PHU QUOC LAND 4: Southern Phu Quoc Tour and Cable Car Ride

Exploring Phu Quoc’s South: A Practical and Authentic Day Out

If you’re looking to see a slice of southern Phu Quoc, this guided tour offers a well-balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun for around $51. From the stunning world’s longest cable car ride to relaxing moments on white-sand beaches, this day trip packs quite a punch. The tour typically starts early in the morning and ends by late afternoon, making it an ideal option for travelers who want an overview of the island without feeling rushed.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it combines stunning panoramic views with cultural insight. The cable car ride, in particular, is a highlight—imagine gliding over the sea for 25 minutes, with views of the islands that really do take your breath away. Plus, the time at Sao Beach to relax and swim is a rare opportunity to unwind amid pristine sands and crystal-clear waters.

One thing to keep in mind is that some stops, such as the pearl farm and war prison, might not be equally engaging for everyone. Plus, the bus can get crowded and some reviews mention logistical hiccups, like delayed pickups or confusing transfers. So, if you’re someone who values smooth, seamless travel, be prepared for a busy day with some minor inconveniences.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of southern Phu Quoc, especially those eager to enjoy spectacular views and a variety of activities in one day. If you enjoy cultural stops but aren’t fixated on in-depth museum visits, this trip offers enough variety to keep you engaged without feeling overwhelming.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary blends natural beauty, cultural sites, and adventure.
• Amazing cable car ride offers panoramic views of islands and sea.
• Time at Sao Beach provides relaxed swimming and lounging opportunities.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding with interesting historical and cultural insights.
• Logistical considerations include some potential delays and crowded transport.
• Good value for the price, especially considering water park access and cable car ride.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Southern Phu Quoc Tour & Cable Car Experience

What’s Included & How We Got Started

At roughly $51 per person, this tour offers a lot—round-trip transportation, cable car tickets, water park access, and an English-speaking guide. They also throw in a bottle of water, which is a nice touch for staying hydrated on a busy day. You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, which is helpful if you’re looking to keep plans loose or wait for confirmation.

The tour kicks off early morning, with pickup from centrally located hotels or the tour office. From the start, the focus is on convenience—your guide handles the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the sights.

The Morning: Cultural and Historical Stops

First, you’ll visit the Pearl Farm, where you might learn about how pearls are cultivated (though some reviewers noted it can be noisy and hectic, and perhaps not as informative as similar experiences elsewhere). It’s a quick stop—more of a visual experience than a deep dive.

Next is the impressive Ho Quoc Pagoda, a large Buddhist temple set on a hill. Expect beautiful views and serene surroundings—ideal for a moment of reflection or simply soaking in the calming atmosphere. This stop is often praised for its architecture and peaceful vibe.

The Coconut Prison, a former war detention center, is a heavier site. Some reviews describe it as “quite trying” due to the recreated torture scenes, which might be intense for sensitive visitors. It offers a raw, honest glimpse into Vietnam’s history, but be prepared for emotional impact.

Midday: Relaxation at Sao Beach & Lunch

The highlight for many is Sao Beach, often described as a “superb white sand beach.” If you’ve booked with lunch, you’ll have time to enjoy a meal and then relax or swim in the clear waters—though some reviews mention tight schedules and no time to actually swim before heading to the cable car. Be sure to bring towels and sunscreen to maximize your beach time.

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The Cable Car Adventure

The cable car ride is the star of the day. Lasting about 25 minutes, it takes you from the mainland to Thom Island, offering sweeping sea views and a sense of flying over the ocean. Many travelers find this to be the most breathtaking part, with some describing it as an “incredible panoramic experience.” It’s a smooth, modern ride, and the views are worth every minute.

Afternoon: Water Fun at Aquatopia & Return

Upon reaching Thom Island, you’ll find the Aquatopia Water Park, featuring over 20 modern rides—a perfect place for families or those wanting a splash of fun. The water park is included in your ticket, offering enough time to enjoy some rides, relax, and cool off.

Afterward, the tour winds down, and you’ll head back to your hotel around 4:30 pm. The return route can sometimes involve some logistical hiccups, but most travelers appreciate having had a full day of varied experiences.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

From reviews, guides are generally praised for their knowledgeable and friendly manner. One traveler highlighted how their guide was “very funny” and packed with interesting cultural information. Others noted some frustration with long bus rides and timing issues, such as the bus leaving without waiting or feeling rushed at some stops.

Some visitors felt that certain stops, like the pearl farm, could be skipped or replaced with more meaningful visits. Still, the overall experience seems to deliver a good balance of stunning scenery, cultural insight, and entertainment.

Transportation and Practicalities

The minibus can get crowded, especially during peak times, so packing lightly and dressing comfortably is advised. Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel—these are essential for making the most of your beach and water park time.

The tour is available in English and Vietnamese, and you have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Phu Quoc who want a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s highlights. It suits those eager to see scenic views from the cable car, enjoy white sand beaches, and learn some cultural history—without having to plan multiple separate trips. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a mix of activities and relaxed sightseeing.

However, if you’re looking for deep culture or prefer less rushed excursions, you might find some stops somewhat superficial. The logistics, such as busy buses and tight schedules, can also be a consideration for travelers who prefer a more laid-back experience.

The Sum Up

In short, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to southern Phu Quoc for a reasonable price. The highlight for many is the spectacular cable car ride and the chance to unwind at Sao Beach. You’ll gain insights into local culture with visits to the pagoda and prison, while the water park adds a splash of fun.

The experience balances scenic beauty, cultural stops, and entertainment, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to pack a lot into a single day. Be prepared for a busy schedule with some logistical quirks but enjoy the friendly guides and breathtaking views that make it worthwhile.

This tour best suits those who value diversity in activities and are open to some minor inconveniences in exchange for a broad, authentic taste of Phu Quoc. It’s especially suited for first-timers or families wanting a structured, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from centrally located hotels or the tour office is included. If your hotel is outside the designated area, an extra fee may apply.

What should I bring for the tour?
You’ll want to pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. These items help you enjoy the beach and water park comfortably.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Food is generally included if you book with lunch, but bringing personal snacks or drinks is not specified. Check with the guide if you want to bring extra.

Is the cable car ride suitable for everyone?
Most travelers find the cable car smooth and safe. It’s a must-see highlight, especially for those who love panoramic sea views.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 1 meter ride for free on the cable car. Kids between 1 to 1.4 meters need a child ticket, and those above 1.4 meters are charged as adults.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

This tour provides a practical, enjoyable way to experience some of the best sights southern Phu Quoc has to offer. With its mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and leisure, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a full day of adventure and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: