hai van pass tour

See & Do

A Complete Guide To The Hai Van Pass: Route, Rental & Motorbike Tours

November 16, 2018
Blake Owers

In a 2008 episode of Top Gear , host Jeremy Clarkson described the Hai Van Pass motorbike tour “a deserted ribbon of perfection”. We couldn’t agree more as a ride through the Hai Van Pass is simply a must. It is one of the most quintessential roads in Vietnam, weaving through breathtaking mountains overlooking a stunning coastline.

Located half an hour outside of Da Nang and an hour and a quarter from Hoi An, we think driving the 21 kilometres long Hai Van Pass is essential, whether you are spending time in Hoi An, Da Nang , or Hue .

Hidden’s put together information on Hai Van Pass motorbike tour and hires. Along with the history of the pass, and a guide to the best places to stop along the way.

What is The Hai Van Pass?

The Hai Van Pass and the spur of the Truong Son (Annamite) mountain range, which it traverses, has played a large part in the history of Vietnam. The road itself is 21 kilometres long with inclines of up to 11 degrees at some points. It reaches a peak of 496 metres.

The beauty of the landscape on show while driving over the pass cannot be understated. The road snakes its way up through the steep hills, surrounded by lush tropical jungle. It’s adorned with views out over the ocean and white sand beaches. From the southern side, the whole curve of Da Nang is visible. Then from the north sparkling Lang Co Beach is stunning.

Geographically, the range of mountains split Vietnam into its southern and northern climates. The range protects Da Nang from the formidable “Chinese Winds”. They blow in from the northwest and can make for significant differences in climate. During the winter months (November-March) the northern side can be very cold and wet. However, on the southern side, it remains warm and dry. Check out our full article here on the weather in this area to help plan your trip.

The History of the Hai Van Pass

The mountains also made for a significant geopolitical boundary, separating the Champa and Dai Viet Kingdoms for centuries. The steep, unforgiving mountains were a tough obstacle to overcome in any conquest. The Hai Van Pass was also a crucial land link between the cities of Hue and Da Nang during the American War. The top of the pass has had fortifications to stop unauthorised passage since the Dai Viet Kingdom.

Emperor Minh Mang’s Brick Gate

Emperor Minh Mang built the imposing brick gate next to the road in the 19th Century. On one side of the gate, “The most grandiose gateway in the world” is inscribed. Surrounding the gateway are battle-scarred bunkers which were initially built by the French during the First Indochina War (called the French war by Vietnamese) and later used by American forces during the American War. Keep an eye out for the bullet holes on some of the bunkers. Now, the bunkers are empty, and all that the pass separates is the provinces of Quang Nam and Thua Thien–Hue.

Before the construction of the six-kilometre-long Hai Van tunnel in 2005, the Hai Van Pass was a major bottleneck for traffic going from Hanoi to Saigon . The pass used to be infamous for its high death toll, but now with far less traffic, the road is much safer, if no less steep. Now, the Hai Van Pass is used mainly by tour buses, motorbike, and oil tankers which aren’t allowed in the tunnel. The country’s main train line also goes around and through the mountain range but at a lower elevation than the road. The views from the train are equally good so make sure that you are awake when you pass through.

Best Time To Visit The Hai Van Pass

The best time to ride the pass is later in the dry season towards September. By this point, the sun is still shining, but the heat is not so overwhelming as it can be earlier in the season. That being said, the pass is a great ride any time of the year, but extra caution needs to be taken when it’s wet. Because of the nature of the pass, sometimes the top can become shrouded in mist, blocking the views. However, it usually only covers the very top section, and there are still great views to be had on either side. Plus the mist gives it a great atmosphere, and with the lush jungle, it can feel like you’re riding into Jurassic Park.

When riding the Hai Van Pass, make sure that you have the essentials with you: Sunscreen, long-sleeved tops, and long pants are useful for minimising that bikers tan line. During the cooler months, a warmer and waterproof layer is also recommended because it can get quite cold on the top of the pass. It’s a good idea to have some water with you but not as essential as you can’t ride for long without seeing somewhere that sells it.

Riding Solo ‒ What You Need to Know

One of the most popular ways to see the Hai Van Pass is to rent a motorbike and take a tour of it, even going all the way to Hue. The freedom to stop where you want and make detours to wherever you like are the main reasons to ride the Hai Van Pass yourself. We recommend that you have motorbike riding experience before attempting the pass, mainly if you will be riding with a passenger as some of the corners are very tight.

From Hoi An it takes about an hour and a half tour to get to the start of the Hai Van Pass and to get from one side of the pass to the other only takes about 45 minutes on a good motorbike. We recommend you take your time and allow at least an hour and a half for stops and photos.

Renting a Motorbike

There are many places in Hoi An where you can hire motorbikes. What company you choose to go with will depend on how far you plan to go. If you want to go all the way to Hue, then you will want a more comfortable bike and luggage transfer. Otherwise, a one-day rental will be excellent.

Hidden Hint: To make your ride up the hill more enjoyable, be sure to hire a bike with a decent sized engine. Riding up the pass going the same speed as the big trucks is no fun.

The prices for daily rentals at local shops in Hoi An start at 80,000 VND (3.50 USD) and 160,000 VND (7 USD) at the bigger companies. Luggage transfer is 40,000 VND (1.70 USD) per day. We have written about the process of renting a motorbike in Vietnam with Style Motorbikes , in our article about driving from Hue to Hoi An. We have also collated a list of the most reliable motorbike rental shops in Hoi An and written an introduction to motorbike rental in Vietnam – both excellent reading material before tackling this journey!

Hai Van Pass Route

Directions from hoi an to the hai van pass.

Getting to the start of the Hai Van Pass from Hoi An is a relatively simple exercise in staying next to the beach until you get to the bottom of the hills. The only slightly more complicated part is getting through Da Nang. The route we recommend takes a few minutes longer than the most direct route but is much more enjoyable and more comfortable to follow as it avoids going straight through the centre of Da Nang. Click here to open the directions in Google Maps.

From Hoi An, drive up the main road (Hai Ba Trung) towards An Bang Beach and then turn left at the last set of traffic lights. Stay on the coast road for the next 20 kilometres until you come to a large roundabout. Turn left here and continue straight through the next two roundabouts until you have crossed over the Dragon Bridge.

Take the first right turn at the other end of the bridge to stay on the road next to the river. Continue on this road for two kilometres and stay left at the fork in the road. Then go straight through the roundabout. At the end of the road, turn left and stay on the road next to the coast. It will swing to the left and connect to the main road. At the main road turn right and stay on this road which takes you to the start of the pass road.

The Best Viewing Stops on the Hai Van Pass

The main reason to ride the Hai Van Pass is for the beautiful views. But there are also some great spots to stop and relax. Here are our top picks for photo opportunities and other activities.

Hidden Hint: Make sure to take a towel or similar with you to cover the motorbike seat when you stop to take photos. It only takes a minute or two before the sun heats the seat, enough to make it painful to get back on.

The Old French Bunker

The main viewing point is at the old French bunker at the very top of the Hai Van Pass. There are some restaurants up here, and it’s where all the tour buses stop so expect to see a lot of tourists. You can get some great views from here looking both north and south.

There is nothing to stop you from pulling over at any point you think warrants a photo. Just be sure that you are well out of the way of traffic and keep your wits about you as the trucks are very big and sometimes come very close. The best places on the road to stop are at the sharp corners and hairpin bends which give you unimpeded views. In particular the one here , which is the last big corner before the summit.

On the other side, a great view out to the ocean can be found here. One of the best spots is here , just before you cross the train track at the bottom of the pass. From this point, you look out across the water to Lang Co where you can see the beach, the town, and the new bridge leading into the Hai Van Tunnel. This is also the same spot where the hosts stopped during the 2008 Top Gear episode.

Train drives along the Hai Van Pass coast

Food and Drinks

We recommend taking a bottle of water and a banh mi with you. This way you can stop and have a snack on your way up the pass. But there are also places to buy food along the way. At the top of the pass, there are a few different coffee shops which sell snacks, cold drinks, and some basic meals. Expect prices here to be a bit higher than down at sea level.

If you’re after somewhere with more options and better pricing, then it’s best to go to the restaurants on either side of the Hai Van Pass. On the south side of the pass, you can stop at one of the many restaurants in or on the edges of Da Nang. While on the north side there are some delicious seafood restaurants in the small town of Lang Co.

Be Than Restaurant in Lang Co restaurant

Hidden Hint: Be Than Restaurant in Lang Co is one of the best seafood restaurants in the area. The food is great and reasonably priced food served fresh in a wonderful setting which overlooks the lagoon. It’s well worth a stop here if you’re passing through.

Optional Extras

The Hai Van Pass is undoubtedly the star of any road trip that passes through it, but that doesn’t mean that there is nothing else worth seeing. These are some great detours on both sides of the pass that are worth your time visiting.

Off the Beaten Track

If you want to add some extra action on your motorbike tour to your Hai Van Pass trip, you should consider going off the beaten track. Starting here , at the last hairpin bend before the summit, is a very small winding road which is just a dirt track at some points. It goes around the mountain below the crowded main viewpoint and offers some great views without the tourists. It is a very adventurous track and should only be attempted by experienced riders with an appropriate motorbike. The track reconnects with the main road on the other side of the pass and adds just over an hour to the trip.

Son Tra Peninsula

The Son Tra Peninsula is an easy addition to a trip over the Hai Van Pass and offers comparable views without all the other tourists. It’s a great ride around the lush, forested hills and the steep road (18% at some points) and all its curves make for an enjoyable ride. The peninsula is also home to the Linh Ung Pagoda which has the massive statue of Lady Buddha standing a whopping 67 metres high which can be seen from much of Da Nang. This and the viewpoint at the top of the hill make the Son Tra Peninsula a great addition to any trip near Da Nang.

To get there, simply stay on the main road right next to the beach from Hoi An and you will end up there. Do the same if you are coming from the pass. Stay on the road closest to the beach until you reach the peninsula. Riding the loop, including stopping at the lookout, only takes just over an hour and will only cost you 2,000 VND (0.10c USD) to park at the summit. Be sure to bring your camera.

Hidden Hint: Some of the sections of road are very steep and can be more challenging for inexperienced riders. If you are a confident rider and want to go up all the steep sections, then make the loop clockwise. If you are less confident, then make the loop counter-clockwise to make it easier.

Lang Co Beach

On the north side of the pass is the small fishing town of Lang Co. It is bisected by both a river and the main highway. The town has some great seafood restaurants at very reasonable prices, and it also has some lovely beach. Turn left at this petrol station after crossing the river, and the road will take you straight to, what is usually a deserted beach.

There are a few restaurants here which will try to get you to park in their spot. But there’s nothing to stop you pulling up pretty much anywhere. The sun in the middle of the day is scorching, and there is minimal shade, so we recommend timing it for the morning or afternoon. Be careful if you do go swimming because the waves here can be quite powerful sometimes.

Elephant Springs (Suoi Voi)

Once over the pass if you are willing to drive another 15 kilometres, we highly recommend you go to Elephant Springs. Here, you find a riverbed with sets of dammed up pools where you can bathe in crystal clear water. Locals have built small platform-like huts on the riverside which offer shade and beer. Therefore making it the ideal location to spend the hot hours of the day. Adding this option to your Hai Van Pass adventure turns it into a real day trip. Giving you the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

The turnoff to Elephant Springs is not signposted and can be quite hard to find. It requires doing a u-turn around the barrier to go down a small side street of the main highway. The best way to do this is to use Google maps or maps.me for directions. Click here for the location. To get there, you will pass through a ticket booth on the road. It costs 15,000 VND (0.65c USD) per person to get through. 2,000 VND (0.10c USD) per motorbike to go through. Once on the other side keep going up the road continuing to the carpark at the end.

Once you arrive at the entrance, you will be greeted and lead to one of the poolside huts. You have to use one of these huts to get into the pools, and they do charge for them. Prices range from 25,000 VND (1 USD) 100,000 VND (4.30 USD). Make sure to bargain and agree on a price before you swim to avoid any surprises. Food and drink are also available but can be quite pricey.

Directions from Hoi An to Hue via the Hai Van Pass

A popular trip to make is to go from Hoi An to Hue by the Hai Van Pass motorbike tour. The route is so popular because it is a fun ride over the pass. It takes in some beautiful scenery, and can quickly be done in a day, including stops to relax and cool down.

The trip can be made as a one-way trip. But you can easily stay a night or two and come back the same way. Alternatively, you could turn the trip into a multi-day motorbike adventure. So you ride a loop going from Hoi An to Prao, then on to Hue before coming back over the Hai Van Pass. A more in-depth description of this route can be found here . Whatever option you choose, you’ll need to hire a motorbike for the trip. (Read the earlier section on hiring a motorbike for one-way and multi-day options.)

The Other Side of the Pass

Once you get to the other side of the hai van pass, there are two main routes to get to hue. the fastest way is to stay on the main highway all the way to hue. this takes about three and a half hours from hoi an. our preference is to stay on the road next to the coast which splits off after lang co. this takes you through smaller towns. there is nothing to stop you making as many detours as you like to some of the fantastic beaches. this way takes about four and a half hours. but is well worth the extra time. click here for the google maps directions..

Hidden Hint: Motorbikes are not allowed to ride through the Hai Van Tunnel. But you can to take the shuttle service which runs around the clock. It costs 30,000 VND (1.30 USD) to shuttle a motorbike through the tunnel. Cutting out 20 kilometres of road and saving 30 minutes to an hour of travel time.

Guided Motorbike Tours of The Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass can be quite a daunting undertaking if you’re not confident on a motorbike. There are so many places to see that it can be hard to know where to go. If you still want the full experience but don’t want to go it alone then consider a tour. There are lots of motorbike tours available that give you the thrill of riding up one of the world’s most beautiful coastal roads. You’ll have the benefit of a local guide too who can show you all the best spots.

In Hoi An, you will likely be approached by bikers offering you tours around the countryside or further afield to places like the Hai Van Pass. A lot of locals offer easy-rider tours. It is important to know that easy-rider is not a brand. Therefore the level of service can vary dramatically between drivers. Easy-riders are usually bigger bikes with a passenger seat that has a backrest to make longer journeys more comfortable. If you decide to go on a longer tour with an easy rider, make sure that you get along with the driver first. You will be spending your whole journey with them, so it helps.

There are multiple reputable companies which offer bike tours to the Hai Van Pass and beyond. Here are our top picks:

Hoi An Motorbike Adventures

Address: Nguyễn Chí Thanh, Trang Keo hamlet, Cam Ha

Started in 2009 and now the largest motorbike tour operator in Central Vietnam, Hoi An Motorbike Adventures are old hands at touring around Hoi An and the Hai Van Pass. They have tours ranging from one to three days, one way to Hue or returning to Hoi An. In addition you have the option to ride your own motorbike if you wish. Prices for a full day return tour over the pass start at 1,900,000 VND (82 USD).

Vespa Adventures

Address: 134 Tran Cao Van

Vespa Adventures offer tours around Hoi An and all through Vietnam and Cambodia. If you want to cruise your way up the Hai Van Pass on the back of an authentic Vespa, then look no further. Their tour through the Hai Van Pass to Hue is a full day adventure and starts at 4,150,000 VND (179 USD). This tour can also be done in the other direction, travelling from Hue to Hoi An.

Easy Rider Hoi An

Address: 109 Le Hong Phong

Mr Thong has been running easy rider tours in Hoi An for a long time and really knows his way around. They offer one-day return trips over the Hai Van Pass, as well as longer one-way rides to Hue and beyond. Prices for a full-day return tour to the Hai Van Pass including the Marble Mountains start at 1,000,000 VND (43 USD).

Vespa Adventures on a Hai Van Pass motorbike tour

Jeep Tours of the Hai Van Pass

If two wheels isn’t your style, then consider cruising up the Hai Van Pass on a retro jeep tour. The jeeps can take three or four passengers so it is a great option for groups or families. Most of the jeeps are convertible or open-top. So you still get to enjoy the wind in your hair without having to ride a motorbike.

Hoi An Jeep Adventures offers a Hai Van Pass & Coast tour from Hoi An to Hue. The full day trip costs 3,360,000 VND (145 USD) per person. Tours require a minimum of two people to run however there are often groups for solo travellers to join.

Bus Tours of the Hai Van Pass

The only way to go on a bus tour over the Hai Van Pass is if you are travelling to Hue. All the buses going over the Hai Van Pass will stop at the top for you to get out and take some photos. Taking a bus is definitely the cheapest way to get to Hue. However, you don’t get the same experience as going on a jeep or motorbike tour.

Hidden’s Thoughts

If you’re confident and comfortable on a motorbike, you won’t want to miss this part of Vietnam. This ride is going to be a dream come true for you. There is no need to be put off if you don’t want to ride a motorbike either. Simply remove the stress from the occasion and opt for a guided tour, sit back, and enjoy the ride.

Hoi An to Hue Tour on the Back of a Royal Himalayan Motorcycle

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4 thoughts on “ a complete guide to the hai van pass: route, rental & motorbike tours ”.

what if i do not have International driving licence.

If you do not have an international motorbike license or a Vietnamese licence then you will still be able to rent a motorbike from many providers. However you will face fines should you be pulled over by the police and more importantly you will not be covered by your travel / health insurance should have have a motorcycle accident.

thanks andrew, i am okay with insurance cover but this fines and pulled over by police is frequent and a big issues?

Hi I’m thinking about doing a bike ride In Vietnam for maybe 2 to 4 weeks and don’t have any idea weather to hire or buy a bike and what sort of bike . I have a full bike license but would I need to apply to get a international license ? Thank you 🙏🏼

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Hai Van Pass Da Nang: Map, Route, Weather, History, Tour

Truong Son or Annamite Range is the most dramatic mountain ridge in Vietnam. When it juts out into the sea, spectacular Hai Van Pass is formed. This amazing sculpture of nature is a high wall where two sides of it have different features. While on the north side, the temperature is low in the winter, it’s much warmer in the south one. The cold monsoon winds are so hard to “climb” the mountains. For geographers, the pass is the border between Northern and Southern climates. For locals, it’s the border between Da Nang and Hue. Instead of crossing by road only formerly, today there are two other choices for passengers, by train and tunnel.

For travelers staying in Central Vietnam, a ride to the Hai Van Pass is one of their favourites. The best is with a motorbike, because of much more adventuring vibes than other vehicles. A ride may be a half-day experience from Da Nang or Hoi An, or a full-day transfer to Hue from those cities. Here, everything the visitors need to know about Hai Van Pass is outlined, in detail. We recommend reading the guide to Hoi An and Da Nang to Hue by train also, because the journey is among the biggest attractions of international tourists.

How to Get from Hoi An to Hue (and vice versa)
How to Get from Da Nang to Hue (and vice versa)
Lang Co Beach – A Full Guide
Travel Guide to Hue Imperial City

Table of content

1.1 A Quick Introduction
1.2 Names of Hai Van Pass
1.3 Hai Van Pass Elevation
1.4.1 Top Gear Hai Van Pass Episode
1.5 The Hai Van Pass Tunnel
2 Hai Van Pass Weather
3.1 Ancient Times and Legends
3.2 Vietnamese Dynasties
3.3 Hai Van Pass during Vietnam Wars
3.4 Battles in Hai Van Pass
3.5 Hai Van Pass Deaths and Rumors
3.6 The Hai Van Underpass Constructions
4.1 Top of Hai Van Pass – Hai Van Gate and Bunkers
4.2 Hai Van Pass Scenic Lookout
4.3 Beaches at Foot of Hai Van Pass
4.4 Lang Co Lagoon (aka Lap An Lagoon)
5.1 Riding up Hai Van Pass by Motorbike
5.2 Hai Van Pass Train
5.3 Hai Van Pass Cycling
5.4 Swim in Hai Van Pass Elephant Springs
6.1 Get to Hai Van Pass by Motorbike
6.2 Car and Tourist Bus
6.3 Bicycle and Jeep
7.1 Rentals and Directions
7.2 What to Bring?
7.3 Roadside Assistance
7.4 Eat and Drink
8.1 Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tour
8.2 Hai Van Pass Jeep Tour
9 Hai Van Pass Facts
10 Travel Guide to Lang Co Beach
11 Hai Van Pass on Google Maps
12 Related Posts
13 Non Nuoc Beach: The Famous Beach of Da Nang
14 How to Get from Da Nang to My Son Sanctuary
15 Bach Ma National Park: Hiking, Trekking in Da Nang and Hoi An
16 Am Phu Cave Complete Travel Guide
17 Asia Park and Sun Wheel in Da Nang (Sun World Da Nang Wonders)
18 How to Get to Golden Bridge from Da Nang
19 Da Nang Food Specialties: What to Eat in Da Nang
20 How to Visit Golden Bridge Vietnam
21 Da Nang Shore Excursions: Guided Tours From Tien Sa Port
22 Han Market (Cho Han): Where to Shop in Da Nang?
23 Da Nang Cathedral (Da Nang Pink Church)
24 Things to Do in Ba Na Hills Besides Golden Bridge
25 Da Nang Half Day Tours
26 Da Nang Private Car and Driver
27 Da Nang and Hoi An Itinerary for Visitors Staying Overnight in Hoi An
28 Da Nang Things to Do: Guide to What to Do in Da Nang Vietnam
29 Da Nang Best Things to Do and Reasons
30 How to Get From Hoi An to Da Nang
31 Hoi An or Da Nang: Which is Better?
32 My Son Sanctuary Tour
33 Da Nang Best Area to Stay: Guide to Where to Stay in Da Nang
34 Da Nang Cave Tour: Best Underground Activities in Da Nang
35 Da Nang Best Time to Visit: Guide to Best Weather in Da Nang
36 Da Nang Weather by Month: Guide to Monthly Weather in Da Nang
37 What to Do in Da Nang At Night
38 Lang Co Vietnam Travel Guide
39 What to Do in Da Nang for 3 Days
40 My Khe Beach: A Complete Guide to Da Nang’s Best Beach
41 Da Nang Day Trips: Guide to Best Day Tours From Da Nang
42 Museums in Da Nang
43 Linh Ung Pagoda: Trio of Da Nang’s Holiest Mountain Temples
44 Da Nang Night Market: A Thing To Do in Da Nang at Night
45 Guide to Son Tra Mountain aka Monkey Mountain Vietnam
46 Ba Na Hills Tour
47 Da Nang Cable Car
48 How to Get from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An
49 Da Nang to Hoi An: Best Da Nang Airport Transfer and More
50 Hai Van Pass Da Nang: Map, Route, Weather, History, Tour
51 Da Nang Attractions Guide: What to See in Da Nang Vietnam?
52 Lady Buddha Da Nang: The Best of Monkey Mountain Vietnam
53 My Son Sanctuary Travel Guide
54 Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture
55 Dragon Bridge Da Nang: The Fire-Breathing Da Nang Bridge
56 Ba Na Hills Travel Guide: A First Timer’s Complete Guide
57 Golden Bridge Da Nang: A Guide to The Iconic Da Nang Bridge
58 Da Nang Bridge: A Guide to Famous Bridges in Da Nang
59 Ba Na Hills Cable Car: World Record, Cost, Reschedule, Map
60 Da Nang Mountain Temple: Marble Mountain’s Pagodas, More
61 Da Nang Caves: Underground World of the Marble Mountains
62 The Marble Mountains: Guide to Da Nang’s Iconic Mountain
63.0.1 Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills Night Tour
63.0.2 Golden Hands Bridge Tour In Sunrise or Sunset (1/2 Day)
63.0.3 Cam Kim Island Bicycle Tour From Hoi An
63.0.4 Cham Island Tour From Hoi An (Group Tour)
63.0.5 Cham Island Tour From Da Nang (Group Tour)
63.0.6 Hoi An Vegetarian Food Tour
63.0.7 Hoi An Evening Walking Food Tour Through Laneways
63.0.8 Private Hoi An Basket Boat Tour (Shuttle Bus, Bicycle, Bike)
63.0.9 Half-day Am Phu Cave Tour (Private)
63.0.10 Hoi An Countryside Tour (Bicycle, Car, Electric Shuttle)
63.0.11 Da Nang Tour Package From Singapore
63.0.12 Hoi An Evening Tour From Da Nang
63.0.13 Hoi An Walking Food Tour Through Laneways
63.0.14 My Son Sanctuary and Hoi An Old Town Tour with Thu Bon River Cruise
63.0.15 My Son Day Trip From Hoi An including Marble Mountains and Basket Boat
63.0.16 Half Day Hoi An City Tour With River Cruise
63.0.17 Son Tra Peninsula Tour with Marble Mountains (Private/Small Group)
63.0.18 Hue Day Trip From Hoi An with Hai Van Pass, River Cruise & Lunch
63.0.19 Hoi An Ancient Town and Countryside Tour (Bests of Hoi An Tour)
63.0.20 Hoi An Tour From Da Nang Airport (Private, Optional Lunch)
63.0.21 Hoi An Day Trip From Da Nang (Marble Mountains, Basket Boat, Old Town)
63.0.22 Da Nang City Tour From Airport (Private, Optional Lunch)
63.0.23 Hoi An City Tour with Lantern Class, Lantern Boat, Night Market & Local Food Sampling
63.0.24 Marble Mountains, Basket Boat Ride & Hoi An Old Town Walking Tour
63.0.25 Marble Mountains & Golden Bridge Day Tour with Buffet Lunch
63.0.26 Marble Mountains & Monkey Mountain Tour (Half-day, Private)
63.0.27 Private Golden Bridge Sunrise Tour (Half-day, Optional Lunch)
63.0.28 Hoi An Ancient Town & Golden Bridge Day Tour (Private/Small Group)
63.0.29 My Son Sanctuary & Golden Bridge Day Tour (Private/Small Group)
63.0.30 Private My Son Sanctuary Sunrise or Sunset Tour
63.0.31 Full Day Hoi An Ancient Town & Countryside Experience With Local
63.0.32 Full Day My Son Sanctuary & Hoi An Countryside Tour With Local
63.0.33 Full Day Hoi An Ancient Town & Coconut Village Experience
63.0.34 Son Tra Peninsula, Marble Mountains and Hoi An City Tour
63.0.35 Half-day Marble Mountains Tour from Da Nang or Hoi An
63.0.36 Da Nang Cave Tour (Half Day Underground Tour in Da Nang)
63.0.37 Hoi An Old Town & Lantern Making Class (Morning Tour, Half-day)
63.0.38 Full Day Bests of Da Nang & Hoi An Old Town Walking Tour
63.0.39 Full Day My Son Tour From Da Nang with Da Nang City Tour
63.0.40 My Son Sanctuary Tour From Hoi An or Da Nang With Local Guide
63.0.41 Hue Day Trip from Da Nang or Hoi An via Hai Van Pass with Lunch
63.0.42 Full Day Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills Tour With Buffet Lunch
63.0.43 Full Day My Son Sanctuary Tour & Hoi An Old Town With Local
63.0.44 Half Day Da Nang Museums and Bridges
63.0.45 Da Nang City Discovery
63.0.46 Da Nang at a Glance (The Best Half Day Da Nang City Tour)
63.0.47 Full-day My Son Tour From Da Nang or Hoi An & Marble Mountains

About Hai Van Pass in Vietnam

A quick introduction.

In the middle of the country, Hai Van Pass is a protrusion of the Annamite Range jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. It’s the most spectacular and most famous (or rumoured) mountain passes in trans-Vietnam routes. The road over it is 20 kilometers long, featuring nearly-vertical mountain slopes on one side and deep valleys on the other. This feature provides much scenic outlooks along the ride that one of things to draw tourists. Hairpin bends, hidden temples and ancient ruins are other interests. In many months, its high elevations are soaked in a dense mist caused by the high humidity. To cross the pass, now people can get a train or move through the tunnel. Praised to be the best coastal road in the region, Hai Van Pass is the theme for one episode of Top Gear.

Names of Hai Van Pass

Hai Van means “the ocean and cloud”. It’s named by Le Thanh Tong king in 1470 when he traveled to the south to capture Champa kingdom’s capital. Previously, local people often called this wonder Ai Van (the Cloud pass). In colonial times, French soldiers nicknamed it “the road without joy”.

Hai Van Pass Elevation

Top of the Hai Van Pass Vietnam is around 495 meters above the sea level, correspondingly 1,627 feet. There, the entire Da Nang’s bay and Lang Co peninsula can be observed, giving it a strategic location for the military. Vietnamese, French and American armies in turn construct protective buildings in it. Now, the remains are still visible.

Hai Van Pass Top Gear

First produced in 2002, the Top Gear is a television series and one of the most commercially successful programmes of the BBC. In 2006, the Specials (special edition episode) was launched, and two years later, Vietnam became the inspiration for directors. Fun experiences and wonderful landscapes along 1,600 kilometers around the country are encapsulated in 70 minutes. Hoi An to Hue via Hai Van Pass is the 4 th leg, after Nha Trang to Hoi An and before Hue to Hanoi capital.

Top Gear Hai Van Pass Episode

In 2008, Hai Van Pass appeared in the “Top Gear: Vietnam Special ”, a 75-minute episode for the motoring programme Top Gear of the BBC. It’s the final one of 12 in the world-favoured series. In the beginning, three hosts Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond meet up in a marble shop. Then, all ride their own bike along the bayfront of Da Nang. In the passage, the introduction written by Jeremy describes the Hai Van Pass as “a deserted ribbon of perfection” and “one of the best coast roads in the world”. Later scenes show how much the trio enjoys their ride. A stop (in Da Nang slope) and another in Hue’s slope are made for viewing beautiful landscape. At there. the men use the words “fabulous”, “fantastic”, “increbible” to express the beauty. To watch, just type title of this section in Youtube.

The Hai Van Pass Tunnel

Under the collaboration between Vietnamese and Japanese engineers, Hai Van Pass Tunnel 1 was constructed from 2000 to 2005. Providing the quickest passage from Da Nang to the other side, it aims to reduce traffic accidents on the pass. Its length is 6,28 kilometers, making it the longest of its kind in South-east Asia. After over a decade in operation, its sister the Hai Van Tunnel 2 was built in 2017 to the right. According to official regulations, motorcycles, bicycles, trucks carrying animals and petrol are not allowed to ride through. Non-motorized vehicles can be transferred by another vehicle, with a fee if they don’t like to drive up the rugged pass. Available from 6 a.m to 10 p.m, the service helps the riders to keep their safety, especially during the evening and the wet season.

Hai Van Pass Weather

In the dry season, from January to July, the road is dry and the scenic outlooks show their best in Hai Van Pass. The conditions make the period become the finest time to visit (or have a first ride ever). Ancient remains in the top and bird-eye views are also fully seen. One of the most important things to look out for is the temperature. It’s high daily, and reaches the highest degrees in the midday. So, the riders are advised to hit the road in earlier or later hours, to avoid strong heat. In the end of afternoon, sunset down the horizon is really nice to see from any slopes. The hottest months are June and July when the outside temperature may increase to 40oC. Putting sunglasses, sun cream and lots of water in the bag before leaving the room.

From August to December, the rains often occur and by that, the mist hides the summit of Hai Van Pass frequently. From a far distance, visitors can see and decide to ride or don’t ride up there, or wait for a better chance later. Of course, everything is not really clear to sightsee in the highest elevations and the view is blocked. In lower places, sky is cloudy and browny, still allowing visitors to look at pretty scenery. However, those are not great conditions to support clear and cheerful pictures. The most-loved characteristic is cool temperature, nearly perfect for outdoor activities. Check the weather forecast in advance, if planning to come between October and December. Typhoons often happen, followed by dangerous situations in the mountains. A raincoat is the essential personal item which any visitor must have in this season.

History of Hai Van Pass

Ancient times and legends.

As the most rugged and dangerous trail in ancient times, people composed a sentence that is still used today. Its full meaning is “walkers are terrified of Hai Van Pass and boatmans are terrified of underground waves around its foot”. According to history books, the trekkers may face robbers, tigers and bad weather while walking along the pass. However, there are no other choices, so people must move across when needed.

If lucky enough, the walkers could see a miracle and rare flower (namely hoa ngai). It blooms in the spring and after falling into the sea by the wind, it helps the fish which eat it to become a dragon. In the folk story of Cham people who resided in the land before the Vietnamese, the dragon can turn into a human. One day, it falls in love with Cham’s princess and wants to rob her for itself but fails. The patron god Shiva uses the bow and arrow to kill it previously. In Cham’s language, the dragon is called “Makara” and the statue of this legendary animal has been exhibited in the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Vietnamese Dynasties

Hai Van Pass is owned officially by current Vietnamese from 1306 when the Champa king gave the land as a wedding present. However, there are not many people who come to the new territory to settle down, because it’s remote, near the frontiers. The first Vietnamese king to travel the pass was Le Thanh Tong, in 1471 when he led the army to capture Champa’s capital Vijaya. He aimed to vigorously resolve the Southern border conflicts. While standing on the summit, the beauty of nature amazed this 30-years-old emperor and he titled the whole pass “the most marvelous wonder (of Vietnam). He got the win then.

Another Vietnamese king linked to the history of the Hai Van Pass is Minh Mang. He was 2 nd emperor of the Nguyen dynasty, reigning the country from 1820 to 1840. At the peak of prosperity, he put great care into national defense very much. In 1826, Hai Van Gate, an outpost where imperial soldiers always presented, to protect the capital from its southernmost. Cannons, telescopes and flags were equipped, to observe and signal for the strongholds below. Placed in the top of the pass, people there also were responsible for monitoring the traffic in the first trans-Vietnam trail (thien ly). Walkers had to pay a small fee if they liked to go to the other side. See details of what visitors can see today in the below section here.

Hai Van Pass during Vietnam Wars

The French army occupied the Hai Van Pass in 20 th century when they established Tourane city (today Da Nang). The soldiers built bunkers around the Hai Van Gate and converted some buildings into a new function. Because of a very strategic point in the eyes of military men, the Vietminh (League for the Independence of Vietnam) led by Ho Chi Minh attacked on this, to gain control. French troops felt so exhausted in fighting against and said that Hai Van is “the road without joy”. During the second Vietnam war, the Americans and South Vietnamese army were based here. Taking advantage of frequent mist, communist guerillas attacked many times. In the evening, they also made the enemy feel stressful and nervous everlastingly. In March 1975, North Vietnam army took control, and now, the place is free from military activities.

Battles in Hai Van Pass

The memorial stele by the main road, at the top of Hai Van Pass, provides information about three battles in French colonial time. The first occurred in February 1947 and after it, the 19 th battalion (of Vietnamese) killed 20 French and African soldiers, and 8 military cars. Three months later, another battle happens. the French brigadier Roger, leader of the army in Central Vietnam and 100 soldiers are killed by the gun of the enemy. In addition, the communists also bomb the train in the tunnels and vehicles in lower elevations. 300 solders more loose their live in Vietnam. The third battle starts in January 1949, and like two previous ones, the French suffered the heaviest losses.

Hai Van Pass Deaths and Rumors

Hai Van Pass is thought to be the most dangerous pass in the trans-Vietnam highway. Local people still see many traffic accidents occurring along it, because of many reasons. When cruising, visitors can see temples on a side of the main road, belonging to victims. On the mountain side, there are two large groups of temples, generally called “Tiger temple” where a man dedicates his life to take care of them. He also repairs the broken motorcycles for free.

The Hai Van Underpass Constructions

Construction of the Hai Van Tunnel is one of the turning points in history of the Hai Van Pass. Operated since 2005, the South-east Asia’s longest tunnel has been serving over 10,000 vehicles one day, and around twice in the holidays. Not allowed for access of motorcycles and bicycles, it closes a few hours (in the lowest period) to clean and maintain. In Da Nang’s portal, a temple for worship of the God of Mountain is built and a banyan tree symbolizing the permanence, is planted next to. In 2017, sister Hai Van Tunnel 2 is constructed.

Things to See in Hai Van Pass

Top of hai van pass – hai van gate and bunkers.

At an elevation of nearly 500 meters, “Hai Van Gate” is actually a couple of gates instead of one like how people think. Built in 1826 under request of Minh Mang king, these brick structures are the last remains of a fortress which protected Hue citadel from the southernmost. The nearest gate from the main road is called Da Nang gate because it faces the city of the same name. Above the arch, there are two stone tablets with Chinese words, the first meaning “the most striking wonders (of Vietnam)” and the other indicating the name of the whole complex. Following the unpaved road, visitors can see the second remains, Hue Gate. In the surroundings, the French and American army added bunkers to defense at this strategic military location. Before being designated to be a national site, it’s possible to climb the top of bunkers to take photos.

Hai Van Gates and everything around them have been restored. In the near future, visitors will see fully-complete buildings and cannons just like in the past.

Hai Van Pass Scenic Lookout

Hai Van Pass is famous for many picturesque viewpoints, seen from the roadside, the summit or top of the giant rocks. Definitely, there are nice backgrounds for traveling pictures and social media posts. On the Da Nang (Southern) side, a panoramic scenery is easy to see from the right of the road. It includes light-blue water of the bay, purple Monkey Mountain and the city in the front, and white sandy beaches and luxuriant vegetation in the back. The train moves several times of the day down the coast. Near the summit, motorbike riders often stop to photograph the hairpin bends. Some of the photos they take get the most interactions on Instagram. Hai Van Gate at the highest elevation is no doubt a must to know. While standing there, clouds accompanied with strong winds may fly over you.

Down to the Hue’s side, some other hairpin bends are seen but less popular to tourists. Trees cover the view more but every time the “fence” opens, the scenery is breath-taking. A picture with cape to cape is absolutely possible to capture. Sometimes, the rocky cliffs with white waves in the foot or railway bridges are also shown before the eyes. At the end of the pass, the Lang Co peninsula between two blue bodies of water is the highlight. One of the most iconic photos is taken from the roadside near the estuary, not crossing the railway yet. Tourist buses always recommend stopping there, and if lucky enough, the train is the closest ever. Riding under the very-high bridge, turquoise Lang Co (or Lap An) lagoon is the next destination.

Beaches at Foot of Hai Van Pass

Beaches in the foot of the Hai Van Pass are white sandy, private and visited by local campers every weekend. The longest one is Lang Van, the crescent stretch of sand seen from Da Nang’s slopes. Having been a leper colony for nearly two decades (until 1996), some leprosy patient’s families are staying back there. To get it, visitors need to trek down from the main road by trails and then along the railroad track. If you would like to go camping, this pretty coast is one of the best choices in Da Nang. On the other side, there is another small, hidden beach. It’s called Bai Chuoi (the Banana Beach) where snorkeling opportunities can be obtained. Because of being far from the pass route, a long trek is required.

Lastly, more famous above mentioned, Lang Co Beach is one of the most unspoiled shorelines in the region. It’s straight, stretches over 5 kilometers and free from crowds of tourists. As a part of Lang Co Bay, member of the World’s most beautiful bays club, this impression provides some options of high-end resorts to the north. Near the estuary, there are local-style seafood eateries, sun beds and fisherman boats on the sands. Read our separate article for Lang Co Beach in centralvietnamguide.com/lang-co-beach.

Lang Co Lagoon (aka Lap An Lagoon)

Turquoise and shallow, Lang Co Lagoon is always in the itinerary of visitors who plan to explore the Hai Van Pass. It owns a killer, outstanding beauty. It’s possible to expect mirror-like water dotted with stilt houses and the reflection of green towering mountains capped by white clouds. Locals raise oysters for living there, for making the sauce, supplying restaurants and hotels. Seafood restaurants and coffee shops are established on a side of the lagoon edge, Nguyen Van Rd. See more details in our guide via centralvietnamguide.com/lang-co-lagoon.

Experiences in Hai Van Pass

Riding up hai van pass by motorbike.

Whether self-riding or being a pillion, the ride up and down the Hai Van Pass is a fantastic experience that is definitely worth it to do. That’s a real adventure in which visitors are always excited to see what is next and even want to enjoy one more time. Well-protected forests, breath-taking landscapes, old remains, winding roads that challenge the rider a bit and lots of photo opportunities, are rewards. All are outdoors and support freedom.

It’s fun to snake over 20 kilometers across an incredibly untouched nature, and feel how the weather changes in different elevations. There is not surprising to be in high temperatures in the foot, but over time, the degrees gradually decrease and increase again when going downhill. Dense mist doesn’t allow you to see far and by that, the explorers keep curious about things they will see in the front. Unpredictably, a cow or deer makes the ride slow down a bit at times. If traveling with a tour guide, he may share little-told stories and history, including the ones giving creepy feelings. Former traffic accidents claimed many lives.

Local people see the ride up to the top of Hai Van Pass is a joy on the weekend, and never forget stopping somewhere for a cup of coffee.

Hai Van Pass Train

If you have ever been in Hai Van Pass or will explore it soon, a train travel along the below coast is highly recommended. Since it was established by the French, the coaches, tracks and scenery along the railroad are nearly unchanged. From the window, a striking coastline with inaccessible cliffs, sandy beaches and lush vegetation, sometimes shows and sometimes hides (by tunnels). The train itself has an old-fashioned style and the smallest sizes in the world right now, but are what many travelers find. The “outdating” facilities give feelings that the passengers are back to a few decades or one century. Tickets are sold online or in central train stations in Da Nang or Hue. Browse our guide for this off-the-beaten-track transfer in centralvietnamguide.com/da-nang-to-hue-train.

Hai Van Pass Cycling

Featuring a scenic route with high gradients, Hai Van Pass is a dream ride to many cyclists, in and outside of Vietnam. Different from motorcycle rides, an expedition on the wheels occurs slower, eco-friendly and thanks to that, becomes the favourite to laid-back travelers. It takes one day to discover everything from Da Nang and Hoi An to Hue, and vice versa. Visit Hue another time? There are two options to select: repeating the pass ride and taking a transfer through the Hai Van tunnel. The first is more stunning, but the second saves time for the rider. Read complete travel guides to traveling with a bike in your city for further details, as following below:

Hoi An Bike Tour
Da Nang Bike Tour
Hue Cycling Tour

Swim in Hai Van Pass Elephant Springs

Not too far from the foot of Hai Van Pass, Suoi Voi (or the Elephant Spring) is a good place to cool down. Its clear and unpolluted water flowing down from Bach Ma national park, and aside rocks. There are many huts available to put the bags, eat grilled chicken with chilli salt and drink cold beers. On the weekend, this attraction is busier. Parking, hiring the hut, foods and drinks, all charge a fee.

How to Get to Hai Van Pass

Get to hai van pass by motorbike.

Motorbike is the top choice for both locals and tourists, to explore the Hai Van Pass. Ensure that you have a driving license before making up your mind, because the mountain pass is not really too easy for beginners. Traffic is still busy in many hours of the day, including trucks carrying petrol, animals and tourist buses. Experience is required, to keep yourself away from unexpected injuries. Being a pillion will be the perfect solution. You can hire a local driver or a travel friend who is confident in his/her riding skills. Looking for the Easy Rider, an independent or group of professional English-speaking riders. The operators specializing in bike tours provide many selections at varying prices.

Read also: Da Nang Bike Tour, Hoi An Motorbike Tour, Hue Motorbike Tour

Car and Tourist Bus

These are two next popular vehicles tourists choose to visit the Hai Van Pass. It’s more flexible and comfortable if traveling by a car, than in a tourist bus. Private car rentals are a lot to choose from any cities nearby, with a competitive price. Especially, if departing from Hue, should make full use of it to transfer to Da Nang or Hoi An. It takes nearly 2 hours to start the first turns in the pass and just a half from the City of bridges and City of lanterns. Booking an organized tour if needing a local guide who is knowledgeable, fluent in English and friendly.

Also it is a nice choice to move between three cities, the tourist bus cost is smaller, around 250,000 VND for an air-conditioning seat. The ride durates roughly 3 to 4 hours, and before paying, remembering to ask how the seat is: bunk bed in the sleeper bus or a seat on the couch. On the pass, it may stop at a pair of places to allow visitor’s sightseeing, including the summit. The Marble Mountains is another included attraction, but available in some providers only. Places to eat, take a break or go to the restroom are absolutely recommended by the driver and attendant.

Bicycle and Jeep

Son Tra and Hai Van mountains are two most idyllic places in Da Nang, for an adventure with a bike. To ensure having a fully-enjoyable ride, carefully check the vehicle that will travel with you over different elevations. Lots of water is needed in the dry months, but it’s necessary to see the forecast in advance, to avoid heavy rains or typhoons. No matter if you aim to get a self-guided or guided cruise, we recommend reading three comprehensive guides to the city you’re staying. There are about the Hoi An Bike Tour, Da Nang Bike Tour, and Hue Motorbike Tour.

Visitors can hire a jeep rental with and without a tourist guide to discover the Hai Van Pass. The price of the second option is definitely cheaper. Like trips with a bike, both half-day and full-day experiences are available if the hotel is in Da Nang or Hoi An. For Hue stayers, a day trip or transfer are more popular. Read our articles for Jeep Tour in Da Nang and Jeep Tour in Hoi An, to find out the best providers or packages for yourself.

Self-Riding the Hai Van Pass by Motorbike

Rentals and directions.

Motorbike rental in any cities of Central Vietnam is easy. Visitors just need to pay from 100,000 to 200,000 VND to hire one, per day and without fuel. The quickest way is coming down the reception and telling the requirements. Staff there may help. If staying over in Da Nang or Hoi An, it’s comfortable to get to the Hai Van Pass and return within a day. If being in Hue, the ride is long (around 200 km). Therefore, many travelers make full use of their transfer from the city to Da Nang and Hoi An to visit the pass. Besides allowing self-riding, some local operators can arrange a transportation of luggages to the arrival city, as a part of the rental. See the most reliable providers in our guide to Hoi An to Hue Motorbike Tour (and vice versa).

From Hoi An and Da Nang, the best route to get to Hai Van Pass is the coast road. No matter departing from where, Nguyen Tat Thanh Rd (bayfront) is better than others inside. From Hoi An, following Lac Long Quan Rd until the My Khe beach and then, selecting a boulevard to cross the favourite bridge. To the right, riverside Bach Dang Rd leads to the bayfront. Start from Hue? There are two routes: the National highway 1A and the coast road QL49B. The first is wider, moderner but the second is less busy. See detail of the routes on the map, stroll down to the section “Hai Van Pass Map and Route” below.

What to Bring?

Visitors should bring sun cream, sunglasses, water, cash, phone, camera and backup charger. In the wet season, more layers are necessary to keep warm throughout the ride and of course, a raincoat is never forgotten. If you have a GoPro, that’s great to record the fun journey.

Roadside Assistance

Keeping in mind to save the telephone number of the place where you hire the bike, is the first tip. Topping up the phone in advance, to ensure any calls can be made (without interruptions). In fact, reputable shops provide the quickest assistance because their mechanics are always ready to help. If you take the bike from a hotel, you may wait longer. Above all, the most important advice is checking carefully prior to riding to the pass.

On the rocks or barriers, some phone numbers of local mechanics are painted on. Call them if you can’t contact anyone for help. Asking for the price before accepting the assistance.

Eat and Drink

Coffee shops and eateries open in the daytime along the Hai Van Pass’s route, including near the ancient gates. Only traditional coffees are available, particularly three types: ca phe den (only coffee), ca phe sua (coffee with a little condensed milk) and bac siu (many condensed milk-little coffee). If needing to serve with ices, say ca phe den da and ca phe sua da to let the owners know. The price is local. The best shop is near the Turtle Rocks where visitors can stand on the top and admire a beautiful panoramic view.

If requiring better seating and atmosphere, Lang Co town in the northern side provides numerous choices. There are seaside or lagoon-edged restaurants or places to eat for Vietnamese only. Seafood venues include the list. The best view is provided from a place by the shore of the lagoon. Read our articles for Lang Co Beach and Lang Co Lagoon for more details.

Hai Van Pass Tour

Hai van pass motorbike tour.

This is the best seller Hai Van Pass tour among all local adventure operators. Visitors can have three choices to select: self-riding (as a bike rental), self-riding but following a guide, and being a pillion. If you are an explorer, the first may be your choice, because you will do whatever you want and without rush. But the second selection allows me to meet a new friend who is knowledgeable and shares interesting things during the trip. The final is for those who can’t ride, have a little experience or just like to relax in the back. Price between these has not a big difference. Full-day experiences often include a lunch but you can call your favourite dishes and pay by yourself, if requested. For self riders, make sure that you know the map with routes and places at the end of this article, before hitting the road.

Read also: Hoi An Motorbike Tour, Da Nang Bike Tour, Hue Motorbike Tour

Hai Van Pass Jeep Tour

Traveling with a jeep to Hai Van Pass is more special than other transportations. During the ride, visitors can sit together with beloved family members or fellow friends, instead of being alone on a motorcycle. Unlike the cars and buses, the seatings are open air, allowing the passengers closest to the fresh nature and beautiful landscapes. Still being flexible, the jeep can stop anywhere, to take a photo or just stand to enjoy the beautiful world before the eyes. It’s possible to hire a tour (rental) with or without a local guide in some jeep-specialized organizers. Thanks to being close to Hoi An and Da Nang, a half-day expedition to the pass can be arranged. But from Hue, let’s be ready to spend a whole day if would like to return. Jeep transfers between three cities are available all year round to book.

Read also: Jeep Tour in Hoi An, Jeep Tour in Da Nang

Hai Van Pass Facts

#1: Hai Van Pass is the southern margin of North Vietnam biome and the northern margin of Southern Vietnam biome. Therefore, forests in it show a mix of two biomes, in both flora and fauna. Thanks to this special combination, Bach Ma national park is one of the richest wildlife areas in the country.

#2 Ownership of Hai Van Gate at the top of Hai Van Pass is conservative for a few decades. Both Hue and Da Nang cities say it belongs to it. This debate led to lack of conservation care in the remains until recently. Now, the gate has been reconstructed as a result of a “peace treaty”.

#3 Northern side of Hai Van Pass is famous for the highest rainfall in Vietnam, up to 8,000 milliliters per year. The largest river originating from it is the Perfume River.

Travel Guide to Lang Co Beach

Lang Co is north of Hai Van Pass, in Hue’s administrative boundaries. It’s a fishing town on a peninsula, a beach (to the East), and a lagoon (to the West). The name means “the stork village”. In fact, any trips to Hai Van Pass include these places and each provides different things. In the peninsula, visitors can find local eateries, fishing boats and markets to see, while by the lagoon or the sea, the scenery stands out. Water-edged seafood venues, both touristy and non-touristy can be found around. Read our travel guides to Lang Co Beach and Lang Co Lagoon to find out all the secrets.

Hai Van Pass on Google Maps

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Hai Van Pass Guide: Tips & Essential Stops!

Table of Contents

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I recently took an incredible trip along the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam; a road trip I’ll remember for a very long time! I’d been wanting to drive the Hai Van Pass, voted one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world by the Guardian, since I visited Vietnam in 2015. Back then, I was short of time so opted for the bus to get between Hue and Hoi An. The bus travels through a tunnel and skips the views which is a crying shame! When I travelled through central Vietnam with friends a few weeks back, their timeframe was even tighter as they had an exit flight booked from Saigon . We opted for the Hai Van Pass train as our mode of transport which soaked up some views but not all of them.

Basically, the Hai Van Pass was high on my Southeast Asia bucket list . The time became right when my friend Lola of Miss Filatelista invited me to join her on a weekend trip to the gorgeous city of Hue . We decided to kill two birds with one stone and travel from Hoi An to Hue on the Hai Van Pass – something that turned out to be as worthwhile as the getaway to Hue itself!

If you’re including both Hue and Hoi An in your Vietnam itinerary , you’ll have to pass through this area anyway. Why not turn it into an unforgettable road trip through the mountains, stopping at pristine beaches along the coast?

Read next: the ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary

Hai Van Pass history

Located on Highway 1 between Thua Thien-Hue Province and Da Nang, the highest road in Vietnam (500m above sea level) translates as ‘Sea Clouds’ because it stretches from one to the other. It traditionally acted as a geographic boundary between the ancient kingdoms of Champa and Dai Viet. To this day, you can spy the gate that acted as the border crossing between the two kingdoms. During the horrific ‘American War’, the Pass was dubbed the ‘Street Without Joy’ because it connected two of the worst affected cities, Da Nang and Hoi An. In the 2008 Hai Van Pass Top Gear episode, Jeremy Clarkson dubbed it a ‘deserted ribbon of perfection’. While I despise the man and his political views, he was right about this!

Where to begin your Hai Van Pass journey?

There are three main places to begin the adventure: Hoi An , Da Nang and Hue . The first two are south of the Pass, and Hue is north. It doesn’t matter which Hai Van route you take because you’ll see the same sights but in reverse. If you’re travelling Vietnam from south-north, begin in Hoi An, and if you’re travelling north-south, begin in Hue.

How to travel the Hai Van Pass: modes of transport

Hire a motorbike: Many people drive the Hai Van Pass on a motorbike. It’s a fun and adventurous option with all power to you. Keep reading for my tips. Easy Rider tours (on the back of a guide’s motorbike): This is a great option if you want the motorbike experience but you’re not comfortable driving – I don’t blame you. There are Easy Rider centres in every city or you can book a 1-day Hai Van Pass tour from Hue or Hoi An/Da Nang in advance. By car : to travel the Pass (either from Hue to Hoi An/Da Nang or in reverse), take this 1-day Hai Van Pass tour by car . By Jeep: by far the coolest option! Take a 1-day Jeep tour of the Hai Van Pass .

