Adventure Forest Areas Mountain Climbing Nature and Ecology Sightseeing Walking

Conquering Ban Co Peak: An Exciting Hiking Journey Amidst Wild Nature

Bàn cờ, Thọ Quang, Sơn Trà, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
4.6 / 4,086 reviews

About Ban Co Peak

Ban Co Peak is located on the Son Tra Peninsula, in Tho Quang Ward, Da Nang. This is one of the highest and most "eye-pleasing" viewpoints in the city, famous for the statue of a Deity playing chess and a panoramic view capturing My Khe Beach, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, Da Nang Bay, and even distant mountain ranges on clear days.

I reached the peak on a cool morning. The path is mainly asphalt, not a jungle trekking style, but there are many continuous uphill and downhill sections, so it is still quite "energy-burning" if you walk. According to experience and Google reviews, many people choose to walk about 13–15km round trip to enjoy nature; along the way, you might encounter monkeys, making the atmosphere both fun and requiring caution.

Practical note: there is a vehicle control gate/checkpoint, and sometimes automatic scooters may be restricted from driving deep inside (depending on the time/control period). If you encounter this, you can park your bike and continue walking, or consider using permitted vehicles/booking transportation allowed into the area. At the top, there is usually a small stall selling water/light snacks, enough for a quick rest and picnic.

Ban Co Peak is open from approximately 7:30–17:30 daily, and no tickets are sold. To fully "consume" the view, I recommend going in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense sun and fog. The clearer the sky, the more beautiful the photos and the more satisfying the feeling of standing high above Da Nang.

Highlights

Hunt for panoramic views of Da Nang from Ban Co Peak
#1 45 minutes

Hunt for panoramic views of Da Nang from Ban Co Peak

Stand at the Chessboard statue area looking down at Da Nang Bay, the sea, and the bridges. If the sky is clear, you will see the curved coastline very clearly, and the photos are extremely "photogenic."

Walk/jog on the path to the top (asphalt road)
#2 2 hours 30 minutes

Walk/jog on the path to the top (asphalt road)

The road to the peak is paved with many steep sections, suitable for those who enjoy light to moderate exercise. The road is quite peaceful, making it easy to hear birds and feel the atmosphere of Son Tra forest.

Check-in with the Deity playing chess statue
#3 20 minutes

Check-in with the Deity playing chess statue

The signature feature of Ban Co Peak is the deity statue and the stone chessboard. This is a "must-have" photo spot when visiting Son Tra, especially when the sun is mild.

Light picnic on the peak
#4 1 hours

Light picnic on the peak

Bring water and light snacks to sit, rest, and enjoy the view. There is usually a small stall selling water on the peak, suitable for a quick stop before descending.

Observe monkeys along the way (from afar)
#5 15 minutes

Observe monkeys along the way (from afar)

Occasionally, you will see monkeys appearing by the roadside. It's quite interesting to see them from a distance, but you should keep your distance and keep food hidden to avoid being snatched.

Tips & Notes Ban Co Peak

1

Time it right to avoid clouds and fog

Son Tra often has sudden cloud cover. If you want beautiful photos and clear views, prioritize going early in the morning or choose days with a low cloud forecast.

2

Wear shoes with good grip and bring water

The road is paved but steep and long; walking will be quite exhausting. A pair of shoes with good grip and 1–2 bottles of water will help you walk more comfortably.

3

Note the vehicle checkpoints

At certain times, automatic scooters may not be allowed to drive deep inside. Prepare a plan to park and walk, or use permitted transportation/book suitable vehicles.

4

Be careful with monkeys

Do not tease, do not feed, and do not hold food overtly. It is best to keep items in your backpack/locked bag and maintain a distance.

5

Avoid the intense midday sun

The midday sun is harsh and tiring, especially when you have to walk long distances. Going in the late afternoon is cooler, but remember to time your descent before dark.

6

Prepare a light jacket

The wind is strong at the top, and it can sometimes be chilly even when it's hot at the beach. A light jacket will be useful, especially when resting for a long time at the peak.

Gallery

Location & Opening hours

Bàn cờ, Thọ Quang, Sơn Trà, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
  • Monday7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Tuesday7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Wednesday7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Thursday7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Friday7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Saturday7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Sunday7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Data from Google may change — please call to confirm before visiting

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