Guide Trip to Hai Van Pass: Majestic Gateway Above the Clouds

Straddling the border between Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang, Hai Van Pass is often hailed as the "Greatest Natural Barrier" for its breathtaking yet rugged beauty. Travelers venturing through this route are treated to sweeping mountain curves, where lush forests blend seamlessly with the vast ocean. This article has provided you with insights into the historical significance of Hai Van Pass and recommendations for must-visit spots along the way.

1. Overview of Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass is located in Central Vietnam, about 20km north of Da Nang and 80km south of Hue. It is not only a vital transportation route but also a fascinating destination for those passionate about exploring nature and history.

Located in Central Vietnam, Hai Van Pass is about 20km North of Da Nang

Hai Van Pass used to serve as the natural border between Dai Viet and Champa. It was a vital trade route connecting the North and South. Due to its strategic position, the pass was an important checkpoint throughout different historical periods. However, its steep slopes, sharp curves, and frequent fog made it a challenging route for travelers in the past. Today, thanks to improved infrastructure and regular patrols, the pass is not only safe but also a dream destination for those seeking breathtaking landscapes and adventure.

Hai Van Pass is famous for its steep slopes, sharp curves, and breathtaking panoramic views (Source: Internet)

Beyond its historical significance, Hai Van Pass holds a deep spiritual meaning for locals. Many believe that guardian spirits watch over the pass, and small roadside shrines can be found along the way, where travelers stop to pray for a safe journey.

2. Best Means of Transportation to Explore Hai Van Pass

There are many ways to experience the breathtaking beauty of Hai Van Pass, from the thrilling ride of a motorbike to the comfort of a private car or even the scenic train journey. Each mode of transportation provides a unique experience, catering to different types of travelers.

2.1. Motorbike Ride (Most recommended)

Riding a motorbike across Hai Van Pass is an unforgettable experience, where you can fully immerse yourself in the wild beauty of nature and admire the majestic mountains stretching endlessly. This adventure is perfect for those who crave freedom, allowing you to stop anywhere and capture stunning moments.

Tip: Wear a helmet, ride slowly, and stay cautious, as the road features sharp curves and steep slopes, especially during the rainy season (September - December), when the surface can become slippery.

Tourists can easily rent motorbikes in Da Nang or Hue for around 120,000 - 200,000 VND per day (Source: Freepik)

2.2. Private Car or Jeep Tour

If you're exploring Hai Van Pass for the first time and unfamiliar with its winding terrain, a private car or jeep tour is a safer and more convenient option, especially for families and groups. This choice offers comfort, a hassle-free journey, and often includes a guide providing interesting insights. This is the very reason why many travelers choose Jeep tours to reach Hai Van Pass from Da Nang. After your Hai Van adventure, head into the city and admire landmarks like the Danang Cathedral, famous for its pink Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows.

Private tours can be booked through local agencies for around 1,000,000 - 2,500,000 VND per trip. However, exploring by a private car or a jeep tour often comes at a higher cost and limits the freedom to stop wherever you like. Besides, taking a taxi is an option, but it's generally less popular as it lacks the immersive experience.

A Jeep tour is another great transportation option, especially for families and groups, offering a fun and adventurous way to explore Hai Van Pass (Source: Freepik)

2.3. Train Experience (Local tip)

A local tip that few travelers know about, but one that offers a truly special experience, is taking the train between Hue and Da Nang. This slow-moving journey winds through towering cliffs and hugs the coastline, revealing breathtaking ocean views that few other transport options can match. For the best scenery, sit on the left side when heading south and watch as the vast sea unfolds before your eyes. With tickets costing just 70,000 - 120,000 VND one way.

Experiencing Hai Van Pass by train offers a safe and budget-friendly option, allowing travelers to admire the vast blue ocean and breathtaking natural scenery (Source: Internet)

3. Explore 7 of The Best Stops Along Hai Van Pass

For travelers seeking an immersive experience beyond the winding roads of Hai Van Pass, several hidden gems and historical landmarks await along the way. From pristine beaches and secluded coves to war-time relics and panoramic viewpoints, each stop unveils a different layer of this legendary pass. Below is a curated list of must-visit locations.

3.1. Nam O Beach – The Coastal Prelude to Hai Van Pass

Before tackling the majestic Da Nang Hai Van Pass, take a detour to Nam O Beach - a quiet, less-touristy shoreline that offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen. Here, you’ll see traditional fishing techniques still in practice, from net casting to round bamboo boats floating on the water. Besides, if you visit between February and April, you’ll witness a mesmerizing natural phenomenon – large moss-covered rocks stretching along the shore, creating a dreamlike green landscape.

You can see fishermen pulling in their nets when visiting Nam O Beach (Source: Internet)

To fully explore the beauty of Nam O Beach, here are some key information:

• Location: About 15km northwest of Da Nang, Nam O Beach lies along the route to Hai Van Pass.
• Directions: Take a turn from National Highway 1A onto Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, then follow a small road leading to the coast.
• Local Tips:
  • Try “Goi Ca Nam O”, a raw fish salad made with fresh seafood, unique to this coastal region.
  • The beach remains largely untouched, so if you plan to walk on the moss-covered rocks, wear suitable footwear to avoid slipping.

Dry fish salad wrapped in soft rice paper, blending fresh fish, herbs, and crisp bean sprouts, dipped in rich fish sauce (Source: Internet)

3.2. Black Rock Beach (Bai Da Den) – A Hidden Cove for the Adventurous

Take a detour to Black Rock Beach, a secluded gem hidden behind winding coastal roads. This untouched cove is known for its striking dark-hued boulders scattered along the shore, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere. A perfect escape from the crowds, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing amidst raw nature. If you're seeking a more adventurous experience, the journey to this beach itself is part of the thrill.

Black Rock Beach is the perfect for those seeking nature’s untouched beauty (Source: Internet)

To fully enjoy the beauty of Black Rock Beach, here’s what you need to know:

• Location: Situated in Lien Chieu District, about 15km northwest of Da Nang, just before the ascent of Hai Van Pass.
• Directions:
  • By boat: Rent a boat from local fishermen in Lien Chieu District for a scenic 15 - 20 minute ride to the beach.
  • By motorbike + trekking: Ride along Hai Van Pass, take a small trail near Hai Van Gate, then trek through the jungle for about 10 - 15 minutes to reach the shore.

The Black Rock Beach is situated in Lien Chieu District, about 15km northwest of Da Nang, just before the ascent of Hai Van Pass (Source: Internet)

Local Tips:

• Pack food and water, as there are no tourist facilities nearby. Be sure to clean up after yourself to keep the area pristine.
• Visit on clear days, as the hiking trail can become slippery after rain, making the trek more challenging.

3.3. The First Viewpoint – Gateway to the Clouds

As you leave the bustling cityscape behind, the first official viewpoint along Hai Van Pass unveils a breathtaking panorama of Da Nang Bay and Son Tra Peninsula. From this spot, you can take in the vast expanse of the coastline, where the turquoise waters meet the sky, and get a sense of the incredible journey ahead. The fresh mountain air and uninterrupted views make this an ideal pit stop to pause, breathe, and soak in the beauty of Central Vietnam.

The First Viewpoint is an ideal spot for visitors to take stunning selfies (Source: Internet)

To make the most of this scenic viewpoint, here’s what you need to know:

• Location: Just a few kilometers from the base of Hai Van Pass, this viewpoint is easily recognizable by its open cliffside facing Da Nang Bay.
• Local Tips:
  • Early mornings offer the clearest views, as the skies tend to be hazier later in the day.
  • Bring a windbreaker, as it can get breezy at this elevation, especially in the early hours.
  • Visit at sunrise (05:30 AM - 06:30 AM) to capture the coastline bathed in golden light - a magical moment for photographers.

The breathtaking beauty of Hai Van Pass, where the lush greenery of the trees blends harmoniously with the vast blue of the sky and sea (Source: Internet)

3.4. The Abandoned French Bunker – A War Relic Amidst the Mist

The Bunker is visible along the road leading to the Hai Van Pass peak. Built by the French during the colonial era, this weathered structure has witnessed decades of conflict. Serving as a strategic military outpost during both the Indochina and Vietnam wars, it played a crucial role in monitoring movements along the pass. Today, the structure - worn by time and history - offers a stark yet fascinating contrast to the lush mountains and panoramic ocean views surrounding it.

Tourist check-in at The Abandoned French Bunker (Source: Internet)

To fully appreciate this historic site, here’s what you should know:

• Location: Near the Hai Van Gate, at the summit of Hai Van Pass.
• Local Tips:
  • Visit in the late afternoon for softer lighting, which adds an atmospheric touch to photos.
  • Look closely, and you’ll still find bullet holes scattered across the walls - a haunting reminder of past battles.

A weathered French-era bunker atop Hai Van Pass, standing as a silent witness to Vietnam’s history (Source: Internet)

3.5. The Panoramic Curve – Where Mountain Meets the Sea

This stunning curve is a part of Hai Van Pass. Often overlooked by travelers, it offers one of the most breathtaking ocean-facing views on Da Nang Hai Van Pass. From here, the winding road snakes through lush mountains before dramatically plunging toward the coastline. If you pause for a moment, you’ll spot fishing boats drifting across Lang Co Bay in the distance, while the misty jungle ahead hides the next stretch of your journey - adding a touch of mystery to the adventure.

The Panoramic Curve makes Hai Van Pass the most adventurous road in Vietnam (Source: Internet)

For those who love taking photos, the best shots come from a higher vantage point, where you can capture the S-shaped road seamlessly merging with the endless sea. Early morning or late afternoon provides the most dynamic lighting, enhancing the contrast between the vibrant greenery and the deep blue waters.

Local Tips:

• The road is narrow, so park your bike or car safely off to the side. And be careful when taking photos.
• Misty weather can obscure the view, so check the forecast before heading out.

3.6. Hai Van Gate (Hai Van Quan) – The Historic Summit

Standing proudly at the highest point of Hai Van Pass, Hai Van Gate is a historic relic that once marked the natural boundary between Dai Viet (ancient Vietnam) and the Champa Kingdom. Built in 1826 under Emperor Minh Mang, this historic structure has witnessed centuries of shifting borders, trade routes, and military conflicts.

Now fully restored, the gate retains its ancient charm while offering a neater, more well-preserved look, making it an unmissable stop for history lovers. Visitors fascinated by Cham history can also explore the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, which houses the world’s largest collection of Cham artifacts.

Hai Van Gate is a historic relic that once marked the natural boundary between Dai Viet (ancient Vietnam) and the Champa Kingdom (Source: Freepik)

From this vantage point, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of rugged mountains, the turquoise waters of Lang Co Bay, the coastline stretching into the distance. Recognized as a National Historic and Architectural Monument, Hai Van Gate stands as both a cultural treasure and a silent sentinel overlooking the winding pass below.

• Location: At the peak of Hai Van Pass (496m above sea level).
• Local Tips:
  • Visit in the early morning for misty mountain views or late afternoon for a spectacular sunset.
  • The peak can be windy and chilly, so bring a light jacket.

Hai Van Gate – a historical monument at the peak of Hai Van Pass, offering stunning views and echoes of Vietnam’s past (Source: Internet)

3.7. The Old Radar Station – A View Reserved for the Bold

Few travelers venture beyond Hai Van Gate, but those who do will discover a forgotten relic of history - an old U.S.-built radar station from the wartime era. Climbing up to its peak unveils a breathtaking 360-degree panorama, where the lush mountains merge with the vast South China Sea.

• Location: Behind Hai Van Gate
• Direction: Follow a small dirt path behind Hai Van Gate that leads up to the station.

Local Tips:

• The trek takes 10 - 15 minutes, so please park in a safe spot without blocking other vehicles.
• The path is unmarked and rugged - stay cautious!

This is old U.S.-built radar station from the wartime era, serving as a testament to Vietnam's history (Source: Internet)

4. Expert Tips for Navigating Hai Van Pass

Conquering Hai Van Pass is an exhilarating experience, but proper preparation ensures a smooth and safe ride. Here are essential tips for your journey:

• Choose the right time to travel: Plan your trip between February and May for dry weather and crystal-clear views. Avoid October to December, when heavy rain and thick fog make the roads slippery.
• Ride cautiously in foggy conditions: Visibility can drop drastically, especially in early mornings or late afternoons. If fog appears, slow down, turn on hazard lights, and follow roadside markers.
• Stay alert on sharp curves and steep slopes: Even experienced riders should reduce speed before corners and avoid sudden braking on downhill sections.
• Watch for wildlife: Monkeys and other animals occasionally cross the road at dusk and night - stay cautious to avoid sudden encounters.
• Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases: These simple Vietnamese phrases will help you interact with locals, ask for directions, or get assistance if needed:
  • “Rẽ phải” - “Re phai” (Turn right).
  • “Rẽ trái” - “Re trai” (Turn left).
  • “Cho tôi thuê xe máy một ngày.” - “Cho toi thue xe may mot ngay.” (I want to rent a motorbike for one day).
  • “Chỗ nào ngắm cảnh đẹp nhất trên đèo?” - Cho nao ngam canh dep nhat tren deo?” (Where is the most beautiful viewpoint on the pass?).
  • “Có tiệm sửa xe nào gần đây không?” - “Co tiem sua xe nao gan day khong?” (Is there a motorbike repair shop nearby?).

Hai Van Pass is often covered in mist, especially in the early morning and late afternoon, so you should drive carefully (Source: Internet)

5. Recommended Stays Near Hai Van Pass

To fully explore Hai Van Pass, you should rent for stays within 15 - 30km from the Pass. Prices range from USD 40 to over USD 1,000 per night, catering to different budgets and travel styles. These accommodations also provide convenient access to what to see in Danang Vietnam, from beaches and historic temples to unique museums and bustling markets. Here are some recommendations:

In conclusion, exploring Hai Van Pass is a must-try experience for travelers visiting Da Nang and Hue. Its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and thrilling curves create an unforgettable journey, blending adventure, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re planning to continue your adventure southward, don’t miss The Ultimate Guide to Navigating Your Way from Danang to Hoi An for tips on making the most of your journey.

If you love exploring mountains and passes, Vietnam has many other stunning destinations like Ma Pi Leng Pass, O Quy Ho Pass, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc waiting to be explored. For a smooth journey, Vietnam Airlines – the national flag carrier – offers modern aircraft, top-notch service, and great deals. Enjoy spacious seating, diverse in-flight meals, seamless connections, and priority services. As a Skytrax 4-star airline, Vietnam Airlines guarantees a world-class flying experience. Book your ticket now and start your next adventure!