Which mode of transport is best? For an adventure, riding by motorbike is most fun. But having done the Hai Van Pass Jeep tour, I don’t think you can beat it. We had the opportunity to put the top on for shade or ride with it off.

Hai Van Pass map

Advice for Hai Van Pass motorcycle rental

If you’re keen to drive the Pass yourself, ensure you have practised driving a scooter in Vietnam already. Highway 1A is paved and in good condition but the hairpin bends are not for the inexperienced! There are several places to hire motorbikes in Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An but it’s worth doing some research to ensure you’re getting a quality rental. Expect to pay around 100-200k VND per day. Tips for hiring a bike:

Inspect your bike before leaving the rental place. Check the breaks and lights are working properly.
Check the tires are in good condition. If not, you’re vulnerable to puncturing and skidding.
Photograph any scrapes or damage to the bike in case you’re charged for it on return.
Insist upon a helmet. These have been legal since 2007 so you may get fined without one and, more importantly, they could save your life!
Check you’re travelling with insurance that covers riding a scooter. I recommend True Traveller for European travellers, Hey Mundo for other nationalities and Safety Wing for digital nomads.

Companies including Hoi An Bike Rental will organise luggage transfers for as little as 40k VND. It will be waiting at our hotel when you arrive in Hue/Da Nang/Hoi An.

Tips for driving the Hai Van Pass by motorbike

Fill up on gas in Hoi An/Da Nang/Hue before embarking on the Pass; there’s nowhere to refuel along the way
It’s not uncommon for cars and lorries to turn blind corners at speed. Proceed with caution!
Check the weather before setting off especially during the rainy season. Not only could heavy rain prove hazardous but you’d also miss out on the views.
It’s best to start the drive after 8-9am when the morning fog has lifted.
Get the app Maps.me and download the maps for Vietnam. Especially if you don’t have data, it’s a great offline tool.
To stay connected on the Pass and in Southeast Asia, get an E-sim data plan .
Use all my Southeast Asia travel tips for safety, navigation and more!

Hai Van Pass distance

The Pass measures 21km but the complete distance between Hue and Hoi An is 170km . You should set aside 5-6 hours for the complete journey, or longer if you want to relax on the beaches.

Best stops on the Hai Van Pass

I’m going to run through the highlights of our day trip with photos. These are the spots I’d recommend you don’t miss whether you’re travelling by car or scooter, independently or on a tour! These stops are listed as if you’re coming from Hoi An. If you’re coming from Hue, reverse them.

Note – if you’re taking a Hai Van Pass tour, check the itinerary to see what’s included as different companies may have different itineraries.

Here are the best Hai Van Pass stops:

Just 20 minutes from Hoi An lies Vietnam’s fastest-growing city, Da Nang. It’s not somewhere I’ve really explored before – if you know how much charm Hoi An has, you’ll understand why I don’t exactly make pilgrimages to this urban city. However, it was cool to check out the sights before we properly got on the road for the day. The colourful fishing boats in the harbour were such a contrast to the ever-evolving skyscraper backdrop, and I loved the enormous gold dragon bridge which apparently lights up and breathes fire at weekends.

If you’re staying here already, you can travel the Hai Van Pass from Da Nang by tour, motorbike or train. Alternatively, you can start in Hue and finish here.

Reaching the Hai Van Pass

As we left the city behind, we started reaching higher elevations. Soon the scenery became a sight to behold, especially around the curving bay where we spied abandoned beaches down below us. Apparently, the only way to reach them is by boat and no one really does!

Lập An Lagoon & the sand dune road

It was fast becoming apparent that the highlight of my day was going to be the sandy white beaches. I’d expected the mountains to be stunning but hadn’t appreciated how extraordinary – and also empty – the coastline would be. We called in at the oyster farm area of Lập An Lagoon (click for exact location).

Here people cultivate oysters for food and jewellery. Not only are they high in nutritional value, locals love their flavour and serve them at the heart of various dishes. Combine that with pearl production and they’re regarded as the jewels of heaven. The sand dune road is a spot you can’t miss. A strip of sand runs right into the lagoon like a red (okay, golden) carpet. Surprisingly for such an Instagrammable spot, there weren’t that many people there. We only had to wait five minutes before we had it to ourselves.

Lunch at Cảnh Dương Bay

Most importantly in my Hai Van Pass guide… lunch! If we thought the dreamy sandbar was nice, we were about to be blown away by Cảnh Dương Bay where we stopped for lunch.

I’m always enthusiastic where mealtimes are concerned but this stop was something else. We had a tasty meal that we could pick from a menu, but the highlight was this incredible stretch of abandoned sand and turquoise ocean. We couldn’t resist going for a swim even though we were boiling hot and the shade of the restaurant was so appealing.

Countryside and buffalo-spotting

After lunch, the scenery along the Hai Van Pass started to change. We saw fewer beaches and more green, glorious countryside. Mountain backdrops were peppered with grazing buffalo which came up close to our car, unbothered by us our presence. I felt like I was back in Africa as we admired them from our Jeep! It’s amazing how African buffalo are deadly but Asian ones seem calm and act as valuable aids to the farming industry. I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen children as young as five riding them, or workers relaxing on their back as a comfy seat!

Dam Cau Hai (Salt Lake)

We stopped on a bridge alongside Vietnam’s largest salt lake for a few photos. Our guide told us a bit about the region while we admired a small fishing village nestled on the shore. As you can tell, we were loving posing for photos with the Jeep’s roof off!

An Bang Cemetery

For a final stop on our Hoi An to Hue tour via the Hai Van Pass, our guide announced we were going to be visiting a cemetery. I assumed it would be nice because Vietnamese graveyards usually are but I didn’t fathom even a tenth of the colour and detail we were about to see…

Westerners would probably describe Vietnamese graves as temples because they really don’t resemble the plain stone slabs we see at home. An Bang Cemetery – also known as the ‘City of Ghosts’ – is a particularly large example built by wealthy families. From this region, many residents moved overseas to the USA or Europe where they began to earn more money and send it home. The town of An Bang became richer and so did the cemetery. Many of the tombs boast bedrooms and kitchens, honouring the belief that people have the same needs in the afterlife. The first thing that struck me when we arrived was the sheer volume of tombs – they stretched as far as I could see. Our guide told us that you can determine a lot about the life of the deceased from the buildings. The one above features ship-style wheels to communicate that the person buried had been a sailor during their life.

Red temple An bang Cemetery Hai Van Pass

Arriving in Hue

Soon after An Bang we arrived in Hue where we were dropped at our home for the next three days, Hue Ecolodge . I’d highly recommend this beautiful, secluded hotel with luxurious rooms, verandas and a lovely swimming pool. Rooms start at $65 a night.

Best season to drive the Hai Van Pass

April to September is the best time to visit the Hai Van Pass because it’s dry season and there’s little fog blocking the spectacular views. September to March is rainy season so check the weather if you plan to visit. Depending on the day, it may become unsuitable at the last minute.

What to pack

Enough water
Handy bum bag with secure zip
Power bank to keep your devices alive
Camera to record your memories
GoPro attached to your helmet if you want to make videos.

Where next?

Depending which direction you’re travelling, your next stop might be…

If you’re taking a Hai Van Pass tour from Hoi An, you’ll finish in Hue. This spectacular city was once the imperial capital of Vietnam, known to this day for its decadent palaces and tombs. It’s a must for travellers looking to experience history and culture.

Plan your trip with my 2 day Hue itinerary

While visiting Hue, take an excursion to Vietnam’s Abandoned Waterpark . This quirky place became dilapidated after it closed… Now it’s a favourite with travellers who sneak in to take photos and admire the roaring dragon!

After two months living in Hoi An, it goes without saying that Hoi An is one of my favourite places in Vietnam! The low-rise yellow buildings couldn’t be more charming, plus there are beautiful beaches and numerous day trips to enjoy.

My Hoi An blogs:

How to spend 1-5 days in Hoi An
The best Hoi An cafes
Where to eat vegetarian food in Hoi An
A trip to Tam Thanh Mural Village
A complete street food guide to Hoi An

For more Vietnam inspo, I got you covered…

Northern Vietnam posts:

The ultimate Northern Vietnam itinerary
Complete 3 day Hanoi itinerary
Hanoi food guide
The best cafes in Hanoi
The hidden gems in Hanoi
Area guide to Truc Bach, Hanoi
Area guide to Ngoc Ha, Hanoi
Hanoi egg coffee guide
How to spend 3 days in Sapa
Ha Long Bay guide and tour review
Ninh Binh from Hanoi day trip

Saigon posts:

The ultimate Saigon itinerary for 4 days
The best places to eat in Saigon
Mekong Delta day trip from Saigon

Thanks for reading!

See you next time for more adventures,

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Note – while we were hosted by Road Trippers Vietnam, all opinions are my own.

Ps. Liked this guide to the Vietnam Hai Van Pass? Pin it for later!

Vietnam quick links Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just span the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Vietnam . For Vietnam buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide as they have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

4 thoughts on “ Hai Van Pass Guide: Tips & Essential Stops! ”

Haven’t explored this part of Vietnam yet, looks like a lot of fun! Great post, thanks for sharing!

Hi Rose, stumble across your blog through Google. May I know which company you rented the Jeep? It does look so much cooler and fun on it!

Hi Rose, I was reading your article as I’m about to do the pass for the second time, and was pleasantly surprised that you linked to my article about An Bang cemetery! Glad you found it useful and excited to use your tips this time round!

Hello! Glad you found the article and hope you enjoy visiting An Bang. Such a unique place!

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Easy Rider Hai Van Pass: Hoi An to Hue Motorbike Tour

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Easy Rider Hai Van Pass: Hoi An to Hue Tour invites you to an exhilarating escapade along Vietnam’s stunning coast . Hop on your motorbike and let our expert guides lead you through the spectacular scenery and cultural gems along the way.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local cultures, savor panoramic vistas, and relish the freedom of the open road. For an unforgettable experience filled with thrills and exploration Experience the wind in your hair, breathtaking scenery, and the thrill of adventure.

Discover the magic of Vietnam as you ride from the enchanting Hoi An to the imperial city of Hue, traversing the legendary Hai Van Pass .

Book your Easy Rider Hai Van Pass: Hoi An to Hue Motorbike Tour now for an authentic Vietnamese adventure and create lasting memories!

Tra Que Vegetable Farms
Marble Mountain
My Khe Beach
Hai Van Pass
Lang Co Peninsula
Fishing Village
Nhi Ho Waterfalls
Thanh Toan Bridge
Local cuisine
Thien Mu Pagoda

Hoi An to Hue via Hai Van Pass in one day

Easy Riders Vietnam team will meet and pick you up at the hotel where you stay in Hoi An (or Da Nang) around 8:00 am and set off for the motorbike adventure. We traverse through the small roads in the countryside to reach Tra Que Village. From here, you could experience how the locals doing for a living in the isolated regions and enjoy their natural hospitality. We then continue to ride to Marble Mountain where you will be amazed by the beautiful scenery of the area and picturesque panoramic view of Da Nang City. We head north along the stunning beach of My Khe and climb up Hai Van Pass, winding higher and higher into the often cloud-shrouded skies. At the top, we stop and soak into the spectacular views of Vietnam's most spectacular spots. The downward descent is no less exciting this afternoon. Reaching the base of the mountain you’ll happen upon a stretch of pristine coastline near the fishing village of Lang Co. We stop to dip our toes into the sea, chat with fishermen and have some great photos of the day. Our adventure continues with a visit to Nhi Ho Waterfall, a perfect spot for capturing the essence of the surroundings. Feel free to cool off in the natural lake at the waterfall's base, refreshing your body after a day of exploration. Picture-perfect moments await at Lap An Lagoon, and we'll delve into the rich history and culture at the ancient Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge and Abandoned Water Park. The journey into the heart of Hue unfolds in the late afternoon, where we'll drop you off at the hotel of your choice, marking the end of our memorable motorbike adventure. Come join us for a day filled with laughter, stunning scenery, and cultural exploration. Book your Easy Rider Hai Van Pass: Hoi An to Hue Motorbike Tour now and let the good times roll

Included/Excluded

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Hoi An to Hue via Hai Van Pass

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The Hai Van Pass Vietnam Travel Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction

Hai Van Pass is also known as Ai Van Pass because there was a gate on the top of the pass. Or May pass (Clouds pass) because clouds often cover the top of the pass. It crosses the Bach Ma mountain range – a part of the Truong Son mountain range stretching close to the sea.

Hai Van Pass Vietnam-Culture Pham Travel

The pass is the boundary between the north of Thua Thien Hue province and the south of Da Nang city. Culture Pham Travel will give you details to discover the Hai Van Pass Da Nang. Let’s take consult our article’s content below!

Hai Van Pass Vietnam Travel Guide-Culture Pham Travel

If you want to travel from Hue, Da nang or Hoi An via Hai Van pass. You can book our tours and private cars transfer as follows:

Hue To Bach Ma National Park By Car – 73 USD/Sedan.
Hue City Tour From Da Nang – from 56 USD/pax.
Da Nang Airport To Hue Transfer – 61 USD/pax.
Day Trip To Hue From Hoi An – from 56 USD/pax.

Hai Van Pass Name’s Meaning

“Hai” means the “Ocean”, and “Van” means “White Clouds”. That is the explanation for it is it has beautiful scenery, surrounded by white clouds all year round at the top of the pass. Besides, at the bottom of the pass, tourists can see the vast seascape stretching to the horizon.

In addition, the Vietnamese also call it May Pass (the word “Van” means “May”). Hence, its English name is “Ocean and Clouds Pass.” This place was once commented on by Jeremy Clarkson – the host of the reality TV show Top Gear (UK), as one of the most beautiful coastal roads on the planet. Hai Van is also the 4/10 hill road that attracts the most visitors to check in on the Instagram platform.

Where Is The Hai Van Pass?

Hai Van pass’s location is between Thua Thien Hue province and Da Nang city. The distance from the pass to Danang city is about 20 km and roughly 80 km to Hue city. It is 500m high above sea level and has a length of more than 20km.

You can refer to the Hai Van pass route map below:

If you are passionate about adventure and looking for a place to challenge yourself. Hai Van Pass route is an ideal choice for you. The Guardian of England honored it in the “Top 10 most beautiful coastal roads in the world”, and Hai Van pass top gear in Vietnam. It always attracts those who love to conquer crooked and circuitous roads.

Hai Van Mountain Pass-Culture Pham Travel

How To Explore The Hai Van Pass Vietnam?

Hai Van is hidden in the white clouds and vast forests, with poetic and charming beauty. Plus, a spectacular road is worth conquering once. Thus, there are many ways to explore the Ocean and Clouds Pass as below:

Travel to Hai Van pass by private car

From Hai Van pass Hue to Da Nang or Hai Van pass Da Nang to Hue, our private car transfer is the best choice for you. Firstly, you do not need to wait like taking a taxi. Also, baby seats are available if you request.

Secondly, we have many private car options for you to choose from Sedan, SUV, Minivan or limousine. Thus, this option is the best if you travel with older adults or children. Most importantly, the trips pass through Hai Van Pass in Vietnam, and you can customize the itinerary to stop at attractions you desire.

Hue to Hoi An private car-Culture Pham Travel

In addition, you can depart at any time that is convenient for you. You will have a comfortable and convenient trip with the added benefit of an English-speaking local driver who knows the best viewpoints and stops. Therefore, you should book our services as below:

Hue to Da Nang By Private Car – 1,400,000 VND/Sedan
Da Nang to Phong Nha Private Car – 3,300,000 VND/Sedan
Phong Nha to Hoi An Private Car – 3,400,000 VND/Sedan
Danang Airport to Melia Vinpearl Hue – 1,350,000VND/Sedan
Hoi An to Phong Nha Limousine – from 52 USD/limousine

Hue to Hoi An by jeep-Culture Pham Travel

Book the Hai Van pass tour

For those who prefer a guided tour, many tours are available, including a visit to the pass. These tours often include stops at other popular attractions in the area and are a great way to learn about the history and culture of the region.

Hai Van Pass Jeep Tour-Culture Pham Travel

From Hai Van pass Hue to Hoi An, you can book our Hai Van pass jeep tour Hue to Hoi An , Hai Van pass motorbike tour Hue to Hoi An. With these tours, you will have a great chance to visit the city of ghosts Hue, Lap An Lagoon, Cau Hai lagoon, Lang Co beach and more.

Conquer the May pass by motorbike

How long does it take to go over Hai Van Pass? It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to go over the pass. It depends on how well you drive and the weather there. For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike is a popular way to explore Hai Van Pass. The winding roads and scenic views make for an exciting and unforgettable journey.

hue to hoi an by motorbike tour-Culture Pham Travel

The Ocean and Clouds pass definitely offers tourists the feelings that nowhere else can bring for them. At the start of the pass, they are extremely excited. After that, when they go slowly, they may be a bit nervous, especially when they step into sudden curves and blind corners.

In addition, the feeling of falling down is great. Once again, they will be thrilled because of the danger of the downhill but excited for the sense of freedom. After that, the backpackers will be very excited when they go to the top of the pass; we will see the natural scenery that makes everyone surprised. All will be unforgettable marks for passionate enthusiasts to explore and aspire to conquer new things.

In addition, many students also take the risk of conquering the mountain pass by bicycle. However, they must be physically strong enough to dare to do this. As an explorer, as a genuine hunters, visitors cannot ignore the beautiful Ocean and Clouds pass.

History of the May Pass

Before 1306, the land with the Hai Van pass belonged to the Champa kingdom (also known as Chiem Thanh).

In 1306, the king Che Man of Champa cut this land as a wedding proposal to Huyen Tran princess of the Tran dynasty. The pass was formally determined the dividing line between Champa and Dai Viet. You may also be interested in Huyen Tran Princess Temple .

In 1402, the Ho Dynasty brought troops to fight Champa, and the Hai Van Pass from the boundary of the two countries became the land area of Dai Ngu country. (i.e., now Vietnam).

Although the Hai Van pass was built during the French colonial period, it was still very narrow and dangerous. In addition, there were often wild animals and looters, so the French built a railway so that the Hai Van pass train ran the whole pass length.

Hai Van Pass Da Nang-Culture Pham Travel

In addition, at the top of Hai Van, a few bunkers (the ruins of Don Nhat). The French army built them in 1926 to protect this strategic pass.

On June 5, 2005, the Hai Van pass tunnel was formally opened. The tunnel is more than 12 kilometers long and is Southeast Asia’s longest road tunnel.

Although the Hai Van tunnel, many visitors still desire to travel to this pass to explore, admire stunning views and attempt to conquer Vietnam’s most treacherous route.

What To Do & Admire In Hai Van Pass Da Nang – Hue?

There are many things to do in the Ai Van pass, such as visiting the Hai Van gate, enjoying Vietnamese coffee, and so on. Here is some Hai Van pass best stops you should not miss when conquering the most breathtaking pass in Vietnam:

Hai Van pass Map 360 View

Hai Van Quan – a relic of the feudal monarchy

The Tran Dynasty built Hai Van Quan, and the Nguyen Dynasty (7th year of king Minh Mang, 1826) restored it. Prominently, the door overlooking Thua Thien Palace has the words “Hai Van Quan ” (海雲關).

On the other hand, the door overlooking Quang Nam has the title “Thien Ha De Nhat Hung Quan” (天下第一雄關). It means “most marvelous wonder”.This appellation was conferred by King Le Thanh Tong when the king stopped his troops here in 1470.

This relic is located at an altitude of 496m above sea level and on the top of Hai Van pass. It was built to serve as a defensive military fortress for the Hue Imperial Citadel.

Furthermore, the Hai Van Quan relic also marks the 70th anniversary of the Don Nhat victory. With the battle in the summer-autumn campaign of 1952-1954 of the resistance war against the invading French colonialists.

Currently, the relic is being restored with a total area of 6,500 m2. The restoration period is two years, expected to be completed in June 2023. Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang contributed a total budget of more than 42 billion VND, 50% of each locality. After restoration, Hai Van Quan will be a must-stop at the Hai Van pass to learn more about its history and admire the scenic landscape from its peak.

Therefore, Hai Van Quan “makes miss” tourists with its beautiful natural scenery. You will see the majestic high mountains and vast lush green forests from the gate. Plus, steep and winding passes and clear blue coast. Hence, visitors can take super impressive photos with friends and relatives at the Hai Van Quan.

Camping in Van village at the bottom of the pass

It is a small village nestled right at the foot of the pass about 30 km from Danang city. With a peaceful, deserted and extremely pristine setting, this place is likened to a “forgotten land” in the bustling of Danang city.

Camping and enjoying a BBQ together is the most loved experience in Van village. Sitting by the romantic beach, breathing in the fresh air and looking at the starry sky is great, isn’t it?

The village is located separate from the city, so it is quite quiet, perfect for you to rest and relax away from the noisy streets. You can also immerse yourself in the cool, clear blue sea or have super fun canoeing in Van village.

Hai Van Bac station

From Hai Van Quan, you drive another 4 km to the ranger station, then another 1 km on the concrete road to the North Hai Van station. This place is enough for you to enjoy taking pictures of “virtual life”. However, trains will still run on the tracks, so remember to look around carefully when taking photos.

Bac Hai Van Station is a station on the North-South railway route, which connects Da Nang Hai Van station with Lang Co Hue station. The station is in the heart of the Hai Van Pass. Along the track is a ravishing scenery with majestic hills.

Don Ca arch bridge

The French built the Don Ca Arch Bridge from 1902 – 1906. It connects the North-South railway route stretching 1,730 km from Hanoi to Saigon. Up to now, the Don Ca arch bridge has been more than 100 years and was built at the same time as the Da Nang – Hue railway route.

The bridge is designed as a dome gate, guarded by stone pillars, crossing streams with a height of 20m and a length of about 100m. Surely you will be amazed by the beautiful scene like a movie when coming here. Around the bridge are a green forest and fresh air.

Moreover, a small natural stream with many large rocks is at the bridge’s bottom. It is a unique background for saving beautiful photos in the wild natural scenery, majestic mountains and forests.

In addition, the water is as clear as the famous Fairy Stream. You can go down to soak and bathe here. Camping or a small picnic party is a good idea for you to have more time to admire the natural scenery here.

Lonely pine tree

Anybody who gets the chance to ascend Hai Van Pass is familiar with the sight of the lonely pine tree. Regardless of the angle, you can rest assured that you will have sparkling photos with this tree. You can also take a break at a nearby drink stall. However, it is necessary to pay attention to safety because this place has many vehicles passing by.

This tree is located about 2 kilometers from the top of the pass. A magnificent view of Hai Van pass that many people visit to photograph is the pine tree with wide foliage standing lonely.

In the middle of the winding pass road, one side is the immense sea, and the other is dense forest. The lonely pine tree is a unique highlight in the majestic picture of Hai Van pass. This lonely pine tree reaching out towards Lang Co Bay is a favorite stop for young people who love backpacking.

Take photos and enjoy coffee at Hon Da Thuyen

Visitors moving from the center of Da Nang city to Hai Van pass will encounter a “lonely pine tree”. Then, continue to go a further 650m to the Hon Da Thuyen location in front of the cafe of the same name.

A large rock shaped like a boat. The rock’s surface is concave, and the two ends of the rock are pointed like the bow of a boat. That’s why it’s called Thuyen rock (hòn đá thuyền). With a unique shape, it has a beautiful view towards the panoramic view of the city and the beautiful Danang beach.

Besides, the view of vast green mountains and clouds is beautiful, like paradise. Therefore, you can set your feet here to take beautiful, unique and unforgettable photos.

Furthermore, another large rock is next to the Thuyen rock that looks like a turtle’s head. That’s why it’s called turtle rock. You can also sit or stand on this rock to enjoy the beautiful scenery and take super-quality photos.

Right before the rocks is a very poetic cafe – Hon Da Thuyen coffee shop. Have you ever sat down to enjoy a cup of fragrant coffee in the middle of the vast mountains? If not, you can enjoy coffee and other drinks here!

The small coffee shop is decorated quite simply with cozy wooden tables and chairs. Sipping a cup of fragrant coffee while admiring the beautiful unspoiled natural scenery is extremely relaxing and wonderful!

Drive through the U-corner to challenge yourself

Driving through the U-corner at Hai Van Pass is a must-do if you are looking for an adventure. The U-corner is a sharp turn that requires skilled driving and nerves of steel. It’s an exhilarating experience that will simultaneously leave you feeling scared and thrilled.

U-shaped bends are the fear of many backpackers. The corner of the bend is where the driver has to focus and carefully observe the convex mirror. Interestingly, the road bends along the mountain, when it turns much-unexpected curves.

Safe Travel Tips To Hai Van Pass You Need To Know

The best time to visit Hai Van Pass is from February to July when the Hai Van Pass weather is dry and sunny. Thus, the views are crystal clear during this time, and the pass is less likely to be shrouded in fog.
There are two times of the day to see the most beautiful pass: sunrise and sunset.

The pass is winding and dangerous, so you should drive a manual transmission motorcycle. Thanks to that, you can release the gear and squeeze the brake to avoid losing the brake.
You should not start early like 5:00 am or 6:00 am, since, at that time, the pass is normally covered with fog. Hence, going between 8:00-9:00 am seems the perfect time to conquer the pass. Noticeably, backpackers ought to bring a beverage, snacks, and basic tools to avoid bad cases.

Preview the weather forecast for Da Nang and Hue to avoid stormy days and slippery roads (from September to December).
Check the vehicle before going downhill, especially the brake part.
Wear appropriate clothes; the air is colder on the top of the pass. Thus, you should bring a jacket to prevent cold weather.
On the top of the pass or if there is the fog that reduces visibility, focus on observing and go carefully through the bends.

Hai Van mountain Pass Vietnam Travel Guide-Culture Pham Travel

Attractions Near Hai Van Mountain Pass

Hai Van Pass is located in the central region of Vietnam, so there are many nearby attractions that you can visit. Some recommend visiting these attractions near Hai Van Pass that you can explore them below:

Lang Co bay and beach

One of the most beautiful bays in the world is Lang Co Bay. It is located next to the foot of the pass. Plus, there is a picturesque fishing village along with a pristine beauty with white sand and turquoise water of the bay, making this place even more stunning.

Another nearby attraction is Lang Co Beach – a long sandy beach and clear blue water. Its crystal-clear water and long white sand shore make it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also indulge in fresh seafood at the beach’s restaurants.

If you want to stay in Banyann Tree Lang Co and want to get here from other destinations. You can book our Danang Airport to Laguna Lang Co and Hoi An to Laguna Lang Co .

Bach Ma National Park

It is about 30 kilometers from the pass, and the route to get there is nearly 45 km. Bach Ma National Park is a protected area with diverse flora and fauna, stunning waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.

