Private Phu Quoc Southside Private Tour

Exploring the Private Phu Quoc Southside Tour: A Deep Dive into Vietnam’s Island Treasure

If you’re considering a full-day excursion in Phu Quoc, the Private Phu Quoc Southside Private Tour offers a well-rounded adventure that captures the island’s essence. With an emphasis on local culture, natural beauty, and historical significance, this tour promises a blend of relaxing, educational, and awe-inspiring moments. It’s designed for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we really like about this tour is its customizable nature, meaning you can get a personalized day tailored to your interests. Plus, the inclusion of an experienced local guide ensures you’ll learn plenty of interesting tidbits along the way. That said, the cost of the cable car isn’t included, which is something to consider if you’re planning to visit Hon Thom Island — but the overall value, especially given the sights covered, is hard to beat.

This tour works best for those who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and history, and appreciate comfort and flexibility. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, the private aspect guarantees an intimate experience. However, if you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled or adventure-heavy day, you might find some parts more laid-back than you prefer. Still, it’s a fantastic way to explore the south side of Phu Quoc without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Personalized and private: Only your group participates, making it flexible and intimate.
• Diverse itinerary: From pearl farms and beaches to historic sites and temples, there’s something for all.
• Value for money: At $49, the tour includes many tickets and a knowledgeable guide, offering good value.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned transport, WiFi onboard, and pickup add to a stress-free experience.
• Cultural and natural highlights: Learn about pearl cultivation, relax at top beaches, and visit significant historical sites.
• Unmissable views: The cable car crossing the sea offers breathtaking scenery.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What’s the Deal with the Price?

At $49 per person, this private tour offers solid value considering the comprehensive itinerary, including entrance tickets to several attractions and a private guide. Reviewers like William and Richard highlighted the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport as major plus points, making the price feel reasonable for a full day of sightseeing. When you factor in the included tickets—like the pearl farm, prison museum, and pagoda—the overall cost compares favorably to individual entry fees and arranging transport on your own.

Starting Strong: Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm

The day kicks off at Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm, a leader in Vietnam’s pearl industry since 1994. Here, you’ll get the chance to see the pearl-making process, which is fascinating to watch. The farm applies Japanese culture technology, leading to the production of some of the most perfection-shaped pearls in the region — perfect for those interested in jewelry or simply curious about the process. The 45-minute visit includes an admission ticket, giving you ample time to browse their handmade pearl accessories, which many visitors find charming and authentic. Reviewers appreciated the expertise of the staff and the chance to see real craftsmanship up close.

The Cable Car: Hon Thom Nature Park

Next, the highlight for many: Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park. The tour features the longest cable car crossing the sea, a record-breaking experience that offers panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands. While the ticket for the cable car isn’t included, most agree it’s worth the approximate $35 USD fee. Once on Hon Thom Island, you can choose to relax, explore the water park, or enjoy the thrilling wooden roller coaster. The free tuk-tuk rides around the park are a fun touch, and the views from the cable car are often described as breathtaking.

Relax at Bai Khem Beach

Bai Khem is a true gem. Ranked among the top 50 beaches in the world by Flight Network, its white powdery sand and crystal-clear waters make it ideal for lounging or taking a dip. With 2 hours allocated, you’ll have enough time to unwind, take photos, or indulge in a bit of outdoor activity. Reviewers like Zack found this stop particularly relaxing, noting the beautiful scenery and clean beach as highlights. The admission ticket to the beach is included, so your time here is well spent.

A Taste of History: Phu Quoc Prison Museum

The Phu Quoc Prison is more than just a historical site; it’s a moving reminder of Vietnam’s past. Located in An Thoi, it once held over 32,000 prisoners during the Indochina War. The tour includes 45 minutes exploring the dungeon-like cells and exhibits, giving a sobering perspective on the island’s role in Vietnam’s history. Reviewers like Richard appreciated the insightful explanation provided by guides like Lihn, who shared details about the prison’s significance and the stories behind the walls. It’s an emotional but important visit for understanding the resilience and history of the island.

