Are you a cruise ship passenger docking at Chan May Port and searching for an unforgettable day trip? Our private Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills tour is perfectly designed to meet your needs! Discover the captivating beauty of Ba Na Hills and its iconic Golden Bridge all in a single, well-planned day. Known as “Ba Na Hills – the way to heaven,” this stunning complex offers a myriad of experiences, from breathtaking sightseeing and thrilling games to impressive daily performances and more.
With over 15 years of expertise organizing bespoke Vietnam tour packages for international travelers, we guarantee a local perspective that will provide you and your family with a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Explore our recommended Vietnam Cruise Shore Excursions. If our standard itineraries don’t quite fit your vision, please contact our Vietnam travel experts. We will gladly help you customize a unique Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills tour exclusively for you.
Discover Ba Na Hills: Golden Bridge & French Village Excursion
Ba Na Hills is an elevated masterpiece, located approximately 40 km west of Da Nang city center in Hoa Vang District. Perched 1,489 meters atop Mount Chua, this eco-tourism hub delights guests with stunning natural views and a perpetually cool climate, typically hovering between 17 and 20 degrees Celsius.
Discovered and established by the French as a colonial hill station in the late nineteenth century, the resort’s foundations lie in European architecture (and its name is famously believed to originate from the area’s abundance of bananas).
Following decades of disuse, Ba Na Hills was spectacularly revitalized by local efforts beginning in the late twentieth century. It continues to be upgraded and expanded, constantly adding new attractions. Forget the old 282 stone steps! Today, a state-of-the-art cable car system provides a comfortable, world-class ride to the summit—a thrilling ascent that is now a signature element of any Da Nang tour.
Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills Tour: Key Logistics
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, here are the key details for your Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills excursion:
- Port of Call: Hue (Chan May), Vietnam
- Meeting Location: Hue (Chan May) Cruise Port, Vietnam
- End Location: Hue (Chan May) Cruise Port, Vietnam
- Duration: 07 – 09 hours (approximate, depending on your pace)
- Transportation: Private, well air-conditioned vehicle with seat belts
- Tour Type: Exclusive Chan May Shore Excursions
- Activity Level: Moderate (involves walking and cable car rides)
- Dress Code: Knees and shoulders must be covered when visiting temples.
- Medical Concerns: Please inform us of any food allergies or specific medical needs in advance.
Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills Shore Excursion: Full Day Itinerary
Your definitive shore excursion is here. This itinerary is designed to maximize your limited time, delivering a seamless journey from Chan May Port to the heights of Ba Na Hills. Prepare to explore the famous Golden Bridge and the French Village, all expertly timed to guarantee your punctual return to the ship.
At 08:00 AM, your professional English-speaking guide and experienced driver will greet you directly at Chan May Port to begin your seamless shore excursion. We’ll immediately set off for Ba Na Hills, giving you time to enjoy the beautiful coastal landscapes and scenic views during the comfortable transfer.
Upon arrival, your adventure begins by boarding the world-renowned cable car to ascend to the summit. You’ll experience one of the longest and highest non-stop cable car rides, which offers truly spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. We will then dedicate ample time for exploration and photos at the globally famous Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng), the 150-meter pedestrian bridge held aloft by giant stone hands.
Continuing the exploration, we will visit the exquisite Le Jardin D’amour flower garden and the historic Debay Wine Cellar. A scenic funicular ride will transport us to the enchanting French Village (1,138 meters), where you can marvel at its unique European architecture. A delicious lunch will be served at a highly-rated restaurant within the mountain complex.
The afternoon is dedicated to exhilarating fun at the Fantasy Amusement Park, offering a wide range of indoor games and rides suitable for all ages. Following your time there, we will take the cable car back down to the foot of the mountain. Your guide and driver will then ensure a comfortable and timely transfer back to Chan May Port (or Tien Sa Port if pre-arranged), successfully concluding your unforgettable private tour.
Inclusions:
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Private, air-conditioned transport with seat belts
- Round-trip cable car tickets for Ba Na Hills
- Delicious lunch at a local restaurant
- Entrance fees at all listed tourist sites
- Complimentary cold water and wet tissues
Exclusions:
- Personal drinks and beverages
- Tips for guides and drivers (at your discretion)
- Travel insurance
- Any costs not explicitly listed above (e.g., additional port customs fee for on-ship pickup)
Why Book Our Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills Private Tour?
A shore excursion from Chan May Port to the world-famous Ba Na Hills is the ultimate way to maximize your time in Central Vietnam. Don’t waste precious cruise hours – book a dedicated tour to ensure a seamless, unforgettable day trip to the magnificent Golden Bridge.