You can swim in the five lakes’ cool and clear blue water. Especially, Visitors can conquer the path to Do Quyen waterfall with 689 ladder steps. At each section of the path, these steps have different slopes, giving you new levels of emotions.

Lap An Lagoon

Notwithstanding the above attractions, visitors can stop by Lap An Lagoon , located about 16 kilometers from Hai Van Pass. The lagoon is a natural wonder surrounded by mountains and greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Here, visitors can take a boat ride to explore the lagoon while admiring the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Besides, you can enjoy fresh oysters here.

In addition, there are other amazing attractions, such as Truoi lake with Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery, Elephant Springs , Cau Hai Lagoon, etc. You can visit Truc Lam Bach Ma monastery to challenge yourself with 172 steps to the monastery.

Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery-Culture Pham Travel

Besides, you can admire the Shakyamuni Buddha statue on a hill in the middle of the lake with a volume of 1,500 tons, 24m high, completely carved out of stone.

Additionally, you can swim at the Elephant springs and enjoy Hue food to relax after a long journey. Also, the Cau Hai lagoon is a place you should not ignore. You can catch fish and crabs with the locals or watch the sunrise and sunset. That will be a great and memorable experience.

In conclusion, Hai Van Pass is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam, especially in Hue and Da Nang provinces. The pass offers breathtaking views, challenging roads, and a glimpse into Vietnam’s history and culture.

Whether you drive through the pass, take a tour, or take a private car transfer, you will surely have an unforgettable experience. And don’t forget to visit the nearby attractions to complete your adventure in central Vietnam. Culture Pham Travel & Transport wishes you a great experience in Hai Van Pass and other destinations in central Vietnam!

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The Hai Van Pass: Motorbiking Vietnam’s Most Famous Coastal Road

In Top Gear ‘s 2008 Vietnam Special, the presenters were tasked with riding the entire length of Vietnam by motorbike. Clarkson grumbled his way up much of the country, but was awestruck by one road in particular: the Hai Van Pass. He called it a “deserted ribbon of perfection.” This feature skyrocketed the road to fame and has since inspired thousands of travellers to take to the Hai Van Pass by motorbike themselves.

It’s now the most famous road in the country; a 21km coastal road winding around the mountains of Central Vietnam. Boasting scenic ocean views and exciting hairpin turns, a motorbike tour of the Hai Van Pass sits firmly at the top of many Vietnam bucket lists.

Here’s everything you need to know before tackling this spectacular pass.

What is the Hai Van Pass?

‘Hai Van’ roughly translates to ‘Ocean of Clouds’ in Vietnamese, a phrase that perfectly describes this mountainous coastal road. It reaches 500 metres above sea level, with the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other.

The pass links the cities of Hoi An , Da Nang and Hue, making travel between them an absolute delight, as it enables you to avoid busy Highway 1 and instead ride on a quiet mountain road.

The Hai Van Pass itself is only 21km, so some people ride it on a day trip from either Hue, Da Nang or Hoi An. Others choose to do a multi-day tour riding the 165km from Hue to Hoi An (or vice versa) via the Hai Van Pass.

Tip: Please do not drive a motorbike abroad without travel insurance! Get a free quote from World Nomads — I always use them for backpacking trips as they cover lots of sports and adrenaline activities.

Day trip or multi-day motorbike tour?

Are you planning to motorbike the Hai Van Pass as a day trip? Or do you want to take on a multi-day ride?

The Hai Van Pass itself is only 21km long, so it can easily be ridden on a day trip from any of the three main cities around it: Hoi An, Da Nang and Hue.

Alternatively, the Hai Van Pass is a fantastic way to ride between all three cities over the course of 2 – 3 days. The coastline between the three cities is spectacular, so it’s worth spending time exploring the surrounding towns, beaches and attractions, as well as motorbiking the Hai Van Pass itself.

Personally, we chose to ride the Hai Van Pass over 2 days, staying in the lovely Rom Casa Hostel in Da Nang overnight. This felt just right, as it meant we had plenty of time to explore some beaches along the coast, check out the Marble Mountains, and more.

Renting a motorbike for the Hai Van Pass

There are plenty of places in Hoi An, Da Nang and Hue from where you can rent a motorbike. As some people choose to ride from Hoi An to Hue (or vice versa) over 2-3 days, many rental companies also offer luggage transfer and collection of the bike.

There are roadside motorbike rentals and larger motorbike companies from which you can rent your bike. Roadside places will be cheaper but the larger companies are generally more reliable. The choice is yours!

The prices for daily rentals at local shops start at about 3.50 USD and 6 USD at the bigger companies. Luggage transfer is about 40,000 VND (1.70 USD) per day. All in all, it’s excellent value for money.

I used Hoi An Bike Rental and had a great experience with them.

Alternative options for touring the Hai Van Pass

Want to ride the Hai Van Pass but are not keen on driving a motorbike yourself? Here are a couple of alternative options for you.

Easy Riders

If you haven’t driven a motorbike before — or simply don’t feel confident — but want the motorbike experience, you could hire an Easy Rider . Easy Riders will drive the route for you while you relax on the back! I’ve heard good things about Easy Riders — they have experienced guides who will make you feel comfortable on the back of the bike and will take you to all the best stops along the way.

This is a good option if you have no experience driving a motorbike. The Hai Van Pass has tight bends and steep inclines so is probably not a good choice for your first time.

Hai Van Pass Jeep tours

If motorbikes aren’t your style, why not join a Hai Van Pass jeep tour? Here are some Jeep tour options to check out:

Hue Adventures
Get Up & Go
Easy Rider Hoi An
Hue to Hoi An Jeep Tour on Viator

Hai Van Pass route and map

Whether you plan to motorbike the Hai Van Pass on a day trip, or take on a multi-day tour of the surrounding coastline and cities, the map below details the best route to take.

The total distance to ride Hoi An > Danang > Hue (or vice versa) along the coastal roads is 165km .

The map below shows the route from Hoi An to Hue, with places of interest, scenic viewpoints, beaches and recommended food stops pinned as well. Click here to view the map in a larger window.

Things to see and Hai Van Pass Stops

The below attractions can all be found on the route from Hoi An to Hue, via the Hai Van Pass.

Being a coastal road, there are obviously plenty of beaches to explore during your Hai Van Pass road trip. An Bang, Non Nuoc and Lang Co are just three of the beautiful beaches you’ll pass on the route from Hoi An to Hue. It’s up to you how many you stop at to enjoy — I personally found it hard to resist the beachside shacks selling coconuts or fruit smoothies!

Vietnamese fishing boats on An Bang Beanch

Hoi An Old Town

If your starting point is Hoi An, you may have already had time to explore the Old Town. But if not, you simply must take a stroll through quaint Hoi An to admire the pretty lanterns, waterways and markets.

Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of 5 mountains just outside of Da Nang. The 5 mountains supposedly represent the 5 elements of water, fire, earth, wood and metal, and feature tons of caves, pagodas and monuments. It’s worth setting aside an hour or so to explore everything there is to see here.

Dragon Bridge

The route I’ve laid out on my map will take you straight over the famous Dragon Bridge, which enables you to cross the River Hàn. It looks cool during the day, but if you’re stopping in Da Nang overnight, be sure to come back when it’s dark to see it lit up. It’s a sight not to be missed!

The fishing boat temple

Not long after you’ve crossed Dragon Bridge, you should spot the Co Bac Temple, also known as the Thanh An-Thanh Thuy fishing villages’ temple, right on the beach. It’s a unique temple (being in the shape of a fishing boat) and is a shrine to the unlucky fishermen who died or went missing at sea.

The Hai Van Pass itself

Need I say more? Just look at those views.

Hai Van Gate

Unexpectedly, as we approached the end of the pass, we came upon an old war bunker. It was covered in bullet holes and was really interesting to explore. People were having wedding photos taken here — apparently, this place is really popular for that.

If you do only one thing in Vietnam, make it a motorbike tour of the Hai Van Pass.

Where to next?

Check out my 1 month Vietnam itinerary
Cruise stunning Halong Bay
See the top things to do in Da Lat

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels – Booking.com Hostels – Hostelworld Cheap flights – Skyscanner Travel insurance – World Nomads Outdoor gear – Decathlon / GO Outdoors Cycling gear – Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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20 comments.

Thank you for all the tips !! I was wondering which compagny you asked to take your lugage from Hoi An to Hué ? And what did you do with the motorbike once in Hué ?

I did this route today with a group of friends – it was lovely! We particularly enjoyed driving through some beautiful rice fields and small villages. Thank you for sharing!

Glad you had a great time!

Love this and definitely will try to do the same when traveling there in s couple of months! How many days did you spend? Any recommendations for where to stop overnight?

Hi Monika, apologies for the delay in coming back to you, I must have missed this comment! I rode the pass over two days, stopping in Da Nang overnight. There are lots of nice places to stay in Da Nang — I stayed in the Rom Casa Hostel.

The Hai Van pass simply overshadows the other destinations. It seems like you had geared bikes, they are much better when travelling long distances and mountainous roads.

It really does – easily the highlight of my time in Vietnam. And yes we hired a geared bike as we thought the uphills would be a struggle on a scooter!

Yes, makes sense.

Amazing tip! Such an unique way of exploring a new country!

Yes it was amazing!

This place remind a bit of Isla Mujeres in Mexico! Is not many places like that, where is no cars!

Ooh I’ve heard good things about Isla Mujeres! It’s lovely when there’s no cars about. Gili Trawangan in Indonesia has also banned cars, and people get around by horse and carriage!

I have a soft spot for all kinds of road trips and this does look like a great route. Great shots!

Oh indeed, I would love to get there on a bike. I like the coloful market area Hoi An and the mountain views. Want to get there with my camera.

You should – it’s stunning! Would love to see what you could do with your camera on those mountain views 🙂

Are motorbikes the same as scooters? Because I had a scooter before and I was not very comfortable going long distances with one so we didn’t keep it. But if cars are not allowed on this road, I guess we will just do the Easy Rider.

Hi Carolina! Motorbikes generally have gears and a clutch, whereas scooters just have an accelerator. Scooters are usually regarded as easier to drive but aren’t as good for long distances, so for this journey we thought a motorbike would be a much better choice. You could do it on a scooter, but the uphills might be a bit of a struggle! And the comfort is much nicer on a motorbike. The Easy Riders use motorbikes and are apparently really skilled riders so you should feel safe with them!

Nice post. Good to know that cars aren’t allowed on this road.

Thanks! And yes its great that there are no cars 🙂

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From Hue to Hoi An: a terrific journey via the Hai Van Pass

Last Updated on 17/08/2023 by Clotilde Passalacqua

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, you won’t want to miss out on the Hai Van Pass. This scenic route is a must-see for any traveler looking to experience the natural beauty of the country. Located in central Vietnam, the Hai Van Pass connects the cities of Hue and Danang (and Hoi An after), offering breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.

You can easily integrate the Hai Van pass visit during a transfer from Hue to Hoi An, which would probably be in your Vietnam itinerary . The route stretches for over 20 kilometres, winding its way through lush green forests. Along the way, you’ll encounter steep inclines and hairpin turns, making for an exciting and unforgettable journey.

There are several transportation options available and it can be confusing to decide which one is right for you, so in this post we will check them all to help you to decide.

This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through the links on this page, at no cost to you .

HAI VAN PASS ROUTE

Understanding the route is essential when planning your trip from Hue to Hoi An (or Hoi An to Hue via Hai Van Pass). The distance between the two cities is approximately 140 kilometres, and the journey takes around three to four hours. However, you could easily take 6 to 8 hours, as along the way you will also have the opportunity to explore historic landmarks, charming fishing villages, and pristine beaches.

Traveling by private car is a convenient and comfortable option for those who prefer a hassle-free journey. You can hire a private car with a driver for the day, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Alternatively, you can also travel by bus, train, motorbike, or join a tour, depending on your budget and preferences. Each mode of transportation has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to weigh your options.

We travelled via a private car, the journey went smoothly and we could decide how long we wanted to spend at each stop, but it is also the most expensive option. It works really well for a family or a group of 3-4 friends sharing the cost. We were exploring Vietnam with our twins 7 years old and the journey was really engaging also for them. You can read more about visiting Vietnam with Kids here .

HAI VAN PASS MAP AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFO

The pass is situated in the Annamite Range and runs along the border between Thua Thien-Hue Province and Da Nang City. At its highest point, the pass reaches an elevation of 496 meters (1,627 feet) above sea level.

The road itself is a winding, narrow path that stretches for over 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) through the mountains. One of the most unique features of the Hai Van Pass is its climate.

Due to its location, the pass experiences a stark contrast in weather between the two sides. The north side is often shrouded in mist and fog, while the south side is sunny and warm. This has earned the pass the nickname “Hai Van Quan” which translates to “Cloudy Mountain Pass.”

The pass is shrouded in mist and clouds for a large part of the year, giving it a mystical and enchanting quality. It is also not rare that, while it is sunny at sea level when you start your journey, it is raining by the time you reach the Hai Van Pass.

This happened to us. It doesn’t diminish the beauty of the scenery, but it will maybe make your pictures a little hazy. Historically this iconic mountain pass has been an important transportation route for centuries.

HAI VAN PASS HISTORY

The Hai Van Pass was first used by the Champa people, who were an ancient civilization that inhabited the central coast of Vietnam. They used the pass to transport goods between the north and south of the country.

It has also been a strategic military location since the 14th century, with various dynasties and rulers using it as a lookout point to protect their Kingdoms. Later, the Vietnamese also began to use the pass for trade and transportation.

Despite its natural beauty and strategic location, the pass has a dark history. During the Vietnam War, it was heavily bombed by both sides due to its importance as a connection route.

In recent years, the Vietnamese government has invested in improving the infrastructure of the pass, including the construction of a new tunnel that has made the journey safer and more convenient for travelers.

An important point to highlight is if you take the public bus you will not go up to the scenic pass, but rather the bus will use the new tunnel.

THE ROAD FROM HUE TO HOI AN VIA THE HAI VAN PASS

Starting from Hue, you’ll drive along Highway 1A, which is a busy road with lots of traffic. However, once you reach the foot of the Hai Van Pass, the road becomes less crowded, and you’ll have a chance to enjoy the stunning scenery.

The road is well-maintained, and there are plenty of lookout points along the way. As you drive up the pass, you’ll see the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other. The view is truly breathtaking, and you’ll want to stop at every lookout point to take pictures.

After you’ve crossed the pass, you’ll descend toward Da Nang, which is a bustling city with lots of attractions. The road from Da Nang to Hoi An is also scenic, with views of the ocean and the mountains. Once you reach Hoi An, you’ll be rewarded with a charming town that’s full of history and culture.

Best Hai Van stops along the way

Along the way from Hue to Hoi An there are several interesting places that are worth a visit. If you are joining a tour you will for sure stop at a couple of them. If you drive a motorbike or hire a car with a driver you will be able to pick and choose what you are most interested to see.

Lap An Lagoon

Lap An Lagoon, is a mesmerizing spectacle of nature’s splendor. The panoramic vista of blue skies, fluffy white clouds, and serene water ripples framed by lush green mountains, make it a worthy stop, especially for the pictures you get. Apart from its natural allure, Lap An Lagoon is renowned for its local grilled oyster dishes. You will have time for pictures and a coffee.

Free to visit

Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five marble and limestone hills located south of Da Nang city in Vietnam. They are adorned with a complex network of caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries, offering a unique exploration experience. The summit of the mountains offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes, including the South China Sea.

The entrance fee is 40000 VDN (~£1.30 / $1.7 / €1.5), and the elevator is 15000 VND ( ~£ 0.50 / $0.65 / €0.6) per person. Kids under 6 enter free.

Elephant Springs

Elephant Springs provides a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This hidden gem is named after the massive rock that resembles an elephant, standing guard over a series of natural pools and waterfalls. The cool, crystal-clear water cascades down into numerous pools perfect for swimming or relaxing. The surrounding jungle-like scenery adds a sense of tranquillity and seclusion, making it an ideal spot for picnics and family outings.

Entrance fee 15000 VND ( ~£ 0.50 / $0.65 / €0.6)

Hoa Phu Thanh Waterfall.

This is an adventure tourism site that is about 30 kilometres from Danang City. It offers an exciting blend of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities. The waterfall cascades through a lush forest, creating a stunning backdrop for activities like waterfall sliding, ziplining, and river trekking. The site also features ethnic minority cultural shows, offering a unique insight into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

Entrance fee 100000 VND ( ~£ 3.3 / $4.2 / €3.8) . This fee only covers the entrance then you will need to pay for the single activities like zipline or rafting.

Ba Na Hill-Golden Bridge

Finally, you could consider a stop to visit Ba Na Hill, famously known for its Golden Bridge. This impressive structure has gained global fame for its elegant design; two giant stone hands appear to be lifting a golden pedestrian walkway into the sky.

The Ba Na Hill resort area itself is a French-style village featuring quaint gardens, restaurants, and hotels with panoramic views of the surrounding hillsides. Riding the cable car up to the Golden Bridge, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the lush landscape.

We did not choose to do this, but if you are interested check out some reviews to see If it is your cup of tea. If you decide to stop at Ban Hill, you will probably only have time for this stop along the way from Hue to Hoi An, and you will need to get something to eat while you are there.

Entrance fee (including cable car): 850000 VND (~£28 / $36 / €32) per adult, 890000 VND (~£23 / $30/ €27) per child under 1.40cm.

My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is a remarkable historical and cultural landmark located near the picturesque city of Hoi An in Vietnam. It is an exceptional example of the ancient Champa civilization, which was influenced by Hinduism from India. The sanctuary was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999, and its ruins stand as a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of the region.

Covering a vast area, the sanctuary is nestled amidst lush green mountains, offering a serene and tranquil environment. It comprises the remains of several towers and temples.

The sanctuary’s buildings are divided into ten groups, each corresponding to a different historical period. The site continues to be an important archaeological area where ongoing efforts are being made to restore and preserve the remaining structures.

Its historical significance, architectural grandeur, and enchanting natural environment make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, or simply looking for a unique travel experience. If you are not planning at least three days in Hoi An it could be a good idea to stop for a visit during your Hue to Hoi An transfer. This site requires a little longer than others (like Ban Hill) so you probably will only be able to do another brief stop during the transfer.

The entrance fee is 150000 VND ( ~£ 5 / $6.5 / €6) per adult, and 30000 VDN ( ~£1 / $1.3 / €1.1) per child.

DIFFERENT MEANS OF TRANSPORT TO VISIT THE HAI VAN PASS

Hai van pass from hue to hoi an with a private driver.

You could just get a taxi from Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van pass, but you need to remember that in this way you will have little opportunity to stop. The driver will probably stop at the main look-out point and that’s it. This option s faster and cheaper, but for a small price difference, I would recommend you book a car with a driver for the day. That will allow you to add at least another couple of stops on the way.

Typically, on the way from Hue to Hoi Ann you would choose to stop at different attractions. We stopped at the Lap An Lagoon before going up to the Hai Van pass. Then our driver brought us for lunch in an amazing little restaurant where we had some delicious homemade food, before stopping at the Marble Mountains which were much more interesting than expected.

We used VM Travel and they sent us a really lovely driver who spoke great English and also acted a little as a guide, giving us useful and interesting insights (remember that most of the drivers do not speak English, and sometimes if you need to change the itinerary it may be easier to contact the person you booked with and they will call them).

There are other options you could consider for your stops, and with the private transfer you can customize your trip.

Hai Van Pass from Hue to Hoi An by train

If you decide to take the train you will still have the opportunity to admire a captivating snapshot of Vietnam’s diverse scenery – from lush green rice paddies and towering limestone mountains to picturesque fishing villages and azure waters of the South China Sea.

The train journey from Hue to Hoi An typically takes about two hours and a half, traversing through the verdant countryside, along the coast, and past the imposing Hai Van Pass.

The train doesn’t ascend as much as the road, but it still offers beautiful views. The journey is not too fast as the track has some sharp bends that limit its speed, but that guarantees you a longer time to appreciate the views.

You should be able to get tickets at the station on the same day, but if you want peace of mind you can buy them here .

Hai Van Pass from Hue to Hoi An with the bus

Opting to travel by bus is an economical choice and it can be quite convenient as there are buses departing from 6 am to 8 pm every 10-20 minutes from different parts of the city.

However, it does come with some drawbacks. The most obvious disadvantage is that buses traveling this route typically use the Hai Van Tunnel, a modern tunnel opened to traffic in 2005 to provide a faster and safer route across the pass. While this tunnel has certainly improved transportation in the region, it takes away from the breathtaking views that one could experience by traversing the pass itself. This tunnel bypasses the spectacular scenery, leaving passengers on the bus deprived of the chance to fully absorb the beauty of the Hai Van Pass.

The opportunity to stop at vantage points along the pass to take photographs or simply enjoy the view is also lost when traveling by bus through the tunnel. Additionally, while it may be faster and safer, travelling through the tunnel doesn’t provide the same sense of adventure and exploration that one expects when embarking on a journey through such an iconic route.

While traveling from Hue to Hoi An by public bus through the Hai Van Tunnel can be a practical and super cheap option, I would only consider it if you are constrained in time or budget.

Hai Van Pass from Hue to Hoi An self-driving motorbike or scooter

While most tourists can’t hire a car in Vietnam, you will not have any problem renting a scooter or a motorbike. It’s an exhilarating experience to traverse this route on a motorbike, with the freedom to explore at your own pace.

One of the significant advantages of self-driving is the opportunity to stop at will to soak in the beauty of the landscapes and capture memorable snapshots. This is not typically possible with a guided tour or public transportation.

Additionally, riding a motorbike through the Hai Van Pass provides a sense of adventure and independence that is unparalleled. The journey allows for an intimate interaction with nature and culture that other forms of travel may not offer.

However, self-driving in this region also has its share of challenges and its disadvantages. The journey demands constant alertness and concentration. Furthermore, road conditions can be unpredictable due to weather changes and traffic. Local drivers often have a different understanding of road etiquette, which can lead to confusing situations for those not accustomed to it.

Riding a motorbike through the Hai Van Pass is not just about reaching the destination, it’s about the thrill of the ride, the wind in your hair, and the exhilarating sense of freedom, but really consider if this is the best option for you.

I rode a scooter in Rome and London for almost 20 years, but, even if we were not travelling with kids I’m not sure I would have considered venturing on this journey. Joining a guided motorbike tour could partially ease the challenges as you follow a local guide who will navigate you through the route.

Hai Van Pass tours

The tours are all structured in a similar way. You can choose based on the places you would like to visit the most. They usually don’t include a guide coming with you to the different sightseeing points.

In this article, I mainly talk about the route from Hue to Hoi An, but it is just as easy to visit the Hai Van pass from Hoi An . Below are three great options.

BEST HAI VAN PASS TOUR WITH PRIVATE CAR

This is the company we used to transfer from Hue to Hoi An. They were professional and our driver spoke great English, which is less common.

You will stop at the Lap An Lagoon, the Hai Van pass, for lunch near the beach, and at the Marble mountains.

Great value for money.

GOOD TO KNOW: these tours are fully refundable up to 24h before they start

BEST HAI VAN PASS MOTORBIKE TOUR

This is the perfect tour if you want to drive a scooter or motorbike but you want a safety net. You can ride the bike yourself or sit behind the local driver.

This tour also includes a stop at the elephant waterfall where you can have a refreshing splash before continuing.

BEST HAI VAN PASS TOUR TO INCLUDE BAN HILL OR MY SON

If you are interested in visiting the Golden Bridge, stopping there while transferring from Hue to Hoi An could be a great option. Consider that the cable car ticket is not included (and it isn’t cheap). Check here for the price.

If instead you don’t have much time you could check out this tour that includes a stop at the My Son Sanctuary (around 45-60 minutes from Hoi An)

MORE ABOUT VIETNAM

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In conclusion, while travelling from Hue to Danang/Hoi An you can see much more than the Hai Van pass. The places on the way offer enriching detours and allow you to engage more deeply with Vietnam’s natural wonders and architectural achievements while breaking up the journey with refreshing and thrilling experiences. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, these sites provide a memorable addition to your Vietnamese adventure.

NO TIME NOW? SAVE IT FOR LATER!

Clotilde Passalacqua

Clotilde is a resilient, resourceful and adventurous person that navigate the world of travelling with kids. She is a mum of 7 years old twins and she share practical tips, profound insights and genuine personal experience to empowers family to embrace travel with children as an enriching experience rather than a daunting challenge.

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Ho Chi Minh City

Hue to Hoi An: Hai Van Pass & Coastal Adventure

Tour Time 7.30-17.00
Group Size 1-7 (capacity 49 pax)

Take a ride on one of Vietnam’s most famous roads! Starting from historic Hue, our vintage Vespas will drive you to Hoi An using a curated route that takes in mountains, coast, villages and endless miles of scenic scenery! With plenty of stops along the way, it’s all about capturing the beauty and magic of Central Vietnam!

Starting from your hotel in Hue, we take off on the Vespas and hit the road. Our first stops give deeper insight to local life with visits to family temples, ancestral houses, cottage industries and boat building workshops. We’ll continue down the road, running parallel to the coast, pausing to admire historic Cham temples, learn about religious traditions at the ‘City of Ghosts’ and venture to a hilltop Buddhist pagoda.

No Vietnam road trip would be complete without great coffee and food- and we’ll take a break at a wonderful cafe for strong cuppa java and a local restaurant for a tasty lunch.

And, of course, scenery is a big highlight of this Vespa Adventure! Be prepared for jaw-dropping views at Hai Van pass, sleepy deserted beaches and beautiful rural villages as you cruise on the back of our vintage Vespas.

We’ll roll in to Hoi An early evening, dropping you at your hotel for check-in.

Price Includes

Vespa Adventures Local Guide
Luggage Transfer Hotel to hotel by separate vehicle
Entrance fees
Local lunch and drinks
Vespa with Experienced Driver
Pickup ad drop off

We take safety seriously! Guests will sit behind experienced drivers throughout the tour.

Why does it take a full day from Hue to Hoi An?

We believe it’s all about the journey! If you go direct from Hue to Hoi An, it would take around 3.5 hours but there is so much to see and experience along the way. That’s why we have crafted this trip to veer off the main roads, stop to see the sites, enjoy the scenery and soak up the local culture.

What about my bags? Will they be on the Vespa with me?

Our Hue to Hoi An Vespa Adventure includes a separate luggage transfer. On the Vespas, it will just be you and your driver- and a small handbag or backpack if you wish. Your larger bags and luggage will be transferred separately, picked up from your Hue hotel and delivered to your Hoi An hotel.

Does this tour operate year round?

