Hoi An: Marble Mountain & Monkey Mountain in Afternoon Tour

Planning a half-day adventure from Hoi An or Da Nang? The Marble Mountain and Monkey Mountain Tour offers an affordable, engaging way to see some of Vietnam’s most striking sights, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or just seeking incredible panoramas, this tour packs in plenty without breaking the bank.

What we really appreciate about this experience? First, the spectacular views of Da Nang from high vantage points that make your camera happy. Second, the fascinating caves and pagodas, which offer a peek into Vietnam’s spiritual and architectural heritage. And third, the chance to meet playful monkeys and witness the impressive Lady Buddha statue. A small downside? This tour involves quite a bit of climbing—so it’s not ideal if mobility is a concern. It suits travelers craving authentic sights, light physical activity, and a taste of local craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $4 USD per person, this tour offers good value for a blend of natural beauty and cultural sites.
• Breathtaking Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Da Nang from the mountain peaks.
• Caves and Pagodas: Discover limestone caves, Buddhist sanctuaries, and Hindu grottoes with rich religious histories.
• Artisan Village: Visit a marble fine art village over 300 years old, perfect for appreciating local craftsmanship.
• Monkey Encounters: Enjoy seeing the energetic monkeys at Monkey Mountain, along with Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue.
• Physical Activity: Prepare for stairs and some climbing, as both mountains feature many steps.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Marble Mountain (Ngu Hanh Son)

The journey begins at Marble Mountain, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills that look like giant fingers stretching from the ground to the sky. These hills aren’t just striking to look at—they’re home to a series of caves, caverns, and pagodas that have been attracting visitors for centuries.

Walking through Marble Mountain means navigating a maze of narrow tunnels and staircases, each revealing a different sacred site or scenic viewpoint. The views from the top are truly the highlight, offering a sweeping panorama of Da Nang’s coastline and cityscape. Expect to climb many stairs, so comfortable shoes are a must, and be prepared for some physical effort.

The caves are not only natural wonders but also spiritual havens. Some are Buddhist sanctuaries, while others contain Hindu grottoes, reflecting the diverse religious influences that have shaped the area. This mix adds an enriching layer to your visit, especially if you’re interested in spiritual architecture or religious customs.

At the foot of the hills lies a marble fine art village, with craftsmen who have honed their skills over 300 years. Here, you’ll see artisans shaping marble into sculptures, jewelry, and intricate art pieces, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate craftsmanship and might want to buy a unique souvenir.

Review snippet: “They contact you, pick you up and drop you off at your hotel afterwards, the visits are very complete (be prepared to exercise and sweat).” – Elena Inchausti. This highlights the convenience and the physically engaging nature of the tour.

Monkey Mountain and Linh Ung Pagoda

Next up, you’ll head to Monkey Mountain, known locally as Son Tra Peninsula, which offers more than just playful primates. The main attraction here is the Linh Ung Pagoda, one of the largest pagodas in Da Nang, visible from afar thanks to its magnificent Lady Buddha statue, which is actually the tallest in Vietnam.

The statue is a commanding presence, sitting gracefully atop the mountain, surrounded by lush greenery and offering fantastic photo opportunities. If luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of the monkeys that roam freely around the pagoda—an added bonus for animal lovers.

The viewpoint from Monkey Mountain is breathtaking, with sweeping vistas of the coastline, the city, and the lush forested hills. It’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. Many visitors also appreciate the peaceful atmosphere here, which contrasts nicely with the busier city life below.

Review snippet: “Monkeys were perfect!! So playful” – GetYourGuide traveler. This confirms that animal encounters can be a highlight, adding a fun and spontaneous element to your visit.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This 3.5-hour tour is scheduled to start around 3:00–3:30 pm, fitting well into an afternoon itinerary. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Hoi An or at a designated meeting point in Da Nang. The meeting point in Da Nang is at 315 Le Van Hien Street, making it easy for travelers staying in the city.

The cost is just over four dollars per person, which is incredibly budget-friendly considering the sights visited. The fee covers entrance tickets and an English-speaking guide, ensuring you’ll get insightful commentary throughout the trip.

Note: The tour involves climbing many stairs on both mountains, so comfortable shoes are essential. Clothes covering elbows and knees are recommended for visiting the pagodas, respecting local customs.

Children under 3 can join free, but older children (4-8) require an additional fee of $6.50 USD, while ages 9 and above are considered adults for pricing.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

The tour isn’t just about ticking boxes. You’ll get to see local artisans at work in the marble village, understand the significance of the pagodas, and enjoy the playful antics of monkeys in their natural habitat. The guides are noted for their friendly demeanor and good English, making explanations accessible and engaging.

One reviewer praised the guide, “Mysa spoke phenomenal English and was very friendly,” which enhanced their overall experience. Knowing that the visits are well-organized and that the tour is designed to be complete—covering multiple sites in just a few hours—means you’ll walk away with a good overview of the area’s natural and cultural highlights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Value and Recommendations

Given the low cost and the richness of sights, this tour provides remarkable value. For roughly $4, you gain access to impressive panoramic views, spiritual sites, artisan crafts, and playful monkeys. It’s a great option for travelers on a budget or those who want a quick but meaningful taste of Da Nang’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

If you’re someone who enjoys light physical activity, spectacular vistas, and culturally immersive stops, this tour ticks all those boxes. Conversely, if mobility is an issue, be mindful of the stairs and uneven pathways.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking to maximize a half-day, especially if they’re interested in local craftsmanship, scenic views, and spiritual sites. It’s perfect for families with children (noticing their delight with monkeys), groups seeking an affordable cultural outing, or solo travelers eager for authentic local experiences.

Those who prefer zero physical exertion, or have mobility limitations, might find the stairs challenging. Also, if you’re after a more leisurely, less physically demanding experience, other options might suit you better.

Final Thoughts

The Hoi An Marble Mountain & Monkey Mountain Tour offers a compelling combination of natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun wildlife encounters. Its affordability makes it accessible, while the diverse sites ensure you leave with a well-rounded impression of Da Nang’s scenic and spiritual landscape.

With stunning panoramic views, fascinating caves and pagodas, and playful monkeys, this tour suits adventure-loving, curious travelers eager to explore intelligently and authentically. If you’re prepared for some stairs and want a comprehensive afternoon trip, this option delivers excellent value and memorable sights.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 3 can join free, and the tour is generally family-friendly. Just keep in mind the physical activity involved with stairs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are necessary due to the climbing involved. Clothes covering elbows and knees are recommended when visiting pagodas to respect local customs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, starting around 3:00–3:30 pm and ending around 6:30–7:00 pm.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels in Hoi An or from the designated meeting point in Da Nang.

What is the price?
The tour costs about $4.01 per person, with small additional fees for children from 4-8 years old and for adults paying at the end of the tour.

Are the sights crowded?
While the site can be popular, the tour’s timing allows you to enjoy the views and sites with fewer visitors than peak times.

What are the main highlights?
Expect panoramic city views, caves, pagodas, the marble artisan village, and playful monkeys at Monkey Mountain.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, the marble village offers beautifully crafted items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, due to the many stairs and uneven paths, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

This tour offers a well-rounded, affordable way to enjoy some of Vietnam’s most photogenic and spiritual sites. Whether you’re after sweeping views, cultural insights, or just some fun in nature, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: