How To Travel Vietnam's Hai Van Pass on a Motorbike in One Day

The Hai Van Pass is a stunning stretch of mountain road, on the coastal path between Hue and Da Nang in Vietnam. One of the best ways to experience it is on a motorbike – here’s how!

Considered one of the world’s most scenic roads, driving show fans might recognise the Hai Van Pass, which was featured in the Top Gear Vietnam Special. My partner actually rode the pass ten years previously, and was keen for me to experience the twists, turns and incredible views on our recent backpacking trip to Vietnam.

It didn’t deliver quite the experience of blue skies and sweeping vistas that I’d seen online – as the weather turned quite significantly during our trip. Quite honestly, it ended up being one of the most tiring, sometimes stressful and totally exhilarating days of my life. It was also an absolutely unforgettable adventure, and worth every second. Even in poor weather conditions, the mountain views and stunning scenery make the Hai Van Pass a must-drive road.

If you’re looking to experience one of the world’s most beautiful roads for yourself, find out how we tackled it, and check out our comprehensive guide on how to plan your Hai Van Pass motorbike adventure!

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IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: This guide is intended for those who have confidence riding a scooter on Vietnam’s roads.

Want to experience the Hai Van Pass without any scooter experience? An ‘Easy Rider’ motorbike tour lets someone else do the driving, while you soak up the scenery from the back of the bike. You can also join a jeep tour or book a scenic day trip by car with a private driver.

What is the Hai Van Pass?

The Hai Van Pass is a 21km mountain pass, on the border of Vietnam’s Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang provinces. It’s the highest road in the country, reaching 500m above sea level at it’s uppermost point. The road cuts through the Annamite Mountain Range, and historically acted as a boundary between the north and south kingdoms.

With the opening of the Hai Van Tunnel in 2005, the majority of traffic can now circumvent the winding roads and switchbacks of the Hai Van Pass. As a result, the pass has become an essential leisure route in Vietnam for motorcyclists and travellers, with light traffic and fun driving conditions.

Two lane mountain road on the Hai Van Pass

Our experience biking the Hai Van Pass

While most travellers take the Hai Van Pass north to Hue, we’d opted to make it a leg in our longer journey south. After spending a day in Hue, we’d continue on via the Hai Van Pass to Hoi An.

Unfortunately, we were in Central Vietnam during the rainy season, which isn’t exactly the best time to bike the Hai Van Pass. On the day before our trip, the weather for the following day seemed to look clearer than it had been, so we decided to brave it. My partner has pretty extensive experience riding bikes, so a little bit of drizzle didn’t feel like too much of a problem.

Turns out, we’d be experiencing more than that little bit of drizzle.

Setting off from Hue

We investigated a couple of local motorbike rental companies in Hue before deciding to go with Style Motorbikes. Operating in across the length of Vietnam, they had good reviews, a welcoming and friendly service and a bike that passed our test drive.

Heading out of the city, we gave the bike some fuel. And then the heavens opened, for the first time in the day. Luckily, the rain was relatively light, so with ponchos on, we continued off on our journey.

Ho Thuy Tien Water Park

Our first stop of the day was actually a little off-route, as we’d heard about an abandoned water park just outside Hue. Upon arrival, we were the only guests, and after paying the entrance fee we took a walk around the lake. Our first stop off was a large pavilion in the centre of the water, clearly once a structure intended for public enjoyment. Walking around the expansive lake, we discovered waterslides and pools decorated with graffiti – all abandoned and left to the elements.

It was at this point, the sky absolutely turned on us, with a torrential downpour lasting around half an hour. We sheltered in a hut with an old flight simulator ride, hiding behind a wall as a section of the roof blew off with the wind.

At this point, we should probably have gone back to Hue and booked a train instead. But we were determined to make the journey on our bike, so we pressed on – and finally got some luck as the rain eased off for a good part of our road trip.

Milly is standing on a pathway in an abandoned water park in Hue. A large green waterslide goes over the path, surrounded by green trees

Abandoned pavilion with a large dome and dragon statue, in Hue Abandoned Water Park.

From Hue to the Hai Van Pass

The journey along the coastal village route was about as perfect as you can get, and we were blessed with sunny weather and smiles from locals. We encountered some local children on the way, and I wish we’d packed some toys and activity kits to give them!

Once we’d crossed the head-spinning Tu Hien Bridge, the weather began to get more difficult, with rain lashing at our flimsy ponchos. Driving along the busy QL1A highway alongside enormous trucks, we decided to pull over and try and let some of the weather front pass. I grabbed a beer (Ashley had a Diet Coke), and we ended up spending around 45 minutes here until the rain let up a little.

We’d also made a grave error of not eating breakfast before we left, so ended up in a local village eatery without any vegetarian options. I’ll admit it, I caved, and had some of the pork on offer. It was enough to fill us up while we waited out a rainstorm, and a chance to experience local life in a rural Vietnam village.

Road through small village in Vietnam, with houses lining each side

Glass table with a motorcycle helmet, can of beer.

The Hai Van Pass

I’d never been happier to see the back of the highway with its thundering traffic, and as we drove past the Lap An Lagoon, the entrance to the Hai Van Pass came into sight.

Reaching the highest point of the pass, Hai Van Quan, we stopped for a quick drink and toilet break, to appreciate the views. Even with a sky full of clouds, the valley down to the sea was a spectacular sight, and mercifully the rain seemed to have done its worst for the day.

Road on the Hai Van Pass with fog and broken bamboo

Milly is standing with her arms outstretched with a view of the Hai Van Pass valley

Riding through Da Nang in rush hour

Our way back down the other side was largely uneventful, aside from getting stuck behind a slow truck carrying tree trunk logs. I tried not to think about the Final Destination movies.

Da Nang was our next stop, and the Google route we’d been given took us straight through the city centre. Being on a bike in Da Nang at rush hour might just be the most stressful travel experience of my life. And I wasn’t even in control of the bike.

The Vietnamese way of driving is completely different to the UK, and even to our experience hiring a scooter in Thailand. With over 65 million registered motorcycles in the country, the roads absolutely teem with two-wheelers. We found ourselves amongst thousands of bikes weaving in and out of each other in Da Nang, all while watching out for cars and pedestrians.

We eventually made our way back to the slightly less jam-packed road to Hoi An, and despite some strong winds to contend with, we made it to Style Motorbikes in Hoi An, behind schedule but proud of our achievements. After celebrating with a quick beer, we checked into our stunning villa, exhausted from the day and ready for some well-earned downtime in Hoi An.

Ashley walking through a motorbike rental shop in Hoi An, with helmets on the wall and motorbikes on the shop floor

Hai Van Pass by Motorbike: Guide & FAQs

Distance: The Hai Van Pass itself is 21km long. The ride from Hue to Hoi An (or the reverse) is around 130km, and from Hue to Da Nang around 100km.
Time Needed: If you’re doing the full city to city trip, allow one full day with an early start to make the journey.
Bike Hire: Style Motorbikes are my recommended go-to!

What route should I take to see the Hai Van Pass?

The coastal route we took is a popular way to experience the Hai Van Pass, spending a full day driving from Hue to Hoi An or Da Nang. You can also take the same route in reverse.

If you’re taking this route from Hue to Hoi An, here’s how I recommend you do it. Get my Google Map for this route here. (you can reverse these steps if you’re starting off in Hoi An or Da Nang!)

Hue (starting point)
Take the QL49/QL49B to Thuan An Beach, then follow the QL49B to Tu Hien Bridge
Continue on the QL49B and join the QL1 highway.
Drive past Lap An Lagoon and cross over the bridge.
Take the exit for the Hai Van Pass and follow the road to Hai Van Quan.
Follow the road down the Hai Van Pass and join the QL1A road into Da Nang.
Come off the QL1A to take the Nguyễn Tất Thành road past Da Nang Bay.
Turn off into the city to cross Cau Rong (the Dragon Bridge), then turn right onto the AH17 at the intersection
Take a left onto Ho Xuan Huong, and a right onto Vo Nguyen Giap – follow this road all the way to Hoi An, with an optional stop at Marble Mountain.

If you’re based in Hoi An or Da Nang, the Hai Van Pass is a great way to access the historical city of Hue. Book two nights accommodation (we recommend ky uc tui dep) and spend a day in Hue, visiting the imperial city and eating traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

You could also rent a bike one-way, and get the train or bus back between Da Nang and Hue (or vice versa).

View of mountain topped with clouds from a paved road on the Hai Van Pass

Waterfalls and shrubs on the Hai Van Pass

Places to visit on the Hai Van Pass route

Sadly, due to our weather-based delays, we didn’t get to see as much en route as we’d have liked. These are some of the most popular sights to see on the Hai Van Pass route between Hoi An and Hue. (if you’re travelling in the opposite direction, reverse them!)

