Buzz
Amidst the Gulf of Thailand, Nam Du shines like a newly discovered gem, raw yet sparkling, in Kien Giang province. Comprising 21 islands of various sizes, Nam Du's pristine beauty makes it an increasingly sought-after destination for both domestic and international tourists. With the following backpacking experiences shared by Vntrip.vn, we hope you'll have a truly memorable and affordable trip to Nam Du.
A raw gem amidst the Gulf of Thailand (Photo: ST)
Known as the Halong Bay of the South, Nam Du boasts around 21 floating islands. Despite its modest size, the rugged beauty of this archipelago, situated 83km from the coast of Rach Gia, mesmerizes travelers. Covering approximately 40km², Nam Du spans across two communes, An Son and Nam Du, in Kien Hai district. The cluster of islands stands like a formidable fortress amidst the azure ocean, making it a unique highlight of Nam Du. Despite less convenient transportation, this promises to be an ideal backpacking destination, offering a raw and authentic experience unlike the more renowned tourist islands.
The best time to visit Nam Du is during the dry season, from December to March each year. During this period, the sea remains calm and tranquil, providing ideal weather for exploration and island hopping while avoiding the heavy rains and storms typical of the Kien Giang coastal region from April to November.
Travel Tips for Exploring Nam Du on a Budget
In any region of the country, Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, is perhaps the most ideal starting point for reaching Nam Du. Depart from the Mien Tay bus station and catch the Saigon-Rach Gia bus at 11:00 PM, arriving in Rach Gia around 6:00 AM (average ticket price is about 150,000 VND).
A high-speed boat takes only about 2 hours to get you to Nam Du (Photo: ST)
The ocean scenery will make your journey incredibly enjoyable (Photo: ST)
From the Rach Gia pier, you can choose to travel by high-speed boat (about 2.5 hours) or regular wooden boat (3 hours). Before departing, ensure you eat and prepare for possible seasickness. Your journey will be most fulfilling when you're in the best health.
The high-speed boats operate from 7 AM to 9 AM, depending on the ferry company. For time-saving convenience on your Nam Du backpacking trip, consider Ngoc Thanh ferry (departing from Rach Gia at 8:15 AM), Superdong (departing at 7:20 AM), or Song Hong (departing at 8:10 AM). On the boat, you'll have the opportunity to admire the vast blue sea and the captivating island scenery, which will enchant you even before setting foot on the island.
Nam Du is characterized by its ruggedness and sparse population, with motorcycles and boats being the primary means of transportation. Getting around Hon Lon (Cu Tron) is done by motorbike, while traveling between islands is done by boat. The common rental price for motorcycles ranges from 150k – 200k/day, due to the relatively small island road systems. Traveling by motorbike is both convenient and proactive, particularly suitable for the complex mountainous terrain found here.
Motorcycles are the primary mode of transportation in Nam Du (Photo: ST)
To move between islands, you should head to the pier and inquire about any local fishing boats; sometimes they'll agree to transport you at a reasonable cost, and you may also be able to negotiate. Here are some fishing boat contacts shared by travelers offering tips for budget-friendly Nam Du travel:
- Anh Phong Vu – 0919 138369
- Anh Bay – 0946 654037
- Anh Ngai – 01636977859
- Di Tu Tho – 01664840940
- Anh Sau – 0944 899122
- Chu Hai – 0164 7310277
- Mr. Phong Vu – 0919 138369
- Mr. Bay – 0946 654037
- Mr. Ngai – 01636977859
- Aunt Tu Tho – 01664840940
- Mr. Six – 0944 899122
- Uncle Hai – 0164 7310277
Embark on a boat journey with local fishermen on the island offers you the chance to delve into the lives of the fishermen in Nam Du, aligning perfectly with the essence of Nam Du backpacking tourism for exploration and discovery, wouldn't you agree?
Accommodation on the island
Accommodation prices on Nam Du range from 150k – 200k/night, but the inconvenience lies in the necessity to book in advance to ensure availability. A noteworthy tip is to consider bringing a tent, which can entirely save on accommodation costs for your budget-friendly Nam Du journey, while offering convenience as you can choose from various locations such as near Nam Du lighthouse to catch the sunrise on the island, or at Dai Beach, a beautiful coastline with swaying coconut trees and expansive, smooth sand. The rental price for a beach spot is also reasonable, around 30k. There are also tent rental services available (40k). What could be more exciting than falling asleep by the seaside and waking up to witness the sunrise over the coastline?
Camping is one of the exciting experiences in your Nam Du backpacking journey (Photo: ST)
If you still prefer choosing guesthouses for more convenient living, a TIP is to select guesthouses on the left side of the entrance to the residential area on Hon Lon Island, as the backyards of these guesthouses often face the sea, offering beautiful natural views.
Delicacies of Nam Du
Hon Lon Island, the main and largest island of Nam Du, is home to over 5000 residents, mainly engaged in fishing. Right at the pier is a bustling seafood market, with fresh and dried seafood caught and processed by local residents, always bustling regardless of day or night. Some delicious and affordable seafood dishes from Nam Du coastal region that you should try:
Grilled blue bone fish with banana flower (Photo: ST)
Grilled scallops with spring onion oil (Photo: ST)
Steamed squid with ginger and lemongrass (Photo: ST)
Sun-dried fish (Photo: ST)
Grilled sea cucumbers with spring onion oil (Photo: ST)
Exploring Nam Du Destination
So, what makes Nam Du backpacking special? Nam Du is a blend of mountains, seas, and the beauty of coastal people. Let's take a look at some fascinating destinations in the Nam Du archipelago with Vntrip.vn.
Hon Lon Island
The pristine beauty of Hon Lon Island is likened to Vietnam's Hawai (Photo: ST)
Hon Lon Island (a bay island) lies within the Gulf of Thailand. It boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Nam Du archipelago (like the Mến tree beach), with crystal-clear waters and coconut tree-lined shores.
Ngự Beach
Ngự Beach in Nam Du (Photo: ST)
Legend has it that King Gia Long once stopped in this area, hence the name Ngự Beach, where there's an ancient freshwater well that always has plenty of fresh water.
Chệt Beach
Chệt Beach is renowned for its historical significance (Photo: ST)
Chệt Beach has a long history, now bustling with local residents, making it a place where you can experience the colorful local life.
Mấu Island
Mau Island is breathtakingly beautiful (Photo: ST)
This particularly beautiful island is home to about 120 households, featuring many stunning small beaches with smooth white sand, as well as Black Rock and White Rock beaches.
Ngang Island
Visit Ngang Island to experience the life of fishermen (Photo: ST)
Ngang Island - a 30-minute boat ride from Hon Lon. The second most populous island in Nam Du commune with about 900 households, primarily engaged in aquaculture.
Ma Thiên Lãnh Hill
The winding road to Ma Thiên Lãnh (Photo: ST)
Despite its somewhat intimidating name, Ma Thiên Lãnh Hill boasts a rare, sacred, and harmonious natural beauty. Here you'll find a statue of Buddha reaching for the heavens and ancient imprints on the rocks.
Nam Du Lighthouse
The tallest lighthouse in Vietnam (Photo: ST)
The highest lighthouse in Vietnam, the path to Nam Du Lighthouse also hides many natural beauties and tranquility. It's the ideal spot to fully enjoy the beauty of Nam Du and should not be missed on your Nam Du backpacking trip.
