Visiting Mang Den by Private Car from Da Nang
Leave the coastal heat for the pines of Mang Den; the drive is long, so plan rests, warm clothes and the driver's overnight stay in advance.
Table of Contents (2 sections)
Mang Den, in Kon Plong District, Kon Tum Province, sits at about 1,200 m above sea level. It is known for a cool climate, pine forests and waterfalls, and is sometimes called a highland alternative to Da Lat. Reaching it from Da Nang means a drive of more than 240 km that includes the winding Vi O Lac Pass.
A fixed-route coach can be crowded and tiring on mountain roads, and driving yourself on an unfamiliar pass can be stressful. A private car from Da Nang to Mang Den with a driver who knows mountain roads lets you rest on the way and focus on the trip.
The route price for Da Nang or Hoi An to Mang Den is listed by vehicle size and includes fuel, road tolls and parking. Confirm any overnight arrangements before the trip.
Route and Driving Time from Da Nang to Mang Den
- Distance: Roughly 245 to 250 km.
- Driving time: About 5.5 to 6.5 hours including rest, meal and photo stops. Weather and road works can lengthen it.
- Usual route: From Da Nang along National Highway 1A into Quang Ngai, then National Highway 24 through Ba To, over Vi O Lac Pass into Kon Tum and up to the Mang Den plateau.
The trip is normally split into two or three stops, such as breakfast in Quang Ngai and a viewpoint stop at the top of the pass. Read the tips for preparing a long-distance car trip in Central Vietnam and pack warm clothing, as evenings on the plateau are cool.
Four Places to Visit in Mang Den
- Pa Sy Waterfall: A waterfall in forest of about 45 m in height that falls into a clear pool. Flow varies with the season.
- Dak Ke Lake: A calm freshwater lake with cherry blossom trees that flower in some seasons. You can hire a pedal boat or have a coffee by the water.
- Our Lady of Mang Den statue: A pilgrimage site in a quiet pine forest.
- Kon Pring community tourism village: A traditional village of the Mo Nam ethnic group with a communal house and local dishes such as bamboo-tube rice and grilled chicken. Check opening arrangements before you go.
If you want to continue along the coast afterwards, see the guide to a coastal private car trip from Da Nang to Quy Nhon and check the private car rates.
Frequently asked questions about a private car trip to Mang Den
Is Vi O Lac Pass difficult, and does it cause carsickness?
The pass has many sharp bends and steep gradients, so sensitive passengers may feel it. A driver used to mountain roads takes the bends steadily and can stop at the top for a rest. Tell dispatch if someone in your group is prone to motion sickness.
How many days should we spend in Mang Den?
Two days and one night is the minimum for a relaxed visit; three days and two nights gives more time for the waterfall, the lake and the surrounding farms after the long drive.
Will the driver take us around Mang Den town during the stay?
Local transport during the stay is a separate point to agree. Tell us in your request whether you want the car available for meals and sights in town, and it will be confirmed with the price.
How far is it from Da Nang to Mang Den, and how long does the drive take?
The distance is about 240 to 250 km, and the drive normally takes 5.5 to 6.5 hours including stops. The actual time depends on the route taken, traffic, weather and how long you stop.
How are the driver's meals and lodging in Mang Den handled?
The group can book a room for the driver at the same hotel or homestay, or agree an overnight allowance so the driver arranges their own lodging. The arrangement is confirmed before the trip.
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