[Red River Tours] Sightseeing to the North in Phu Quoc

Have you ever wondered what lies beyond Phu Quoc’s famous beaches? The tour to the north offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s wilder, less-touched side—think lush forests, local fishing villages, and serene beaches. While it’s a quick journey of just four hours, it packs in enough authentic experiences to satisfy nature lovers and curious explorers alike.

What we love about this tour? First, the opportunity to kayak along Cua Can River, which promises both gentle adventure and cultural insight. Second, the visit to a pepper garden, giving a taste of local agriculture and flavors. Third, the stunning scenery of Ham Rong Cape and Starfish Beach, perfect for relaxing and snapping photos. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary might change depending on weather or other conditions, which could affect your planned stops. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a short, nature-focused escape with plenty of authentic moments on the island’s northern side.

Key Points

• Authentic Nature Experience: Kayaking, beaches, and forests showcase Phu Quoc’s untamed beauty.
• Cultural Insights: Visits to pepper gardens and fishing villages connect you with local life.
• Well-rounded Tour: Combines outdoor activities, cultural visits, and a delicious Vietnamese lunch.
• Time-Efficient: Four hours makes it a manageable half-day activity.
• Value for Money: At $64, the price covers all activities, guide services, lunch, and transfers inside Duong Dong.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior allows for peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the North Phu Quoc Tour

Starting Your Adventure: Convenient Pickup and Friendly Guides

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel inside Duong Dong town area, included in the tour fee. The process is smooth, and many reviews mention the helpfulness of guides like Mr. Thanh, who is praised for sharing local knowledge and making everyone feel comfortable. Expect to be on the road around 8:30 am, traveling in a comfortable vehicle equipped for sightseeing.

First Stop: Silk Center – A Taste of Local Craft

The tour kicks off with a visit to a silk center, offering a quick peek into traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship. While not a major highlight for many, this stop provides context for local industries and a chance to pick up unique souvenirs.

Kayaking on Cua Can River: A Highlight for Nature and Culture

Next, you’ll head to Cua Can River, where the real excitement begins. Here, guests can choose between kayaking or riding a basket boat—a traditional Vietnamese vessel. The reviews emphasize how peaceful and scenic this section is, with some mentioning it’s an excellent way to see the river’s tranquil side while learning about local fishing life. Performances of southern Vietnamese music and basket boat dance add a cultural flavor to this activity, lasting about an hour.

The kayaking experience, often described as gentle and relaxing, appeals to both beginners and those with some paddling experience. Reviewers note that the guides are attentive, ensuring safety and offering tips to make sure everyone enjoys it.

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Pepper Garden Visit: A Flavorful Interlude

After the water activities, the tour moves on to a pepper garden, one of the island’s key agricultural products. Visitors are given the opportunity to learn how pepper is cultivated and harvested, and many find this stop unexpectedly engaging. It’s a good chance to see something authentic and gain insight into local farming practices and the importance of pepper in Vietnamese cuisine.

Rach Vem Beach and Lunch: Relaxing with a View

Following the garden visit, you’ll check in at Rach Vem Beach, a quiet stretch of sand that’s perfect for a quick walk or just soaking in the scenery. The tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant, providing a taste of Vietnamese cuisine—fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Many reviews praise the lunch for its quality and generous portions, making the price feel more justified.

Small Boat to Ham Rong Cape & Starfish Beach

After lunch, a small boat transfer takes you to Ham Rong Cape, famed for breathtaking views and the chance to see Starfish Beach. Guests often comment on the crystal-clear waters and soft sands, ideal for relaxing or taking photos. The boat ride itself is smooth, and the scenery from the cape offers some of the best viewpoints on the northern coast.

Returning to Your Hotel

By around 4:30 pm, the tour concludes with a transfer back to your hotel. Most travelers find the timing perfect for a half-day trip that leaves plenty of time to relax in the evening.

The Experience: What Makes It Special?

Authentic Encounters: Unlike busy, crowded tours, this experience emphasizes local sights—fishermen’s villages, pepper farms, and quiet beaches. The visit to Rach Vem Beach and Starfish Beach offers a rare chance to enjoy Vietnam’s coastal beauty away from tourist crowds.

Engaging Activities: Kayaking offers a gentle adventure, and reviews indicate that the guides are attentive, ensuring safety and fun. The performances of traditional music and basket dance add a cultural dimension that enriches the experience without overwhelming.

Great Value: For $64, the tour includes a lot—transport, guide, lunch, activities, and transfers—making it a reasonable pick for travelers wanting a taste of northern Phu Quoc without breaking the bank.

Informed Guides: Guests frequently mention guides like Mr. Thanh, who provide interesting commentary and ensure the group stays on schedule. Their local insights help you appreciate the significance of each stop.

Flexibility and Ease: The free cancellation policy and flexible booking options make it easy to plan this tour in advance, especially if your itinerary is still unfolding.

What Could Be Improved?

While the tour offers a lot, some travelers note that the itinerary might change based on weather conditions, which could alter the planned stops or activities. Plus, the duration is relatively brief, so if you’re craving an in-depth exploration or multiple days of activities, this might feel a little light.

The surcharge for pickups outside Duong Dong is also worth noting, especially if you’re staying in a more remote part of the island—an extra 50,000 VND or more.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: Check availability for starting times, which typically begin around 8:30 am.
• What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, and sunscreen are highly recommended.
• Not suitable for: People with medical conditions such as high blood pressure or epilepsy, or those over 95 years old.
• Language: The tour is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides.
• Price & Value: At $64, the tour provides a good mix of activities and cultural insights, especially considering the included lunch and transfers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers seeking a quick but authentic glimpse into Phu Quoc’s Northern landscapes. It’s also well-suited for families or couples wanting a mix of gentle outdoor activities and cultural experiences. If you have a limited amount of time but want to see a different side of the island, this tour makes an excellent choice.

Final Thoughts

In sum, the Red River Tours Sightseeing to the North offers a rewarding blend of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and outdoor fun. While it’s a short trip, it’s packed with meaningful stops—kayaking, pepper gardens, fishing villages, and stunning beaches—that provide a well-rounded taste of northern Phu Quoc.

For travelers craving a balance of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments. Keep in mind the possibility of weather-related changes and ensure you come prepared for a comfortable, sunny day. Overall, it’s a fantastic way to explore the island’s less-trodden paths and discover what makes Phu Quoc’s north truly special.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides free pick-up and drop-off inside Duong Dong town area.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, with starting times usually around 8:30 am.

What activities are included?
Activities include kayaking or basket boat rides on Cua Can River, visiting a pepper garden, sightseeing at Rach Vem Beach, and taking a boat to Ham Rong Cape and Starfish Beach.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, and sunscreen for comfort and safety.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant is included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, with guides knowledgeable about local sights and customs.

What is the tour price?
The tour costs $64 per person, which covers activities, lunch, guide, and transfers within Duong Dong.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or over 95 years old.

Are there any extra costs?
Additional surcharges apply if pick-up is outside Duong Dong or on public holidays, payable onsite.

Overall, this tour provides a balanced, authentic slice of northern Phu Quoc—perfect for travelers looking to mix outdoor adventure with cultural discovery in a short time frame.

You can check availability for your dates here: