• Departure: 8am 
• Duration: 4 hours
• Means of transport: Car 
• Highlights: 

The Lord Building (Dinh Chúa Đảo): This historic building once served as the residence and administrative office of the island’s governors during the French colonial period. Today it functions as a small museum where visitors can explore the history of Côn Đảo through a collection of artifacts, photographs, and historical documents. These exhibits tell the story of the island from the colonial era to modern Vietnam, helping visitors understand why Côn Đảo played such an important role in Vietnamese history.

Phú Hải Prison: Built in 1862 by the French colonial authorities, Phú Hải Prison is the oldest and largest prison on Côn Đảo. Thousands of Vietnamese revolutionaries were imprisoned here under extremely harsh conditions. At times, more than 200 prisoners were confined in a single detention building. Walking through the prison today offers visitors a powerful insight into the resilience and sacrifice of those who fought for Vietnam’s independence.

French Tiger Cages: The French Tiger Cages were a particularly notorious section of the prison complex. Hidden away from the main prison buildings and accessible only through a narrow alley, these cages were designed for isolation and punishment. Their existence remained largely unknown to the outside world until 1970, when Tom Harkin, a U.S. congressional aide, exposed the brutal conditions after visiting the prison. Today, the site stands as a reminder of the suffering endured by many political prisoners.

American Tiger Cages: Built in 1971 during the later years of the war, the American Tiger Cages consist of small, damp cells designed to confine prisoners in extremely difficult conditions. These cells were used to inflict both physical and psychological suffering on detainees. Despite the harsh environment, many prisoners continued to resist and support the movement for national liberation. The site represents a difficult but important chapter of Vietnam’s modern hiítory.

Separated Shed Place: This area was originally used as a livestock shed during both the French and American periods. However, it was also used as a place of punishment for prisoners. The extremely unsanitary conditions made it another form of torture. Today it serves as a reminder of the severe hardships that prisoners endured during their time on the island.

Hàng Dương Cemetery: Hàng Dương Cemetery is the resting place of thousands of Vietnamese prisoners who lost their lives in Côn Đảo during the struggle for independence. It is estimated that around 20,000 prisoners died on the island, but only about 700 graves are identified by name. Today, the cemetery is a peaceful and sacred place where visitors come to pay their respects and honor the sacrifices made for Vietnam’s freedom.

Lady Phi Yến Temple: This small but meaningful temple is dedicated to Lady Phi Yến, the wife of Nguyễn Ánh (later Emperor Gia Long). According to local legend, she opposed her husband’s decision to seek foreign support, which led to her exile on Côn Đảo. The temple reflects the spiritual beliefs of the local people and remains an important cultural and religious site for residents and visitors alike.

INCLUDED: 

• English speaking tour guide 
• Entry tickets 
• Private car 
• One meal - Lunch or dinner 
• Once drink