Spiritual Reflection: Ho Quoc Pagoda

Next, the Ho Quoc Pagoda offers a peaceful escape with its impressive architecture and ocean backdrop. The 45-minute stop includes a chance to admire the intricate details of the pagoda, which is steeped in stories of Buddhism and local culture. Visitors frequently mention the stunning views and serene atmosphere, making it a great spot for quiet reflection or photography.

Nature’s Beauty: Tranh Stream and Waterfall

If you’re visiting during the rainy season, the Tranh Stream and waterfall are a refreshing natural highlight. The 1-hour stop allows you to enjoy the sound of cascading water and lush surroundings. Even if you’re not into hikes, the picturesque scenery alone is worth the visit. Reviewers like F_C enjoyed the tranquil environment, noting that the safety advice and organization made the experience smooth.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout the day, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned private vehicle equipped with WiFi, making long drives comfortable and productive (or at least enjoyable). The driver (noted as “Tan” and “Lihn” in reviews) are praised for their knowledge and flexibility, often tailoring the timing or stops based on your preferences. This personalized approach is a big plus, especially when traveling with children or a group with specific interests.

Timing and Pacing

The itinerary is designed to fit into 6 to 8 hours, but the actual pace can be adjusted by your guide. Most travelers found it well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. For example, the 2 hours at Bai Khem Beach or the 45-minute prison visit provide a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.

Cost and Inclusions

At $49.00 per person, considering that admission tickets are included for the pearl farm, beach, prison, and pagoda, the tour offers great value. The exclusion of the cable car ticket means you’ll need to budget around $35 USD separately if you wish to experience the sea crossing. The lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for a meal during your day.

Reviews and Feedback

Most reviews highlight Lihn’s excellent knowledge—he’s described as fluent in English, friendly, and well-informed. Many mention the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles and the well-organized schedule. A few reviewers noted the Water World park was partly closed, which was not immediately clear, so travelers should double-check availability in advance.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This private tour suits travelers who want a balanced day exploring both natural beauty and historical sites with the comfort of private transport and a dedicated guide. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer flexibility and personalized attention. If you’re keen on learning about local culture, enjoying scenic views, and relaxing at top beaches, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, if your main focus is adventure or nightlife, some parts of the itinerary might feel leisurely or subdued. Also, since the cable car isn’t included in the price, keep that in mind if you want to include that experience.

The Sum Up

The Private Phu Quoc Southside Tour offers a well-priced, comprehensive exploration of the island’s southern attractions. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and diverse stops make it a practical way to see a lot without the stress of planning. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, and value personalized service.

Travelers will particularly appreciate the stunning views from the cable car, the authenticity of the pearl farm, and the historical significance of the prison site. While the exclusion of the cable car ticket might be a small inconvenience, it allows flexibility in choosing whether to indulge in that experience.

Whether you’re in Phu Quoc for a short visit or a longer stay, this tour provides a balanced, enriching day out that captures the essence of Vietnam’s beautiful island. It’s a great choice for those seeking authentic sights, comfort, and insightful storytelling—all wrapped into one affordable package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers with families have enjoyed this tour, especially since it’s private and flexible. Just keep in mind the overall duration and the interest level of your kids, particularly for longer stops like the beach or prison.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat during one of the breaks.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can often adjust certain stops or timings based on your preferences, making it quite flexible.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop and the pace set by your guide.

Are the tickets for attractions included?
Yes, tickets for the pearl farm, prison museum, and Bai Khem beach are included. The cable car ticket is not, and is an optional extra.

Is pickup and drop-off available?
Yes, pickup is offered from your accommodation or a designated meeting point, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, hat, comfortable footwear, and a camera. The tour provides bottled water and WiFi on board.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, it runs daily from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM, with bookings possible from October 2022 through April 2026.

This detailed, well-rounded exploration of Phu Quoc’s south side could be the perfect way to make the most of your visit. Enjoy your trip!