Yes, the Hue to Hoi An Vespa Adventure tour runs year-round. Central Vietnam weather can be unpredictable in certain months of the year but in the case of rain, we have high-quality rain ponchos that we’ll pull over and pop on! Should the rain get quite heavy, we’ll make a stop in a local restaurant or shop until it lightens up again. In the rare case we need to cancel a tour due to unsafe weather, we’ll notify you in advance and offer you the opportunity to reschedule or refund.

Join Tour Start Time: 07:30 Available: 49 seats
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Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass is famous as one of the “most majestic places in the world” of Vietnam. This place has the most beautiful and impressive coastline in the world. With its magnificent and majestic beauty, this place is a challenging destination for many tourists who are passionate about exploring. Let’s learn more about this famous pass with Origin Vietnam.

1. Where is Hai Van Pass?

Hai Van Pass stretches along the slopes of Hai Van mountain – a branch of the Bach Ma mountain range , 500m above sea level. It also is the natural boundary between Thua Thien – Hue province and Da Nang city. About 80 km southeast of Hue city and about 20 km northwest of Da Nang city.

Hai Van Pass the most beautiful place in the center of Vietnam - where divided the weather of Vietnam in to two part

2. How is Hai Van Pass unique?

National Highway 1A is the longest road running throughout Vietnam. Passing through countless places, rich and beautiful regions of the country, but perhaps the most majestic and impressive is still the Hai Van pass. Not only does it make a strong impression with its majestic natural scenery. This place also bears a deep impression in the country’s long history.

Hai Van also has another name: Ai Van Pass (because at the top there is Hai Van Quan gate) or May Pass (because the top of the pass is covered with clouds). The pass is at an altitude of 500 m above sea level and lasts 20 km, cutting across the Bach Ma mountain range . This is the boundary between Thua Thien – Hue province (in the North) and Da Nang city (in the South). Hai Van Pass is one of the 10 most beautiful coastal passes in the world and the most beautiful coastal pass in Vietnam.

Although it is known as a poetic and magnificent road, one side is mountains and forests and the other is the ocean. But it still has winding, complicated turns with high slopes. All embroidered with flowers and brocade create a charming landscape painting, making many tourists fascinated and “forget the way home” . This is truly a gift that nature bestowed on Vietnam.

3. When is the best time to conquer Hai Van Pass?

The ideal time to conquer Hai Van Pass is from March to August . This is when Central Vietnam enters the dry season, the weather is cool, the sky is clear, there are few storms and beautiful sunshine. It creates favorable conditions for you to control the steering wheel to explore nature.

Besides, you should come here at dawn (from 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.) or at dusk (from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.). Between the majestic, beautiful landscape and the sunset or sunrise, extremely high-quality photos will be born.

4. How to get to Hai Van Pass?

4.1 moving to da nang or hue.

To conquer Hai Van Pass, tourists will need to travel to Da Nang or Hue, then rent a motorbike or self-drive car to go to the pass. Currently, you can get to these two tourist cities by many different types of means.

4.1.1 By plane:

Both Hue and Da Nang have airports to serve tourists. You can use the transportation services of any domestic airline, depending on your preferred flight schedule.

4.1.2 By train:

Hue Station or Da Nang Station is the last stop for tourists traveling by train along the North – South route. You will spend more time traveling, but the scenery along the way and the extremely chill experience will be a worthy reward for your choice.

4.1.3 By bus:

Tourists from neighboring provinces can take a bus to Hue or Da Nang. With the advantages of affordable costs, flexible hours and many bus companies, passenger cars are the most popular way to travel.

4.2 Instructions for traveling to Hai Van Pass

4.2.1 departing from da nang.

Departing from the city center, you will go along Duy Tan street, then meet the roundabout and turn onto Nguyen Van Linh street. Continue 200m, turn left towards Nguyen Tri Phuong to meet Nguyen Tat Thanh coastal road.

Moving about 5 km further, you turn right onto Nguyen Luong Bang street, go straight across Nam O bridge and turn left to Ta Quang Buu. Going about 700m, turn right onto road number 7 and continue straight to reach Hai Van pass.

4.2.2 Departing from Hue

The road from Hue city to Hai Van pass is not too complicated. Starting from the city center, you just need to go straight to Hung Vuong Street extending to An Duong Vuong.

Continuing straight through Huong Thuy district, along Nguyen Tat Thanh street, then cross Cau Truoi to Phu Loc district. Coming to Lap An lagoon , you will follow Lac Long Quan road embracing Lang Co bay and go to Hai Van pass.

5. History of Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass was formerly called Ai Van Pass due to the gate located at the top of the pass. After that, the pass was renamed May Pass because it was hidden in the clouds. According to historical records, before 1306, Hai Van Pass belonged to the O and Ri continents of the Champa Kingdom.

Later, when he proposed to Princess Huyen Tran , King Che Man gave these two continents as a bride price. In 1402, after the Ho Dynasty conquered Champa, Hai Van Pass from the boundary of the two countries became the land belonging to Dai Ngu country.

During the French colonial period, although Hai Van Pass was built, it was still very narrow, dangerous, and prone to wild animals and robbers. So the French built a railway running the entire length of Hai Van Pass.

Today, the Hai Van Pass tunnel has been completed to ensure convenience for North-South traffic. Even though there is a Hai Van Pass tunnel, many tourists still want to come here to visit and conquer the most dangerous road in Vietnam.

6. Activities and Experiences in Hai Van Pass

6.1 conquering the most beautiful coastal passes in vietnam.

The feeling that makes visitors excited when coming here is the feeling of conquest. Throughout 20km of this most beautiful coastal pass in Vietnam, there are U-shaped bends enough to make you have a “heart attack”. But if you overcome the feeling of fear, you will get completely worthy results. The majestic, breathtaking and equally poetic natural scenery laid out before your eyes will be a real visual feast that no one wants to miss.

The pass road stands out among the vast majestic mountains with high mountains on one side and green forests on the other. The natural scenery truly deserves the title “ The most majestic landscape in the world”. From the top of the pass, travelers will see the panorama of Lang Co Bay, Da Nang city, Cham Island, Tien Sa port , Son Tra peninsula,…It appears out like a wonderful picture.

6.2 Visiting Hai Van Quan

At the top of Hai Van Pass, there is also Hai Van Quan. It is one of the important gates built during the Tran Dynasty and is a defensive military fortress for the Hue citadel . Also from the location of this gate, King Le Thanh Tong was amazed by the beautiful nature and dedicated the words “The most majestic place in the world” which still remains in Hai Van Quan today.

6.3 “Hunting” clouds on Hai Van terrace

Hai Van terrace is the most beautiful viewing location on the top of the pass. This is a check-in point that no one wants to miss and is also chosen by many couples as a location to have a lifetime wedding photo set. The terrain in this area is quite flat so it is very convenient to camp, hunt clouds, and catch the sunrise.

6.4 Checking in lonely pine tree

In addition to Hai Van terrace, the lonely pine tree is also an extremely poetic and romantic check-in spot. The pine tree grows about 2km from the top of the pass with wide foliage, behind is the vast sky and sea. Standing from this position, you can also see the poetic Lang Co Bay .

6.5 Camping at Van village at the foot of the Hai Van Pass

One of the equally interesting experiences for young people when coming to Hai Van Pass is camping in Van Village nestled at the foot of the pass. This place is likened to a forgotten fairy because of its pristine, peaceful and equally poetic scenery.

6.6 “Virtual living” at Bac Hai Van station and Don Ca arch bridge

From Hai Van Quan, go about 4 km further and you will reach the ranger station. Opposite the station there is a small concrete road. Follow this road for about 1 km and you will meet the train tracks at Hai Van Bac Station.

Walk about 500m further and there will be a trail going down to the stream with a view looking straight up to Don Ca Arch Bridge – a place called “heaven’s gate”. The scenery here makes visitors feel like they are lost in a mysterious fairyland. And this will definitely be the backdrop for ravishing photos.

6.7 Watching the sky, clouds and water from Cu Rua rock

At the top of Hai Van Pass, there is a large natural rock shaped like a turtle, so it is named Turtle Rock. Because it is located at an altitude of 500 m above sea level, standing here visitors will be able to see the whole picture of majestic forests and vast sea. Just hold up the camera and you will immediately have amazing photos. In front of the cliff. There is a very chill cafe for you to stop and relax.

6.8 “Death” U-shaped corner

Although the name seems a bit scary, this is also a place to help you get sparkling photos. However, because there is a lot of traffic and it is a curve, please pay attention to safety when taking photos.

6.9 Admiring the beautiful Lang Co Bay

Right after going down the pass from Da Nang, you will immediately encounter the beautiful Lang Co Bay. Possessing a poetic and pure scenery no less than any bay in Da Nang. This has attracted many domestic and foreign tourists to visit every time they come to Hue. Don’t forget to save some great photo posts here.

6.10 Admiring the majestic Bach Ma Mountain

Bach Ma Mountain is a familiar mountain range associated with many heroic historical victories. It is located in Bach Ma National Park, 1444 m above sea level. On the mountain there is a system of streams, waterfalls, forests and diverse flora and fauna. Coming here , you can experience extremely interesting mountain trekking. The road is steep and winding. But the higher you go, the more beautiful views of the mountains and forests you will witness.

7. Specialties when conquering Hai Van Pass

When conquering Hai Van Pass, you will not only admire the majestic and pristine natural landscape. You can also enjoy the specialties of this beautiful land

7.1 Lang Co Bay seafood

Coming to the sea and not eating seafood is truly a regret. Lang Co Bay is famous as one of the seafood paradises with countless delicious and attractive dishes. The fishing village has lagoons between salt water and brackish water that are very suitable for marine species to grow.

Such as oysters, shrimp, scallops, crabs, fish, etc. Among them, oysters are a special gift that God gave to the bay. Oysters here have a very unique flavor, delicious and greasy. The seafood is extremely fresh and delicious, don’t forget to try it.

7.2 Nam O fish salad

Nam O fish salad is a famous specialty of the coastal city of Da Nang. During the journey to Hai Van Pass, you will pass by Nam O fishing village. So don’t forget to stop by and try this Vietnamese “sashimi” dish.

You can eat dry fish salad or wet fish salad. Dried salad is prepared according to a family recipe with local ingredients. Then mix it with peanuts, peanuts, sesame and many other spices. The wet salad will be marinated with garlic, ginger, galangal and chili then dipped in a rich dipping sauce. Either way, it will bring you an attractive dish with the flavor of the sea.

7.3 Roasted pork wet cake

Exploring all the passes to Hue, you must definitely enjoy roasted pork wet cake. The dish will include wet cakes, roasted pork, pickled bean sprouts served with carrots and chives. Fish sauce is divided into two types for you to choose to suit your taste. They are: salty fish sauce and sweet fish sauce.

The hot plate of banh Cuon is served with delicious, crispy roasted pork, the more the skin is dipped in fish sauce, the more attractive it is. In addition, here they also sell shrimp paste and sour shrimp for tourists to buy as gifts.

8. Accommodation when conquering Hai Van Pass

Depending on your schedule, you can book a hotel room in Hue or Da Nang to have fun and explore. Or if you want to spend a day to experience Lang Co , the resorts and resorts at the bay are also an option worth considering.

8.1 Hotels in Da Nang

As a tourist city, accommodation services for tourists in Da Nang are extremely developed. Depending on your budget and needs, you can find a suitable place to stay at an affordable price. We will suggest some reputable names, affordable costs and convenient facilities below:

Sun River Hotel. Address: 134-136 Bach Dang, Hai Chau 1, Hai Chau, Da Nang.
Gold Coast Danang. Address: 27 Ho Xuan Huong, Bac My An, Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang.
Danang Petro Hotel. Address: 7 Quang Trung, Hai Chau 1, Hai Chau, Da Nang.

8.2 Hotels in Hue

In the central area of Hue city, you can easily find mid-range hotels with clean, spacious, fully furnished and convenient rooms for you to move throughout the journey .

However, if you want to relax, you will need to go farther from the center and book a room at a high-end resort. Some “familiar” accommodation addresses in Hue that you can refer to are:

Century Riverside Hue. Address: 49 Le Loi, Phu Hoi, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue.
Cherish Hotel Hue. Address: 59 Ben Nghe, Phu Hoi, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue.
Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa. Address: No. 130 Minh Mang Road, Hue, Vietnam.

8.3 Resorts in Lang Co

Stopping at Lang Co, try spending a whole day exploring the beauty of this famous bay in the country. Join us in naming luxury resorts so you can have a 5-star vacation, immerse yourself in beautiful nature and say goodbye to busy daily life.

Lang Co beach resort. Address: 463 D. Lac Long Quan, TT. Lang Co, Phu Loc, Thua Thien Hue.
Lang Co resort T26. Address: No. 493 Lac Long Quan, Lang Co Town, Thua Thien Hue, Thua Thien Hue.
Orchid Villa & Homestay Farm . Address: 500m from Hoi Dua Parish Church, TT. Lang Co, Phu Loc, Thua Thien Hue.
Banyan Tree Lang Co resort. Address: Commune, Cu Du Village, Phu Loc, Thua Thien Hue.
Angsana Lang Co resort. Address: Commune, Cu Du Village, Phu Loc, Da Nang.

9. Some important notes when conquering Hai Van Pass

To help you have the safest and most complete experience. Here are some things to note when traveling to Hai Van Pass:

Carefully check the vehicle, brakes, and fill up gasoline before moving
Monitoring the weather before going and avoid going on rainy days. At the same time, you should go early to visit and check in on the pass so that at night you are still on the pass.
Preparing extra snacks, candies, fruits and drinks to replenish energy when needed.
Should bring a light jacket in summer. Wear a thick coat in winter to stay warm.
The pass has many sharp and dangerous turns. Therefore, you must observe carefully and drive carefully.
Tourists should go with a companion or a large group so they can accompany and support each other during the discovery process.

Conquering Hai Van Pass brings you so many indescribable emotions, some are nervous, some are anxious, and then in the end, they are bursting with joy and excitement. When standing at the top of the pass, visitors will experience the wonderful beauty of nature, the rolling mountains in the mist, and the deep blue ocean as far as the horizon. Conquer Hai Van Pass to see that, although the journey to conquer is quite risky, the result is very worthwhile.

If you are planning your upcoming trip to Hai Van Pass , please immediately contact Origin Vietnam – a professional tour operator. We will accompany you on your tours in Da Nang to discover the treasure of Hai Van pass with interesting experiences and unforgettable memories.

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Understand more of Imperial Hue city with unique of Royal Palace and style of each mausoleum that show King’s opinion

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Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tour: Hue to Hoi An, Vietnam

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: March 30, 2020

Updated: October 20, 2023

As we have traveled around the world, we have moved on to countless new cities and countries. While there have been many incredible experiences, there are some days we will never forget.

Driving our own motorbikes from Hue to Hoi An by traversing the Hai Van Pass was an incredibly memorable day for us as we traveled through Vietnam.

Spectacular panoramic views, death defying roads and constantly evolving climates await you on the Hai Van Pass as you proceed along the surprisingly short otherwise known as ‘ Ocean Cloud Pass .’

Ultimately, we decided to pay for an individual guide so we could completely relax without worrying about directions and where to stop. We wanted to enjoy the day with no navigational or scamming concerns.

The route can be driven without a guide if you are on a tight budget or you already know you way. But our detailed motorbike travel guide from Hue to Hoi An will show you exactly what to expect for your trip.

Let’s drive the Hai Van Pass!

Brief History Of The Hai Van Pass, Vietnam

The Hai Van Pass certainly delivers aesthetics. But historically, this was an important defensive barrier for any army who attempted to march North or South of the pass.

Interestingly, the pass marks the boundary between Northern and Southern climates in Vietnam, even shielding Da Nang from harsh Northern winds.

The French built bunkers at the summit of the pass to overlook the South China Sea to the East. A ‘gate’ was built earlier by the Nguyen dynasty in 1826 to protect Imperial City Hue.

This picturesque gate and bunker complex is popular for wedding photographs today.

Some of the bunkers were later used by the Americans and South Vietnamese during the war and Vietcong forces would ambush the bunkers regularly.

Once the BBC aired its Vietnam Top Gear Special and Clarkson et al had waxed lyrical about the beauty of the Hai Van Pass, all of a sudden this usually quiet locals only coastal road blew up with tourists.

Isn’t it incredible how one single episode of a British television show can have such a meteoric impact on so many people’s lives?

Need help traveling from Da Nang and Hoi An? Don’t miss our popular Da Nang to Hoi An transport guide.

Da Nang Bay blue sea and beach with green trees

Hue To Hoi An Route Interactive Map

Total journey length from Hue to Hoi An including the scenic Hai Van Pass road is roughly 160km , once off piste adventures along the way are considered.

The map indicates a 3 hour drive. Even with no stops at all, you would struggle to drive the distance in that timeframe. Our day lasted over 8 hours door to door.

Allow yourself a full day for this unforgettable ride to make sure you see everything along the way.

There are 3 ways to cross the Hai Van Pass :

One is to take the scenic train around the mountain, tightly hugging the coastline and entering a number of tunnels.
The second is to drive over the scenic pass, reaching a summit of 496m (1,627 feet) of elevation. The best views of all options.
And the third is to drive directly straight underneath the pass, through the longest tunnel in South East Asia at 3.9 miles. It was built in 2005 to alleviate heavy road traffic and accidents on the snaking summit roads.

Hairpin bend on the hai van pass between hue and hoi an

Why Travel From Hue To Hoi An By Motorbike?

The sense of satisfaction washing over us as we handed our motorbikes in to the hiring office in Hoi An was an amazing feeling.

We had just independently driven motorbikes for over 8 hours from one city to another, over a small mountain pass in Vietnam.

Scary? A little. Dangerous? Kind of. Exhikaterating? Hell yes!

Never mind the winding snaking roads on the pass itself, there are several highways with lorries (trucks) and buses overtaking you at high speed. It constantly sounds like a fleet of jumbo jets are tight on your 6.

But you have achieved this yourself. You handled the bike. You conquered your fear.

In truth, this route can be enjoyed from the back seat of a private car or a minibus. We even saw a few open top jeeps but in our opinion, it just wouldn’t be the same.

Maneuvering acutely around hairpin bends in foreign territory releases bursts of adrenaline. Having the freedom to pull over every time you see something interesting means you don’t miss a thing.

We also quickly learned motorbikes can go where cars or buses can’t, down narrow dirt roads and through the beautiful rural countryside.

Dr Phu Vietnamese motorbike guide from Hue to Hoi An

Should You Travel The Hai Van Pass Individually Or Pay For A Guide?

Choosing to travel from Hue to Hoi An by motorbike is the first step. We would like to congratulate you on your excellent decision.

Now, you need to decide whether it’s a journey you want to make independently or with a guide.

Personally, we recommend booking a guide for a few reasons :

Having a guide eliminates the need for you to navigate using your SIM or offline map you saved when you had WiFi. Trust us, it’s a long journey.
A guide knows the quieter roads and deals with all locals at entrances as well as prevents potential scams.
Another benefit to a guide is they will clear any traffic in your path and warn others you are coming when necessary.
Last and certainly not least, a guide knows all the best places to stop for scenic views, attractions and food.

Having a guide made our ride completely stress free. Take a guess how much it cost us to hire a guide for this trip from Hue to Hoi An? We’ll tell you in the next section about hiring a motorbike.

You can of course drive this route independently and many people will without any issues. But we would suggest that only experienced and confident motorbike riders go it alone. Prior experience driving in Vietnam is a must.

If you don’t feel confident enough to drive your own bike but definitely want to experience this route by bike, you can even ride on the back of a guides bike instead.

Traffic in Vietnam is different beast! We saw at least 10 other groups riding with guides on our journey.

Mark and Kristens pink and white motorbikes on side of road crossing hai van pass Vietnam

How To Book A Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tour

As tourism continues to grow in Vietnam, special trips like the Hai Van Pass become increasingly more popular. So with many options available, we wanted to be sure we found the right tour for our needs.

When we asked our hotel owner in Hue about the best companies to use when booking a motorbike tour of the Hai Van Pass, she told us that MotorVina was the best company to book with.

Since we had already built up a good rapport with her, we trusted her opinion, but of course being analytical scientists by nature we still checked reviews online.

But once we saw the incredibly high ratings and positive reviews for MotorVina, we knew we were in good hands.

MotorVina has offices in Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An, which means you can start and end wherever suits your schedule.

But what about your backpacks? This is the beauty of booking with Motorvina! They will transport all of your luggage to your final destination.

You can choose to simply hire a motorbike with a guide or hire a guide to ride pillion (on the back). We hired a guide plus two motorbikes so we could each drive the route on our own motorbike.

Our total cost was about US$ 80 per person for both of us to drive our own bikes over the Hai Van Pass with an amazing guide.

Our awesome guide was called Phu but went by rhyming alias ‘Dr. Who’ – another BBC show. When you book your Hai Van Pass tour, book it through Motorvina using the link below !

>> Book a Hai Van Pass tour with MotorVina : Get Your Guide | Viator

Mark and Kristen on Dr Phu motorbike with green hills and lake background

Hai Van Pass Packing Essentials

Below is a list of things you need to consider taking with you. Remember you will be exposed on a motorbike for the full 8 hours between Hue and Hoi An (or vice versa).

The Hai Van Pass is only a small section of the motorbike tour.

Reusable Water Bottle – This sounds obvious but you will need as much water as you can fit into your seat. You will stop for lunch and can refill along the way, but always be sure to have some on hand.
Reef Safe Sunscreen – Do not make that mistake! You will have the worst sunburnt arms, legs and face if you do not take sunscreen seriously.
Waterproof Layer – Conversely, if the sun is not out, remember a warmer and waterproof layer. Even if the sun is out, temperatures and weather can change in minutes on the Hai Van Pass since it has its own mini microclimate.
Swimwear – If you plan to take a dip in either the sea at Lang Co Beach or at Elephant Springs, you’ll need a change of clothes or just wear it underneath your motorbiking gear.
Microfiber Towel – A towel will certainly come in handy if you decided to take a dip along the way or need to wipe the sweat from your brow during the day.

Kristen relaxing in a green hammock with amazing view between hue and Hoi An Vietnam

Best Time To Drive The Hai Van Pass

Vietnam is notoriously difficult to plan an itinerary due to the ever changing weather system. Always expect a variation of hot, humid, muggy, stifling and raining situations.

Additionally, when you’re in the North during Winter it might even get a little chilly.

The Hai Van Pass is even more unpredictable than usual for Vietnam. It’s named the ‘Ocean Cloud Pass’ after all!

The name alludes to the micro climate where it can be a beautiful day and all of a sudden you find yourself in a dense cloud of mist and rain at the summit.

Weather conditions are exceptionally changeable and it will boil down to luck on the day.

That being said, if you want to give yourself the best chance of a dry day, February to April is the driest season .

Visiting September to December statistically speaking will mean highest risk of rain , with October by far the wettest month.

Again, luck plays a huge part because we drove the Hai Van Pass in October and never saw a single drop of rain.

Our Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tour Experience From Hue To Hoi An

Now that we’ve covered all the preparation, let’s get down to what you can expect on your Hue to Hoi An motorbike tour across the ‘Top Gear’ Hai Van Pass.

In the next sections of our guide, we will show you the best things to do along the Hai Van Pass as well as some of the popular stops you shouldn’t miss.

Dr Phu and Kristen stood next to their motorbikes in Vietnam

1. Hotel Pick Up In Hue

The fabulous day began at 9:00am when we had our backpacks picked up to be driven to Hoi An.

Our automatic motorbikes were dropped off with Dr. Phu at our hotel in Hue. Kristen had a pink bike and Mark a white bike. We did the usual safety checks before hopping on.

We always recommend taking photographs of the bike exterior before you begin your ride. As always, make sure your helmet is also very secure.

Admittedly, we were both a little nervous (just look at Kristen’s face).

We had driven a little around Ninh Binh and Phong Nha on motorbike but nothing like an 8 hour slog over 160km and on serious highways.

However, Phu was amazing from the word go, he made us feel at ease and relaxed immediately.

Colorfully ordained house made from glass near Hue Vietnam

2. Gassing Up In Hue

Getting out of Hue was interesting.

We made a beeline for the quickest way to reach the rural countryside South East of the city. Inevitably, there were a few near misses.

Well, they felt like near misses to us, but they were standard operating procedures to the locals. But in a surprisingly short amount of time we got the hang of traffic patterns.

It’s actually organized chaos that somehow works.

The worst thing you can do is dilly dally about. You need to be confident and once you begin a maneuver, make sure you complete it.

Drivers will yield once you are in motion, but if you are stopped, anything pretty much goes.

Sure, drive defensively, but that does not mean stop at a 4 way junction in the middle of the road. You’ll never get out.

It was great having Phu show us how to properly navigate the roads. We felt safe with him and it was worth the money alone just for the extra layer of safety.

Motorbike guide fueling our motorbikes in a gas station near hue

Before we could cut off into the countryside, we needed to fill up the tanks. Phu led us into a real gas station and handled the fueling up while we shared a laugh of relief at each other for getting through the traffic in Hue, as our hearts were beating much quicker.

We say ‘real’ gas station because you will pass several people buying gas on the side of the road. You never know what is being sold in those “gas bottles” so just fill up at the actual gas stations.

Save yourself that drama, trust us.

3. The Countryside And Quaint Rural Fishing Villages

Full of fuel and newly found confidence, we followed Phu down some gorgeous narrow dirt roads cutting through waterlogged rice paddies.

Swerving left and right alongside fishing lakes and through rural villages, we began to relax as we were really getting the hang of this.

Now, in place of motorbikes as potential hazards, we now had to look out for loose chickens, children and rogue goats.

Mark and Kristen on a small wooden boat in a fishing village near hue Vietnam

We stopped to admire some large straw structures with chicken coops inside. We also met a woman catching snails and she showed us her lucky technique.

As we rode on, we were blinded by intense reflecting sunlight surrounded by a rainbow of colors. What could this be?! It transpired that a rich local family had built an ornate family temple with colored glass.

The building was absolutely magnificent! Coincidentally, the owners now live in New York.

From experience, we can say Hue’s surrounding countryside is peaceful and extremely easy to drive around. You never know what or who you will run into.

4. Stopping At Elephant Spring

We stopped at a restaurant for a refreshing ice cold drink after a fairly long stretch of straight highway. We had been cruising at a pretty good speed to cover some ground so we were happy for the break.

Thunderous trucks howled by less than a meter from our parked motorbikes on the roadside in the makeshift parking lot.

Phew, it was sweltering and we were struggling to get our sunscreen to soak in before sweating it off instantly.

After our refreshing drink, we only drove a short while until we pulled off the main road and followed a poorly maintained dirt path to Elephant Springs.

There was a barrier crossing the track and an entrance fee required. We gave Phu 2,000 VND each to pay for our motorbike parking and he handled the rest.

