Discovering the Thousand-Year Banyan Tree in Son Tra, Da Nang: Where Majestic Nature Converges
About Cây đa Sơn Trà
The Son Tra Banyan Tree (also commonly known as the Thousand-Year Banyan Tree of Son Tra) is located deep within the Son Tra Peninsula, in the Tho Quang area, Da Nang (plus code: 48FJ+2M8). This is a "living landmark" of the old-growth forest: featuring a massive trunk, drooping aerial roots, and a wide canopy, standing amidst a cool and very quiet green space. This site is open 24/7 and currently has a Google rating of about 4.5/5 with 293 reviews.
I came here in true "jungle trekking" style: parked the vehicle at an area near the beach/stopover point (many people mention the Ghenh Banh area), and then walked in. At certain times, there are checkpoints restricting vehicles, and according to the experience of many tourists, scooters/automatic bikes are often not allowed to proceed further inside; to be on the safe side, be mentally prepared to walk or use a manual bike/bicycle. The path is generally easy to follow, but occasionally there are small landslide sections—still passable if you observe carefully.
The walk usually takes about 45–60 minutes depending on your fitness level and how much you stop to enjoy the scenery. The most rewarding feeling is the moment you reach the base of the banyan tree: standing under the canopy, listening to the wind and the sounds of the forest, clearly seeing the "majesty" that photos can hardly fully capture. If you are lucky, you might even encounter some species of monkeys/forest animals in the trees, but you should keep your distance and absolutely do not feed them.
This is not the type of attraction with many services or games; it is suitable for those who love nature, light trekking, and want a pristine corner of Son Tra to take a deep breath.
Highlights
Trekking to the Thousand-Year Banyan Tree
Park your vehicle at a suitable spot then walk along the forest trails/internal roads to reach the banyan tree. The route is quite easy to follow, but you should still go slowly and pay attention to bad road sections or minor landslides.
Taking photos under the banyan tree and its aerial roots
The wide canopy and aerial root system create a very "ancient forest" frame. You should shoot from a low angle to show the scale, or stand far away to capture the entire canopy and the leading path.
Sightseeing and breathing the Son Tra forest air
A green, cool, and quiet space, perfect for resting, listening to the wind and birdsong. This is a slow-paced experience with few noisy crowds.
Observing wildlife (if lucky)
Some tourists have encountered monkeys in the trees along the way. Only observe from a distance, do not tease, and do not feed them to avoid danger and preserve the natural ecosystem.
Tips & Notes Cây đa Sơn Trà
Go early for cool weather and to avoid checkpoints/crowds
Early morning or late afternoon is cooler, with beautiful light for photos and less exhaustion while walking.
Prepare water, light snacks, and shoes with good grip
There are almost no shops inside. Bring 1–2 bottles of water, light snacks, and wear sneakers/trekking shoes to avoid slipping.
Note vehicle regulations (especially scooters/automatic bikes)
At many times, automatic bikes are not allowed to pass certain points (near Ghenh Banh area/parking spots). It is best to plan on parking and walking.
Be careful with landslide sections or bad roads
There may be rocks and soil on the road due to rain and wind. Go slowly, avoid going during heavy rain or after long periods of rain.
Respect nature and forest animals
Do not litter, do not break branches, do not feed monkeys, and keep your distance to avoid having items grabbed or being scratched/bitten.
Gallery
Location & Opening hours
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tours including this place
Half-Day Son Trà Thousand-Year Banyan Tree Trekking Through Old-Growth Forest for Beginners
- As a Da Nang local, whenever I want a "change of scenery" without traveling far or preparing too much, I choose a half-day tour to Son Tra. This
