Monkey Mountain Da Nang — officially known as Son Tra Peninsula is a breathtaking fusion of biodiversity, spiritual landmarks, and local heritage. With over 37.8% of Vietnam’s flora and 9.4% of its fauna, this ecological treasure is more than a scenic escape — it’s a living natural museum. Whether you’re hiking to Ban Co Peak, diving at Mui Nghe, or meeting the rare red-shanked douc langurs, every experience here whispers authenticity. Join Vietpower Travel, Vietnam’s leading tour company, to explore this hidden paradise with unmatched expertise and passion.
Monkey Mountain Da Nang, also known as Son Tra Peninsula, a remarkable ecological sanctuary just northeast of the city center. Rising nearly 700 meters above sea level, this lush mountain is not just a scenic escape; it’s a living, breathing testament to Vietnam’s astonishing biodiversity. Although it covers a mere 0.014% of the national landmass, Son Tra hosts an astounding 37.8% of all plant species and 9.4% of all animal species in Vietnam.
That’s not just a statistic – it’s a call to conservation. This land is not just for sightseeing; it’s a rare biosphere where nature thrives in harmony, and every step taken on its trails contributes to preserving something truly extraordinary.
The nickname “Monkey Mountain” was coined by American soldiers during the Vietnam War, and the name has endured thanks to the mountain’s cheeky and charismatic residents – monkeys! Most notably, this area is home to the rare and vibrant red-shanked douc langurs, often dubbed the “Queen of Primates.”
These striking creatures, along with macaques, civets, and over 200 species of birds, roam the forests freely. It’s no exaggeration to say that a wildlife encounter is almost guaranteed. Later in this guide, we’ll show you exactly where to go to spot them on an eco-tour with Vietpower Travel.
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Your journey wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic Linh Ung Pagoda, a spiritual haven overlooking the sea. It’s home to the Lady Buddha statue, the tallest of its kind in Southeast Asia, standing proudly at 67 meters tall. From here, the views stretch across Da Nang Bay, offering a peaceful retreat both spiritually and scenically.
Just below the pagoda lies a hidden gem – a secluded beach that only locals know. White sands, wooden seafood shacks, and fresh catches of the day await you. Forget the crowds. This is where you connect with the sea on a truly local level.
At the mountain’s summit sits the legendary Ban Co Peak, a must-visit for those chasing panoramic vistas and myths. It's also a hotspot for wild camping, with tents available for rent at around 200,000 VND per night. If you’re looking for a sunrise spot or a night under the stars, this is your place.
A word to the wise – bring a manual bike or semi-auto, as scooters are not allowed past a certain altitude for safety reasons. And yes, Boom Boom Rock is nearby – another photogenic stop along the ride!
Deep within the reserve stands a natural monument – the banyan tree danang, believed to be over 1,000 years old. Its massive, intertwining roots form natural sculptures, and one particular tree, found at Nhat Lam Thuy Trang Tra, even resembles a deer’s legs and antlers. It's not just a tree – it's a living time capsule that has witnessed centuries pass in silence.
As you climb higher, you'll reach Radar Station 29, also known as the “Miraculous Eyes of Indochina.” Built in 1965 by the U.S. military, its three iconic white domes can monitor a 300-kilometer radius. Though still in military use, you can view them from nearby.
Just a short walk away is Vong Canh House, perched on a dramatic cliff edge with a commanding view over the bay and Hai Van Pass. A stone monkey statue stands guard here, said to be the spiritual protector of Monkey Mountain.
Want to escape the ordinary? These hidden beaches are calling:
Whether you're hiking or riding, the mountain's secret paths lead to its soul:
Along the way, you’ll cross more than 20 freshwater streams, creating perfect habitats for rare amphibians like the Theloderma stellatum – a frog species considered near-threatened by the IUCN.
Don't forget, if you're feeling adventurous, many of these trails intersect near Ban Co Peak, creating a full-circle journey through Monkey Mountain Da Nang at its wildest and most breathtaking.
The coastal villages surrounding Monkey Mountain Da Nang are living time capsules of Central Vietnam’s fishing culture:
Scattered across Monkey Mountain are the ruins of abandoned resorts and military installations, slowly being reclaimed by the jungle.
Some locals whisper tales of the “pirate ghosts” that haunt these places, leftover from wartime legends. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, these spots — especially near places like Boom Boom Rock — are fantastic for photography and discovering a piece of Vietnam’s war-era history.
Monkey Mountain Da Nang is a hotspot for wildlife — especially the charismatic red-shanked douc langur, often called the most beautiful primate in the world. You may also spot exotic birds, reptiles, and butterflies while hiking.
From 2016 to 2018, researchers recorded 105 new bird species in Son Tra , pushing the total count over 250 — a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Even more rare is the two-toned-eyed frog (Leptolalax rowleyae) with its distinct golden lower iris and copper upper eye — only found here .
Join one of Vietpower Travel’s exclusive eco-tours to explore these habitats with expert guides who know every trail and creature.
Mui Nghe is a snorkeler’s dream — a natural pool surrounded by black volcanic rock, looking like an infinity lagoon carved into the sea.
More than 42 species of rare coral have been documented here, and the shallow reefs between Bai But, Bai Nam, and Mui Nghe are teeming with marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or a certified diver, this underwater world is one of the best-kept secrets in Da Nang.
Monkey Mountain is a living lab for nature lovers and botanists:
You can reach Monkey Mountain from Da Nang City in just 20–30 minutes by bike or car, or from Hoi An in about 45–60 minutes. The best way to explore is by manual or semi-automatic motorbike, as scooters have been banned on many steep roads since 2019 for safety reasons.
For a real adrenaline rush, try local paragliding from a 600-meter-high launch site — an activity run by experienced locals. Because it’s not heavily advertised, this remains one of the most exclusive experiences on the peninsula.
The best time to visit Monkey Mountain Da Nang is from March to September, when skies are clear and weather is dry.
For photographers and flower lovers, April to June is when the forest blooms in vibrant colors — a stunning natural spectacle.
Early risers can experience authentic fish markets between 5–6 AM in Man Thai and Nam O. You’ll find seafood so fresh it still wriggles — at a fraction of the market price.
While you’re here, try Son Tra coconut liquor and mountain-foraged herbs in traditional dishes — a taste of Da Nang that few tourists ever get.
Monkey Mountain Da Nang isn’t just a destination — it’s a rare union of wilderness, culture, and history. Whether you're hiking past Ban Co Peak, marveling at the towering banyan tree Danang, or snorkeling off Tien Sa Beach, the spirit of this mountain will stay with you long after you leave. Let Vietpower Travel be your trusted guide to this hidden paradise. We don’t just take you to the sights — we show you the stories, the legends, and the heart of Monkey Mountain
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