Mark walking over a wooden bridge over a river

Elephant spring is nothing to shout home about but you will be ecstatic when you get to jump in the plunge pool area to cool off.

Other tourists were submerged in the water trying to escape the inhospitable baking sun.

Before jumping in, we walked up some wooden boardwalks and over some boulders to check the area out.

Phu took some photos of us on elephant rock, which obviously has been man made using wrought iron bars to hold the rock in place.

But after a few photos, we both enjoyed jumping in to cool off from the heat and humidity. If its busy when you visit Elephant Springs, there are plenty of spots to explore upstream if the natural pool is full at the bottom.

Mark swimming in elephant spring Vietnam

5. How To Remove A Leech From Your Leg

After swimming against the strong river current and walking around a bit, there’s not much else to do here. Except of course if you discover you have a leech on your leg!

Mark had to call in the cavalry, aka the guy lighting his cigarette in one hand and lighting the leech on Mark’s leg in the other.

There were no screams, we promise. Phu of course oversaw the entire de-leaching process.

The moral of the story here is to check for leeches if you decide to take a dip in Elephant Springs.

Wooden raft tied to beach and single tree branch in lake

6. Lang Co Lagoon

Not far from Elephant Springs is Lang Co beach, which is one of the prettiest areas of the day. We were hungry but before stopping for lunch we drove along the narrow spit of land separating the sea from a small lagoon.

Around a dozen lagoon or beachside restaurants made of wood sitting on stilts provided an extremely serene atmosphere. There were some super photogenic spots within the lagoon that were completely unexpected.

Be sure to look out for wooden rafts, leafless tree branches rising out of the still water and lifeless wooden boats if you want some great photos.

wooden boat and branches poking out of lake in Vietnam

7. Lunch Stop At Lang Co Beach

We pulled into one of the chilled out looking wooden restaurants and picked a table under cover to escape the sun for some respite. The menu looked great.

We ordered rice and vegetables then sat enjoying the sound of waves crashing on the beach. The waves provided a nice change from the loud hum of the motorbike engines and traffic.

People in sea waving at a swimmer in Vietnam

But the calmness was broken up by a faraway sound, like a shriek. As we looked at other tourists on tables nearby, it seemed everyone had a ‘did you just hear something’ look on their faces?

Then we heard the sound again, but louder this time. It was someone shouting ‘HELP’ from the sea.

A Dangerous Rip Current

Instantly all of us in the restaurant jumped up and ran to the beach. It’s interesting to see how we all react differently in stressful situations.

A guy on a table nearby did a David Hasselhoff, sprinted for the sea without thinking and was on his merry way out to sea.

However, what he didn’t realize was that he was swimming into the same strong rip current the other guy was already stuck in.

Unfortunately, Mark had experience from when he got stuck in a rip current in Thailand a few years prior to this incident.

He knew the best thing you can do in this situation was to swim perpendicular to the rip current which meant parallel to the beach because you will eventually swim out of it.

So we quickly analyzed the beach, wave direction and estimated the edge of the current.

We instructed other tourists and restaurant workers (who were worrying a lot now) to gesture frantically to the left. As both men were now stuck in the rip current and the only chance they had was to swim out of it.

Beachside restaurant near Hai Van Pass Vietnam

Eventually, the first guy made his way left and finally back to the beach. He was exhausted and really shaken up. Hasselhoff followed a few minutes later in better shape but still extremely tired.

The initial guy thanked everyone and said he genuinely thought he was going to die.

Our blood pressure dropped dramatically as both men made it out of the water safely. Everyone involved was relieved the situation had not turned out much worse.

Travel Tip : If you plan to swim at any of the beaches along your Hai Van Pass motorbike tour, be very careful because rip currents are common along Vietnam’s central coast.

8. A Bit Shaken Up

After the commotion, we ate and took a short walk along the beach. Getting back on our motorbikes after what we had just witnessed felt insignificant.

We made sure both men were okay again once they had some time to compose themselves.

Banana shaped wooden boat on Lang Co beach between hue and Hoi An Vietnam

To get the full effect of the beach, we took off our shoes to feel the sand scratch lightly on our feet. We also admired some large wooden boats shaped like bananas that were bigger than us.

But it was time to get back on the road. We could see the Hai Van Pass towering ahead of us with thick clouds at its summit, but we couldn’t wait to get up there and shake this off.

9. The Official Hai Van Pass Begins

We hit the road having thankfully avoided witnessing someone drown.

And what a stunning road it was!

The route begins by crossing gorgeous Cau Lang Co Bridge over the lagoon.

Beginning of the Hai Van Pass over a long bridge with railway line foreground

We didn’t fully appreciate the beauty of the view over the bridge until we were further around the headland looking back at the scene.

If you’re exceptionally lucky, you might see a train heading for Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City as you cross the bridge. We were not so lucky.

Instantly the roads begin to acutely curve out of sight. We were performing 270 degree turns to follow the correct trajectory. Now this was getting fun…

Kristen enjoying the view from Hai Van Pass with motorbike parked

There are several hazards and obstacles to keep in mind. These hurdles come in the form of other people either driving trucks or huge buses overtaking on blind corners.

There is also the occasional hot headed tourist trying to become the next Valentino Rossi.

All we could do is drive defensively and safely without going too slow that we caused an accident. There were temptations to gun it but there are other people to consider.

If the road was guaranteed to be clear, it would have been a whole different story.

Kristen smiling in hammock with view of Lang Co beach Vietnam

Have you ever seen aerial photos of hairpin roads snaking up a mountain side? This is exactly what you are gliding around on the Hai Van Pass and it’s amazing!

Be sure not to get carried away in the moment, stop from time to time to take it all in.

One of the stops Phu had us pull over at had some hammocks where we could lounge around for a few minutes. This was definitely the best way to appreciate the spectacular view over Lang Co Bay.

10. Hai Van Pass Summit

We knew we had reached the summit as we turned the last corner.

There were so many buses, cars, jeeps and motorbikes parked all over the road. The Hai Van Pass is quite touristy, but we only realized this once we were at the top.

Luckily, during our journey we had avoided most of the crowds.

Kristen stood on bunker at top of Hai Van Pass Vietnam

At the summit, there are a few small places to grab some food, coffee or a beer but don’t expect much.

A huge rusting old road sign is the first landmark we noticed, but further up a dirt path right off the road you can visit the old French bunker and Nguyen gate.

From this spot, there are more wonderful views of Lang Co beach in the distance.

Mark Kristen and Phu motorbikes in mirror showing hairpin bend on hai van pass

To be honest, we didn’t spend much time at the summit. It was overcrowded and apart from the historical significance of the bunker which we quickly read about, there wasn’t much else to keep us up there.

Phu told us the better views of Da Nang were on the way down the other side. His tip was all we needed to get a move on.

11. The Descent Into Da Nang

Phu was absolutely correct! The panorama over Da Nang city on the descent closely rivaled the scenes of Lang Co beach on the other side of the pass.

We couldn’t decide which was more attractive, so we called it evens.

View of Da Nang city from the top of Hai Van Pass over the bay Vietnam

Descending the Hai Van Pass is easier and more relaxing than ascending because gravity together with wheels do all the work for you. But don’t let your gaze wander too much because you still have to be alert.

We stopped a good 4 or 5 times to enjoy the cityscape view of Da Nang, its bay and the headland. It was getting late in the afternoon and the sun was heading West behind the summit so our descent was shrouded in shadow.

Bad for photos but good for shielding from the intense sun for a welcome change of temperature.

Mark and Kristen on guides motorbike on hai van pass

Da Nang is Vietnam’s third largest city. Unfortunately, there is a relative amount of traffic to go along with that title.

We crossed the awesome and unique Cau Rong bridge, with a gigantic dragon slaloming through its center. We all continued to Da Nang’s beachside road.

This road was very popular and stacked full of traffic lights at every block, which meant it took a long time to get to the marble mountains.

12. Final Stretch To Hoi An

It was getting late in the day by the time we had reached the marble mountains.

We didn’t have enough time to hike any of the small trails which was a shame, but we still asked Phu to show us some of the marble display rooms where locals create huge sculptures.

Kristen stood in front of marble statue in Da Nang

The showroom he took us to had hundreds of marble statues of all shapes and sizes. He told us tourists often have them shipped to their home countries.

Now we know where that statue came from in Mr. Smith’s garden!!

13. Hai Van Pass Hue To Hoi An Conquered

The final stretch of road towards Hoi An was busy and natural light was failing as night approached.

Fortunately, Phu knew a few shortcuts on very narrow roads running between rice paddies in the countryside outside Hoi An town.

He took us for a very brief stop off at a friends curated and lush green garden. Before we knew it, we had arrived in Hoi An at the MotorVina office.

Green rice terraces at sunset in Hoi An Vietnam

We simply signed our document to say we’d arrived and picked up our deposit once we ended at the office.

Phu had Kristen sit on his back seat and another guy from the office put Mark on the back of his as they whisked us off to our hotel in Hoi An.

We had mixed feelings as we handed our bikes in, picked our backpacks up and said goodbye to Phu. What a day.

We were exhausted, but didn’t want the day to end. As the adrenaline wore off, we also quickly noticed our stiff legs and numb butts!

farmers tending to rice at sunset in Hoi An

We had successfully conquered the Hai Van Pass by driving our own motorbikes all the way from Hue to Hoi An and we had survived to tell the story.

Now it was time for a celebratory beer!

Hai Van Pass FAQ’s

Let’s take a quick look at some of the most frequently asked questions about the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam.

If you drove the Hai Van Pass without stopping, it would take about 3 to 4 hours. But most people make several stops along the way and take about 5 to 8 hours to complete the entire trip from Hue to Hoi An.

Yes, the Hai Van Pass is worth it because you will experience many scenic vistas and have the chance to drive a motorbike over a mountain pass with gorgeous windy roads. The Hai Van Pass is one of the best things you can do in Vietnam and it’s a perfect activity for adventure lovers.

The Hai Van Pass is 496m or 1,627 feet in elevation.

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We hope our Hai Van Pass travel guide helps you plan your motorbike tour!

Please let us know if you have any questions about the Hai Van Pass or Vietnam in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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Motorbike Tour Hai Van Pass Hue To Hoi An Vietnam

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Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

2 thoughts on “Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tour: Hue to Hoi An, Vietnam”

Great blog! Do you think driving this route is possible with no prior motorbike experience?

Hi Clodagh, yes it is possible with no prior motorbike experience. Kristen had no motorbike experience prior to driving this route. However, we would definitely recommend you hire a guide in that case so you can focus on your driving instead of worrying about finding the best spots along the Hai Van Pass. Enjoy the drive!

Hai Van Pass – 6 highlights where you should stop

Da Nang , Hoi An , Hue

Hai Van Pass, cloud pass or in Vietnamese Deo Hai Van, is seen by many as one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world. It owes its fame from the popular episode of Top Gear , where Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May race through Vietnam on simple motorcycles. Since then, a trip over this famous mountain pass has become immensely popular with tourists traveling by motorbike from Hue to Hoi An or Da Nang .

Hai Van Pass is the road over the mountains that connects the coastal town of Lang Co with the modern city of Da Nang. The view along the 21-kilometer road across the pass is amazing and those who occasionally drive off the main road are rewarded with miles of deserted beach. Since the opening of the tunnel through the mountain, you hardly have a problem with other traffic that makes the journey over the pass, which makes it all a lot safer.

In this article you will learn the following about the Hai Van Pass:

What options are there and is it safe?

Hai van pass by motorbike.

Motor route
Where to stop

Rent a motorbike

With the train along the hai van pass.

Hai Van Pass tour

What are the options for passing the pass?

You have a number of options. You can rent a scooter or motorbike and drive over the mountain pass yourself. You can also do this with a tour including a guide or on the back of the bike with an Easy Rider. In addition, you can also cross the mountain pass with an open jeep or via a spectacular train journey along it.

Where do you start and where do you end?

If you come from the south, you start in Hoi An. If you come from the north, you start in Hue. If you want to shorten the route, you can also start or end in Da Nang.

Is it safe to drive the motorcycle over the mountain pass?

The roads are asphalted and in good condition. Due to a new tunnel there is little traffic on the pass itself, but driving in Vietnam is never without risks. Read more information and tips about driving a motorcycle or scooter in Vietnam here.

The most popular route among travelers going from Hue to Hoi An or vice versa is over the Hai Van Pass. You can rent a scooter at your departure point (Hue or Hoi An) and return it to your destination. Your luggage is brought to your destination by the rental company.

The route is approximately 170 kilometers long and is easy to do in a day. At normal speed with no stops, it takes around 4-5 hours, so if you were to leave between 09:00 and 10:00 in the morning, you can easily reach your destination with a number of breaks before it gets dark. If you want to shorten the route, you can also start or end in Da Nang.

In terms of route it is best to drive along the coast from Hue. Follow main road 49 in the direction of Thuan An, eventually driving along a large lake to the highway 1A. We advise you not to take the motorway from the beginning. The other road is nicer and you avoid the big traffic.

Check the weather before you do this. You don’t want to ride in the pouring rain.
It can be slightly colder at the top of the pass, so it is good to take something against the wind.
The pass is very safe, but always drive with focus and care; minor errors can have major consequences.
Although the route is very simple, it can be useful to use a navigation app such as Google Maps or Maps.me (for offline).

Motorbike route

Look below for our detailed motorbike route.

Where to stop en route

For the Hai van Pass you can stop at the Elephant Stream to take a refreshing dip in the water. Read the blog article about the Elephant Stream (Suoi Voi) for the exact route description and what you can see and do there. If you are driving from Hoi An, this is a refreshing final stop before continuing to Hue.

Afterwards there is a nice stop on Lang Co beach. This beach is very large and beautiful. If you have the time, you can also spend a day in this city relaxing on the beautiful beach. A night at the Lang Co beach resort and eating in one of the many seafood restaurants will complete your visit to this sleepy city.

Then the road up the mountain pass starts. The pass itself is actually only a small part of your journey, so make sure you take the time for your stops. When you see a nice place to stop and enjoy the beautiful view and take a picture, take it. But on the pass itself we advise you to stop at least 3 places. The first place, coming from Hue, is soon after you cross the bridge from Lang Co and cross the track. From this place you have a great view over the beach of Lang Co and the mountains in the distance.

The second place is at the lookout point at the highest point of the pass (496 meters). Just like other strategic places in Vietnam, bunkers have also been built on the Hai Van Pass. At the top of the pass, near the brick gate that was built by Emperor Minh Mang in the 19th century, are gun towers used by the French, South Vietnamese and American troops during the wars.

Then you have a nice descent to Da Nang. A nice stop is at a large rock on the left side of the road; hard to miss. From this rock you can take great pictures of the city of Da Nang, the deserted beaches below and the Son Tra peninsula in the distance.

Then you enter Da Nang. When you have time you can choose to visit a beach in Da Nang. If you want to know more, read the Da Nang travel information to know what you can do in this city, see, eat and accommodation.

Then continue your way to Hoi An along the coast and along the Marble Mountains. You enter Hoi An via An Bang beach.

If you stay in Da Nang, you can choose to rent a scooter or motorbike for a day. You then drive over Hai Van Pass and then return to Da Nang. If you stay in Hoi An or Hue you can do this, but it will take more time. If you want to do the full route, you must choose a one-way rental scooter. For example, you rent the scooter in Hoi An and you deliver the scooter in Hue. The rental company takes your luggage with you.

Below are some tips for reliable scooter rental companies.

Hue Motorbike Rental ( Reviews )
MotorVina Motorbike Rentals ( Reviews )
Style Motorbikes ( Reviews )
The Motorbike Station ( Reviews )
Tigit Motorbikes ( Reviews )

If you prefer not to drive alone, you can book a tour with an Easy Rider. You can find them everywhere in Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An. They often have a book in which they show you the experiences of their previous customers. The advantage of Easy Riders is that they can often show you beautiful places that you will not see if you do the route on your own. You also have more time to enjoy the view because you don’t have to pay attention to the road. With an Easy Rider tour you often visit other sights along the route, such as the Marble Mountains.

As an alternative to the motorcycle or scooter, you can also consider taking the train from Hue to Da Nang, or vice versa. The route runs almost completely along the coast and you have a beautiful view of the Hai Van Pass and the ocean. The train ride takes only 2.5 hours. Read more about booking train tickets in Vietnam here.

Tour on the Hai Van Pass

Various tours are also offered on the Hai Van Pass. For example, you can choose to ride the Hai Van Pass with your motorcycle, but including an experienced guide and a small group of other drivers. The bus tours are not recommended, but what is really cool are the open jeep tours.

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Local tip! You might like these experiences

Easy Rider tour Hai Van pass Hoi An – Hue

Scenic transfer between Hoi An and Hue by easy rider, include luggage transfer by car
Be amazed with stunning coastal views from the Hai Van Pass
Enjoy several stops on the way, including Lan Co Beach, Lap An Lagoon, a local waterfall and the Marble Mountains
On the back of a motorbike is an adventurous but safe experience

Sightseeing transfer Hoi An – Hue via Hai Van pass by private car

Travel in comfort in a modern private car with a driver
Drive over the famous Hai Van pass
Visit a number of points of interest along the way, such as villages, lagoons and the Marble Mountains

Army jeep tour Hai Van Pass – Transfer Hoi An, Hue & Da Nang

Ride in a classic military jeep over the Hai Van Pass; an amazing experience
Also visit a fishing village, Lap An Lagoon and the Marble Mountains
Cool off with a swim in the Elephant Springs or at Lang Co Beach
Destination: Da Nang , Hoi An , Hue
By: Marnick Schoonderwoerd
August 26, 2019
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Vietnam Coracle

Hai Van Pass | Motorbike Guide

Last updated October 2023 | Words and photos by Vietnam Coracle

Tom Divers is the founder and creator of Vietnam Coracle. He’s lived, travelled and worked in Vietnam since 2005. Born in London, he travelled from an early age, visiting over 40 countries (he first visited Vietnam in 1999). Now, whenever he has the opportunity to make a trip, he rarely looks beyond Vietnam’s borders and his trusty motorbike, Stavros . Read more about Tom on the About Page , Vietnam Times and ASE Podcast .

A contender for the most famous road in Vietnam, the Hải Vân Pass is a short but scenic route that curls around a mountainous spur above the East Sea on the central coast. For thousands of years, Đèo Hải Vân – ‘Ocean Cloud Pass’ – has acted as a geographic and political boundary separating ancient kingdoms, a climatic divide between the tropical south and the subtropical north, and a strategic military post during times of war. But today, the Hải Vân Pass is best known as a great road trip linking the popular central Vietnamese cities of Hội An, Đà Nẵng, and Huế. For many road-trippers, the Hải Vân Pass is a favourite ride, its popularity bolstered by the success of the Top Gear Vietnam Special (2008), in which the presenters waxed lyrical about the pass, inspiring a generation of travellers to hit the road and head there. The Hải Vân Pass is fun to ride, with excellent views, light traffic, and easy access from several cities.

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HAI VAN PASS MOTORBIKE GUIDE

One of the Most Famous Roads in Vietnam

This guide includes a detailed route map outlining the best, most scenic way to ride the Hải Vân Pass between the central cities of Hội An, Đà Nẵng, and Huế. I’ve also written an overview of the route with details such as weather, time of year, duration and distance, a description of the ride including historical commentary, and recommendations for accommodation and food and drink along the way. The Hải Vân Pass is a memorable, beautiful and highly enjoyable road trip. What’s more, it is one of the most accessible and easily rideable routes in Vietnam.

Overview & Details

The Best Route

Understanding the Pass

Accommodation

Food & Drink

Related Routes

ROUTE MAP :

Hải Vân Pass | Hội An → Đà Nẵng → Huế

Blue Line : best route | Brown Line : fast route | Red Lines : side routes

* Road Safety & Disclaimer : Riding a motorbike in Vietnam – or anywhere in the world – has its dangers. I would hope & expect anyone who chooses to pursue a self-drive road trip based on the information on this website does so with care, respect & due diligence. I encourage careful riding & adherence to road rules, but I am not responsible for the legality or manner in which you ride, nor any negative consequences which may result from your decision to ride a motorbike in Vietnam: you do so at your own risk. Read more >

[ Back to Contents ]

Overview & Details :

Below is a brief overview of the Hải Vân Pass route, followed by more specific details about important considerations, such as weather conditions, route options, duration, motorbike rental and more:

QUICK DETAILS :

Route: scenic coastal route linking Hội An, Đà Nẵng & Huế via the Hải Vân Pass [ MAP ]
Distance: 165km/130km (best route/fast route)
Duration: 1-3 days (one-way/roundtrip)
Scenery: superb ocean vistas, lagoons, beaches, verdant valleys, waterfalls & backcountry
Attractions: magnificent landscapes, good riding, historic & cultural sites, waterfalls, seafood
Road Conditions: good, smooth conditions, wide highways & paved back-roads, light traffic
Best Time: March-September

Please Support Vietnam Coracle Make a donation or become a patron if you enjoy this website. Vietnam Coracle is totally free & independent. I never receive payment for anything I write. Thank you, Tom

ABOUT THE ROUTE :

Route Options: The best way to enjoy the Hải Vân Pass is to ride all the way between Hội An/Đà Nẵng and Huế via a scenic backroads route, which includes the pass but avoids horrible Highway QL1A completely: this is the blue line on my map . Alternatively, riders can take the fast route via the highway, which still includes the pass but is far less scenic: this is the brown line on my map .

Distances: The total distance of the scenic route between Hội An, Đà Nẵng, and Huế is 165km one-way (the blue line on my map ). The total distance of the fast route is 130km one-way (the brown line on my map ).

Duration: One full day is ideal for riding the Hải Vân Pass in one direction on the blue route on my map , including lots of stops for photos, refreshments and activities. But, it’s even more rewarding to ride the Hải Vân Pass as a roundtrip with one or two nights spent in either Hội An, Đà Nẵng or Huế, where there are good accommodation options . In other words: 1 day for one-way; 2-3 days for a roundtrip.

Side Routes: There are lots of optional side routes to beaches, waterfalls and viewpoints on the Hải Vân Pass route: see the red lines on my map . One of the side routes is riding the scenic back-roads on Sơn Trà Peninsula near Đà Nẵng, but bear in mind this would add a least a couple of hours to your journey.

Motorbike Rental: Renting motorbikes from any of the three major cities on the route – Hội An, Đà Nẫng, and Huế – should be fairly easy. Some rental companies even offer one-way pick-up and drop-off services, allowing customers to ride in one direction without having to return to their starting point to give their bike back. I recommend contacting Style Motorbikes, Rent A Bike (RAB), and Tigit Motorbikes.

Weather & Time of Year: Although the Hải Vân Pass is rideable at any time of year, the best months for good weather and conditions are March to September. At other times, the pass might be covered in cloud and very wet.

Connecting Routes: The Hải Vân Pass can be ridden as part of a wider route in the region, called the Golden Loop . Another option is to continue north via the Tomb Rider route or south along the Coast Road . For more connecting routes and road trips, see Related Routes .

The Best Route :

Hội An→Đà Nẵng→Huế via the Scenic Route | 165km

[ View Map ]

By far the best way to enjoy and experience the Hải Vân Pass is to ride the scenic route (the blue line on my map ) all the way from Hội An or Đà Nẵng to Huế, either one-way or return. I’ve written the following outline going from south to north, starting in Hội An, via Đà Nẵng, to the Hải Vân Pass, and ending in Huế. However, you can ride this route in the opposite direction: it makes no difference.

Leave Hội An’s old town in the morning – the earlier the better if you want to make it all the way to Huế in one day. Take the coast road (Lạc Long Quân/Nguyên Giáp street) to Đà Nẵng, stretching all the way from Cửa Đại Beach, past An Bang Beach, and the Marble Mountains , to Đà Nẵng’s Municipal Beach , once known to American marines as ‘China Beach’. (If you have time, take the scenic Sơn Trà Peninsula side route – the red line on my map . But bear in mind that this detour will take a least a couple of hours.)

From Đà Nẵng’s beach, turn west onto the famous Dragon Bridge across the Hàn River and into the city centre. Cruise along the river bank before turning onto Nguyễn Tất Thành street skirting the ocean along Nam Ô Beach. At the end of the beach road, turn onto the broad lanes of Highway QL1A for a brief stretch before the road starts to climb into foliage: this is the start of the Hải Vân Pass.

Curling around the mountainside, the pass opens up spectacular views across Đà Nẵng Bay. Several selfie cafes are setup on the roadside with photo viewpoints on giant boulders looking over the bay. At the top of the pass, a collection of overpriced food and drink shacks vie for your custom. The Nguyễn Dynasty gate and old gun towers are located across the road, offering good viewing points and short, pleasant walks. However, they were under renovation at the time of research (2023). On either side of the top of the pass, small paved lanes and dirt tracks lead down the slopes towards the sea, ending at beaches such as Bãi Chuối . These are good side routes (see the red lines on my map ) if you have a hour or two to spare. However, be aware that you may be stopped from continuing down some side routes due to military presence in the area.

Snaking down the other side of the pass, the views get even better: looking over the winding asphalt as it drops towards the long, empty beach of Lăng Cô. Just after one of the last hairpin bends of the pass, a much-photographed scene opens up over Lăng Cô Bay and fishing village, with a long bridge over the water (the exit of the Hải Vân Tunnel) and the lush, misty mountains behind. This might as well be known as the Top Gear View Point , as it was here that the final scene on the Hải Vân Pass from the Vietnam Special episode (2008) was filmed, with the three co-presenters all gazing at the sunset, enraptured by the beauty of Vietnam’s landscape.

At the bottom of the pass, don’t cross over the bridge to Lăng Cô : instead, continue due west on the lakeside road hugging the shores of Lập An Lagoon. This beautiful, empty road skirts the water’s edge with two optional detours to waterfalls ( Thác Đỏ and Suối Mơ Hói Mít ) before joining Highway QL1A at the northernmost shore.

Backtrack on Highway QL1A for about 30 seconds before veering off due north on the Chân Mây road toward Cảnh Dương Beach . The road stays close to the coast, where there are several backpacker campgrounds and high-end resorts (see Accommodation ). A nice backroad leads over a bridge across the Bu Lu River eventually reconnecting with Highway QL1A again at the Phước Tượng Tunnel & Pass . Just after exiting the tunnel, turn off the highway onto Road QL49B , heading north along the shores of the Cầu Hai Lagoon.

Recently upgraded, QL49B crosses a bridge at the mouth of the lagoon and turns west onto a long peninsula towards Thuận An. This route is notable for the thousands of elaborately carved family tombs, which are scattered across the sandy banks between the road and the sea. Backroads weave through the tombs around the area known as the City of Ghosts . At Thuận An village and beach, turn south across a bridge and follow the Phổ Lợi and Perfume rivers into the heart of the former imperial city of Huế .

