[Red River Tours] Sightseeing to the North in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc Island often conjures images of pristine beaches and turquoise waters, but venture north with this guided tour, and you’ll find a different side of the island—one filled with lush forests, traditional fishing villages, and authentic local life. For $64 per person, this four-hour adventure provides a well-rounded taste of Phu Quoc’s less-touristed northern charms, with a mix of active and relaxed moments, guided by knowledgeable local guides.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the chance to kayak along Cua Can River, observing local fishermen at work while enjoying performances of traditional Vietnamese music and dance—it’s a genuine peek into rural life. Second, the visit to pepper gardens and the scenic Rach Vem Beach adds a layer of authentic local flavor that many other tours overlook.

Of course, the main consideration is the tour’s relatively short duration—just four hours—which might leave some wanting a deeper exploration. But for those with limited time or seeking a quick yet meaningful escape into nature, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience suits travelers eager to see Vietnam beyond its beaches, keen on outdoor activities, and interested in local culture. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight in a manageable package.

Key Points

• Authentic Northern Landscape: Experience Phu Quoc’s lush forests, fishing villages, and scenic beaches.
• Active & Cultural: Kayak on Cua Can River while enjoying traditional music and dance performances.
• Local Flavors: Visit pepper gardens and Rach Vem Beach for genuine local experiences.
• Family-Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
• Good Value: A comprehensive half-day tour that includes transportation, a guide, lunch, and activities at just $64.
• Flexible & Convenient: Free pickup inside Duong Dong town makes it easy to join.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Northern Secrets of Phu Quoc

While the southern part of Phu Quoc is famed for its beaches and resorts, the north offers a quieter, more rustic charm that many travelers find quietly captivating. This tour provides a window into that world, revealing the island’s natural beauty and traditional livelihoods.

Starting the Day: Pickup and the Silk Center

Your day begins at 8:30 am with free pickup from your hotel within Duong Dong town. This convenience saves you from navigating unfamiliar transport, especially if you’re staying in town. First stop is the Silk Center, where you get a quick glimpse into local craftsmanship. It’s not the highlight of the trip, but it sets a tone of local authenticity that continues throughout.

Kayaking on Cua Can River: The Heart of the Tour

Next, you’ll head to Cua Can River—arguably the star activity. Here, you can choose between kayaking or riding a basket boat, an activity that often gets positive reviews. We loved the way this segment combines adventure with cultural entertainment—as you paddle through the calm waters, traditional southern Vietnamese music and basket boat dance performances keep you entertained and immersed in local traditions.

Real travelers have described this part as a quiet, scenic experience that allows you to connect with Phu Quoc’s rural side. One reviewer remarked, “It was fascinating to see how fishermen go about their daily routines while enjoying the music and dance—they truly live close to nature.” Expect about 60 minutes here, enough to enjoy the scenery and cultural performances without feeling rushed.

Pepper Garden Visit: A Taste of Local Agriculture

Following the river, you’ll visit a pepper garden, where you can learn about one of the island’s key crops. The visit offers a chance to see how pepper is cultivated and harvested, and often, you can sample fresh spices or purchase local products. This adds a layer of insight into local agriculture that many visitors find surprising and delightful.

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Rach Vem Beach and Small Boat to Starfish Beach

The tour then moves to Rach Vem Beach, a relatively untouched stretch of sand that offers a peaceful escape. Here, you can enjoy a brief moment of relaxation before hopping on a small boat to Ham Rong Cape and Starfish Beach. The boat transfer is a highlight for many, providing scenic views of the coastline and a chance to spot starfish in clear shallow waters—hence the name.

One recent review described this section as “a lovely way to end the trip with stunning views and a chance to see starfish in their natural habitat.” The boat ride is short but memorable, giving you a taste of island life and natural beauty.

Lunch and Return

The tour concludes with a lunch at a local restaurant, offering regional flavors that go beyond tourist fare. Afterward, you’re transferred back to your hotel by 4:30 pm, leaving you with the rest of your day free.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $64, you get a lot: round-trip pickup and drop-off inside Duong Dong, a guide, a bottle of water, a traditional lunch, insurance, kayak or SUP equipment, and the boat rides. The tour is designed to give you a broad experience of the north’s natural and cultural riches without extra costs, making it good value.

However, note that pick-up surcharges apply if your hotel is outside Duong Dong, and you should bring essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel. Personal expenses like sunscreen and towels aren’t included, and the tour does not accommodate travelers with certain medical conditions like high blood pressure or epilepsy.

Flexibility & Booking

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows you to reserve now and pay later, which is a nice touch for flexible planning.

Deep Dive: Why You Might Love This Tour

Travelers often mention the stunning views and the authentic local experiences as the main draws. The peaceful boat rides, the chance to watch and participate in traditional performances, and the scenic spots like Starfish Beach all combine to create a memorable outing. The inclusion of a local guide adds a friendly, insightful touch, helping you understand the significance of each stop.

The Value for Money

At $64, this tour provides a well-rounded experience combining active, scenic, and cultural elements. It’s a manageable, half-day adventure that’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Phu Quoc’s northern side without committing to an all-day excursion. The small group size and guided commentary mean you get personalized attention and a richer understanding of local life.

Possible Drawbacks

Some travelers might find four hours too brief to truly enjoy each site, especially if they’re looking for a more in-depth experience. The itinerary might be adjusted due to weather or local conditions, which could affect the planned stops. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for people with certain health issues or mobility restrictions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a short but meaningful glimpse into rural Phu Quoc. If you’re interested in nature, local culture, and scenic views, it’s a good fit. It also suits those with a flexible schedule who prefer guided experiences that include transportation, lunch, and activities—all for a reasonable price.

Final Thoughts

The [Red River Tours] Sightseeing to the North in Phu Quoc offers a balanced and authentic look at the island’s northern side. It’s a great way to escape the beaches for a few hours, explore lush landscapes, and learn about local livelihoods. You’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery, cultural performances, and relaxed pace, making it a worthwhile addition to your Phu Quoc itinerary.

If you’re seeking a value-packed half-day that combines outdoor activity with cultural insight, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable if you want to see a quieter, greener side of the island and don’t mind a bit of physical activity.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most ages, but check specific activity restrictions like swimming or boat rides if you have very young children.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen for comfort and safety.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with high blood pressure, epilepsy, or certain medical conditions. It’s best to consult your doctor if unsure.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be adjusted or canceled depending on weather conditions, but the operator notes that the program might change while maintaining key visiting places.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a regional lunch is part of the package and is included in the price.

How long is the kayaking or boat activity?
The kayaking, basket boat, and boat rides each last around 60 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Can I book the tour for a specific time?
Yes, but you should check availability directly, as starting times vary and depend on the day.

Is there an option to cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I stay outside Duong Dong town?
A surcharge applies—50,000 VND for Bai Truong, and 200,000 VND for Cay Sao, Ham Ninh, and An Thoi.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $64 per person, which covers most activities, transportation, and lunch. It’s a good value considering the variety of experiences included.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine, well-organized snapshot of Phu Quoc’s less-touristed, scenic north. Perfect for explorers wanting to combine outdoor adventure, cultural insights, and stunning views—all in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: