Phu Quoc Rach Vem Tour – Starfish Kingdom at Ham Rong Cape

The best time to visit Phu Quoc is during the dry season, from November to April each year. During this period, the weather is clear, with ample sunshine and calm, clear waters, making it ideal for exploring the Starfish Kingdom at Star Bay, swimming with starfish at Ham Rong Cape, and kayaking on the Kua Kan River. It's best to avoid the rainy season (May to October) for optimal water activities.

In northern Phu Quoc, you can visit the tranquil Rach Vem fishing village, renowned for its 'Starfish Kingdom' where hundreds of starfish inhabit the clear, shallow waters. On the Kua Kan River, you can enjoy kayaking or boating through pristine forests and mangrove ecosystems, immersing yourself in nature's charm. Some tours also include Vietnamese cooking classes, allowing you to learn local delicacies, and offer distant views of Cambodia.

It is recommended to plan a Phu Quoc trip of 5 days and 4 nights, or longer, to fully experience the natural scenery and culture of the northern region. This allows ample time for in-depth excursions to areas like Star Bay and the Kua Kan River, as well as exploring Phu Quoc National Park, enjoying the sunset at Ganh Dau Beach, or visiting local night markets and experiencing the island's charm, making your journey richer.

For independent travelers visiting northern attractions in Phu Quoc, renting a motorbike is suggested, but an international driving permit is required, and safety should be prioritized. If you are unfamiliar with the roads or prefer more convenience, consider hiring a private car or joining a day tour that includes transportation. Many day tours cover travel to Phu Quoc National Park, Rach Vem fishing village, and the Kua Kan River, saving you the hassle of planning and proving more efficient.

For transportation between northern Phu Quoc attractions such as the National Park, Ham Rong Cape, or Ganh Dau Beach, taxi fares will vary depending on the distance and road conditions, and can be relatively high for a single trip. Private car services are usually charged by half-day or full-day, offering better value. Joining a tour that includes transportation is the most recommended option for budget considerations, as the cost covers travel, eliminating extra expenses and negotiation hassles, while ensuring comfort.

When planning a northern Phu Quoc itinerary that includes activities like cooking classes or kayaking, the daily budget for activities should consider the included items. Typically, these in-depth experiences include transportation, guide services, and necessary equipment. For dining, local snacks or restaurants are relatively affordable, and can be arranged flexibly according to personal needs. It is recommended to choose tours that bundle multiple experiences, as they usually offer better value.

When traveling to Phu Quoc, it is recommended to exchange Vietnamese Dong at the airport, city banks, or large jewelry stores. The airport exchange rate might be slightly less favorable but is convenient for urgent needs. City banks usually offer better exchange rates and are more secure. Some jewelry stores also provide exchange services with generally good rates, but be mindful of the amount and security. It is advisable to bring US Dollar or Euro cash for exchange, and credit cards can be used for larger purchases.

From Ganh Dau Beach in northern Phu Quoc, on a clear day, you can clearly see Koh Tonsay (also known as Rabbit Island) in Cambodia, as well as parts of the Cambodian coastline. The sunset views here are also quite famous and it's an excellent spot to admire the cross-sea scenery.