Understanding the Pass :

Historical Background & Why the Pass is So Famous

* Please Note: Historical information in this article is based on my reading & understanding of various sources & conversations with people: I am not an historian & I cannot vouch for the accuracy of historical details in this article.

On days when vapour from the East Sea rises into the forests and clings to the mountaintops, Đèo Hải Vân (Ocean Cloud Pass) lives up to its poetic name. But, despite its romantic title, the Hải Vân Pass has always been something of a frontier: a boundary of kingdoms and climate; often fought over, sometimes tragic but never losing its ability to inspire awe.

During the ‘American War’, the Hải Vân Pass was known as the ‘Street Without Joy’. Back then, the pass connected the two war-scarred cities of Huế and Đà Nẵng via the dangerous and hotly contested Highway 1. Thanks to a tunnel under the mountains, completed in 2005, the Hải Vân Pass today is the ‘Street Without Traffic’. The majority of transport now takes the tunnel, which leaves the Hải Vân Pass – one of the most scenic coastal roads in Vietnam – to two-wheeled vehicles and the occasional oil truck (both of which are not allowed through the tunnel). This makes the spectacular Hải Vân Pass perfect for a relatively easy, safe and short motorbike road trip between the popular tourist spots of Hội An/Đà Nẵng to the south and Huế to the north.

The Hải Vân Pass is a natural wall: a mountainous finger of land jutting into the East Sea. This is an east-west spur of the Trường Sơn (Annamite) Range that runs north to south along the western spine of Vietnam. For centuries this natural barrier represented the limit of one kingdom and the beginning of another. The Hindu Kingdom of Champa resided south of the Hải Vân Pass, while the Confucian-Buddhist Kingdom of Đại Việt was to the north. The two kingdoms fought regularly to control land either side of the pass. The Cham pushed as far north as the Đại Việt capital of Thăng Long (Hanoi) in 1371. Partly due to the favourable climate and fertility of the land south of the Hải Vân Pass, the Cham in this area were known as the ‘Coconut Palm Group’. The Hải Vân Pass sheltered the Cham from strong, cold winds and storms that blew from the north. Known as ‘Chinese Winds’, these still ravage territory north of the pass each year during the ‘typhoon months’, which are usually around September and October.

The good climatic conditions south of the Hải Vân Pass helped to build the Cham civilization, which lasted for more than a thousand years, from the 3 rd century onwards. It was the lure of the land of the ‘Coconut Palm Cham’ that led to its eventual conquest. Đại Việt, to the north of the Hải Vân Pass, was growing steadily thanks to liberation from Chinese rule in 938 followed by two strong imperial dynasties, the Lý (1009-1225) and the Trần (1225-1400). Agricultural productivity and population were on the rise, but unpredictable weather and devastating flooding in the Red River Delta was a constant threat to stability. With China looming large over their northern borders, Đại Việt looked to the south for more land and a better climate for their growing population. After centuries of fighting, it was the Lê Dynasty who finally defeated the Cham, in 1471, annexing the sunny territory south of the Hải Vân Pass for Đại Việt. The ruins of the Cham temples at Mỹ Sơn, near Hội An, can still be seen today, as can many other Cham ruins .

The appeal of the land of the ‘Coconut Palm Cham’ is still obvious today. If travelling from north to south, heading out of Huế on a wet, grey February morning and driving up the Hải Vân Pass in thick, moisture-laden cloud, when you arrive at the top and look down on the sun-filled Bay of Đà Nẵng to the south, it’s easy to imagine how attractive these lands must have been to the Đại Việt from the north. Curling your way up the switchbacks and hairpin bends, the motorbike engine struggling to deal with the gradient, and then rolling down the other side, wondering if the brake pads will wear away before you reach the bottom, it’s also apparent how the pass could have separated two civilizations for so long.

Whatever the weather, the Hải Vân Pass is always a scenic route. As with other great views, the pass has often inspired wonder, sometimes in the most unlikely of contexts and least likely of people. When Paul Theroux was passing through Vietnam during his Great Railway Bazaar , in 1973, the Paris Peace Accords had only recently been signed by the United States, South and North Vietnam. Direct American military participation in Vietnam was officially over, but the war still had two more long years before the fall of Saigon. As most of the Trans-Indochinois Railway (now the Reunification Express ) that linked Hanoi with Saigon had been blown up, Theroux was only able to travel on short sections of the line that were deemed safe. Fortunately for him one of these safe sections was between Huế and Đà Nẵng.

At that time, Huế was a ruin. Having been pounded for years, not least during the Tet Offensive in 1968, the city was all mud and rubble. Đà Nẵng, formerly a massive American military base, was, according to Theroux, “a poisoned city”. But the landscape between these two wounded cities, including the Hải Vân Pass which the railway snakes around just below the road, was still majestic. Perhaps because of the juxtaposition between the ugly urban destruction in Huế and the rural peace and beauty around the Hải Vân Pass, Theroux, having travelled across Europe, the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent by train, was amazed by what he saw from his compartment on the Trans-Indochinois:

“Of all the places the railway had taken me since London, this was the loveliest.

Beyond the leaping jade plates of the sea was an overhang of cliffs and the sight of a valley so large it contained sun, smoke, rain and cloud – all at once.

I had been unprepared for this beauty; it surprised and humbled me.

Who has mentioned the simple fact that the heights of Vietnam are places of unimaginable grandeur?”

35 years later, Jeremy Clarkson, former presenter of the popular BBC car show, Top Gear, had a similar reaction to the landscape around the Hải Vân Pass. Famously sarcastic and not one to be easily moved – except by a good car – Clarkson and his co-presenters couldn’t help but be awed by the green mountains rolling down in pleats and folds toward the East Sea. On this strip of tarmac, that he proclaimed “one of the best coast roads in the world”, Clarkson began to enjoy motorbiking. Indeed, the Top Gear Vietnam Special has surely inspired thousands of travellers to follow in their tyre-tracks.

VIDEO: Top Gear Vietnam Special (skip to 3:15 for the Hai Van Pass scene):

Like other borders and frontiers, the Hải Vân Pass has seen its fair share of blood and battles. At the top of the pass, by the brick gate built by Emperor Minh Mạng in the 19 th century, are gun towers that were used by French, South Vietnamese and American lookouts respectively, during the long wars from 1946-1975. More recent reminders of tragedy on the pass are the small shrines lining the road that mark the sites of fatal accidents. (Note: most of these date from before the tunnel was built, when the pass was far more dangerous than it is today). As with many famous battle fields and scenic roads in Vietnam, tragedy contrasts sharply with the natural beauty of the surrounds.

As for me, I’ve always thought of the Hải Vân Pass as a point of transition: both a boundary and a gate. When riding from south to north, the pass is the point at which I feel I’ve entered more unfamiliar territory. The clouds usually close-in and fierce rain pinches the skin on my face. With this comes a sense of adventure. Being from the south in both my native and adopted countries (London in Britain, Saigon in Vietnam), I’ve long associated travelling north with going into higher, wilder landscape and colder climes. Likewise, when I travel from north to south, the Hải Vân Pass is the point at which I feel I’ve arrived ‘home’ again, safe in the land of the ‘Coconut Palm Cham’ and the warmth of the tropical climate I’ve become accustomed to.

Located on the 16 th parallel, just one south of the infamous 17 th parallel that once divided the nation politically, the Hải Vân Pass is a permanent natural boundary that will always divide the nation climatically, between tropical and sub-tropical. The ‘Ocean Cloud’ clings to the pass, but this 30km stretch of road is beautiful in any weather, and each time I ride it, in either direction, there’s always the sense of having crossed a barrier.

Accommodation :

Where to Stay when Riding the Hải Vân Pass Route

Although there’s no accommodation on the Hải Vân Pass itself, there are a handful of places to stay along the route, as well as an enormous variety of hotels and resorts in all price ranges at either end of the route: in Hội An, Đà Nẵng, and Huế:

On The Route

[ Back to Accommodation ]

Hotels on the Route :

In many of the small towns along the way, you’ll find nhà nghỉ ( local guesthouses ) lining the road, particularly around Lăng Cô and Cảnh Dương beaches. Ngọc Hằng is a good guesthouse in Lăng Cô and Lăng Cô Beach Resort is a mid-range accommodation on the beach. Cảnh Dương Beach Camping offers a night under canvas on the beach or Tân Cảnh Guesthouse is close by. There are also some luxury accommodations along the route which you can stop at for a night or two to break the journey in style. These include Bayan Tree , an ultra luxurious resort, and Vedana Lagoon , a more affordable option with atmospheric rooms on the lake or hillside.

Camping at Canh Duong Beach, Central Vietnam

Hotels in Hội An :

The popular tourist town of Hội An probably has the best-value and range of hotels anywhere in Vietnam. The sheer volume of accommodation options and the enduring popularity of Hội An as a travel destination drives prices down and quality up. For budget accommodation check out the cheap but clean and classy rooms at Kiman Hotel , and Vietnam Backpackers Hostel . An excellent-value mid-range place to stay is Lasenta Boutique . For luxury it’s hard to beat the Anantara in the old town or Victoria Resort on the beach. Besides these recommendations there are hundreds more to choose from, which you can browse and book on this page .

Infinity pool at Lasenta Boutique Hotel, Hoi An, Vietnam

Hotels in Đà Nẵng :

These days, the riverfront and the seafront of Đà Nẵng are packed with accommodation options, from budget mini-hotels and hostels to fancy 5-star monoliths with rooftop infinity pools. The choice is bewildering, but also strangely generic. Unlike the classy and characterful hotels of Hội An, Đà Nẵng tends to have rather bland, business-like accommodation. Nonetheless, there’s lots to choose from and book on this page . I have stayed at and reviewed the Four Points by Sheraton , a beachfront high-rise property, and Brilliant Hotel , a glass-fronted mid-range accommodation on the Hàn Riverfront. Two cheap and funky shipping-container-based hostels are Rom Casa and Đà Nẵng Container Hotel , both are near the beach.

Hotels in Huế :

One of the most charming, historic and underappreciated cities in Vietnam, Huế is a great place to overnight while riding the Hải Vân Pass route. There’s lots of accommodation available that you can browse and book on this page . My personal recommendations are Villa Huế , an exceptionally good-value mid-range hotel, Hue Backpackers Hostel which is cheap, fun and centrally located, and Azerai La Residence , one of Vietnam’s best-known heritage hotels. In addition, there are some great hotels in more rural locations outside the city centre, such as Pilgrimage Village near the royal tombs and Villa Louise on the beach.

Food & Drink :

What to Eat & Drink along the Hải Vân Pass Route

Central Vietnam offers some of the nation’s best cuisine, especially local delicacies in Hội An and Huế, and seafood in Đà Nẵng and Lăng Cô. I have only marked a few specific places on my map: the best thing to do is to look for signs outside street vendors, local eateries and on restaurant menus for popular regional dishes, such as mì quảng , cao lầu , bún bò Huế , cơm hến , bánh bèo and many, many more besides. (Check out the Huế Food Guide for specific recommendations.) For seafood ( hải sản ), the beachside local eateries in Lăng Cô, such as Biển Ngọc and the floating restaurants in the lagoon, and those on Cảnh Dương beach , are superb.

All three major towns on the route – Hội An, Đà Nẵng, and Huế – have exciting cafe scenes, with excellent coffee shops serving great coffee using local beans. There’s also a thriving craft beer culture in the three cities using local ingredients and flavours. (See Drinking & Nightlife in Huế .) In addition, Đà Nẵng has many rooftop bars, such as Horizon on the top floor of Four Points . On the Hải Vân Pass itself there are dozens of roadside cafes. These are less about the drinks, and more about the fabulous views and selfie opportunities, particularly the boulder viewpoint cafes .

Horizon rooftop bar at Four Points by Sheraton, Da Nang, Vietnam

* Disclosure: I never receive payment for anything I write: my content is always free and independent. I’ve written this guide because I want to: I like this route and I want my readers to know about it. For more details, see my Disclosure & Disclaimer statements and my About Page

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Questions, updates and trip reports are all welcome. However, please keep comments polite and on-topic. See commenting etiquette for details.

Enjoying the many articles on the site. I just completed the Ha Giang Loop recently and thanks to that article, I was well prepared.

I’m looking to tackle this route tomorrow. Have you considered splitting the layers, so users can toggle hotels, beaches, restaurants, etc? It would make the map much easier to review and focus on priorities.

Thanks for the great content

Hi Zachary,

Thanks. Yes, are you referring to map layers? If so, I do that in all my updated guides. You’ll notice if/when you use any of my guides/maps that were last updated in the last couple of years that I use map layers for different ‘categories’, such as hotels, routes, places to eat etc.

Indeed, that’s the ideal. Just suggesting the idea of updating older guides to match, as these route guides are a big help to reference.

Thanks. Yes, that’s what I do: I update all my guides and maps, but there are hundreds of them, so I can’t keep them all up-to-date all the time. You can take a look at the top of each guide to see when the date of latest update was.

When I served in Vietnam in 1967, I was sent to a small outpost in the Hai Van pass. We would take a shower up at a waterfalls coming down the mountain. I suppose that you have seen that waterfalls area in your travels? Could you comment on that specific area? Thanks, Len a Marine from 2/7 Echo Co. 81 mortars.

Thanks for your message and sharing that memory.

I don’t know the exact waterfall you’re referring too, but I can imagine the scene. Indeed, while on roads trips in Vietnam I often stop to ‘shower’ under waterfalls too.

Hello Tom….

We love your information on Vietnam. Thank you so much for sharing all of your knowledge. Currently we are in Hoi An and planning a motorbike trip to SaPa with many stops along the way. Trying to find the “travel map of Vietnam” is near to impossible for us, after searching all over and calling the bookstore in DaNang, who do not have it. Any other suggestions as to where we can find it. Also what would you suggest is the best detailed online road map to use?

Sharon & Chris

Hi Sharon & Chris,

Yes, it can be very difficult to find the Travel Map. But these days most printed maps are fairly useless. For the online maps for Vietnam, Google is still best, but some people like using Maps.me because it’s available offline. However, it’s Google that has most of the roads. Google Maps is what I use to make my maps, like the one of the Hai Van Pass on this page, for example.

Just make sure you get a local SIM card (preferably Viettel, because they get best coverage, even in the mountains) and you shouldn’t have too much trouble navigating your way around.

I hope you have a great trip,

Hi, just wanted to say quick Thank You! My Hai Van Pass motorbike trip was a great experience even thanks to the article you posted. I followed your map including few detours and was amazed by couple of things I would not discovered otherwise. So thank you and all the best! Tomas

Thanks. That’s great to hear you enjoyed the Hai Van Pass, and that this guide helped you along the way.

We are planning on doing this tomorrow, do I need a motorbike license? I’m pretty confident on a bike and have rented a few in Asia already but I heard the police are hot in Vietnam.

Technically you do, but in reality many people don’t. If stopped by the police you’ll probably have to pay a fine.

Im planing on driving the Hai van pass in the next few days, Ive already gone over Son Tra peninsula aka monkey mountain and found the Yamaha Novou 125 straining up some of the steep 15/18 % gradient roads. Is the Hai van as steep or more gradual than son tra? And are there any places to fill up the tank on the route ?

Just want to know if I should get a bigger bike.. Many thanks

You should be fine on a Yamaha 125 up and down the Hai Van Pass – as long as the bike’s not in terrible condition, of course.

There are no gas stations on the pass itself, but there are plenty of gas stations at fairly regular intervals on the roads either side of the pass. It’s not such a long ride, so if you make sure you brim your tank before you set off, you should be able to make it all the way between Danang and Hue on one tank.

I hope this helps,

Hello Tom, great article and infos.

One question, I’m going to Vietnam in January 18 until february 4. I never ride a motorbike but want to try to do Hue Hoi An. Do you thing I can do it? And the weather will help to do this trip in 1 day maybe 2?

Thank you. Carlos

The weather can be quite wet and cloudy at that time of year in that region, especially around Hue. But you can ride between Danang/Hoi An and Hue in one day, and then back from Hue to Danang/Hoi An the next day. However, you should start in the morning to give yourself enough time.

If you’ve never ridden a motorbike then you need to be very careful riding on Vietnam’s roads. You can contact Style Motorbikes, or Rent a Bike, or Tigit, or Dragon Bikes in Danang to rent a motorbike and they can give you some lessons before you go on your road trip. I think Style Motorbikes also offer one-way rentals, so you wouldn’t have to ride back again.

Hello, this route looks great! I have done the pass a couple of times but have always been directed through the laborious long highway roads, so I’m please I discovered this new route 🙂 However, when I open the ‘larger map’ I can see the route in google maps, but I can’t find an options to navigate with directions. My plan was to plug my headphones in and let google do the talking. If I am doing something wrong can you let me know how to access this feature.

I’d rather not have my phone out constantly making sure that I am following the right path. I have some friends coming in less than a week and if you can let me know I’d greatly appreciate it!

On a side note, an

You can’t get Google navigation for this route – but it’s not difficult to follow this route on the map.

If you need to have your GPS location on the route, you can export the map to KML and then upload that file to your maps.me app, then you will have the route on your phone with you current GPS location marked on it, so it’s easy to follow.

In general in Vietnam, Google navigation only works for the routes that Google takes you down, which are most often not the most scenic routes to ride.

Hi, i tried to download it into kml form.. And upload to maps. me but i still cant see any of the guided route shows in maps.Me Any suggestions?

Once you upload the KML file to Maps.me you should be able to see the route and icons on the map (not guided directions). If that does’t work, try googling something like: ‘how to export a google map to kml & upload it to (your device name)’

I’ve been looking for information for awhile now on renting/riding a bike from Hoi An to Hue, and am so happy to have found this article. It’s terrific information – thanks! I hope I didn’t overlook this, but wanted to ask what kind of scooter or bike is typically rented for this kind of ride? (Like 50cc, 125, etc.?) Is a basic automatic scooter enough to get up and down the Pass, or will I need something a little more powerful? I have a few months before my trip and I’d like to take some practice rides around home as much as I can to get used to driving a bike, but was curious about what kind I’ll likely be renting there.

Thanks again – I’m bookmarking your site now for future reference!

Yes, a standard automatic or semi-auto (usually around 125cc) is fine for this route. You can rent them from most places in Hoi An, Danang and Hue.

I hope you enjoy the ride,

Rode from Hoi An to a little ways beyond Lang Co. perfect weather and the scenery was excellent! I’d consider the ride around the Son Tra Peninsula as a must do part of the route. Also, the side trip from the top of the pass was a little intense for a while on a scooter. I have a lot of riding experience so I had no problems, but your average rider would probably not enjoy it. It was awesome though!

Thank you so much for maintaining this blog. It is a gem!

Great to hear you enjoyed the route. Yes, I agree, Son Tra is a lovely area, and the road condition on the side route from the top of the pass are challenging.

Lovely post and a very informative one at that. I’m planning a trip to Hoi An & Da Nang and the Hai Van Pass is definitely one that I don’t want to miss. However, although we know how to ride a motorcycle, we do not have any sort of motorcycle license. How strict are the laws in VN and will we likely get in trouble for renting a motorcycle just to travel around the Hai Van Pass from and back to Da Nang? Or would your advice be to stick to a driver and have someone drive us around (although the experience will be a whole lot different from riding a bike)?

Thanks in advance.

In general, you should be fine riding the Hai Van Pass without a local license: Although technically foreign riders are supposed to have a local license, in reality most don’t. However, check what the current situation is regarding licenses by contacting any of the reputable motorbike rental companies that I mention on this page – they should be able to help.

This route is fantastic, we followed it word for word from Hoi an up to hue and it worked perfectly.

Thanks so much for your effort in creating this.

For felllow riders, one option is to skip the last part where you go the long way round the lake as it’s mucj longer and quite samey. You can go straight up the highway to Hue in under an hour instead of two. (If you’re tired or pressed for time)

Thanks, it’s great to hear you enjoyed the ride. And, yes, it’ a much shorter ride if you take the highway to Hue, but I always prefer to avoid it when possible.

We are currently in Hoi An and have one full day left. Do you think it is possible to do Hoi An to the end of the Hai Van pass and back in a day comfortably with stops? Any help would be great!

Hi Tom, sorry, after reading all the posts I missed the one below which had my answer! haha! thanks!

Yes, you can ride from Hoi An to Lang Co (the end of the Hai Van Pass) and back in one day, but try to leave early to give yourself plenty of time to do it: the total distance is about 140km. Also, be careful on the roads tomorrow: because of Tet lots of people will be driving the Hai Van Pass and the celebratory mood sometimes leads to lots of careless driving.

I hope you enjoy it,

Hello! Great article! Thanks for the info! I’m planning on taking a motorbike along the route you suggested but I only have one day and I have to start and finish in Hoi An. Is it still worth it to go up to the pass and then return to the city? Thanks in advance for your help! Anja

Yes, you can ride from Hoi An up to the top of the pass (or all the way to the other side of the pass at Lang Co) and then turn around and come back to Hoi An in one day. It’s worth it if the weather is good.

Hi, I am planning to ride from Hue To Da Nang, the thing is that at 8PM i need to be in Da Nang Airport.

My question is if from Hue i can rent a motorbike and someone leave my backpack in the airport and also if i can leave the motorbike in the airport.

Hi Ricardo,

I think that is quite unlikely, but try contacting Flamingo Travel, Tigit Motorbikes, or Style Motorbikes to see if they can organize that for you.

Thanks Tom, One last question my friend which route is better, better views, we are two young couples and we like to explore. We are going to do it from Hue Option 1: The shortest one through the south Option 2: Largest one through the north.

Thanks again!

The larger route is more scenic.

Do you think it is feasible to take the journey through the Hai Van Pass from Hoi An to Hue within one day?

Thank you for the help,

Best regards

PS.:We had just finished the Northern Extreme Loop based on your informations, it was amazing experience.Your advices were great.

Yes, it is possible to ride from Hoi An to Hue via the Hai Van Pass in one day, but make sure you leave in the morning so that you have plenty of time to complete it.

I spend 2 hours to read your post. You give us many ideas to improve our services. Great article, Tom.

Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed reading it.

thank you for this great post. We are thinking of driving the Hai Van Pass but are not sure between which cities, due to time constraints we’ll probably have to choose. Which part is the most worthwile: Da Nang to Hue or Da Nang to Hoi An? I think the Pass itself is located between Da Nang and Hué only, is that correct?

Thank you in advance for your advice!

Yes, that’s right: the Hai Van Pass itself is just north of Danang, on the way to Hue. So that is the section you should ride if you have limited time.

Great post man. Can you please help me recommending a motorcycle company which could rent us an automatic bike in Hue Airport to head down straight to Hoi An. We intent to take a bike as soon as we leave the airport on the 23rd may morning and head to hoi an to arrive the same day. It would be great if as you say they could also deliver our bags to our Hoi An hotel. Do you have any idea how much it would cost?

Thanks in advance for your help

Try contacting Rent a Bike Vietnam and Tigit Motorbikes, they should be able to help. There are links to both of them in the right sidebar and bottom of all my pages. You can mention Vietnam Coracle if you like, they know me.

Hi Tom Really enjoying your blog – it’s very useful in planning my first trip to Vietnam. I’d like to do a day trip from Hoi An and go along the Hai Van Pass. Is this possible by car? I intend to hire a car and driver. Am mindful that cars go through the tunnel – are they not allowed on the pass itself? Would be very grateful for your input!

Thanks, Fatima

Yes, cars can go over the Hai Van Pass too. I’m sure you can easily arrange a car and driver to take you from Hoi An 🙂

Thanks Tom!

It was a pleasure to read your blog. A friend of mine and I are going to stay in Hoi An from 20.11-24.11. We want to spend two whole days on motorbiking. It would be so great if you could recommend us something that could be combined with the pass.

One more thing. We are both experienced bikers and want to rent a bike >150cc. Again, could you recommend something, either in Danang or Hoi An?

Best regards and thank you, Valentin

Hi Valentin,

For rental, try Rent a Bike Vietnam and Tigit Motorbikes, they both have offices in Danang and they are both good. You will find a link to both of them in the right sidebar and bottom of this page. You can mention Vietnam Coracle if you like, they know me.

You could easily spend 2 days riding the Hai Van Pass from Hoi An to Hue and back again, or stop overnight by the beach near Lang Co or go up to Bach Ma National Park. Or you could extend your route to include the Golden Loop .

Thanks for the prompt reply!

The golden loop sounds fantastic!

BR, Valentin

Hi Mr Tom, i read your website many time. Its very signification for me and everybody. Can i have the pictures in this post (‘CHINESE WINDS’ BRING BAD WEATHER NORTH OF THE PASS), i ride from Hue to Da Nang many time. The view so amazing. I like riding motorbike, too. Thank in advance !!!

Thanks, I’m glad you like my website.

You can use the picture as long as you say that it is originally from Vietnam Coracle.

yes, i will do that. Best Regards !!! Mr Tuan

the most guide that I’ve read. Did you ride from hue to Hoi An via 14B via A Luoi – Prao – My Son – Hoi An, Tom?

Thanks, Tan.

Yes, I’ve ridden 14B – I’ve written a guide to it here . It’s a great road.

I am in Dalat right now and I was wondering what route you would recommend to go to Hoi An? I don’t want to take too many days and I am wondering what would be the best places to stay. I feel like Nha Trang is to close but I don’t know how to divide the road..

Thank you in advance 🙂

The road to Nha Trang is very beautiful so it usually takes a few hours to get there. If you want to push on further from Nha Trang, you could continue up to Hon Gom Sandbar , Dai Lanh Beach or Vung Ro Bay (please read any comments at the bottom of these guides, because they may contain useful updates). After that, Quy Nhon and the beaches to the south and north of it is great. Quy Nhon City is a good place to spend the night or you can stay at Life’s a Beach or Haven which are both just south of the city.

You can ride from Quy Nhon to Hoi An in a day if you like on Highway 1. Or you can take it slower by taking the much more scenic coastal back-roads instead. Have a look at the relevant section of my Beach Bum route map to see the roads I’m referring to.

I’m in Hoi An now, want to go via Hai Van pass to Hue but can’t drive a motorcycle dammit, OK with riding pillion. Suffer from major bikerider envy! O the freedom! Top Gear video made it worse. Any suggestions on good way to get to Hue, solo traveller, 66 y.o. woman? By the way your advice on Saigon food was very helpful…and in Hoi An saw coracles in action today first time. Coracle, Oracle, you’ve been my fave guide in Vietnam these past couple weeks. Thanks!

Hi Elizabeth,

You could try contacting Hoi An Motorbike Adventures – they might have someone who you can ride pillion with over to Hue. Also, try to find the Easy Riders in Hoi An and just pay one of them to ride you over the pass to Hue.

