2 days
Photo: David McKelvey, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia CommonsHai Van Pass
Central Vietnam
The Hai Van Pass, the 'Ocean Cloud Pass', climbs over a spur of mountains that meets the sea between Hue and Da Nang. Most traffic now uses a tunnel beneath it, which leaves the old road quiet and spectacular.
Driving over the pass, with stops at fishing villages and viewpoints, turns the transfer from Hue to Hoi An into one of the best days of a Vietnam trip.
Highlights on the way
- Lap An lagoon. Oyster farms and mountains reflected in still water.
- The summit fort. An old gate and bunkers with views over Da Nang Bay.
- Lang Co. A fishing village and beach at the foot of the pass.
Car, motorbike or train?
Most tours drive the pass by private car with stops. Riding pillion with an experienced local driver is popular and exhilarating. The train between Hue and Da Nang follows the coast below the road and is lovely too; see train or flight in Vietnam.
Where it is
Multi-day tours that visit Hai Van Pass
Every tour here includes Hai Van Pass in its itinerary. Best rated first.
2 days
3 daysCombine it with
Helpful planning guides
- Typhoon and flood season in Vietnam: when, where and how to plan →Central Vietnam floods most years in October and November; storms can stop Ha Long Bay cruises from July to September. A month by month risk table and how to plan around it.
- Train or flight in Vietnam? Getting from north to south →The full train journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 33 hours; the flight takes about 2. Use flights for long hops and the train for the scenic stretches.
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Hai Van Pass: questions
Is the Hai Van Pass worth it?
Yes. It adds an hour or two to the Hue to Hoi An transfer but gives the best coastal views in central Vietnam.
Is it safe to ride the Hai Van Pass by motorbike?
It is popular, but roads are steep and winding. Unless you are an experienced, licensed rider, ride with a local driver.