Con Dao Islands Tour, 2–3 days

(1 hour by plane from Ho Chi Minh City)

These islands offer some of the most unspoiled tropical landscapes in Vietnam, a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City.

Follow days 1–2 of Essential Vietnam itinerary.

Day 3

Fly to these undiscovered and mostly undeveloped islands with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a large national park teeming with exotic plants and animals, including the endangered green and hawksbill turtles. For a luxurious retreat, stay at the high-end eco-lodge, Six Senses Con Dao, and indulge in some pampering at the in-house spa and some serious relaxing in your private plunge-pool. After a long walk along the beach, enjoy a seafood dinner at the resort's By The Beach restaurant. Night owls can visit Hang Duong Cemetery for the atmospheric midnight ceremony honoring the martyred teenager Vo Thi Sau.

Day 4

Organize some transport for a morning of island exploration, taking in Van Son Tu Pagoda, Hang Duong Cemetery, and the Con Dao Museum, where you can arrange to visit the nearby Phu Hai Prison the next day. If you're on Con Dao between May and October you'll be able to take a turtle-nesting tour, which usually starts with a mid-afternoon pickup and includes an overnight stay on an outer island.

Day 5

You'll be delivered back to the mainland mid-morning after your nocturnal turtle nesting observations. Perk yourself up with a coffee at the Con Son Café, then begin some gentle ambling, stopping off at the Old French Governor's House on the way to Phu Hai Prison. Dine at the delightful Thu Ba, which specializes in fresh-caught seafood.