Hoian: Hai Van Pass & Monkey Mountain Motorbike Tour

If you’re after a day filled with stunning scenery, a bit of adventure, and a taste of Vietnam’s history, this motorbike tour from Hoi An might be just what you need. For $160 per person, you’ll hop on a motorcycle with experienced guides and spend the day weaving through central Vietnam’s most iconic sights: the Hai Van Pass, Monkey Mountain, the Hill 55 Sniper Training School, and the Lang Co Lagoon. Along the way, a local lunch in Danang provides a break—and a chance to sample some authentic cuisine.

What we truly appreciate about this experience are the spectacular views and the insider access to wartime sites. The ride over the Hai Van Pass offers sweeping coastal vistas that are hard to beat, and exploring Monkey Mountain reveals a quieter, natural side of Vietnam that often goes unnoticed. The guides tend to be knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both enriching and safe.

One potential drawback? The tour involves riding on a motorcycle, which might not suit everyone. Also, the tour is quite full-day, so it’s best suited for travelers with a decent level of comfort on two wheels. If you’re looking for an active, scenic, and culturally interesting day out, this tour fits the bill nicely.

This experience is particularly well-suited for adventure seekers, history buffs, and those eager to see Vietnam’s diverse landscapes from a motorbike. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable on a bike and want a blend of natural beauty, history, and local flavor.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views from the Hai Van Pass make this a photogenic highlight.
• Visit to Hill 55 gives insight into Vietnam’s wartime past.
• Riding around Monkey Mountain offers a scenic and slightly wild experience, with a chance to see rare langur monkeys.
• Local lunch in Danang provides authentic Vietnamese cuisine and a break from riding.
• Scenic stop at Lang Co Lagoon makes for memorable landscape photography.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, enhancing the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Initial Ride

The tour kicks off at a central meeting point in Hoi An, where you’ll meet your guide—likely an experienced local who knows these roads well. From there, you hop on a motorcycle, and your adventure begins by cruising along the Cam Le River, passing through the open countryside filled with vibrant cemeteries, colorful temples, and local life. This initial stretch allows you to get comfortable on the bike while soaking in rural Vietnam.

Hill 55 Sniper Training School

One of the first meaningful stops is the Hill 55 Sniper Training School. This site holds historical significance, being part of Vietnam’s wartime landscape. You’ll learn about its role during the conflict, and your guide can explain its importance. The visit is usually short but impactful, giving you a tangible connection to the country’s recent past—something you won’t get from a textbook.

Riding Over the Hai Van Pass

Next comes the highlight: the Hai Van Pass. Known as the “Cloudy Pass,” this mountain route offers breathtaking views of the coastline and lush mountains. The ride itself is exhilarating—curving roads along steep cliffs, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos. Travelers often mention how the scenery surpasses expectations, with some describing it as a “must-see” in Vietnam.

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Scenic Stop at Lang Co Lagoon

After descending from the pass, you’ll visit Lang Co Lagoon, a peaceful stretch of water framed by mountains and rice paddies. Here, the scenery is postcard-perfect, with opportunities to snap photos of the tranquil waters and surrounding landscape. It’s a calming moment amid the day’s excitement, giving you a chance to breathe and appreciate Vietnam’s natural beauty.

Lunch in Danang

Your journey then takes you to Danang for a local lunch. The guides typically recommend authentic eateries that serve regional specialties—think fresh seafood, flavorful noodles, and local herbs. The lunch break offers a welcome respite and a chance to mingle with fellow travelers, sharing impressions of the morning’s sights.

Monkey Mountain & High Altitude Views

In the afternoon, the tour heads toward Monkey Mountain (also known as Son Tra Mountain). Riding along winding roads that climb up to about 700 meters, you’ll encounter panoramic views of Danang and the surrounding coastline. If luck is on your side, you might spot rare langur monkeys playing in the trees—these gentle creatures are a special highlight for nature lovers. The guides are attentive and often share interesting facts about the mountain’s flora and fauna.

Return and Reflection

After a full day of riding, sightseeing, and eating, you’ll head back to your starting point. Most travelers mention feeling a mix of exhilaration and satisfaction—plus, perhaps, a cold beer to unwind after the adrenaline-filled journey.

The Practicalities

What’s Included?

• The motorcycle ride itself, led by knowledgeable guides
• A visit to the Hill 55 Sniper Training School
• The scenic ride over Hai Van Pass
• A tranquil stop at Lang Co Lagoon
• A local lunch in Danang
• An exploration of Monkey Mountain with potential wildlife sightings

What’s Not Included?

• Personal expenses, souvenirs, drinks outside of the provided lunch

Meeting Points & Duration

The tour starts at a designated office in Hoi An and wraps up back at the same location. It’s a full-day experience, typically lasting several hours, so be prepared for a day on the road.

Important Tips

• Slippers are not allowed for safety reasons—wear appropriate shoes.
• The tour language is available in English and Vietnamese, so clarify with your guide if needed.
• Cancellation is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Not suitable for children under 14, divers without certification, or people over 70.

Why We Think This Tour Offers Great Value

At $160, this tour packs in a lot of memorable experiences—stunning views, historical insights, and cultural moments—all delivered with a sense of adventure. The combination of riding through iconic mountain passes and visiting wartime sites makes it more than just a scenic ride; it’s a way to connect with Vietnam’s landscape and history authentically.

The guides’ local knowledge elevates the experience and helps you appreciate what you’re seeing—whether it’s the story behind Hill 55 or the natural beauty of Monkey Mountain. The stops are well-chosen, offering a nice balance between excitement and relaxation. Plus, the optional photo stops mean you’ll go home with plenty of stunning images.

While the tour is ambitious—covering multiple sites in one day—it’s designed for those comfortable on a bike and eager to see diverse sights in a short period. The inclusion of a local lunch adds cultural flavor and keeps the experience grounded in the regional cuisine.

Best for

• Travelers seeking an active, scenic, and culturally rich experience
• Those who enjoy adventure and natural beauty
• Visitors comfortable riding or being a passenger on a motorcycle
• Anyone interested in Vietnam’s history, especially wartime sites
• People looking to explore outside the typical tourist spots with a knowledgeable guide

Final Thoughts

This motorbike tour from Hoi An offers a genuine way to see Vietnam’s diverse landscape—from mountain passes to coastal lagoons—without the hassle of rental and navigation. It’s a well-rounded adventure that combines spectacular scenery, history, and local culture in a single day.

The highlight remains the ride over the Hai Van Pass, which feels like stepping into a postcard—and the chance to spot langur monkeys on Monkey Mountain adds a touch of wildness to the adventure. The guides’ local insights and friendly demeanor make this a warm, engaging experience.

If you’re craving an active day outdoors, enjoy breathtaking vistas, and want to learn about Vietnam’s past, this tour delivers on all fronts, providing excellent value for a memorable day out.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 14 years due to the motorcycle riding involved.

Can I join if I don’t have motorcycle experience?
The tour is generally designed for those comfortable riding or being a passenger. It’s best if you’re familiar with riding or willing to be a passenger.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes—slippers are not allowed for safety. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically spanning several hours from start to finish, including stops.

Will I see wildlife on Monkey Mountain?
You might see rare langur monkeys, especially if you keep an eye out while riding or exploring.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local lunch in Danang is part of the package, offering regional specialties.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your plans.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour is offered in both English and Vietnamese, so check with your guide if any language preferences.

This motorbike tour from Hoi An truly combines natural beauty, history, and authentic Vietnamese culture—a day packed with memorable sights and stories that won’t soon be forgotten. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history enthusiast, it’s a ride worth taking.

You can check availability for your dates here: