Shore Excursion from Chan May port to Ba Na Hills -Golden Bridge

Experience the Scenic Charm of Ba Na Hills from Chan May Port

This detailed review covers the popular shore excursion from Chan May port to Ba Na Hills, including the iconic Golden Bridge. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and expert insights paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect. The experience combines breathtaking scenery, cultural touches, and fun-filled activities, all wrapped in a comfortable, well-organized package.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the knowledgeable guides like Lin and Thong, who not only share fascinating stories about Vietnam’s heritage but also keep the atmosphere lively and engaging. The scenic cable car ride, which holds multiple world records, is a standout feature, offering panoramic views that are worth every minute of the journey.

A potential consideration is the long duration of the tour—8 to 9 hours—which might be tiring for those with limited stamina or tight cruise schedules. However, the carefully curated itinerary ensures ample time to explore without feeling rushed. This tour fits best for travelers who love stunning landscapes, cultural sights, and a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Stunning Views & Unique Architecture: The Golden Bridge and French Village offer picture-perfect moments.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides add depth with stories and cultural context.
• Variety of Activities: From scenic rides to amusement parks, there’s something for all.
• Flexible & Customizable: As a private tour, it can adapt to your preferences.
• Value for Money: Entry, cable cars, and most attractions are included, making it a comprehensive experience.
• Consider your stamina: The tour’s length requires a good amount of walking and standing.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Transfer from Chan May Port

The adventure begins with a prompt pickup right at the port entrance—an arrangement that’s particularly convenient considering port restrictions. Since cruise ships can’t always allow entry into the terminal, the tour provider makes an effort to pick you as close as possible. The modern, air-conditioned coach ensures comfort during the roughly one-hour transfer through scenic countryside to Ba Na Hills.

Scenic Drive & Arrival at Ba Na Hills

Once aboard, we loved the peaceful countryside views outside the window, providing a glimpse of Vietnam’s natural beauty and rural life before reaching the hilltop. This short drive sets the tone for the day—relaxing yet filled with anticipation.

Cable Car Ride: The World’s Longest Non-Stop

The highlight here is undoubtedly the cable car system, which holds 4 world records including the longest single-wire sling. The ride itself is a marvel—offering sweeping vistas of lush greenery, mountains, and clouds, creating a feeling of floating above the landscape. The fresh mountain air enhances the experience, making it a must-do for anyone visiting.

Golden Hand Bridge & Surrounding Attractions

Arriving at the top, you’ll marvel at the Golden Bridge, suspended between two colossal stone hands and perched 1,400 meters above sea level. It looks like a silk ribbon floating in the clouds and offers unparalleled photo opportunities. Our guides share stories about its design and significance, adding cultural depth to the visual feast.

Nearby, the French Village resembles a medieval European town, complete with charming architecture, quaint shops, and peaceful gardens. It’s a wonderful spot for leisurely strolling and soaking in the European flair without leaving Vietnam.

Exploring Ba Na Hills & Temples

Next, you visit Linh Ung Pagoda, famous for its serene atmosphere and large Buddha statue. The 27-meter-high Shakyamuni Buddha and the lush surroundings make it a tranquil pause amid the day’s excitement. Other attractions include Tinh Tam Garden, historic villas, and the Loc Uyen Garden, each offering different perspectives on the area’s history and architecture.

Buffet Lunch & Rest

Around midday, the group gathers for a buffet lunch featuring over 100 dishes. Priced at approximately $11 USD, it’s a good value considering the variety and quality, giving you energy for the afternoon adventures.

Fantasy Park & Thrilling Rides

Post-lunch, the fun continues at Fantasy Park, an indoor amusement zone packed with rides, games, and attractions suitable for all ages. From the Alpine coaster to dinosaur parks and 4D movies, we loved the diversity and the chance to indulge in some carefree entertainment. For those seeking adrenaline, the Freefall Tower and Jurassic Park rides deliver exciting moments.