I hope you work it out,

Ahh, now I see you said this: “The journey between the Hoi An/Danang and Hue via the Hai Van Pass is 100-160km depending on which route you choose to take. Driving time is approximately 3-5 hours, but allow at least another 3 hours for soaking up the scenery, stopping for seafood along the coast, coffee at the top of the pass, and for any unforeseen circumstances, such as bad weather and flat tyres.”

So maybe from Danang to Hue it will be around 130km and around 4 hours? And I see you don’t have a post on Hue! Maybe it’s not that exciting?

Yes, the scenic route between Danang and Hue would probably take you around 4 hours. But, really, it depends entirely on you: how good the weather is, how many stops you make for food and photos etc.

And yes, Hue is definitely worth at least a night. Great local food, lots of history, a good riverfront location, and friendly people.

I asked you for advice about Mu Cang Chai and you’re always so spot on, so I thought I’d check your blog for tips about this drive- and again you have a lot of great info!

Maybe I need to read through the post more slowly again since all the names of places are becoming a blur for me, lol– but you could tell me if you think that it’s a good day plan to leave early from Danang and go to Hue and check out Hue for a bit and then drive back to Danang, the same day…? Roughly how many hours drive each way you think it takes?

And then do you think it’s worth it to drive to Hoi An too, when we go there another day, or if we do the big drive to Hue is that enough and should we just taxi to Hoi An?

Love your advice, Thank you!!

I would definitely spend a night in Hue after riding there from Danang. You could do it there and back in a day if you really wanted to – but it would be a lot of driving and you would have to take the shorter route which is all on Highway 1, which would be a shame.

If you do take the shorter route (all on Highway 1) then it would take about 3 hours in one direction). Personally, I would take the longer route (along the Thuan An Peninsular) and just spend a night in Hue before heading back to Danang.

And, yes, the short ride from Danang to Hoi An is nice, easy and worth staying on the bikes for.

Please bear in mind that this guide to the Hai Van Pass is due an update – so if you have anything to add after your journey please do let me know.

Also, if you’re in that area and keen on motorbiking for a few days, check out my Golden Loop guide too.

Tom~ thanks so much, really! We are planning our trip there right now~~ but I’ll also update here after we do it 🙂

Now, our idea is to leave from our spot here in Danang early tomorrow morning to drive the long way to Hue (what was your guess for how many hours the longer route along the Thuan An Peninsular takes, sorry?! I know you said 3 hours for the Highway 1 route, but of course we want the view route!). And then we are thinking to check out Hue for a bit during the day (is this actually an interesting place to see and stay for a night in your book btw?), and then we will either drive back to Danang the following morning- or, if we are feeling like 1 drive was enough, we may put our motorbikes on the train and take the train back to Danang! I saw that you suggested the train as an option, so I called and found out that only the 6:40am train will allow passengers to tow bikes along, and you need to be there 45 mins early to fill out the paper to get your bike on. Maybe that info will help someone else 🙂 Will let you know how it goes!

Cheers~~ Kellie

Hey~ Just wanted to say that the drive was great! Loved the Hai Van Pass part of the drive 🙂 so glad I got the idea to do that from you! It was cool to drive past Lang Co as well. I kind of wish that we would have had more time in the day to stop and swim in the spots you mentioned, and take our drive more slowly– but we had to get to Hue, eat and get ready to get right back out to see some of the cultural spots there- and we hardly had time for that since places closed at 5:30! Guess we should have got an earlier start! We even had to take the Highway 1 route and it still took us at least 3-ish hours with a couple stops for photos/water. Even though we live and drive in HCMC, we’re not really used to longer drives sitting on the motorbike- so this trip was a good amount for us for 1 day. The Highway wasn’t too filled with cars as I was worried it would be either. But driving back to Danang in the same day would have been a little ridiculous haha. We were really happy with our decision to put the bikes on the train in the morning and ride back comfortably on the sleeper beds from Hue to Danang. Thanks again for your advice~~ Talk to you on the next trip 😉

Great to hear that you enjoyed the trip and that you managed to pack everything into the time you had 🙂

If you want to try a different kind of road trip back in Saigon, check out my new Midnight Motorbike Loop – it’s great fun for a night out 🙂

@Tom@VietnamCoracle great website. ive been reading for a year now. i did a 10-day northern loop last year. loved the karst formations, especially ma pi leng.

i really want to do a coastal trip. -which area do you recommend for about 7 days please? less traffic, great views of the sea and hills/mountains, + some beaches. could it be hai van Pass? thanks!

Yes, the Hai Van Pass is good – you could ride it as part of the Golden Loop which gives you some more beach roads and great mountains too.

However, another excellent stretch of coast road is the new coastal route between Nha Trang and Vung Tau. The roads are in excellent condition and the beaches are superb: check out this route map . This road trip takes in the Nui Chua Coast Road , the Mui Dinh Coast Road , and the Sand Dune Highway .

For more coast routes check out my Coastal Motorbike Guides Archive .

Awesome. Very useful post. I’m planning to ride it in a week or so and I couldn’t find much “data point” information about it. Thanks for the time to described it with details. Respect.

All the best!

Hi Marcela,

Thanks. I hope you enjoy your trip!

Great post, beautiful pictures! I did it last month, and now I want to recommend it to my friends but am too lazy to write about it and here I found your post! I appreciate you taking time detailing the motorbike route in Google maps, thank you!

One more thing: If you time it right, on the way back to Da Nang, passing Hai Van Pass during sunset, is an amazing experience. I also found that from one of those cafes where you can park your bike, you can descend and hike to the beach beneath Hai Van Pass. Once getting there you are alone, in a different, (almost) isolated world…

Thanks, David. Hiking to the beach sounds great. I’d like to try that next time I’m riding over the Hai Van Pass 🙂 Tom

The hike down to the beach is grueling but incredibly rewarding. About an hour straight down (and then back up) the mountain. Just before the shops at the top of the pass (if coming from Hue) there is a road that branches off. Follow that down until you see a building on your right, and just past that is a dirt path on your left that takes you down to the beach. Bring a snorkel, there’s lots of coral, anenome, and tropical fish just offshore.

Thanks for the info – definitely sounds like a worthwhile hike, especially if there’s good snorkeling at the beach!

Great post! We’re driving from hoi an to hue but have no time for a night in the places you recommend which is a shame. Other than at the gate, are there any other places that you’d reccomend as good places to stop and take in the views?

The are plenty of great viewing points on the Hai Van Pass – you’ll know them when you see them 🙂 Fortunately, traffic is light on the pass so stopping by the side of the road to take in the views is not a problem. A particularly good viewing point is just before you drop down to the bridge on the north side of the pass. This is the spot where the Top Gear presenters stopped and stood in awe (as you’ll see in the video clip in this guide).

I hope you enjoy the ride – everyone does 🙂

This blog is fantastic!! My boyfriend and I plan to ride the Hai Van Pass but are trying to figure out the best way to plan as we fly into Danang but want to ultimately end up in Hoi An. Is it difficult renting motorbikes for one-way trips (Danang to Hue)? Thank you!

Hi Jessica,

I think you should be able to do that, yes. Although I don’t know a specific rental company in that area, try contacting Flamingo Travel as they might be able to assist you or a least point you in the direction of another rental agency.

Failing that, the distance between Danang and Hue is not too far, and it’s a great ride, so you might want to ride in both directions anyway – it’s a fabulous trip, especially taking the Thuan An back-road so that you don’t have to be on Highway 1 too much.

Have a great trip,

as always great photos and detailed narrative.thank you.

Thank you, John.

Thanks to you, I love my country, my home town more and more. I am such a fool not to realize how wonderful my country is. Thanks again.

Hi there, You’ve done a great job. I’ll definitely digg it and for my part suggest to my friends. I’m sure they will be benefited from this site.

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Tips For Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tours

Bring absorbent material: This is vital during the misty weather where you must frequently wipe droplets on your glasses.
Watch the mirrors: motorbikes come with no mist lights, making it hard for others to recognize you easily. Don’t risk riding too fast.
Make an early signal: No sudden swerving movement is recommended if you don’t want to risk surrounding riders’ and your safety.
Use the road markings: Always stay on the right-hand side to keep yourself away from other straying traffic and dangerous dops and culverts.
Slow down: Safety is always of utmost importance. In Hai Van pass, your visibility is especially limited due to the misty condition. Therefore, remember to stop within the limit of visibility.
Turn the lights on: This way, you can follow the lane more easily and allow others to recognize you.

Driving the Hai Van Pass – A scenic Route from Da Nang to Hue

by Charlotte Walton | Asia , Vietnam

I had to start my Vietnam series of blog posts with this one; Driving the Hai Van Pass – because it was our absolute favourite day in Vietnam.

We had spoken to a couple of friends and they had mentioned driving along the Hai Van Pass to us. In my mind, I had pictured an extremely busy highway and I was terrified at the thought of it. Little did I know, it was the exact opposite of what I was expecting.

Luckily for us, T loves his motorbikes, scooters, etc. so driving along this road was one of his ‘Top 5’, meaning we had to do it.

The Hai Van Pass and Its History

The Hai Van Pass is a 165km windy, scenic route on the East Coast of Vietnam, connecting Da Nang city to Hue.

In the past, the Hai Van Pass was used as the main road between the two, but in 2005 they built a new highway. This scenic route is now a long, mountain road with barely any traffic. It is the perfect attraction for motorbike lovers.

This pass was used as a strategic military post in the past, during times of war and you can still visit the ruins to date. There are many bullet holes still present in the walls of these old buildings, and it is a popular destination among tourists. It is free to park up and enter, just avoid parking where all the locals stand selling their produce.

TIP! The Locals have started a new trend that says you can park at their shop, if you buy something from it – genius! Drive a little further past the shops and park up on the roadside. Unless of course you’re thirsty, then you’ve got yourself a good deal with the locals! Priority parking right outside, and that can of coke that you wanted anyway 😉

The Hai Van Pass was also known as a political and geographical boundary between the ancient kingdoms, many who fought for ownership of the pass. Now, it is used by over-sized trucks and two-wheeled vehicles, that aren’t allowed to use the new highway, to get between the big cities.

Driving the Hai Van Pass

There are a number of ways to do this. If you are in Da Nang (or Hue) and are travelling up (or down) the country, then the Hai Van Pass can be a great way to get from one to the other.

Obviously, you’re thinking… What am I supposed to do with my luggage if I’m driving a scooter 165km?

There’s no way you want to take this on your back with you. The scooters/bikes are uncomfortable enough without you then having 15+kg on your back the entire time. Luckily, the locals came up with a great little service that solves this problem.

You are able to do two things that make this experience way more pleasant:

You can actually pay someone to take your luggage for you. This usually means putting it on a bus full of people already heading to your final destination, meaning it isn’t expensive either. Or, the company where you hire your scooter may offer this service to you as part of a package.
Hire a scooter/motorbike at one end and leave it at the other

How annoying would it be to have to go all the way back to collect your belongings, or simply return the bike? Luckily, you don’t have to.

Ask around once you are there and make sure you get the best deal 🙂

Another Way to Drive the Hai Van Pass

If you aren’t a confident driver, and are not travelling with anyone who is, don’t let this put you off. The Hai Van Pass is seriously stunning and is a ‘must-do’ while you are in Vietnam. There are tour companies who drive tourists in a jeep along the scenic route, picking you up at one end and dropping you off at the other. This means you don’t have to miss out, and can still witness the beauty of this historical place.

TIP! Wait until you are in Vietnam to book a tour. Booking online will be more expensive, as most locals are open to negotiations! Don’t worry about not getting onto a tour, there are 100’s of companies offering these services.

How to Get to the Hai Van Pass

The two closest cities to the Hai Van Pass are Hue, and Da Nang.

Starting in Da Nang

From Da Nang, it takes approximately one hour to reach the start of the scenic drive.

Head towards Durong Nguyen Tat Thanh road, which runs along the beach front. Follow this road all the way until it ends. It brings you to what looks like a dead end, but continue around the corner on your left and you’ll reach a new junction. On the left hand side of the road is a petrol station. If you need to re-fuel then I suggest you do so here. This is one of two petrol stations before starting the Hai Van Pass.

Take a right at the junction onto QL1A road (Nguyen Lurong Bang) and drive across the river Song Cu De. Continue straight up Nguyen Van Cu. From here it is a direct road to the start of the Hai Van! 🙂

The roads are fairy simple to drive, with only one busy highway on the way.

TIP! Scooters are only allowed in the right-hand and middle lanes. Do not use the outside left lane to take-over as you will be heavily fined! (and shouted at by a lot of angry locals!)

Starting in Hue

From Hue take the QL49 road heading East. You will reach a junction called Thon Vinh Ve, with the county Government office to your right.

At this junction, take a left keeping on the QL49. Continue straight until you notice a Middle School on your left hand side (Trurong THCS Phi Thurong). After reaching this school, take the following right. Stay on this road until you reach Nguyen Sinh Cung road, where you again need to turn right. Follow this road, along the Song Pho Loi river all the way up to the starting point of the Hai Van Pass.

TIP! If you get lost at any point, look for roads QL49 and QL49B.

Spend a Day on the Road

T and I were staying in Da Nang, and were flying from there up to Hanoi to explore the north of Vietnam. We didn’t have enough time to take the buses up to Hanoi as we only had 3 weeks in total. This meant that we had no reason to go up to Hue just to come all the way back down.

What we decided to do, was drive from Da Nang, along the Hai Van Pass for approximately an hour. We stopped in a fishing village to have lunch and then drove back to Da Nang.

We spent a total of 2 hours driving along this incredible spot. Along the way, we saw beaches, a couple getting married, and found a waterfall on the side of the road that we decided to climb up. Although we didn’t complete it one end to the other, we definitely made the most of our experience.

Again, if you are not a confident driver, there are tour companies that offer half-day trips from Da Nang, picking you up from your hotel and dropping you back again. You do not have to drive from one end to the other to witness this amazing road. Driving on only half of it it satisfying enough. Plus, most of the attractions are towards Da Nang anyway!

All of the above options are within a great price range and won’t exceed your budget. The cheapest way is to do what we did, and hire a scooter for the day, returning it to the same shop. We spent a total of $8 AUD each to hire the scooter and fuel it with the petrol we needed. If you decide to go with a tour company it will be more expensive but you can definitely get one for a fair price 🙂

Why You Should Drive the Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass is a scenic route winding through the mountainside on the East Coast of Vietnam. The direct translation means ‘Ocean Cloud Pass’ and during the wet season you can see why. Thick fog covers the pass entirely.

Driving along the pass you feel such excitement and adrenaline. The windy roads can be at times dangerous, but mostly exhilarating. You are free to drive, without much traffic to stop you in your way. You begin to climb into the mountains, and you can feel the air becoming colder – more moist. The road is the perfect representation of a gigantic formula 1 track. It is so fun to drive and an all-round great experience.

Along the way, there are stunning beaches, incredible mountain tops, waterfalls and small fishing villages. There is something about driving through this place that is so wonderful.

I would highly recommend you drive along this incredible stretch of road. Whether you hire a scooter, a motorbike or take a jeep tour, make sure you do it.

If you need any more inspiration, check out this fantastic video clip from back in 2009, when Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May took on the Hai Van Pass in a famous Top Gear series! 🙂 They describe the Hai Van Pass as a ‘deserted ribbon of perfection – one of the best coastal roads in the world’

Thanks so for the info. It’s really helpful. I’ll be leaving soon to Hanoi and will be applying your tips. Do you recommend bringing a pricey dslr as a solo traveler?

Hai Van Pass Bike Tour 1D

Embark on a thrilling adventure with our Hai Van Pass Bike Tour! Discover hidden gems as you bike through fishing villages, take in stunning coastal views, conquer Hai Van Pass, savor the beauty of Lap An Lagoon, and indulge in local cuisine by Lang Co beach.

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8:30 AM: Our local team will come to pick you up from your hotel in Da Nang.

We’ll then head over to the starting point by Da Nang beach, where our adventure begins.

We’ll kick off with a bike ride of approximately 6-7km, taking us along backroads, the coastline, and through charming fishing villages. Along the way, you’ll be treated to captivating views of local rivers, quaint beaches, and the surrounding mountains.

Next up, we’ll tackle a 10km uphill journey on Hai Van Pass, ascending to a height of roughly 500m above sea level. Once we’ve conquered the climb, we’ll take a well-deserved break at a local café perched at the summit. From here, you can soak in the awe-inspiring sights of lush jungles, majestic mountains, drifting clouds, and the vast expanse of the sea.

As we continue our adventure, get ready for an exhilarating downhill ride that leads us to Lang Co beach. We’ll pedal along for about 10km, tracing the scenic path beside Lap An Lagoon, and then another 5km to traverse the charming town.

It’s time to refuel – we’ll pause for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant right by the pristine shores of Lang Co.

After lunch, a change of pace awaits. We’ll hop onto a public bus that will conveniently transport us to the other end of the Hai Van Tunnel.

With our exciting journey coming to a close, we’ll provide transportation back to your hotel, where we bid farewell to a day filled with exploration and adventure.

Da Nang bike tour

Vietnam Cycling is a local bike tour operator housing an experienced team of biking guide, bike mechanic, cycling tour consultant and bicycle specialists. We can create a unique, custom-designed independent itinerary that is fully adapted to your needs, whether you are traveling solo, with family and friends, or as a group.

The Hai Van Pass Bike Tour is only a sample that can be re-designed to better fit your needs and/or budget. Please click here to let us know what you are interested in adding or excluding to customize a selected itinerary or to design a completely new program just for you.

Additional Information

Availability.

Tours and services may not be available on public holidays, or may be available at an additional surcharge.

Pick-up location

Most of our trips begin from our bike garage (both private and group tours), so transportation from your hotel to our bike shop (or v.v) is not included in the quote. We can arrange the service (with extra charge), and reservation needs to be made in advance.

Occasionally our tour itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travelers’ comments and our own research. The information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the service proposal. It’s very important that you print and review a final copy of your itinerary prior to travel. If you have any queries, please contact us .

Please note that while we operate successful cycling holidays in Vietnam throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary from time to time.

Negotiating prices is a common practice in Vietnam, particularly in open-air markets, street shops, and rural areas. However, we are not good at bargaining and do not prefer this practice. Instead, we focus our time and efforts on tour arrangements, and our prices are fixed.

Depending on the type of the bicycle tour as well as the proposed option, the following services may be included in the trip price.

English-speaking guide.
Transportation.
Sightseeing entrance fees.
Some snacks and bottled water provided while cycling.

Please bear in mind Vietnam Cycling specializes in tailor-made trips, so the price varies depending on the size of your group, date of tour as well as other details. Please contact us for more details.

Unless required most of the following services are not included in the tour price.

Flight/Train tickets.
Accommodation.
Bicycle rental (option).
Bike mechanic (option).
Meals (option).
Travel insurance (required).
Personal expenses.

Visitors are required to have a valid visa to Vietnam . A one month tourist visa is usually sufficient for most visitors, though it is possible to arrange three months or six month – multiple entry visa for regular visitors.

The official national currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), but the US dollar is widely accepted in Vietnam. However, small towns and the villages the VND is preferred, ATM are available in all major cities and towns, tourist destinations, Vietcombank, Agriculture banks are the two largest networks with a limit a single withdraw limit. Most major currencies can be exchanged in Vietnam, but the USD is the most preferred. The exchange rate 1 USD = 23,280 VND. Please visit local bank’s website for updated information.

Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate. Broadly speaking, the weather in Vietnam is dictated by two seasons – the southwest monsoon from April to September and the Northeast monsoon from October to late march or early April.

Due to regional climate differences, there are no right or wrong seasons to visit Vietnam. The north Vietnam is cool, damp in winters between November and December and February with temperature in Hanoi falling to around 15oC. The summer months from April to October are hot and dry. The best time visit Vietnam is spring (February – April) or Autumn (late September – December) when it is not so humid. The weather turns quite cold and wet in January and this continues to march. The humidity can prove oppressive from May to the early September.

Wearing a helmet is compulsory on all our biking adventures. Our tour guide often carry first aid kit while riding. Please follow your guide while biking, and much attention is required while you cross streets.

Difficulty levels

To assist you visualize how our bike trip is difficult, we have graded our Vietnam cycling tours into three categories, easy, moderate, and challenging. We group many factors into consideration into this grading, including distant covered, terrain, altitude, and vehicle support.

Involves cycling for up to two to three hours a day at easy pace and usually, less than 3 days in duration. The cycling distances is around 15 – 30 km per day. There are likely to be no steep and sustained descents as well as demand for technical riding. We will normally ride on flat roads. Suitable for bikers who enjoy occasional weekend riding on trails at home. Push bikes are sometimes used for these itineraries.

Involves biking for up to six hours a day at a steady pace and are usually between three to five days in duration. The cycling distance is about 35 – 55 km per day. Sometimes it can be long flat rides or medium ride with few up and downhill climbs. The support vehicle will not always be available. We will need a good level of fitness. We use either mountain bikes or road bikes for these itineraries.

Challenging

Involves biking in mountainous areas with big climbs for up to seven or eight hours a day and usually more than a week in duration. Cycling distance is about 60 – 80 km per day. There will be steep and sustained ascents and descents. The support vehicle will not always be available. These trips will provide a real sustained workout even for fit and experienced mountain bikers.

Accommodation

When cycling we mostly stay in small hotel, guesthouse or homestay. Some are more basic than others! Bear in mind that some of the places we overnight in are not on the standard tourist trail. In larger cities and towns, our hotels are generally more western style and are three or four star hotels (price option).

Camping is not available on cycling tours in Vietnam unless it is required and this should be booked months in advance. Camping is only available in a limited number of places such as Cat Ba island beach, Cuc Phuong national park…Please see the details on the quote.

Most of our tour guides speak English. Some other speak French. Few speak other language such as German, Russian, Spanish. All our guides have great knowledge of history, local culture, and religions of the area where you are cycling. Our guides have been trained in this field and is fully licensed in tour guiding.

Bike mechanic

We arrange a bike mechanic only for large groups or when it is required (with surcharge). When there is no mechanic, our guide will take care of problem which may occur during the bike ride.

Transportation

Depending on the nature of the tour, our cycle journeys will be accompanied by an air-conditioned car/minibus cover the larger overland sections. We often use mini bus or bus for transfer and back up (guided tours).

1 – 2 travelers: we use minivan to support and carry bikes. Sometimes we use a car for passengers and a truck for transport of the bikes.
3 – 6 people: we use one minivan for passengers and one truck for the bikes.
7 – 12 people: we use one bus (coach) for passengers and one truck for the bikes.

We provide bike rental and truck for self-guided bike tours.

We sometimes use local push-bikes (single-speed bicycles) where possible or when it is required. In this case, our cars will be arranged as follows.

1 – 2 passengers (with a tour guide): 4 seat car.
3 – 6 passengers (with a tour guide): 15/16 seat minivan.
7 – 12 passengers (with a tour guide): 29 seat coach/bus.

Bikes repairs

Basic spares and tools kit are generally carried by our guide or bike mechanic or on the support vehicle, although we can not guarantee having spares for every conceivable problem.

Food and drinks

All the meals which, are mentioned in itinerary (B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner), are included in the tour price. Most of meals are Vietnamese local food. Vegetarians are certainly welcome and are always accommodated, please let us know of any dietary concerns at time of booking. Beverage and alcoholic drinks are not included at mealtime or in restaurants.

Snacks and water

When we transfer, ride by minibus (no cycling day), our bottled waters are always available for you in the car/van. When we have cycling days, we will offer cold water (summer) plus fresh tropical fruits, soft drinks are also available in the car/van. Please take a look at the “Inclusions” section on our our service proposal to see whether the service is included in the price. Please note drinks are not included at mealtime or in restaurant.

Comfortable lightweight clothing in natural fabrics such as cotton is most suitable for traveling in Vietnam. The dress code is fairly casual as in most parts of the tropics but it is advisable to cover arms and legs in the evenings against biting insects. A lightweight raincoat is a good idea in the rainy season. During the winter months warm clothing is needed for visiting the north of Vietnam. Visitors should not wear shorts, short skirts or other skimpy clothing when visiting religious buildings such as pagoda, temple and shoes should be removed before entering a private home.

What you take will naturally depend upon where you are traveling and the style of journey you are undertaking, and it can often be difficult to decide what to pack. Nevertheless, the following should act as a useful checklist of essential items worth thinking about taking.

2 pairs of riding shorts
2 riding jerseys (quick-dry)
2 pairs of quick dry socks for cycling
Comfortable shoes for biking and walking
Riding gloves
2-3 t-shirts or casual shirts
Trousers or jeans
1-2 pairs of casual socks for non-cycling activities
3-5 sets of underwear (quick-dry)
Cool-weather jacket or rain jacket
Extra layers and gloves for cooler season or climate (thin, thermal, water-wicking)
Bathing suit
Tooth brush and tooth paste
Hand sanitizer

Miscellaneous

Passport, wallet and ID
Health insurance card
Travel insurance card
Cash and/or credit cards
Camera (with spare battery)
Plastic bags (for dirty laundry, wet clothes)
Electronic chargers (for camera, e-reader, cell phone)
Adaptors or convertors

Tipping for good services is always appreciated. It is customary, though not compulsory, to tip tour guides and drivers at the end of the tour. Hotels and station porters should also be tipped a small amount for.

We recommend about 4-6 USD/traveler/day for the tour guide, about 2-3 USD/traveler/day for the driver (or the mechanic). Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality, the length and the difficulty of your trip.

Prior to our tours, we contact and work with local community leaders to make sure we are welcome and in a manner that minimizes negative social and cultural impacts. We visit local development and community projects specific to the region, encouraging customers to donate and assist such a projects in appropriate and sustainable manner.

Where make sure that where and whenever possible our tours positively benefit the local community. We stayed at locally owned accommodation and visit cottage industries for local handicraft souvenir, generating income for local business. We often employ, hire support team such as local guide, motor-taxi drivers, cook assistants on all trips to ensure that the local community benefit not only short term but with increased employment opportunities for the future.

Need further information? Check our FAQ page here or contact us .

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A Complete Guide To The Hai Van Pass: Route, Rental & Motorbike Tours

What is The Hai Van Pass?

The History of the Hai Van Pass

Emperor Minh Mang’s Brick Gate

Best Time To Visit The Hai Van Pass

Riding Solo ‒ What You Need to Know

Renting a Motorbike

Hai Van Pass Route

The Best Viewing Stops on the Hai Van Pass

The Old French Bunker

Food and Drinks

Optional Extras

Off the Beaten Track

Son Tra Peninsula

Lang Co Beach

Elephant Springs (Suoi Voi)

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The Other Side of the Pass

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Hidden’s Thoughts

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