1 Day Tour Ba Na Hills with Buffet for Lunch

A Complete Look at the 1-Day Tour of Ba Na Hills with Buffet Lunch

Traveling to Vietnam and looking for a day filled with stunning scenery, cultural sights, and a touch of whimsical architecture? This 1-Day Tour of Ba Na Hills offers a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty, historical charm, and modern marvels. With a price of around $100 per person, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a comprehensive visit without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. What stands out most is the inclusion of return cable-car tickets and a hearty buffet lunch, making this a convenient way to explore this unique destination.

We particularly appreciate how smoothly the day is organized, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you from logistical headaches. Plus, the variety of stops—from the iconic Golden Bridge to serene pagodas—means you get to see multiple facets of Ba Na Hills in one day.

However, the tour involves several stops and quite a bit of walking, which might be tiring for some. If you prefer a more relaxed, less packed sightseeing day, this tour may feel a bit brisk. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a structured itinerary and want to maximize their time at this well-loved resort.

This experience is perfect for those who want a rundown of Ba Na Hills, enjoy diverse scenery, and appreciate cultural and architectural highlights—all in one conveniently organized day.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The package covers transport, cable cars, a buffet lunch, and most entrance fees, providing great value.
• Diverse Attractions: From the Golden Bridge to the French Village and various pagodas, the tour offers a broad view of Ba Na Hills’ highlights.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pickup/drop-off make for a smooth, stress-free day.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting temples, shrines, and the French Village offers cultural insights beyond just sightseeing.
• Ideal for Photographers: The locations—especially the Golden Bridge and flower gardens—are perfect for memorable photos.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience, though it can be busy during peak seasons.

Exploring Ba Na Hills: What You Can Expect

The Arrival and First Impressions

Starting at 8:00 am, the tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in central Da Nang. The drive to Ba Na Hills takes about 45 minutes to an hour, during which you can relax and prep for the day ahead. Once you arrive, the highlight is the return cable-car ride, which is simply breathtaking. We loved the way the cable car glides over lush mountains and forests, giving an almost surreal view of the landscape below. For many travelers, the cable car ride itself is worth the price, offering panoramic vistas that are frankly hard to beat.

Stop 1: Sun World Ba Na Hills

The first stop is the Sun World Ba Na Hills resort, situated at an altitude of 1,487 meters. Known as the “Sa Pa of Central Vietnam,” the area boasts a cool, refreshing climate—averaging around 18°C in summer—which makes the visit comfortable even during warmer months. The landscape here is striking, with rolling hills, winding paths, and well-manicured gardens. Travelers have mentioned the magnificent views and the feeling of stepping into an almost fairy-tale setting.

Golden Bridge: The Iconic Photo Spot

Next, you’ll visit the Golden Bridge, which sits 1,400 meters above sea level. This curved, 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge appears to be floating among clouds, with two enormous stone hands seemingly holding it up. The site is an Instagram magnet, and you’ll likely find others snapping photos endlessly. We loved the way the bridge seems to stretch into the sky, with stunning views of the mountain range in the background.

Critics of this stop sometimes mention crowds, especially during peak times. If you’re after quieter photos, arriving early or later in the day might help. Nonetheless, this is a highlight that perfectly captures Ba Na Hills’ blend of fantasy and natural beauty.

Exploring the Gardens and Religious Sites

Walking around at Ba Na is a peaceful experience. The Le Jardin D’Amour (the Flower Garden of Love) offers a romantic scene filled with colorful blooms and sculptures. The Linh Ung Pagoda, with its towering 27-meter Shakyamuni Buddha statue, provides a serene atmosphere and some fantastic views of Da Nang city. The pagoda’s location at nearly 1,500 meters adds to the sense of tranquility and spiritual calm.

One review noted, “The pagoda’s setting was so peaceful, and the view over Da Nang was stunning.” It’s a place that invites quiet reflection, with some travelers mentioning the endangered pine tree in front of the pagoda as a unique sight.

