Da Nang , Vietnam

Hai Van Pass Horizons Photo Tour

Active

(2 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore one of Vietnam’s most fascinating and iconic spots on this unique half-day photo tour. The Hai Van Pass separates northern and central Vietnam, two very distinct climates and cultures. It also boasts some of the most spectacular views in the entire country. We travel by early morning train from Danang, and capture some of these mountain and seascapes from our window, as well as local life in the carriage. Then we jump off at the tiny station of Lang Co, and head over to photograph the fishermen at work in this tranquil lagoon. We’ll be looking at how to shoot mini-stories of daily working life. Finally we head back up the mountain by road and shoot some more incredible landscapes both north and south from the top of the pass. Learn the art of travel photography while discovering this captivating and unforgettable area of Vietnam.

Available options

Private Photography Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Breakfast (Vietnamese)

Professional photographer guide

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Hotel Pick Up Service starts at 5:30 from either Da Nang or Hoi An
We arrive at Danang train station, and before setting out we’ll have time to check camera settings and enjoy a preview of the tour and workshop. We’ll also have a tasty coffee and bite to eat while waiting for the train.

Stop 2

Sometimes the train is delayed, and if so we’ll use this time to work on to look at some composition tips, and even shoot some portraits in the station. Once we head out, we’ll set up in the local passenger carriage so we have the chance to open our window and capture shots of the train winding round the mountain. There are great views all the way along, and we’ll be looking at how to compose these kind of pictures to bring out the best in the landscape. Trains are also fantastic places to shoot portraits of both passengers and the busy train staff. We’ll have a chance to work on different kinds of portrait, but also learn some ways to approach people for pictures.

We now hop off the train at the sleepy local station of Lang Co. Nearby, we can find a fantastic little fishing community on the edge of the lagoon, where the locals use traditionally hand-woven coracle boats to bring in their catch. Now we’re looking at how to shoot relationship shots, telling a story about the people in their working environment, in this case a stunning subtropical lagoon.
Time to hit the road back up towards the Hai Van Pass. On the way up, we’ll capture magnificent landscapes overlooking Lang Co lagoon and beach. This must be one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world.

We reach the top of the Hai Van Pass, with jaw-dropping views both north towards Lang Co and Hue, and south, over the city of Danang. High up over the roadside shacks offering snacks, we find the remains of several war era bunkers and gun emplacements, now popular places for locals to have their wedding shots taken. These make for fascinating foreground features for our landscapes, and also interesting subjects in their own right.
Time for a spot of lunch and a coffee, before we head back down to Danang. We’ll also be reviewing some of the great pictures we’ve taken during the tour in a scenic spot.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund

This tour/activity will have a maximum of 5 travelers

Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level

No Health Restrictions

About Da Nang

Da Nang is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beaches, impressive bridges, and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to some of Vietnam's most iconic destinations, including the ancient town of Hoi An and the breathtaking landscapes of the Ba Na Hills.

Top Attractions

My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, known for its white sand and clear waters.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Dragon Bridge

The Dragon Bridge is an iconic symbol of Da Nang, featuring a massive steel dragon structure.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills is a mountainous area with a cool climate, home to the Golden Bridge and various amusement parks.

Nature Full day 300,000 VND (13 USD) for entrance and cable car

Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five marble and limestone hills, each named after an element (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth).

Nature Half day 40,000 VND (1.80 USD) for entrance

Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is a well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port, known for its lantern-lit streets and historic architecture.

Historical Full day 120,000 VND (5.50 USD) for entrance ticket

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mi Quang

A noodle dish with turmeric-infused rice noodles, shrimp, pork, and herbs.

Main dish Contains seafood and pork

Banh Xeo

A crispy Vietnamese pancake made with rice flour, water, and turmeric powder, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

Main dish Contains seafood and pork

Bun Cha Ca

A noodle soup with fish cake, herbs, and a tangy broth.

Main dish Contains fish

Ca Voi (Whale Meat)

A local delicacy made from whale meat, often served as a steak or in a hotpot.

Main dish Contains whale meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Ba Na Hills Snorkeling and diving in the Cham Islands Water sports in My Khe Beach Beach relaxation in My Khe Beach Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town Visiting the Marble Mountains

Best Time to Visit

February to May

This period offers warm, sunny weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

25°C to 30°C 77°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Da Nang is generally safe for travelers, but common precautions should be taken to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air

Da Nang International Airport • 3 km from city center

By train

Da Nang Station

By bus

Da Nang Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

My An Son Tra Peninsula Hoa Cuong

Day trips

Hoi An Ancient Town

30 km from Da Nang • Full day

Hoi An is a well-preserved ancient town known for its lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage.

Ba Na Hills

30 km from Da Nang • Full day

Ba Na Hills is a mountainous area with a cool climate, home to the Golden Bridge and various amusement parks.

Cham Islands

25 km from Da Nang • Full day

The Cham Islands are a group of eight islands known for their pristine beaches, diving spots, and biodiversity.

Festivals

Hoi An Lantern Festival • 14th day of each lunar month Da Nang International Fireworks Festival • Annual, typically in May Ba Na Hills Flower Festival • Annual, typically in February

Pro tips

Visit the Dragon Bridge on weekends to see the fire and water show
Try local specialties like Mi Quang and Banh Xeo at local eateries
Explore the Non Nuoc Fine Arts Village for unique souvenirs and cultural experiences
Take a day trip to the Cham Islands for snorkeling and diving
Visit the Marble Mountains for a mix of nature, history, and culture