Photo Opportunities & Relaxation

Throughout the day, guides point out the best spots for photos, helping you capture the architecture—like the Wax Museum with over 40 wax statues—and natural scenery. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to snap memorable shots of the panoramic vistas and quaint villages, making the experience more than just sightseeing—it’s about creating lasting memories.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Duration

The modern, air-conditioned bus offers a comfortable ride—crucial after a long day on your feet. The total duration of 8 to 9 hours includes all stops, meals, and transfers. While lengthy, the schedule is well-paced, with ample free time to explore at your own pace.

Cost & Included Features

At $157 per person, the price covers cable car tickets, buffet lunch, entrance to attractions, and professional guides. When you consider the included rides, entrance fees, and the detailed guidance, it’s a solid value for an all-in-one experience. Additional costs, like the wax museum ticket (~$4), are modest and optional.

Group Size & Personalization

As a private tour, it ensures personalized attention and flexible timing. Many reviews mention how this enhances the experience—less waiting, more tailored exploration, and meaningful interaction with guides like Lin and Thong, who are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly manner.

Weather & Accessibility

It’s wise to check the weather forecast beforehand, as some parts of the tour may be affected by rain or fog, which could impact the cable car rides and scenic views. The tour is accessible to most travelers, with accommodations for service animals and children over 1 meter tall.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Insights

Travelers consistently mention the guides’ knowledge and friendliness as a standout feature. Lin, in particular, is praised for his storytelling, humor, and his efforts to teach a few Vietnamese words, making the day both fun and educational. The reviews are unanimous in stating that having a guide who shares stories about Vietnam’s culture and history adds another layer of enjoyment to the visit.

The stunning views from the cable car and the bridge are described as breathtaking, with many reviewers emphasizing how easy it is to get perfect photos. One reviewer mentioned how Lin’s insights made the experience richer, sharing stories about the bridge’s design and its cultural significance, which helped deepen their appreciation.

The amusement park, with its many rides and games, offers a fun break, especially for families or those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline. The indoor attractions also make this tour ideal during hot or rainy days, providing shelter and entertainment.

Drawbacks?

While the tour is comprehensive and well-organized, the full-day length might be daunting for some. It’s physically demanding, especially the walking involved in exploring the temples, gardens, and amusement park. Also, the cost of lunch (~$11 USD) and optional extras like the wax museum are additional expenses to consider.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private, flexible tour is perfect for adventurous travelers, families, or anyone wanting a well-rounded day out with highlights of Vietnam’s mountainous scenery, European-inspired architecture, and modern attractions. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking, and who appreciate expert guidance to enrich their experience.

Final Thoughts

This shore excursion from Chan May port to Ba Na Hills offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and fun activities that appeal to a wide range of travelers. The amazing views from the cable car and Golden Bridge alone make it worth considering, but the added attractions like Linh Ung Pagoda, the French Village, and Fantasy Park make it a complete package.

The thoughtful organization, enthusiastic guides, and scenic highlights ensure that most travelers will come away with beautiful photos and stories to tell. While the itinerary is packed, it’s designed to be enjoyable rather than overwhelming, especially with the private tour option allowing some degree of customization.

If you’re looking for a memorable day that combines nature, architecture, and entertainment at a reasonable price, this tour is a solid choice—especially for those who love sharing stories, capturing stunning views, and exploring vibrant destinations.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off directly at Chan May Port, with arrangements made to get you as close as possible due to port restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, meals, and free time.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers cable car tickets, entrance to attractions, a buffet lunch, bottled water, travel insurance, and the guiding services.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, it can be adjusted to suit your preferences, allowing for some flexibility in timing and attractions.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate attire is recommended. Do check the forecast beforehand, as some parts of the tour are outdoors and at higher altitudes.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children over 1 meter tall are charged accordingly, and children under 1 meter are usually free. Please inform the provider about your group’s composition.

This shore excursion offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and fun. Whether it’s your first visit to Vietnam or a repeat trip, the views and stories you’ll experience here will stay with you long after you leave.