[3 Days] Con Dao Wildlife Expedition: Explore Vietnam’s hidden island gem

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[3 Days] Con Dao Wildlife Expedition: Explore Vietnam’s hidden island gem

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Overview

Overview of the 3-Day Con Dao Wildlife Expedition

Join the this 3-Day Con Dao Wildlife Expedition and fully capture Vietnam’s hidden island gem in Con Dao. Off the southeastern coast of Vietnam, Con Dao National Park is a wildlife sanctuary, where land and sea come together in rich history and pristine landscape

Your journey begins in the island’s dense forests, where Giant Squirrels leaping between trees and the presence of vibrant sunbirds and kingfishers. As night falls, the wildlife becomes more enchanting with the Pulo Condore Bow-fingered Gecko and diverse nocturnal calls. Then, you’ll set sail for Bay Canh Island to enjoy the nature nearby and spot the elusive Nicobar Pigeon, a rare bird that finds refuge in this remote island. As the expedition draws to a close, you’ll wake early for one last birdwatching session for herons, eagles and songbirds welcoming the new day.

With experienced birding guides, special access to the most pristine birding spots, and comfortable stays, this tour offers an exciting and rewarding experience for nature lovers and photographers.

Why is Con Dao a Vietnam’s hidden island gem?

Con Dao National Park, recognized as Vietnam’s 6th Ramsar Site, is a sanctuary of diverse ecosystems. From dense forests and shimmering mangroves to sun-kissed beaches, it’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to rare species like the Dugong, the mesmerizing Nicobar pigeon, and a plethora of endemic creatures.

Endemic Wildlife: Encounter creatures unique to Con Dao, such as the Black Giant Squirrel and the park’s endemic Long-tailed Macaque.

Birdwatching Spot: With species like the Pied Imperial and Nicobar Pigeon, bird enthusiasts are in for a treat.

Nocturnal Exploration: Discover the island’s nightlife, from geckos to mysterious snakes.

Island Adventures: Explore Bay Canh and Tre Lon Islands, each offering unique wildlife experiences.

Best Time to Visit Con Dao:

While Con Dao National Park offers a rich tapestry of experiences year-round, the optimal time to truly immerse oneself in its natural splendor is from April to September. During these months, the weather conditions are most favorable, ensuring not only comfortable exploration but also heightened wildlife activity. Whether you’re keen on birdwatching, nocturnal adventures, or island hopping, this period promises the most vibrant and rewarding encounters.

Schedule Details

Day 1: Co Ong Airport - Con Dao
<div>11:00 AM: Arrive at Con Dao airport where our team will warmly welcome and pick you up.</div> <div>11:30 AM: Transfer to the Nicobar Hotel for check-in.</div> <div>12:00 PM: Enjoy a delightful lunch to energize for the day ahead.</div> <div> </div> <div><strong>Afternoon</strong>: Embark on a wildlife observation journey in Con Dao National Park. Witness the Giant Squirrel, two species of Finlayson’s Squirrel, the endemic Long-tailed Macaque, and a variety of birds including the White-rumped Shama, Chinese Blackbird, Forest Wagtail, Gray Wagtail, Green-billed Malkoha, and Small Minivet.</div> <div> </div> <div><strong>Evening</strong>: As night falls, we'll venture out to spot a range of reptiles and amphibians. Highlights include the Pulo Condore Bow-fingered Gecko, Con Dao Round Eyed Gecko, Con Dao Kukri Snake, and the Oriental Whip Snake.</div>
Day 2: Con Dao
<div>07:00 AM: Set sail for Bay Canh Island, a short 15-minute boat ride away.</div> <div>Morning: Dedicate the morning to spotting the exquisite Nicobar Pigeon on Tre Lon Island.</div> <div> </div> <div>11:00 AM: Return to Con Son Island and savor a delicious lunch.</div> <div> </div> <div>Afternoon: Explore the Ba Temple area, where you can spot bird species such as the Dark-necked Tailorbird, Eurasian Kestrel, Green Imperial Pigeon, and Pied Imperial Pigeon.</div> <div> </div> <div>Evening: Dive deeper into the nocturnal wonders of Con Dao National Park. Look out for the Collared Scops Owl, Common Woolly Bat, Least Leaf-nosed Bat, and the Large Flying Fox, which is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN.</div>
Day 3: Con Dao - Co Ong Airport
<p>06:00 AM: Start the day with an early morning bird-watching session in Con Dao National Park. 11:00 AM: Relish a hearty lunch. 12:00 PM: Check out from the hotel and proceed to Con Dao airport for your onward journey.</p>

F.A.Q

What wildlife species can I expect to see during the Con Dao expedition tour?

<p>During the Con Dao expedition, you'll have the opportunity to observe a diverse range of wildlife. This includes mammals like the Giant Squirrel and the endemic Long-tailed Macaque, a variety of birds such as the White-rumped Shama, Chinese Blackbird, and Nicobar Pigeon, and reptiles like the Pulo Condore Bow-fingered Gecko and Con Dao Kukri Snake. The evening sessions will also introduce you to nocturnal species like the Collared Scops Owl and the Large Flying Fox.</p>

I'm particularly interested in bird-watching. Which day of the itinerary would be most suitable for this?

<p>While all days of the itinerary offer bird-watching opportunities, Day 2 is particularly rich in avian experiences. The morning is dedicated to spotting the Nicobar Pigeon on Tre Lon Island, and the afternoon at Ba Temple area allows sightings of the Dark-necked Tailorbird, Eurasian Kestrel, Green Imperial Pigeon, and Pied Imperial Pigeon. However, Day 3 also starts with an early morning bird-watching session in Con Dao National Park, ensuring ample opportunities for enthusiasts throughout the tour.</p>

Are there any specific items or equipment I should bring for the wildlife observation sessions, especially for the nighttime explorations?

<p>For the best wildlife observation experience, we recommend bringing a pair of binoculars, a camera with a good zoom lens for daytime, and a flashlight or headlamp for evening sessions. If you have night vision equipment or a camera with night mode, it would enhance your nighttime wildlife spotting. Additionally, wearing comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and light, long-sleeved clothing can make your exploration more comfortable.</p>

What's Included

  • Accommodations
  • Drinking water
  • Entrance fees
  • Expert guide
  • Meals
  • Private car

What's Excluded

  • Other services not mentioned
  • Personal expenses

Activities

  • Birding
  • Herping