Marble Mountains: The first major point of interest between Hoi An and Da Nang are the Marble Mountains, a group of five limestone karsts just outside downtown Da Nang.
Da Nang: If you’re not starting out from Da Nang, the route takes you over the famous ‘Dragon Bridge’. The city combines beach life and urban skyscrapers, and even if you don’t make a stop here, it’s worth checking out en route.
Hai Van Quan: At the highest point of the Hai Van Pass, you’ll find the historic Hai Van gate, a national historical site.
Lap An Lagoon can be found on the northern side of the Hai Van Pass. At the right time of day, you can walk on a natural sandy path to the middle of the lagoon.
Bo Ghe waterfall – a remote, off the beaten path waterfall and swimming spring. Bear in mind that the entry road is very rural and challenging.
Dam Cau Hai is one of the largest brackish lagoons in South East Asia, surrounded by mountainous landscapes, small fishing villages and grazing buffalo.
An Bang Cemetery – known as the ‘City of Ghosts’, this cemetery is home to elaborate tombs and mausoleums.
Thuan An Beach – a tranquil beach spot close to Hue, ideal for swimming or relaxing on the sandy shore.
Ho Thuy Tien Water Park is an abandoned water park on the outskirts of Hue, interesting enough for you to take a slight diversion if you have the time!

Large lake at an abandoned water park in Hue

Beach in Vietnam with scaffolding of shelters

When’s the best time to ride the Hai Van Pass?

The months of March to September offer the best time to ride the Hai Van Pass, with a higher likelihood of warmer weather. The Hai Van Pass is open all year round, however outside these times, there’s a much higher chance you’ll encounter cloud, rain and wind.

The biggest mistake we made was choosing a day in the rainy season to ride the Hai Van pass (although at our time of travel, we didn’t have much choice in the matter!). While the experience and views were still spectacular, I’d have loved to have experienced it in all it’s sunshine-soaked glory.

How to rent a bike in Vietnam

Motorbike rental shops are ten-a-penny in Vietnam – we recommend Style Motorbikes in Hue and Hoi An. They offer one-way rentals at an affordable price, and will transport your luggage for you to pick up.

To ride a bike or scooter in Vietnam, you’ll need a driving license from your home country, and a 1968 International Driver’s Permit. You’ll need to get the IDP in your own country before travelling.

You’ll also be asked to show your passport, and to pay a deposit – cash is preferred, but some rental stores will be able to take card with a 3% transaction fee. Some rental shops will give you the option to leave your passport as a deposit – don’t do this! Keep your passport in your personal bag when driving the Hai Van Pass.

Make sure you fully inspect your bike before leaving the rental shop – particularly the tyres, breaks and lights. Photograph any scratches or damage to the bike before you start your ride.

What type of bike should I rent for the Hai Van Pass?

A 125cc automatic bike is perfectly suitable for this route. We rented an automatic 125cc Suzuki Impulse, which was more than capable of transporting the two of us up the hills of the Hai Van Pass. For the most experienced riders, you could also consider a 150cc Honda bike, which has manual gears.

How much does bike rental for the Hai Van Pass cost?

We paid $22 (USD) for our bike rental, plus an extra $2 for an additional bag. This price with Style Motorbikes includes a day’s bike rental and drop-off in a different city, transport for one piece luggage and helmet rental.

How to stay safe on the Hai Van Pass

Be a confident rider. I wouldn’t recommend riding the Hai Van Pass without previous experience on a bike, or experience with Vietnam roads. If you don’t have the riding experience but still want the adventure, you can book an Easy Rider Hai Van Pass tour.
Check the weather before you go. Despite enjoying our experience, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend riding the Hai Van Pass in the rain, for safety and comfort reasons.
Always wear helmets. They’re required by law in Vietnam for all motorbike riders and passengers, and could save your life in an accident.
Consider wearing protective clothing. Most rental shops will offer gear for hire for an additional fee.
Drive safely, always. Follow the rules of the road, take bends slowly, drive defensively and avoid driving after dusk.
Pack a first aid kit. Hopefully you won’t need it, but for scrapes and minor injuries, it’s helpful to have on the go.
Prepare for the elements. Bring a hard-wearing waterproof poncho for any rain, as well as sunglasses, suncream and plenty of water for the heat.
Avoid travelling solo if possible. Aways let someone know your plans, and when you expect to arrive in your end destination.
Make sure you have travel insurance that covers you while riding a scooter!

General tips for riding the Hai Van Pass on a motorbike

Fill up on fuel before leaving your destination, as there are no fuel stops on the Hai Van Pass itself. You can also top up at the Khanh Hoa gas station (Da Nang side) and the Tram Xang Lang Co gas station (Hue side).
Start out early. I’d recommend heading out around 8am to make the most of your day on the Hai Van Pass.
Download your route map before you leave, so you can navigate without signal if needed.
Work out where you plan to stop for food, eat breakfast before you leave, and pack snacks!

More motorbike adventures in Vietnam:

Take on another iconic motorbike route in the north of Vietnam, the Ha Giang Loop – you can either self-drive, or go with an easy rider.
Go sightseeing and street food tasting on the back of a motorbike in Hanoi or Saigon.
Take a guided motorbike tour in Sa Pa to experience the area’s beauty and learn more about local life.

How To Travel Vietnam’s Hai Van Pass on a Motorbike in One Day

What is the Hai Van Pass?