s worth noting that during holidays like New Year or Lunar New Year, an extra 10% charge applies.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear if you plan to enjoy the beach or water park.
• Comfortable shoes and sunglasses will make your day easier.
• Children under 1 meter ride free on the cable car, while taller kids require a ticket.
• The tour operates in English and Vietnamese.

Authentic Experiences & Hidden Insights

From reviews, we learn that guides like Simone and others are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner, making complex history accessible and engaging. One reviewer appreciated their guide’s fluent English and storytelling skills, adding extra value to the cultural visits.

Some travelers found the pearl farm less compelling, citing a lack of detailed demonstrations or meaningful insights. If pearls interest you, consider whether this stop warrants your time, or if you’d prefer a different cultural experience elsewhere.

The cable car remains the standout, with multiple reviewers describing it as a “breathtaking” and “unforgettable” journey. Its position as the world’s longest cable car adds a unique selling point, especially for those who love scenic rides.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a diverse experience in one day—combining scenic views, cultural sites, and beach time. It’s great for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a rundown of southern Phu Quoc without the hassle of planning.

If you’re a beach lover or an adventure seeker, the cable car and water park will appeal most. Meanwhile, history buffs will appreciate the visits to Coconut Prison and Ho Quoc Pagoda, although some may find certain stops less engaging.

Those looking for luxury or extensive free time might find the schedule a bit tight, especially with some reviews mentioning rushed visits and limited time at the beach. However, for a value-packed day, it delivers a broad taste of the island’s highlights.

Final Thoughts

The PHU QUOC LAND 4 tour offers a well-rounded introduction to southern Phu Quoc, blending natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities into one affordable package. The spectacular cable car ride is undoubtedly the star attraction, providing a highlight that many will remember long after the day ends.

While some stops may feel hurried or not as engaging, the overall value and variety make this tour a good choice for those wanting a balanced snapshot of the region. It’s especially suitable for adventurous travelers, families with kids, or first-timers eager to tick off major sights with ease.

Finally, the knowledgeable guides help enrich your understanding, making the experience more meaningful. Just be prepared for a somewhat packed schedule and bring your own essentials for comfort and sun protection.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 1 meter ride free on the cable car, and older kids are charged a reduced rate. The water park and beach time can be fun for kids, but keep in mind the schedule might be busy.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and light clothing are recommended. The water park and beach are highlights, so pack accordingly.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car ride lasts approximately 25 minutes, offering expansive views of the sea and islands below.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options at Sao Beach if you wish to buy or bring your own snacks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour bilingual?
The tour is offered in English and Vietnamese, with guides providing explanations in both languages.

What’s the maximum group size?
While not specified, reviews suggest the group is manageable, with some mention of crowded transport at times.

Are there any hidden costs?
Additional charges may apply during holidays (10% extra during New Year or Lunar New Year), and personal expenses like souvenirs are not included.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
It’s best during clear weather to enjoy the views from the cable car and the beach, but always check the weather forecast before booking.

The PHU QUOC LAND 4 tour offers a lively, varied day in southern Phu Quoc that balances sightseeing with fun, making it a worthwhile option for many travelers eager to maximize their island experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: