1 Day
Join-in tour
Min 1 pax
Max 24 pax
Tour start: 9:00 AM
Tour end: 5:00 PM
Embrace the thrill of adventure by joining our Hai Van Pass motorbike tour, where sweeping coastal views, misty mountain roads, and the freedom of the open road await you on one of Vietnam’s most iconic routes!
Notes:
Inspired by the famous Top Gear episode, the Hai Van Pass Top Gear tour offers an adrenaline-fueled adventure that combines motorbike rides with diverse cultural experiences. Hop on and let the trip begin!
The Hai Van Pass gained significant international fame after being featured in an episode of the British TV show Top Gear in 2008.
In this 75-minute episode, the show’s presenters (Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May) described the pass as a “deserted ribbon of perfection” and one of the best coastal roads in the world. Their eight-day trip on this winding mountain road, with its stunning views of the Vietnamese coastline, immediately brought widespread attention to the Hai Van Pass as a must-visit destination for travelers.
Of course, Hai Van Pass was already well-known within Vietnam as a scenic and historic route. Nevertheless, we cannot deny that Top Gear played a huge role in popularizing the road among international tourists, especially motorbike enthusiasts. Today, it’s often marketed as part of the “Top Gear Experience,” attracting thousands of travelers looking to replicate the thrilling journey showcased on the show.
When you sign up for the Hai Van Pass Top Gear Experience (Pillion Option) with Vietnam Backpacker Hostels, you know you’re in for a scenic ride.
What you might not expect is the sheer marvel of the journey — a day filled with breathtaking landscapes and cultural Vietnamese gems. Riding pillion on a motorbike means you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the stunning views while an experienced driver expertly zips across the winding roads:
The day starts with a friendly guide picking you up from your accommodation in Hue. You can tell the excitement is in the air as you strap on your helmet, hop onto the motorbike, and prepare to hit the road. With the city fading behind you, the open road stretches out ahead, promising a day of discovery!
Your first stop is the Japanese Bridge, a charming structure tucked away in the Vietnamese countryside.
Though smaller and less famous than the one in Hoi An, this bridge holds its own rustic charm, surrounded by lush greenery and a gentle stream flowing beneath. Your guide will share the history of the bridge and explain its connection to trade routes, as well as how it symbolizes cultural exchanges between Vietnam and Japan. There’s no better way to get a fresh start and gain a quiet glimpse into the region’s heritage.
The ride to Tam Giang Lagoon feels surreal. As you approach, the landscape turns itself into a mirror of glassy water that reflects the blue sky and jagged mountain peaks. Fishermen dot the lagoon and cast their nets from wooden boats, which offer a picturesque scene straight out of a postcard.
Next, you pass through the equally mesmerizing Lap An Lagoon. Again, the still waters and surrounding mountains create a poetic atmosphere, and you will find yourself holding your breath at the beautiful contrast between the lagoons and the open road. Your guide will let you pause here to stretch your legs, snap photos, and simply soak in the serenity.
At Mo Waterfall, the sound of cascading water greets you while mingling with the rustling leaves in the breeze.
Tucked away neatly in the hills, this hidden gem truly feels like a secret paradise; you may change into swimwear and plunge into the crystal-clear pool at the base of the waterfall. The water is cool and refreshing, a welcome relief from the sun. Time seems to stand still as you lounge by the falls, admiring the lush greenery and the soothing sound of water.
By midday, you reach Lang Co Beach, one of the most stunning stretches of coastline you’ll ever see. The soft white sand stretches for miles, kissed by the turquoise waves of the East Sea.
Lunch is served at a cozy seafood restaurant overlooking the beach. Freshly grilled prawns, clams in fragrant broth, and fish caught that morning make for an unforgettable meal. As you eat, you can watch fishermen working their nets and waves rolling gently onto the shore.
After lunch, it’s time for the highlight of the day: Hai Van Pass, the iconic road that Top Gear made famous!
When the motorbike climbs the winding mountain road, the views become more jaw-dropping with every turn. The dense jungle stretches up the mountains on one side, while the coastline sparkles under the afternoon sun.
At the summit, you stop at a cozy coffee shop with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape; sipping on a rich Vietnamese coffee while gazing at the endless horizon feels like a dream. The cool mountain air, not to mention your own sense of accomplishment from conquering the pass, is the reason why this particular stop is truly unforgettable.
Your final major stop is Marble Mountain, a cluster of limestone and marble hills famous for their caves and panoramic viewpoints.
Climbing the stone steps, you explore ancient pagodas, hidden grottoes, intricate carvings, and more while your guide shares fascinating stories about the mountain’s religious significance and role during the Vietnam War. All the cool, shadowy interiors of the caves provide a peaceful contrast to the bright roads you’ve traveled earlier in the day.
Once the sun begins to set, you roll into Hoi An, the final destination of your journey.
The ancient town is just beginning to light its famous lanterns, casting a warm, magical glow over its historic streets. After saying goodbye to the group and the driver, you are dropped off at your accommodation, exhilarated and grateful for the unforgettable Hai Van Pass Top Gear experience.
Are you simply riding the pass without making any stops? In that case, the journey can take around 2 to 3 hours to cross the 21-kilometer stretch, including all the common twists and turns.
On the other hand, for most guided tours (such as ones organized by the Vietnam Backpacker Hostels), you must factor in frequent stops at key landmarks like Lap An Lagoon, Lang Co Beach, and Marble Mountain. Hence, they extend the trip to a full-day adventure, typically 8 hours.
Yes, Hai Van Pass is safe for a Top Gear experience — but only if you are well-prepared, of course!
The road itself is known for its sharp curves and steep inclines. Not to mention, weather conditions on the Hai Van Pass tend to change rapidly, and fog and rain are quite common in winter. To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, you should:
Or, your best bet is to join a guided tour with experienced operators, like the Hai Van Pass Top Gear Experience (Pillion Option) by Vietnam Backpacker Hostels.
This Hai Van Pass Top Gear tour is your gateway to the best adventure. Book your spot today at Vietnam Backpacker Hostels or contact us through these channels:
Easy-rider English-speaking Guide
Lunch
Coffee
Sightseeing Entrance Fees
Personal Expenses
Beverage during lunch
Any service that is not indicated in our itinerary
9:00 AM Pick up at your accommodations in Hue
– Stop at Japanese Bridge
– Go through Tam Giang- Lap An Lagoon
– Stop at Mo waterfall for swimming
– Lunch at Lang Co beach
– Stop at Hai Van Pass for a coffee viewpoint
– Stop at Marble Mountain to visit
5:00 PM: Arrive in Hoi An
Enter your info and we'll send you a voucher code. Excited to have you with us soon!