1 Day Tour in Phu Quoc Discover The South Island with Cable Car

Exploring Phu Quoc’s South Island with a Cable Car Adventure: A Complete Review

When thinking of a trip to Phu Quoc, many envision pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. This 1 Day Tour in Phu Quoc offers a well-rounded experience, blending cultural highlights, stunning natural scenery, and of course, the iconic Hon Thom cable car. For those seeking a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration, this tour promises a comprehensive day out at a reasonable price—just $75 per person.

What really draws us to this experience is the spectacular cable car ride that connects Phu Quoc’s mainland to Hon Thom Island. The chance to glide over the sea, taking in panoramic views, adds a unique touch to the island exploration. That said, the tour’s structured itinerary means you’ll spend a decent chunk of time traveling, which could be a consideration for those with limited mobility or tight schedules. Still, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a taste of everything without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines cultural insights, scenic vistas, and beach time, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for first-timers looking to tick off major highlights in one go or those eager to see the island from a different perspective—high above the water in a cable car.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering cultural sites, beaches, and cable car experience
• Expert guides and included water and cable car tickets add value
• Breathtaking views from the cable car provide a highlight of the day
• Good balance of sightseeing and leisure, with plenty of photo opportunities
• Price point offers access to multiple attractions without individual ticket purchases
• Group size limited to 25 travelers for a more intimate experience

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Duong Dong – the bustling heart of Phu Quoc, the tour begins with convenient hotel pickup, which is a real plus. The local guide (who, based on reviews, is knowledgeable and friendly) will collect you in the morning, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The short 30-minute stop here isn’t about sightseeing but serves as a practical starting point before heading out.

Cultural and Local Life Stops – the first major stops are the Pearl Pearl Hien farm, the Sim Wine production site, and the Ho Quoc Pagoda. These visits offer a peek into traditional industries and spiritual architecture. At Pearl Pearl Hien, we loved how they explained the pearl cultivation process, making it clear why Phu Quoc pearls are so prized. You’ll get to browse the jewelry collection—perfect for souvenirs or gifts. The Sim Wine experience is particularly interesting; learning about the local delicacy’s production process adds depth to your understanding of Phu Quoc’s flavor profile.

The Ho Quoc Pagoda deserves a mention for its impressive architecture and commanding sea views. The 30-meter Guanyin statue is a sight to behold, and visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere despite the busy location. One reviewer noted that the guide’s explanations brought the history and significance of the site to life, making it more than just a visual stop.

Historical insights are also offered at Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Tree Prison). This visit provides a sobering reminder of the island’s past, adding an educational layer to your trip. It’s a chance to reflect on Vietnam’s history, which many travelers find meaningful.

Bai Sao Beach – after roughly four hours of cultural and scenic stops, the tour takes you to Bai Sao, also known as Star Beach. This stretch of powdery white sand and swaying palms is a highlight for many. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take photos, or dip your toes in the warm water. The one-hour stop here is sufficient to soak in the sun and snap some memorable pictures. Several reviews mention how clean and beautiful the beach is, making it worth the short detour.

Hon Thom Island and the Cable Car Ride – the tour’s crown jewel. The Hon Thom cable car is heralded as one of the longest sea-crossing cable cars in the world, offering stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands. For many, this ride is the highlight—a thrilling experience and a photographer’s dream. The cable car’s length (7,899 meters) allows you to stream across the water, feeling like you’re floating above paradise.

The cable car ride lasts about 2.5 hours, including the time spent on Hon Thom Island, which is free to access. While on the island, you might explore, take more photos, or just enjoy the incredible scenery. Reviews praise the breathtaking vistas and the well-maintained facilities, making it a smooth and memorable experience.

Includes and Excludes – the tour package covers all tickets, including the cable car and the water park on Hon Thom, which is a nice touch. The provided delicious lunch allows you to relax without worrying about finding a restaurant amid the sightseeing. However, personal expenses and travel insurance are not included, so budget accordingly.

Practical Tips and Insights

Transport and Group Size – the shared bus pickup is convenient, especially for those staying in Duong Dong, but travelers outside this area should be prepared for an extra $9 fee. The group size maxes at 25, which generally ensures a more intimate, less rushed experience.

Timing and Pacing – starting at 9:00 am, the schedule allows for a full day of sightseeing without feeling overly rushed. The tour duration of approximately 8 hours is fairly packed, but the pacing seems well-considered based on reviews, which often mention the guides’ efficiency.

What Travelers Loved – many appreciated the knowledgeable guides who enhanced each stop with interesting facts and local anecdotes. The spectacular views from the cable car regularly receive praise, with some mentioning that the ride is even more impressive than expected. Plus, the inclusion of wine and pearl tasting added an authentic touch, making the experience more immersive.

Potential Drawbacks – some reviews hint that the busy schedule may not leave much leisure time at each site. Also, while the cable car ride is breathtaking, it can be windy or cloudy, affecting visibility. Travelers with mobility issues might find the full-day schedule demanding, but overall, most found it manageable.

Who Will Love This Tour

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights of Phu Quoc in a single day, especially if you’re interested in combining cultural sites with natural beauty. It also suits travelers who want a guided experience, removing the stress of planning individual visits. If you’re a fan of scenic rides—particularly the cable car—and want some time on the beach, this tour delivers.

However, those seeking a more relaxed pace with extended beach lounging or in-depth cultural exploration might prefer to customize their own itinerary or skip certain stops.

The Final Verdict

This 1 Day Tour in Phu Quoc offers an excellent introduction to the island’s diverse attractions, all bundled into one well-organized package. It’s a good value considering the inclusive tickets, guided commentary, and lunch, especially for travelers wanting a hassle-free way to see the highlights.

The combination of stunning cable car views, cultural insights, and beach time makes it a balanced experience. The tour’s efficiency, small group size, and knowledgeable guides elevate it beyond just a sightseeing trip to a memorable adventure.

If you’re after a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally enriching day, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s best suited for those who want to maximize their time, see a variety of sights, and experience the thrill of crossing the sea in one of the world’s longest cable cars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
All tickets for the cable car and water park on Hon Thom Island, a delicious lunch, shared bus pickup and drop-off in Duong Dong, and an English-speaking guide.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered in Duong Dong town. For travelers outside this area, there is a $9 fee for pickup and drop-off.

How long does the cable car ride last?
The cable car ride connecting Phu Quoc to Hon Thom Island takes about 2.5 hours total, including time on Hon Thom Island.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a camera, and some cash for personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the full-day schedule and the cable car ride if you’re traveling with very young children.

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, providing plenty of time to explore without rushing.

Are there other activities included?
Yes, the tour includes visits to Pearl Pearl Hien, Sim Wine production, Ho Quoc Pagoda, and Phu Quoc Prison, alongside the beach and cable car.

What’s the best way to prepare for the trip?
Plan for a full day, wear comfortable clothes, and bring a sense of adventure. The tour is designed to be enjoyable and informative, without overwhelming schedules.

In short, this tour balances scenic thrills with cultural insights, making it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a snapshot of Phu Quoc’s beauty and history—all in one memorable day.