Da Nang: Marble Mountain & Monkey Mountain Private Tour

Summary

Marble caves, ancient pagodas, wild monkeys and Lady Buddha in Da Nang

You’ll climb through Marble Mountain’s hidden caves with a local guide, feel ocean breezes on Monkey Mountain, spot wild macaques near Son Tra peninsula, and stand quietly beneath Lady Buddha’s gaze before sharing a Vietnamese meal together. This tour isn’t rushed; you’ll have time for small moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so small inside Marble Mountain — not just because of the size, but the quiet. Our guide, Minh, pointed out these old carvings on the stone walls where monks used to pray, and I could still smell incense from somewhere deeper in the cave. He told us how this place was a secret hospital during the war. The steps up were steeper than I thought (there’s an elevator, but we walked), and at the top you get this view over Da Nang that feels like it goes on forever — river, ocean, little boats bobbing around. I kept stopping just to catch my breath and look.

We wandered through the marble carving village at the base; there’s this constant tapping sound from chisels and dust in the air. One old man smiled at me when I tried to say “xin chào” — probably said it wrong, but he laughed anyway. Then we drove along the coast towards Monkey Mountain (Son Tra peninsula). The sea breeze through the window was salty and warm. Minh slowed down so we could watch macaque monkeys darting across the road — one had a baby clinging to its belly.

The Lady Buddha statue is massive up close. I mean, photos don’t really show how she just stands there above everything with that calm face looking out to sea. There were local women lighting incense by the gardens, chatting softly — I caught a bit of laughter drifting over with the scent of frangipani flowers. We took a hundred photos but none felt quite right compared to standing there in person. Lunch after was simple: rice, grilled fish, something spicy with lemongrass — nothing fancy but honestly perfect after all those steps.

I still think about that cool air inside Heaven Cave and Minh’s stories about his childhood here. If you’re doing a day trip from Da Nang or Hoi An and want something that feels real (not just ticking boxes), this private tour is worth it — especially if you like hearing local voices along the way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Marble and Monkey Mountains

• Pickup from hotel in Hoi An or Da Nang
• Drive to Marble Mountain
• Discover Âm Phủ cave with local guide
• Walk or elevator to Marble Mountain peak
• Visit historical pagodas and Buddhist statues
• Enjoy river views and ocean breeze
• Visit Heaven Cave and take photos
• See marble sculptures in Carving Village
• Drive along Da Nang coast to Monkey Mountain
• View Da Nang city, ocean, and islands
• See Macaque monkeys and possibly Langur monkeys
• Visit giant Lady Buddha Statue and gardens
• Enjoy flower and bonsai gardens
• Have Vietnamese lunch or dinner (optional)
• Return to hotel or Danang Airport

Top questions

How long does the Marble Mountain & Monkey Mountain tour take?

You can choose between 4.5 hours without lunch or 5.5 hours with lunch included.

Is hotel pickup included for this Da Nang private tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for hotels in Da Nang or Hoi An.

Can I see monkeys on Monkey Mountain?

You’ll likely see macaque monkeys; if lucky, you might spot rare red-shanked douc langurs.

Are meals included in this day trip from Da Nang?

You can book with or without a Vietnamese meal; both options are available at different prices.

Is there much walking or climbing involved?

You’ll walk up about 150 steps at Marble Mountain (or use an elevator) and stroll around gardens; wear comfortable shoes.

What vehicles are used for transport?

You’ll travel in either a US vintage army jeep or a modern air-conditioned car with an experienced driver.

Are entrance fees included in this private tour?

Yes, all entrance fees and elevator tickets are included in your booking price.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Da Nang or Hoi An (or airport drop-off if needed), all entrance fees plus elevator tickets at Marble Mountain, bottled water throughout, transport by vintage jeep or modern car with an experienced driver, guidance from a knowledgeable English-speaking local guide—and if you choose it—an authentic Vietnamese lunch or dinner shared with your hosts before heading back home.