About the ride from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An
Once you've made the most of the vast subterranean rivers and limestone cave systems of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, it's time to hit the road to the heritage town of Hoi An. It's going to be an early start, so set your alarm or stay awake all night because here we go!
The best way to get from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An is by bus. It’s really the only door-to-door option.
One of the best companies providing transport on this route is Queen Cafe Bus. They've been operating in the area for a couple of years and also supply buses all over Vietnam. Their safety record is very good, and their staff is friendly and English-speaking.
Buses tend to ride through the night, so you can get some sleep unless you're chatting with all your new friends.
The distance from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An is 287 kilometers (178 miles).
Flights and trains are possible but end up taking longer and have loads of stopovers. Think planes, trains and automobiles on one journey instead of hopping on a bus and waking up in Hoi An.
If you take bus transport from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An, there are a few things to remember.
Firstly, the air-conditioning can get really cold, especially first thing in the morning. So always remember to pack a hoodie or sweater at the top of your carry-on bag. There will be blankets provided. However, these aren't always enough to keep you cozy before the sun comes up.
Also, bring an eye mask, earplugs and a neck pillow to ensure a comfortable rest for the few hours of darkness before dawn.
Finally, bring a few things to do after you've had some sleep. Packs of cards, music playlists, podcasts and phrasebooks are worthwhile items to add to your travel list. Long-distance bus rides are a great way to make new friends, so give yourself every opportunity along the way.
What to see when traveling from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An
The Phong Nha - Ke Bang to Hoi An buses take off very early in the morning, but you also get to see a whole lot of the country along the way. It’s incredible to see the country wake up as you drive by. Also, watching the locals start their day gives you insight into real life in Vietnam.
Keep your eyes peeled for roadside villages and towns as well as lots of rice paddies and thick forests of bamboo. It’s fascinating to see the agricultural landscapes of central Vietnam away from the tourist towns.
You might also get to see some sections of white sand as you get from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An via Da Nang. These beaches are well worth taking note of, especially if you're planning on retracing your steps at some point.
You'll also get to see parts of Hue as you travel. This beautiful old town is filled with history and heritage. It’s certainly worth adding to your 'must see' list when traveling in Vietnam. Although the bus route skirts around Hue, it's still great to catch a glimpse of the ancient walled city.
How to get from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An
Taking a bus from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An
The best way to travel from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An is by semi-sleeper bus. And they’re the best way to travel affordably, too. Ticket prices start from as little as US$12 per passenger – for an 8-hour trip, that’s pretty reasonable.
The good news is you arrive midday, the bad news is that you leave around 4 am! But for anyone looking to save money on accommodation, this is ideal.
Tourist buses are clean, air-conditioned, have reclining seats and also feature English-speaking staff. In addition, it's a straightforward option and a great way to see some parts of Vietnam you'd otherwise miss.
Although there won't be a bathroom on board (probably a good thing), you’ll make a couple of stops at service stations to stretch your legs and take a comfort break. Use the time wisely to buy some water, snacks and walk around rather than staying on the bus.
Make sure you take plenty of water for the journey and try to get accommodation organized for when you arrive. Hoi An is quite a small little town, but it's still handy to know you've got somewhere to head from the moment you step off the bus.
And that’s how to get from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park to Hoi An - easy, right?