1. Where is Nam Du Island located?
Nam Du Island is an archipelago located in the Southeast of the Gulf of Thailand, belonging to Kien Hai Special Administrative Region, An Giang Province. This archipelago includes many large and small islands, among which Hon Lon is the most prominent, where the population lives and major tourist activities take place. Although not yet heavily exploited for tourism, it is the rustic, simple, and peaceful atmosphere that creates a unique charm for Nam Du.
Visiting Nam Du Island, tourists can freely immerse themselves in the cool water at Bai Men, the island's most famous beach with gracefully leaning coconut trees and clear blue water. Besides, the exploration journey will be more complete when you visit neighboring islands such as Hon Ngang, Hon Mau, or Hon Dau to camp, snorkel, and enjoy fresh seafood, fully experiencing the pristine beauty of the Nam archipelago.
Nam Du is a beautiful, peaceful archipelago, not yet heavily impacted by tourism. (Source: Collected)
2. How to get to Nam Du Island from Ho Chi Minh City in detail
With a distance not too far from the mainland, Nam Du Island is a destination chosen by many tourists who want to explore the islands and seas of the Mekong Delta. From Ho Chi Minh City, tourists can easily travel to Rach Gia, then continue by high-speed ferry to the island.
2.1. Moving from Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia
To begin the journey to Nam Du Island, tourists need to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia. Currently, there are many transportation options for this route, suitable for different needs regarding time, cost, and experience, helping tourists easily arrange their schedule before continuing by ferry to the island.
2.1.1. By plane
If you want to minimize travel time, flying is a suitable option for the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia. Currently, major airlines such as Sun PhuQuoc Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietjet Air all operate this route with a frequency of about one flight per day. Reference ticket prices range from 500,000 to 1,700,000 VND per leg, depending on the flight time and promotions from each airline.
After landing at Rach Gia Airport, tourists can easily travel by taxi or shuttle bus to the ferry terminal. From here, tourists continue their journey by high-speed ferry to Nam Du Island, which is quite convenient and fast, especially suitable for those with limited time but still want to fully explore the island beauty of An Giang.
Traveling by plane is a quick and safe option. (Source: Collected)
2.1.2. By Bus
Among the travel options from Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia, buses are a familiar and suitable choice for many tourists, especially those who want to save costs. This journey usually takes about 5 – 6 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. Ticket prices are quite affordable, ranging from about 160,000 – 180,000 VND per trip, suitable for both students and groups of friends traveling independently.
Currently, many quality bus companies operate the Ho Chi Minh City – Kien Giang route, such as Tuyet Hon, Phuong Trang, Vu Linh, or Kumho Samco, with various types of seats and sleeper berths for you to choose from. Upon arrival at Rach Gia bus station, tourists can take a shuttle bus or taxi to the ferry terminal to continue their journey to Nam Du island conveniently and quickly.
2.1.3. By Motorbike
For tourists who love the feeling of adventure and want to explore freely, motorbikes are an option that offers many interesting experiences on the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia. The travel time by motorbike usually takes about 7 – 8 hours, longer than other means of transport, but in return, tourists can stop to rest, sightsee, and combine visits to many places along the way. However, due to the long distance and continuous travel, tourists need to prepare carefully in terms of health, vehicle, and necessary items to ensure safety.
Currently, there are two popular routes chosen by many backpackers. The first route follows National Highway 1A through Long An, Tien Giang, Vinh Long, Sa Dec, then crosses the Vam Cong ferry to enter Kien Giang and reach Rach Gia city. The second route goes through My Thuan bridge, continues through Vinh Long, Hau Giang, then turns into National Highway 80 to Rach Gia. Whichever route is chosen, the motorbike journey offers a memorable adventurous feeling, very suitable for exploring islands in a free style.
2.2. Traveling from Rach Gia Pier to Nam Du
High-speed ferries are the most chosen means of transport by many tourists when traveling from Rach Gia pier to Nam Du island due to their convenience and speed. The ferry is fully equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, wifi, television, clean restrooms, along with complimentary drinks and cold towels. The attentive and friendly staff make the journey more comfortable. In particular, the experience of sitting on a high-speed ferry gliding over the waves, admiring the vast ocean from the deck, is also a plus point that makes many tourists love this mode of transport.
Currently, two high-speed ferry companies are highly rated for their quality and service that tourists can refer to:
Super Dong High-Speed Ferry:
Adults: 210,000 VND/ticket
Children: 150,000 VND/ticket
Seniors (60+): 175,000 VND/ticket
Ngoc Thanh High-Speed Ferry:
Adults: 210,000 VND/ticket
People with disabilities: 155,000 VND/ticket
Seniors (60+): 175,000 VND/ticket
Travel by high-speed train from Rach Gia to Nam Du. (Source: Collected)
3. Some notes when traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Nam Du
When planning your trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Nam Du, you should proactively arrange a reasonable schedule to avoid missing the ferry to the island. It is best to arrive in Rach Gia one day in advance or choose bus or flight options that match the ferry schedule. Additionally, booking bus and high-speed ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays, will help you avoid sold-out tickets and save waiting time.
