Hiking in Da Nang and Hoi An: Discover Nature’s Beauty in Central Vietnam

The cities of Da Nang and Hoi An are not only famous for their beaches, culture, and historical sites but also for their breathtaking natural landscapes. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding mountains, hills, and national parks offer some of the best hiking experiences in Vietnam. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll with scenic views or a challenging trek through lush jungles, the region has a variety of hiking options that will allow you to explore its rich biodiversity and stunning vistas. Here’s a guide to some of the best hiking spots in Da Nang and Hoi An.

Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)

Located just a short drive from the heart of Da Nang, the Son Tra Peninsula—often referred to as Monkey Mountain—is a natural treasure for hikers. The peninsula boasts a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs, all offering panoramic views of Da Nang Bay and the East Sea.

Highlights

• Linh Ung Pagoda: This pagoda, located on the peninsula, features a 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue and offers a serene starting point for your hike. You can explore the grounds and then head further into the hills.
• Radar Station and Ban Co Peak: One of the most popular hikes is the trail leading to Ban Co Peak, the highest point on the peninsula at 693 meters. The trail winds through thick jungle, and once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Da Nang, its beaches, and the surrounding mountains. On the way, you’ll pass the historic U.S. military radar station from the Vietnam War era.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for the endangered red-shanked douc langur, a species of primate native to the area. The Son Tra Peninsula is one of the few places where these monkeys can be found in the wild.

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, depending on the trail.

Duration: 2-5 hours, depending on the route.

Marble Mountains

While the Marble Mountains are primarily known for their historical and cultural significance, they also offer excellent hiking opportunities. Located just south of Da Nang, these five limestone and marble hills are named after the five elements—metal, water, wood, fire, and earth—and offer a mix of hiking, caving, and temple exploration.

Highlights

• Thuy Son Mountain: The largest of the Marble Mountains, Thuy Son is the most popular for hikers. A stone staircase leads up the mountain, and along the way, you can visit several pagodas, caves, and Buddhist shrines. The hike culminates at the summit, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside.
• Huyen Khong Cave: One of the most beautiful caves in the Marble Mountains, Huyen Khong is filled with atmospheric light and is home to a large Buddha statue carved into the rock.
• Easy Accessibility: This hike is perfect for those who prefer shorter, less strenuous trails while still wanting to experience stunning views and ancient temples.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with some steep staircases.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Ba Na Hills

Famous for its Golden Bridge, Ba Na Hills is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a great place for hiking. Located about 30 kilometers from Da Nang, Ba Na Hills offers a cooler climate and lush, forested trails. While many visitors take the cable car to the top, adventurous hikers can opt for the more traditional route and explore the scenic trails on foot.

Highlights

• Golden Bridge: The iconic Golden Bridge, supported by giant stone hands, offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. While most visitors take the cable car to the bridge, hikers can enjoy the surrounding area and nearby trails before heading to this architectural marvel.
• Trekking Through the Forest: The trails leading up to Ba Na Hills take you through dense forests filled with wildlife and tropical plants. The higher you climb, the cooler the temperature becomes, making it a refreshing escape from the heat of Da Nang.
• French Village: At the top of Ba Na Hills, you’ll find a quirky recreation of a French medieval village, complete with cobblestone streets and European-style architecture. After a long hike, you can relax here, enjoy the views, and even grab a meal.

Difficulty: Moderate, with a mix of steep and gradual climbs.

Duration: 3-5 hours.

Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass is one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world, and while it’s famous as a motorbike route, it’s also a fantastic destination for hikers who want to experience both mountains and sea. The pass straddles the border between Da Nang and Hue, offering stunning views of the coastline, jungle-covered mountains, and the distant city skyline.

Highlights

• Stunning Coastal Views: The hiking trail along the Hai Van Pass offers sweeping views of the coastline and the East Sea. On a clear day, you can see as far as Lang Co Bay and the surrounding mountains.
• Historical Sites: Along the way, you’ll pass several historical remnants, including old French and American bunkers from wartime periods. These sites add an interesting historical element to the hike.
• Trekking Routes: While the Hai Van Pass is typically explored via motorbike, several trekking routes start at the base of the pass and wind through the hills. You can hike a portion of the road or follow jungle trails for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

Difficulty: Moderate, with steep sections.

Duration: 4-6 hours, depending on the trail.

Cham Islands

For a unique hiking experience near Hoi An, the Cham Islands offer an island escape combined with the beauty of Vietnam’s natural landscape. Located about 18 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An, this group of islands is part of the Cu Lao Cham Marine Park and is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and forested hills.

Highlights

• Hon Lao Island: The main island, Hon Lao, has several hiking trails that take you through dense forests and along rugged coastal cliffs. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging routes that lead to the island’s highest peaks.
• Explore the Jungle: Hiking on the Cham Islands allows you to explore tropical forests, discover hidden beaches, and enjoy sweeping views of the ocean. The islands are also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
• Combine Hiking and Snorkeling: After a morning hike, you can spend the afternoon snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters around the islands, making this an ideal day trip for nature lovers.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Duration: 2-4 hours for hiking, plus additional time for water activities.

Bach Ma National Park

Located between Da Nang and Hue, Bach Ma National Park is one of Vietnam’s most biodiverse areas and offers some of the best hiking in the region. The park is home to dense tropical forests, waterfalls, and an array of wildlife, including rare birds and mammals. For nature enthusiasts, this park is a must-visit.

Highlights

• The Five Lakes Trail: One of the most popular hikes in the park, this trail takes you to five stunning lakes, where you can swim and cool off in the refreshing waters. The trail also passes several waterfalls, adding to the scenic beauty.
• Do Quyen Waterfall: For a more challenging hike, the trail to Do Quyen Waterfall offers spectacular views of the 300-meter-tall cascade. The hike involves a steep descent but is well worth the effort for the incredible photo opportunities at the bottom.
• Wildlife Spotting: Bach Ma is known for its biodiversity, so keep your eyes peeled for birds, butterflies, and even small mammals as you hike through the jungle.

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, depending on the trail.

Duration: 4-6 hours for the main trails.

Tra Que Village (Hoi An)

For those looking for a more relaxing hiking experience, Tra Que Village, located just outside of Hoi An, offers peaceful walking trails through lush vegetable gardens. This village is famous for its organic farming practices, and a walk through the fields allows you to see how local farmers cultivate herbs and vegetables used in traditional Vietnamese cooking.

Highlights

• Walking Through the Gardens: The village is surrounded by green fields, and walking through the gardens offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Hoi An’s Old Town.
• Learn About Farming: Many tours include a hands-on farming experience, where you can learn how to plant, water, and harvest vegetables using traditional techniques.
• Combine with a Cooking Class: Many visitors choose to combine a walk through Tra Que Village with a Vietnamese cooking class, making for a fun and educational day.

Difficulty: Easy.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Conclusion

Da Nang and Hoi An offer some good hiking opportunities in Central Vietnam, from mountain treks with sweeping ocean views to serene walks through vegetable gardens. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenge or someone seeking a more leisurely outdoor experience, these two cities have something for everyone. With stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the chance to explore both coastal and jungle trails, hiking in Da Nang and Hoi An is a rewarding way to connect with Vietnam’s natural beauty.