Private Phu Quoc Southside Private Tour

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

If you’re heading to Vietnam’s beautiful island of Phu Quoc and want a comprehensive, flexible way to see its highlights, then this Private Phu Quoc Southside Tour might be just what you need. For $49 per person, you get a 6 to 8-hour journey that hits some key sights, blended with local charm and expert guiding. The tour is private, meaning it’s tailored to your group’s pace and interests, with a friendly local guide leading the way.

We love how this tour combines unique experiences like pearl farming with natural beauty such as Khem Beach, alongside a dash of history at the Phu Quoc Prison. Plus, the long cable car ride offers one of those “must-do” moments that give you spectacular views and a sense of adventure—not to mention the opportunity to relax and take in the scenery comfortably. What’s more, the price is quite reasonable for a full-day, personalized experience with private transport, WiFi, and the expert guidance that makes navigating the island easier.

That said, one thing to consider is that the cable car ticket isn’t included in the package, which adds around $35 USD per adult. If you’re particularly eager for that experience, it’s worth budgeting extra. This tour suits travelers who value authentic sights, personalized attention, and a flexible schedule that lets you enjoy the island without feeling rushed.

If you’re keen on a mix of natural beauty, history, and local craftsmanship, this private tour is a strong choice. It’s ideal for those who want a trusted guide, insider knowledge, and the chance to customize their day, especially if traveling with family or friends.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Private tour tailored to your interests and pace.
• Diverse sights: Pearl farms, beaches, historic sites, and scenic cable cars.
• Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides who make history and culture come alive.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, ensuring a relaxed day.
• Affordable value: Full-day experience at just $49, excluding optional activities like the cable car.
• Flexible scheduling: Operates daily with pick-up options, great for planning around your other activities.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm: A Glimpse into Vietnam’s Pearl Industry

Your day begins at the Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm, a pioneer in sea pearl cultivation since 1994. This stop offers more than just a chance to see how pearls are farmed; it’s an opportunity to understand the Japanese culture-techniques used to produce the most perfect pearls. This visit is highly praised by travelers, with reviews highlighting the exclusivity and the quality of the pearls. The tour includes admission tickets, so you can wander and learn without extra costs.

Expect to spend about 45 minutes here, soaking in the sights of hand-made pearl jewelry and innovations in pearl culture. It’s a fascinating peek into a local industry that has become a signature of Phu Quoc.

Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park: Soaring Over the Sea

Next, you’ll hop onto the longest continuous cable car system in the world, crossing from An Thoi Town to Hon Thom Island. This 2-hour segment offers a spectacular aerial view of the island’s coastline and emerald waters. While the cable car ticket isn’t included, most find it worth the extra expense—around $35 USD per adult—for the thrill and the vistas.

Once on Hon Thom Island, options include Aquatopia Water Park and a wooden roller coaster, making it a fun stop for families or adventure lovers. You might also enjoy a tuk-tuk ride around the area, providing a relaxed way to explore.

Bai Khem: One of the World’s Top 50 Beaches

After the excitement of the cable car, your next stop is Bai Khem, ranked among the 50 most beautiful beaches globally in 2018. The white powdery sand and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect place to unwind. The beach is noted for its cleanliness and calm atmosphere, ideal for sunbathing or simply soaking in the scenery.

Expect about 2 hours here. Since admission is included, you can focus on relaxing or taking photos, knowing you’re in one of the prettiest spots on the island.

Phu Quoc Prison: A Sobering Look into the Past

The Phu Quoc Prison offers a powerful slice of history. Once called the Coconut Tree Jail, it served as a central prisoner of war camp during the Indochina War, holding over 32,000 prisoners. Walking through the metal bars and historic sites, you’ll get a glimpse of the island’s darker past. The 45-minute visit is a chance to reflect on Vietnam’s resilient history, with tickets included in your package.

Ho Quoc Pagoda: A Spiritual Stop with Scenic Views

Next, your guide will take you to the Ho Quoc Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple perched on a hillside overlooking the sea. The architecture is impressive, and the stories woven into its design add depth to the visit. About 45 minutes are spent here, giving you time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and perhaps light incense or explore the grounds. It’s a beautiful blend of spirituality and scenery.

Tranh Stream: Nature’s Quiet Escape

If timing allows, a visit to Tranh Stream offers a refreshing natural pause. During the rainy season, the waterfalls and streams are more lively, making for a scenic walk or photo opportunity. This stop lasts around an hour and provides an intimate look at local nature.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with one traveler describing Linh as a “perfect guide” who “tells a lot about the places” and speaks clear, good English. The comfort of the vehicle is also repeatedly mentioned, with travelers appreciating the air conditioning and included water that keep everyone refreshed.

The highlight of many trips is the pearl farm and beaches like Bai Khem, both of which are beautiful and well-maintained. One reviewer noted that “the car was very comfortable and air-conditioned”, making long drives pleasant, and appreciated the flexibility to adapt the plan to their family’s needs.

Some travelers mention a disappointment that the cable car ticket isn’t included, but most agree that the scenic ride is worth the extra money. The history at Phu Quoc Prison is powerful, with many saying it’s “shocking and relevant,” and worth visiting for those interested in the island’s past.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring that you’ll stay cool in the tropical heat. With WiFi on board, you can share your experience or catch up on messages while traveling between sites. The private nature of the tour means you avoid crowded buses or rigid schedules, giving you control over your day.

Duration and Timing

Starting early, around 6 AM, the tour runs daily and can finish by late evening—giving plenty of flexibility. The duration of 6 to 8 hours suits those who want a full day of sightseeing without feeling overwhelmed.

Pricing and Value

The $49 per person cost includes entry tickets to key sites, private transport, a knowledgeable guide, and refreshments. Considering the cost of individual tickets like the cable car (~$35 USD) and the inclusion of multiple attractions, this provides excellent value for a personalized, hassle-free experience.

The additional cost for the cable car might seem steep, but many travelers see it as a highlight and worth budgeting for. The private guide adds immense value, as you’ll learn much more about the island’s history, culture, and natural features than you would on a larger group tour.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a personalized experience. It suits history buffs with visits to Phu Quoc Prison and those eager to see natural beauty at Bai Khem Beach and Hon Thom Island. Travelers who appreciate local craftsmanship will love the pearl farm, and those seeking scenic views will find the cable car ride unforgettable.

If you prefer flexibility and a guide who can adapt the day to your interests, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s also ideal if you want a value-packed day with ticket inclusions and private transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, ensuring a personalized experience without strangers.

How long does the tour last?
Typically, it’s 6 to 8 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each stop.

What’s included in the price?
Admission tickets for the pearl farm, Phu Quoc Prison, and Ho Quoc Pagoda are included. The tour also provides private transportation, WiFi, bottled water, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.

Can I join the cable car?
The cable car ride is not included in the price and costs about $35 USD per adult. You can choose to add it on, and most find it well worth the extra.

What are the main attractions?
Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm, Hon Thom cable car, Bai Khem Beach, Phu Quoc Prison, Ho Quoc Pagoda, and Tranh Stream.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the day.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is available from your accommodation, making it convenient.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers, including families, enjoy the tour. Children under 1.4 meters pay a reduced price for the cable car, and the private guide can tailor the experience for younger kids.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and hat are recommended, especially since some stops are outdoors.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Private Phu Quoc Southside Tour offers a well-rounded look at the island’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and local industry—all delivered with the convenience of private transport and expert guidance. The value for money is strong, especially considering the inclusion of tickets to major attractions and a flexible, personalized schedule.

For travelers who want to see key highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, and who appreciate insider insights from a friendly guide, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for those eager to learn about Vietnamese history, enjoy stunning beaches, and experience local craftsmanship firsthand.

If you’re after a safe, well-organized, yet flexible way to explore southern Phu Quoc, this tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and education—all wrapped into one memorable day.