From Dawn to Dusk: Da Nang Natural History & Cultural Tour
Son Tra Nature Reserve — Ling Ung Pagoda — Marble Mountain — My Son Sanctuary
Immerse yourself in a captivating blend of nature, history, and spirituality. Explore lush rainforests, ancient temples, and stunning limestone peaks, all while uncovering the rich cultural heritage of Central Vietnam
Details
Summary:
— Full Day Tour
— Bookings Available Year-Round
— Departs from Da Nang or Hoi An
— Private Tours for Individuals or Small Groups, with Options for Larger Groups Available Upon Request
Prices From:
Single Person: $320 per person
Group of 2: $200 per person
Group of 3: $162 person
Group of 4: $143 per person
From Dawn to Dusk: Da Nang Natural History & Cultural Tour
Code: DNSD06 | Categories: Cultural Experiences | Locations: Da Nang / Hoi An
Summary
Experience the diverse cultural and natural history wonders of Central Vietnam by joining us on our “From Dawn to Dusk — Da Nang Natural History & Cultural Tour.” This journey combines the natural beauty of the Son Tra Peninsula, the historical richness of My Son Sanctuary, and the cultural allure of Marble Mountains, perfect for those seeking to explore the essence of Vietnam’s landscapes, history, and spirituality.
Begin your adventure with a visit to the Son Tra Peninsula, where lush tropical rainforest meets the sea. Your expert guide will lead you through the mountain, searching for exotic birds and the critically endangered Red-shanked Douc Langur, one of the rarest and most beautiful primates on the planet. Before leaving, visit the majestic Giant Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda to learn about the historic values of Buddhism.
Continue your tour at Marble Mountains, an ancient limestone mountain and cave structure with ancient Buddhist sanctuaries, each with its own unique story. Climb to the summit for breathtaking views of the coastline and countryside, and immerse yourself in the geological history and cultural significance of this sacred site. Explore the local stone carving techniques and browse through exquisite marble handicrafts.
After enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch, delve into the ancient history of the Champa Kingdom at My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the verdant valley, discovering the architectural wonders and historical significance of the ancient Hindu temples. Learn about the rich cultural heritage of this mystical site, nestled amidst a backdrop of stunning evergreen forest.
This tour is crafted for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and cultural explorers, offering a comprehensive and enriching journey through the heart of Da Nang’s natural and historical treasures.
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary:
- 6:00 – 6:30 AM: Hotel pick-up. Grab takeaway breakfast and coffee en route to Son Tra Nature Reserve.
- 6:30 – 7:15 AM: Explore Son Tra Nature Reserve, searching for Red-shanked Douc Langurs and other morning-active wildlife.
- 9:00 – 10:00 AM: Visit the iconic Linh Ứng Pagoda, home to the towering Lady Buddha statue and sweeping coastal views.
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Discover the cave temples, tunnels, and panoramic viewpoints of Marble Mountain.
- 12:30 – 1:30 PM :Break for lunch at a local restaurant.
- 1:30 – 2:30 PM :Scenic drive to My Son Sanctuary.
- 2:30 – 4:30 PM: Enjoy a guided walk through My Son Sanctuary to explore the ancient Champa temples, with opportunities for wildlife watching and a traditional Cham cultural performance
- 4:30 – 5:30 PM :Return transfer to your hotel.
Tour Pace
Easy to moderate (accommodated for each participant). Well-maintained paths for easy walking with some slight inclines particularly at Marble Mountains and parts of Son Tra. Expect a mix of humid conditions particularly from May – September. The tour involves several drives between locations, providing opportunities to rest and take in the scenic views.
Wildlife & Natural History Highlights
This tour features a variety of iconic tropical wildlife from the Central Vietnam region with local highlights including Red-shanked Douc Langur, Indochinese Rhesus Macaque, Pallas’ Squirrel, Green-billed Malkoha, Green-eared Barbet, Thick-billed Green Pigeon, Lesser Necklaced Laughingthrush, Black-naped Monarch, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, Crested Serpent Eagle, Crimson Sunbird, Indochinese Blue Flycatcher, Oriental Garden Lizard, Chinese Water Dragon, Common Thread Turtle, Asian Common Toad, and more.
If you’re especially keen on wildlife experiences during your time in Da Nang, we highly recommend exploring some of our most popular wildlife tours, including:
- Red-shanked Douc Langur Safari: Adventure in Son Tra
- Da Nang After Dark: Owls & Nightjars Spotlighting Tour
- Hoi An Birding Cruise
- Son Tra Butterfly Walks
- Hoi An Snakes & Vipers: 1-Night Herping Tours
- Explore Son Tra: Wildlife & Nature Walk
Group Size
Private tours for individuals or small groups with options for larger groups available upon request.
Climate & Weather Conditions
Da Nang enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with a variety of experiences throughout the year. From February to April, the weather is pleasantly mild and dry, offering comfortable conditions for exploring the city’s attractions. May to August sees warmer temperatures and increased humidity. From September to January, the region experiences its rainy season, with occasional showers and lush green landscapes, providing a unique and refreshing backdrop for travelers. Each season offers its own charm, ensuring that this unique part of Central Vietnam has something special to offer no matter when you visit.
Tour Inclusions
- Private guide specialising in culture and natural history
- Dedicated driver for convenience
- Pickup and drop-off from your accommodation
- Breakfast and lunch
- Non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day
- Water bottles and snacks available in the vehicle
- All necessary entrance tickets and permits
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- First aid and a COVID-safe environment
Photography Opportunites & Notes
Excellent landscape, cultural and some wildlife photographic opportunities available on this tour. For those seeking specialist culture and wildlife photographic opportunities, our focussed photography tours and/or wildlife tours may be more suitable. Get in touch with our team for more details
Discover More in Central Vietnam
If this tour caught your eye, you might also enjoy some of our other experiences in the region, each with its own unique focus and highlights. Below are some of our most popular and recommended options, perfect for discovering more of what Central Vietnam has to offer. Thinking of doing more than one? Let us know and we’ll be happy to create a customised package to suit your journey.
Discover the vibrant world of the Red-shanked Douc Langur on a guided journey through the Son Tra Peninsula, home to one of the last strongholds of this critically endangered and strikingly beautiful primate. Travel winding coastal roads, explore hidden jungle gullies, and enjoy opportunities to observe and photograph these charismatic monkeys in their natural habitat. Whether you prefer the ease of a comfortable vehicle or the thrill of riding by motorbike, this tour offers a unique chance to connect with one of Vietnam’s natural icons.
Discover Hoi An: Ancient Town Half Day Tour
Uncover the magic of Hoi An with this unforgettable afternoon and evening tour. Drift through the peaceful Water Coconut Forest in a traditional basket boat, create your own lantern in an authentic workshop, and stroll the lantern-lit streets of the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town. From hands-on cultural activities to historic sightseeing, this experience captures the very best of Hoi An in one relaxing, photo-ready afternoon. Perfect for couples, families, and curious travellers looking for things to do in Hoi An beyond the usual.
Step into the imperial past of Vietnam on this immersive full-day tour of Hue. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll explore majestic royal tombs, ancient pagodas, and the iconic Imperial City, all while uncovering the rich history and spiritual heritage of this former capital. Cruise the Perfume River, visit the stunning Minh Mạng and Khải Định Mausoleums, and admire the views from Thien Mu Pagoda. With delicious local cuisine and seamless transport included, this Hue day tour is perfect for culture lovers, history buffs, and curious travellers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience.
Tailor Your Experience
Looking to enhance your experience? Whether it’s adding an extra day, making an additional stop, arranging pick-up from a distant location, hiring a camera, or combining your tour with another one of our amazing experiences, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch today, and let our experts craft a private, customised itinerary with dates and prices tailored to your needs
Tour Reviews
Tour Highlights Video
Still have questions? Get in touch with us directly
- info@nextcontinent.travel
- Phone / WhatsApp / Zalo: (+84) 328 955 019
- Frequently Asked Questions