Here are the most compelling reasons why this tour is an absolute must-book for cruise ship passengers:
1. Timely Return to Chan May Port Guarantee for Cruise Guests
For any cruise passenger, the single biggest concern is missing the ship’s departure. A professionally organized Chan May Port tour is designed specifically to the cruise schedule, guaranteeing you are picked up, transferred efficiently, and returned to the port with ample time to spare.
- Safety Net: Avoid the risk of local taxis or ride-shares that are not accountable for your ship’s departure time.
- Seamless Logistics: The tour handles all the complex logistics of the long-distance transfer from Hue’s Chan May Port to the Ba Na Hills complex near Da Nang.
2. Experience the Iconic Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng)
The Golden Bridge is the star attraction of Ba Na Hills and one of Vietnam’s most recognizable landmarks. This architectural marvel, famously held aloft by two giant ‘Hands of God,’ is the top reason travelers book this excursion.
- Photography Heaven: Capture once-in-a-lifetime, viral-worthy photos on a celestial pathway surrounded by clouds.
- World-Class Sightseeing: Experience a structure that has drawn global acclaim and media attention.
3. Scenic Views: Hai Van Pass and Lang Co Bay Photo Stops
Most tours from Chan May to Ba Na Hills (or Da Nang) travel part of the legendary Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass). This is a dramatic, picturesque mountain road, offering breathtaking panoramic views that make the transfer part of the adventure.
- Bonus Sightseeing: Enjoy included photo stops overlooking the pristine Lang Co Bay and the vast East Sea.
- Featured on Top Gear: Drive a section of the road hailed as one of the best coastal drives in the world by the popular TV show.
4. Discover a ‘Four Seasons in a Day’ Climate and French Village
Perched high in the Truong Son Mountains, Ba Na Hills offers a uniquely cool and refreshing climate, often experiencing four seasons within a single day. The site is a complete mountain resort complex.
- European Escape: Explore the meticulously reconstructed French Village, complete with Gothic architecture, charming plazas, and European-style cafes.
- Entertainment for All: Enjoy the indoor Fantasy Park, the serene Linh Ung Pagoda, and the beautiful Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Gardens.
5. Ride the Record-Breaking Cable Car System
The journey up the mountain is an attraction in itself! Ba Na Hills boasts a world-renowned cable car system that holds multiple Guinness World Records for length and height.
- Breathtaking Views: Soar over the massive jungle, mountains, and waterfalls, providing incredible views before you even reach the Golden Bridge.
- Efficient Travel: The modern system ensures a quick and spectacular ascent to the resort area.
6. Enjoy Private Comfort and Flexibility
Booking a private tour or transfer gives you full control and comfort, especially crucial after being on a large cruise ship.
- Door-to-Door Service: Your private driver meets you directly at the Chan May Port gate (or inside the port with pre-paid clearance) and drops you back at your ship.
- Modern Vehicles: Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional, experienced local driver.
- Customizable Stops: Request brief stops for coffee, local snacks, or additional photos along the route.
7. The Trust Advantage: Book with a Proven Leader
Choosing a reputable tour provider for your limited time ashore is crucial. Our dedication to quality and service has earned us recognition across top travel platforms.
- Leading Tour Operator: Highly recommended by numerous satisfied customers on TripAdvisor, Viator, Cruise Critic, Private Guides, and other prestigious travel platforms.
- Better Value & Expertise: Benefit from all-inclusive packages and local expertise without the premium price tag of a cruise operator.
Chan May Port Logistics: Essential Info for Cruise Passengers
Location & Proximity 🗺️
Chan May Port holds a strategic position in Central Vietnam, situated roughly halfway between two major cultural centers: Hue, the ancient imperial capital (about 45-60 km away), and Da Nang, a vibrant modern city (approximately 70-75 km distant). This prime docking spot grants cruise passengers effortless access to three of Vietnam’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Imperial City of Hue, Hoi An Ancient Town, and the My Son Sanctuary.
Port Facilities & Transportation 🚖
As Chan May functions primarily as a working cargo port, public facilities are minimal. Travelers won’t find restaurants, ATMs, or reliable Wi-Fi in the immediate vicinity, though basic temporary souvenir stalls may be set up when cruise ships arrive. For ground transport, pre-arranging private transfers through reputable operators or pre-booked taxis is highly recommended. While local taxis sometimes gather outside the port gates, securing your booking in advance guarantees a smoother, more reliable, and comfortable experience. (Note: Cruise ships provide their own shuttle services, but private transfers offer superior flexibility and personalization for your Chan May Shore Excursions).