Besides, you should monitor the weather conditions before departure, as rough seas can affect ferry schedules and travel experience. If you are prone to seasickness, you should prepare anti-seasickness medication and choose a suitable seat on the ferry. Luggage should be light, prioritizing essential items such as personal belongings, sunscreen, and identification documents to make your trip to Nam Du smoother and more comfortable.
Visitors should proactively arrive at the pier early to complete procedures and board the ship. (Source: Collected)
4. Combining Phu Quoc tourism in the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Nam Du
If you have more time, you can completely combine exploring Phu Quoc in the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Nam Du to make the trip richer and more complete. Visiting Ngoc Island before or after visiting Nam Du not only diversifies experiences but also brings a balance between island space and modern entertainment and resort destinations.
4.1. Hoang Hon Town
Hoang Hon Town is an ideal stopover when tourists combine Phu Quoc tourism in their journey to Nam Du. Located in the south of the island, this place impresses with its Mediterranean-style architecture, colorful rows of houses facing the sea, and brilliant sunset scenery every afternoon. Just strolling along the coastal streets, sipping coffee, and watching the sun gradually disappear behind the horizon is enough to feel the unique beauty, both romantic and modern, of Ngoc Island.
When night falls, Hoang Hon Town becomes vibrant with many special entertainment activities. Visitors can enjoy large-scale art performances such as "Kiss of the Sea" and "Ocean Symphony", programs combining music, lights, water, and fireworks against the emotional backdrop of the night sea. This is the highlight that makes the Phu Quoc exploration journey more complete before continuing the trip to Nam Du.
Visitors admire the brilliant fireworks displays at Sunset Town. (Source: Collected)
4.2. Sun World Hon Thom
Sun World Hon Thom is a must-visit destination for those who love island entertainment and experiences when visiting Phu Quoc. The most outstanding feature here is the world's longest sea-crossing cable car, taking visitors gliding over the turquoise ocean and admiring the panoramic view of the South of the island from above. Right from the first few minutes, the cable car journey offers a sense of awe at the vast and pristine beauty of Phu Quoc's sea and sky.
Not only does it have a cable car, Sun World Hon Thom also boasts the modern Aquatopia water park with many thrilling games, the Exotica adventure playground, and a pristine natural beach. After hours of exciting play, visitors can relax on the white sandy beach, swim in the sea, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Hon Thom Island. Incorporating Sun World Hon Thom into your itinerary will make your trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Nam Du more diverse and memorable.
Tourists enjoy playing at Aquatopia water park. (Source: Collected)
4.3. Suoi Tranh Stream
Suoi Tranh Stream is one of the most famous and easily accessible natural attractions in Phu Quoc, very suitable for combining relaxation during your travel. The stream is hidden amidst lush green trees, winding through large and small rocks, creating a peaceful and nature-friendly landscape. The atmosphere here brings a sense of relaxation, helping visitors temporarily escape the noise and bustle of crowded entertainment areas.
During the rainy season, Suoi Tranh Stream takes on a softer beauty with its babbling water and gentle waterfalls, creating a vibrant natural picture. Visitors can stroll along the paths, take souvenir photos, or simply sit and relax, breathing in the fresh air amidst the mountains and forests. This is an ideal stopover for those who love gentle nature exploration when visiting Phu Quoc.
4.4. Dinh Cau
Dinh Cau is a famous spiritual site with special significance for the people of Phu Quoc, especially local fishermen. Located on a rocky outcrop jutting out into the sea at the mouth of the Duong Dong River, Dinh Cau boasts a unique position with a direct view of the vast ocean. People often come here to pray for favorable weather, safe fishing trips, and prosperous lives.
Not only does it hold spiritual value, but Dinh Cau is also a beautiful sunset viewing spot in Phu Quoc. As the sun gradually sets into the sea, the orange-gold light bathes the entire area, creating a scene that is both peaceful and romantic. Visitors can come here to worship, enjoy the cool sea breeze, and capture memorable moments during their exploration of the "Pearl Island".
With its rustic beauty, blue sea, and peaceful pace of life, Nam Du is an ideal destination for those who want a "change of scenery" after busy days. Knowing **how to get to Nam Du island from Ho Chi Minh City** will help tourists be more proactive in planning their itinerary, choosing suitable transportation, and having a smooth, complete trip. If you are planning to explore the islands of the Mekong Delta, don't hesitate to start your journey to Nam Du to personally experience the rustic and charming beauty of this beautiful archipelago.
