Discover Nam Du, a mesmerizing island cluster in Kien Giang—an emerging travel destination attracting adventurers from all over. With its untouched beauty, crystal-clear beaches, and diverse ecosystem, Nam Du offers a memorable summer escape. This article provides a detailed Nam Du travel itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip.
1. Getting to Nam Du Island
There are two main routes to reach Nam Du: via Phu Quoc or Rach Gia.
1.1. From Phu Quoc
If you’re combining a trip to Nam Du with Phu Quoc, head to Bai Vong Port and take a high-speed ferry. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Popular ferry operators include Phu Quoc Express, Superdong, and Ngoc Thanh, with ticket prices ranging from 189,000 to 390,000 VND/person depending on seat type. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance via the operators’ websites to secure your spot.
1.2. From Rach Gia
This is a more budget-friendly and commonly chosen route.
1.2.1. Getting to Rach Gia
From Ho Chi Minh City, you can travel by bus to Rach Gia City in Kien Giang. Bus fares range from 250,000 to 350,000 VND/person, with a travel duration of 6-7 hours. Choose a late-night departure around 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM to arrive at Rach Gia by 6:00 AM, giving you time to rest, eat breakfast, and prepare for the ferry to Nam Du.
1.2.2. Traveling from Rach Gia to Nam Du
From Rach Gia Port, take high-speed ferries operated by Superdong, Ngoc Thanh, or Phu Quoc Express. The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from 210,000 to 250,000 VND/person. Ferry trips to Nam Du are limited each day, so securing tickets early is essential.
Superdong high-speed ferry to Nam Du Island
1.3. Getting Around on Nam Du Island
On the main island, you can rent motorcycles (100,000–150,000 VND/bike/day) or opt for motorbike taxis. For exploring smaller islands, renting a private boat is necessary. Consider sharing boats with other groups to cut costs.
2. Accommodation on Nam Du Island
Nam Du primarily offers homestays and guesthouses managed by locals. Electricity and internet can be limited, with weak signals. However, such challenges won’t diminish your travel experience as most of your time will be spent outdoors.
Recommended accommodations include Langchia Nam Du, Humiso Nam Du, Bai Da Hon Son Resort, and Thao Thuong Camp.
Rustic homestay on Nam Du Island
3. Must-Visit Attractions in Nam Du
3.1. Hon Lon
Hon Lon is the largest island in the Nam Du cluster, featuring the main port, local restaurants, cafés, and guesthouses. From here, you can rent boats or join tours to explore the surrounding smaller islands. Highlights on Hon Lon include Bai Cay Men, Bai Chet, Bai Ngu, and the iconic Lighthouse.
Scenic view of Hon Lon Island
Nam Du’s scenic landscapes are perfect for photography enthusiasts
Lighthouse on Hon Lon
3.2. Hon Ngang
Hon Ngang is a bustling hub of fishing and marine activity. Two daily ferries depart from Hon Lon to Hon Ngang at 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM (about 30 minutes). This spot also offers breathtaking sunset views.
Raw beauty of Hon Ngang Island
3.3. Hon Mau
Hon Mau is renowned for its wooden bridges and swing sets over the sea. To reach Hon Mau, take a ferry from Hon Lon to Hon Ngang, then hire a small boat. Popular check-in spots include Bai Chuong, Bai Nam, Bai Da Den, and Bai Da Trang.
Traveling with friends and enjoying Nam Du to the fullest
3.4. Hon Hai Bo Dap
Hon Hai Bo Dap consists of two land stretches connected by a natural stone ridge. From Hon Lon, it’s a short 20-30 minute boat ride. The area is ideal for overnight camping and snorkeling to see coral reefs.
Snorkeling is a must-try activity at Hai Bo Dap
4. What to Eat on Nam Du?
Fresh seafood is a signature feature here. Fish, crabs, sea urchins, squid, and scallops are harvested or farmed by locals. Seafood is often simply prepared—grilled or boiled—to retain its natural flavor.
Top recommendations: grilled moon oysters with scallion oil, grilled moon snails, boiled green bone fish, sea urchin porridge, hot pot with cobia fish, etc.
5. Suggested 3-Day Nam Du Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Rach Gia by 6:00 AM and take the high-speed ferry to Nam Du (around 11:00 AM-12:00 PM arrival). Check in, relax, and have lunch. In the afternoon, explore Hon Lon: Bai Cay Men and Lighthouse. Enjoy seafood evening meals at the local market.
Day 2: Wake up to sunrise views and visit Hon Hai Bo Dap (snorkeling). Lunch at Hon Ngang. Spend the afternoon at Hon Mau: Bai Chuong, Bai Da Den, Bai Da Trang. Return to Hon Lon for dinner.
Day 3: Shop for souvenirs in the morning and visit Bai Ngu (if time permits). Check out by noon and catch the ferry back to Rach Gia.
6. Travel Tips for Visiting Nam Du Independently
6.1. Best Time to Visit: December to March lunar calendar (dry season).
6.2. Essentials to Pack: Sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear.
6.3. Estimated Costs (3 days/2 nights):
- Roundtrip bus tickets (Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia): 700,000 VND/person
- Roundtrip ferry tickets (Rach Gia to Nam Du): 500,000 VND/person
- Accommodation: 300,000 VND/2 nights
- Food: 600,000 VND/person
- Island tours: 200,000 VND/person
- Total budget: ~2,300,000 VND/person (excluding premium seafood purchases).
6.4. Key Notes:
- Dispose of trash responsibly.
- Electricity is limited, so carry a power bank.
- Bring snacks for inter-island travel.
Relaxing amidst Nam Du’s serene nature