Port Pick-up Specifics 🤝
Our seamless service ensures your driver meets you right at the Chan May Port gate, located approximately 500 meters from where your ship docks. Should you require pick-up directly at the cruise ship gangway (inside the restricted port area), please note that an additional port customs fee of $25 USD per person applies, and this arrangement requires a minimum of 5 days’ prior notice to obtain the necessary permits.
Safety Tips for Your Visit 🛡️
Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An are generally safe for tourists, but remaining aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist hubs like markets, is always smart.
- Valuables: Keep personal items secure. We recommend using cross-body bags for currency and valuables to deter opportunistic grab-and-run incidents. Ensure handbags, shopping bags, and backpacks are kept close to your body.
- Photography: Before taking close-up photos of locals, particularly street vendors or those in traditional attire, remember to ask permission first. Some may expect a small fee, so agreeing on a price beforehand is the best way to avoid any misunderstandings.
Vietnamese Cuisine: A Culinary Journey from Chan May Port 🍜
Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its health benefits and incredibly vibrant, fresh flavors. It artfully achieves a delightful balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy notes. Dishes frequently showcase fresh seafood, succulent chicken, lean beef, and tender pork, complemented by an abundance of fresh vegetables and tropical fruits. Essential ingredients—like pungent fish sauce, fragrant lemongrass, spicy ginger, Vietnamese mint, fresh coriander, Saigon cinnamon, bird’s-eye chili, zesty lime, and aromatic basil leaves—expertly layer these complex flavors.
Must-Try Vietnamese Staples
- Phở (Noodle Soup): This iconic Vietnamese noodle soup is the national dish and a highly popular breakfast staple, renowned for its rich, complex broth and generous scattering of fresh herbs.
- Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich): A delicious and satisfying local bread that resembles a baguette sandwich. It’s often stuffed with savory meats and vegetables, making it perfect as a quick snack or a light meal any time of the day.
Dining Culture and Etiquette 🥢
Many upscale restaurants offer a sophisticated fusion of traditional Vietnamese and French culinary traditions, which is a particular favorite among food enthusiasts.
Dining Etiquette Tip: When dining like a local, remember to take rice from the large, communal serving dish and place it into your personal rice bowl. Use your chopsticks to pick up portions of meat and seafood from the shared dishes, adding them to your rice. Important Cultural Note: Never stick your chopsticks vertically into your rice bowl, as this position is strongly associated with a Buddhist sign used in funeral rites.
Restaurant Suggestions for Your Tour
If your shore excursion allows for dining in nearby cities, consider these highly-rated options:
- Hoi An: Many of our passengers enjoy lunch at Brother’s Cafe (27 Phan Boi Chau Street), which provides charming scenic outdoor garden seating and comfortable indoor dining (10 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily). Be sure to sample their local specialty, “white roses,” which are delicate, meat-stuffed dumplings. For a trendier spot, Mango Room (111 Nguyen Thai Hoc, open 8 a.m. to midnight) offers a unique menu with Vietnamese and Californian-influenced dishes, perfect for pairing with a refreshing local beer.
- Da Nang: You can find many excellent local seafood restaurants offering fresh daily catches along My Khe Beach. For a fancier dining experience after your Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills Private Tour, consider establishments like Water Front, Bau Troi Do, or The Fat Fish.
Culture & History of Central Vietnam
Da Nang’s historical prominence dates back to the 19th century, following its initial colonization by the French in the 17th century, quickly establishing itself as a vital port city. After the French departure in 1954, the city underwent rapid population growth and has since dramatically transformed into a thriving trade center with a burgeoning web and technology sector.
Despite this modernization, Da Nang retains a remarkable yet unpretentious culinary scene, where some of the best and most authentic eats are discovered in bustling street markets and charming back alleys. This vibrancy is just one reason why the Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills tour remains a consistently popular choice for cruise passengers seeking an engaging and memorable experience during their Vietnam shore excursions.
Shopping in Da Nang and Hue 🛍️
While the Chan May Port cruise terminal itself provides limited shopping opportunities, a venture into nearby cities opens a wealth of options. In Da Nang, the Han Market is a popular and energetic spot among locals and tourists alike, offering a wide array of goods, from textiles and handicrafts to local produce and souvenirs. Likewise, Hue boasts charming open-air markets and easily walkable storefronts, making for a relaxed and enjoyable day of souvenir hunting. Both cities are excellent places to find unique mementos of your trip during your Central Vietnam excursions.
Currency & Language Information for Your Journey
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
The official currency in Vietnam is the Dong (VND), issued in various notes ranging up to 500,000 VND. For convenience, US Dollars are widely accepted in many major tourist areas and for larger purchases. We strongly advise carrying smaller denominations ($\text{$1}$s and $\text{$5}$s) to facilitate easier bargaining at markets and for small purchases, as change will often be given back in VND. For larger cash needs, ATMs are readily available at bank branches like Vietcombank in major cities such as Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An. (Current approximate exchange rate is 1 USD ≈ 26,155 VND).