The French Village and Cultural Touches

The French Village is a charming replica of a European town, complete with cobbled streets, flower-lined walkways, and French-style architecture. It’s a great place to wander, taking photos of quaint shop fronts and enjoying the ambiance. Visitors appreciate how well-maintained and picturesque the village is, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration.

Sacred and Cultural Stops

The tour includes visits to Linh Ung Pagoda on Marble Mountains and Holy Mother Shrine—both located at high elevations and offering insights into local spiritual beliefs. The Holy Mother Shrine, established in 1931, has historical significance, and many find it a peaceful place that echoes local legends and legends of peace and stability.

Zen Monastery and Bell Tower

The Linh Phong Zen Monastery is a highlight for those interested in architecture and spirituality. Its traditional wooden construction and statues of Buddha and Arahants create a calm atmosphere. Nearby, the Belfry houses a large bronze bell (weighing a ton), which is said to produce deeply soothing sounds—an experience that many visitors find surprisingly moving.

The Lunch Experience and Overall Value

A significant part of the tour is the inclusion of a buffet lunch with over 100 dishes, offering a hearty break and a chance to sample Vietnamese and international cuisine. The buffet is well-reviewed, with travelers noting the variety and quality of food, especially the fresh seafood and local specialties.

This all-inclusive approach adds value—especially considering the transportation, cable car tickets, and entrance fees are covered. Compared to separate bookings, this package saves both time and money, making it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free experience.

Considerations

While the tour covers many highlights, it does involve quite a bit of walking and standing, which could be tiring. The group size of up to 15 travelers helps keep the experience more intimate, but during busy seasons, expect some crowds, particularly at the Golden Bridge and main viewpoints. Also, if you’re not a fan of guided tours, this might feel a bit structured, but for most, it strikes a good balance between organized sightseeing and free exploration.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day at Ba Na Hills without the stress of logistics. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in a mix of cultural, architectural, and natural sights. The inclusion of a satisfying lunch and transportation makes it especially appealing for travelers on a tight schedule or those wanting a hassle-free experience. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with fewer stops, you might find this tour a little packed, but for most, it’s a great way to see the main highlights in one day.

Final Thoughts

The 1-Day Ba Na Hills Tour with Buffet Lunch offers a well-balanced combination of scenic beauty, cultural sites, and leisure. The inclusion of key attractions like the Golden Bridge, French Village, and spiritual sites ensures you walk away with a broad perspective of what makes Ba Na Hills so special.

The convenience of hotel pickup, the comfort of air-conditioned transport, and the variety of stops make this a sensible choice for travelers who want to maximize their time without sacrificing quality. The buffet lunch adds extra value, especially for those who want to enjoy a large selection of dishes without the need to hunt for local eateries.

While it’s a full day with some walking involved, most reviews suggest it’s worth the effort. Expect memorable photo opportunities, peaceful spiritual moments, and the chance to experience one of Vietnam’s most celebrated resorts—all in just a single day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, return cable-car tickets, a buffet lunch, bottled water, and most entrance fees.

What are the main attractions visited?
You’ll visit Sun World Ba Na Hills, the Golden Bridge, Le Jardin D’Amour, Linh Ung Pagoda, French Village, Holy Mother Shrine, Belfry, and Linh Phong Zen Monastery.

Does the tour include a meal?
Yes, a buffet lunch with over 100 dishes is part of the package, providing a good variety for different tastes.

What is the best time to go?
The tour departs at 8:00 am, and most travelers find the cooler, clearer parts of the day ideal for sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, but the tour is weather-dependent—poor weather might lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

How long is the tour?
The duration is approximately 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and lunch.

Is the group size small or large?
The maximum group size is limited to 15 travelers, making it easier to move around and ask questions.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary needs if specified during booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised, as the tour involves a good amount of strolling. Layers are recommended due to the variable mountain climate.

Are there any additional costs?
Extras like the Wax Museum (costing 100,000 VND) and personal expenses are not included. It’s wise to bring some cash for souvenirs or snacks.

This carefully curated tour offers a thoughtful way to experience Ba Na Hills—a place that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and a touch of fantasy, all in one day. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it’s a well-rounded adventure worth considering.