The Hai Van Pass is one of Vietnam’s most famous and scenic mountain roads, connecting the city of Da Nang with the historic province of Thua Thien Hue. Translating to “Ocean Cloud Pass,” it is renowned for its spectacular panoramic views, hairpin turns, and dramatic coastal scenery. Made famous globally by television shows like Top Gear, it has become a bucket-list destination for road trip enthusiasts, particularly those on motorbikes. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the journey, what to see, and essential safety tips for a memorable adventure.
What is the Hai Van Pass?
The name ‘Hai Van’ means “Ocean Cloud,” and it is the perfect name. This 21-kilometer-long mountain pass winds its way up and over a spur of the Truong Son mountains that juts out into the sea. As you climb, you are often surrounded by clouds and mist, and when you emerge, you are greeted with the most spectacular view of the blue ocean below.
For many years, this was the main and most dangerous road connecting Da Nang and Hue. But now, we have a long tunnel that goes through the mountain, which all the big trucks and buses use. This has turned the old Hai Van Pass into a quiet, beautiful road, perfect for tourists and adventurers.
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The best Way to experience Hai Van Pass
The Hai Van Pass motorbike trip
While you can drive the pass in a car, the absolute best, most thrilling, and most authentic way to experience it is on a motorbike or a scooter.
- The feeling: It is a feeling of pure freedom. You can feel the wind in your face, smell the fresh mountain air, and stop whenever you want to take a photo. You are not just looking at the scenery; you are in it.
- Is it difficult? The road itself is well-paved and in good condition. However, it has many sharp, hairpin turns. This journey is only for confident and experienced motorbike riders. If you are a new rider, this is not the place to learn.
- Renting a motorbike: You can easily rent a motorbike in either Da Nang or Hue for the day. Make sure you get a good helmet and check that the bike’s brakes and tires are in good condition.
Alternative options for non-riders
If you don’t ride a motorbike, please do not worry! You can still have this incredible experience.
- Hire an “easy rider”: This is a fantastic and very popular option. An “easy rider” is an experienced, safe, local guide who will drive the motorbike for you, while you sit comfortably and safely on the back, free to take photos and enjoy the view.
- Rent a private car: This is the most comfortable and safest option, perfect for families. You can ask your driver to stop at all the best viewpoints along the way.
What to see and do on the Hai Van Pass?
The journey itself is the main attraction, but there are some key spots to look out for.
- The viewpoints: As you climb from the Da Nang side, there will be several spots where you can pull over and get a breathtaking view of the entire Da Nang bay and the city coastline.
- The Hai Van gate: At the very peak of the pass, you will find the ruins of an old brick gate. This was built by our Nguyen Dynasty emperors in the 19th century to mark the border between two kingdoms. It’s a historic and atmospheric spot to take a break.
- The “Lonely Pine Tree”: A famous, picturesque spot with a single pine tree that makes for a beautiful photo.
- Lang Co Bay viewpoint: As you begin to descend on the other side, you will be rewarded with one of the most stunning views in all of Vietnam: the magnificent, sweeping curve of Lang Co Bay, with its turquoise water, white sand, and a beautiful lagoon.
A perfect one-day itinerary: Da Nang to Hue (or vice versa)
The Hai Van Pass is the perfect centerpiece for a one-day road trip between Da Nang and Hue. Here is a perfect plan:
- Morning: Start from Da Nang and begin your climb up the Hai Van Pass. Stop at all the beautiful viewpoints.
- Late morning: Arrive at the beautiful Lang Co Bay. You can have a fresh seafood lunch at one of the rustic restaurants on stilts in the lagoon.
- Afternoon: Continue your journey to Hue, perhaps stopping at the beautiful Lap An Lagoon to see the oyster farms.
- Late afternoon: Arrive in the historic, imperial city of Hue.
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Essential tips for a safe and fun trip
- Check the weather! This is very important. The pass can be misty and foggy, especially in our rainy season (October to January). The best and clearest weather is during the dry season, from February to September.
- Safety first: If you are on a motorbike, drive slowly and carefully. Be very aware of the hairpin turns, and use your horn before a blind corner.
- Don’t rely on the tunnel: The Hai Van Tunnel is closed to motorbikes. All motorbikes must go over the pass.
- Fuel up: Make sure your bike or car has a full tank of petrol before you start. There are no petrol stations on the pass itself.
- Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the journey. Don’t try to drive the pass in the dark.
Conclusion
Conquering the Hai Van Pass is more than just a road trip, it is an unforgettable adventure that connects you to the raw, natural beauty of Central Vietnam. It is a journey of winding roads, of ocean mists, and of spectacular views that open up before you at every turn. Whether you experience it on the back of a motorbike with the wind in your face or from the comfort of a car, the Hai Van Pass is a true rite of passage for any traveler, and it will leave you with a sense of freedom, awe, and a deep appreciation for the magnificent landscape of my country.