Language
The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. However, in key tourist destinations and service sectors, English and French are widely spoken, especially by dedicated tour guides and hotel staff. We highly recommend discussing your language preferences with your travel agent when booking your Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills Tour to ensure you are matched with a guide who can communicate effectively with your group.
Beyond This Tour: Explore More Vietnam Shore Excursions
While the Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills Tour offers an incredible experience, we are dedicated to helping you maximize every port of call with a comprehensive range of Vietnam Shore Excursions to other captivating destinations. Our expert-led tours are specifically designed for cruise ship passengers, guaranteeing seamless transfers, timely returns, and truly unforgettable cultural immersions across the country.
You may also be interested in our other popular shore excursions:
- Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions: Discover the vibrant history and bustling modern life of Vietnam’s largest city.
- Nha Trang Shore Excursions: Relax on beautiful beaches and explore the coastal city’s unique attractions.
- Hanoi Shore Excursions: Immerse yourself in the charming capital, rich with ancient temples and colonial architecture.
- Mekong Delta Tour from Phu My Port: Experience the lush landscapes and unique riverine life of the Mekong Delta.
- Halong Bay Shore Excursions: Witness the breathtaking natural wonder of Halong Bay’s limestone karsts and emerald waters.
Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills Tour: FAQs & Quick Answers
Q: How long is the total tour duration from Chan May Port?
A: The total duration for the Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills tour is typically 7 to 8 hours, designed to fit within standard cruise ship docking times. The drive to the Ba Na Hills entrance is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way (around 60km), leaving you with 3 to 4 hours of dedicated sightseeing time on the mountain.
Q: Where exactly does the driver pick us up at Chan May Port?
A: We offer two convenient options:
Outside the Port Gate: The most common and free option is meeting your driver approximately 500 meters from the cruise ship at the main port entrance gate.
Inside the Port: For an extra fee (typically around $25 USD per person, as per port authority rules), and with pre-arrangement, your driver can pick you up directly at the gangway of your ship.
Q: What happens if the cruise ship arrival or departure time changes?
A: We prioritize the cruise schedule. As a dedicated shore excursion provider, we monitor your ship’s docking times and adjust the pickup and drop-off schedule accordingly to guarantee a timely return to Chan May Port. Our primary guarantee is that you will be back before your ship departs.
Q: Will we get to see the Hai Van Pass?
A: The transfer from Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills often passes by or near the scenic Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass) and Lang Co Bay. Our drivers usually offer a brief stop at a viewpoint along the route (time permitting) to capture photos of the famous coastal scenery.
Q: Is the Ba Na Hills cable car ticket included in the price?
A: For an all-inclusive, stress-free experience, our full-package tours include the Ba Na Hills entrance ticket and all cable car rides. This covers the round-trip cable car to the top, which holds world records, and all connecting funicular rides on the mountain. (Note: Always check your specific booking for inclusions/exclusions.)
Q: What attractions will we see in Ba Na Hills besides the Golden Bridge?
A: Your full day at Ba Na Hills includes: The Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng), the historic French Village, the beautiful Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Gardens, the majestic Linh Ung Pagoda with its Giant Buddha, and unlimited access to the indoor amusement park, Fantasy Park.
Q: Is lunch included in the tour price?
A: Many of our full-day, all-inclusive tour packages include a delicious buffet lunch at one of the main restaurants within the French Village complex on Ba Na Hills. Please refer to your specific tour details to confirm the lunch inclusion.
Q: Do I need a tour guide, or is a private car with a driver enough?
A: For flexibility and cost savings, a private car with a basic English-speaking driver is an excellent choice for efficient transfer and timing. For a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and legends of the Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills, we recommend booking the private tour with a professional English-speaking guide (available for an additional fee).
Ready for Your Ba Na Hills Adventure?
Are you ready to visit the magical Ba Na Hills, Vietnam, and walk across the Golden Bridge?
Let Vietnam Shore Excursions arrange your perfect, seamless Chan May Port to Ba Na Hills Tour. We are dedicated to crafting an unforgettable experience meticulously tailored to your desires. Share your specific ideas and requests by mailing us at chiduyencssh@gmail.com. One of our dedicated travel experts will respond as soon as possible with a personalized itinerary and quote!
Urgent booking or immediate questions? Please feel free to call or WhatsApp us directly: +84913138096
May I know how much the ba na hills and hoi an tours are from the port of danang?
We arrive at the port at 7am and leave port at 6pm. Is there enough time?
Choosing still between the two shore excursions
Thank you