Hiking to the 800-Year-Old Banyan Tree on Sơn Trà Peninsula, Danang 

By John Hamilton, Executive Director of Marketing

As Marketing Director at InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, I often speak about the extraordinary natural setting surrounding the resort. This was, however, my first time joining our new guided hike to the famous 800-year-old Banyan Tree, located not far from the resort. It turned out to be one of the most rewarding nature experiences I have had in Danang. 

We began early, at 7:00 am, timed to enjoy the cool of the morning. From the resort reception, we were taken by buggy to the start of the route, then continued on foot along a narrow paved road that hugs the cliffside. While it is not a traditional hiking trail, the route is beautifully scenic, with panoramic views of Sơn Trà Peninsula, the ocean and, in the distance, Danang’s city skyline. Parts of the hike felt a little “Jurassic Park”, alive with incredible tropical greenery. 

Our guide, Thành Phan from Next Continent, the tour company we have partnered with for this experience, brought the route to life with insights into the wildlife and ecology of Sơn Trà. Along the way, we spotted macaques, listened to birds moving through the forest canopy and learned about the lizards, insects, plants and trees found within this protected part of Danang. 

The 800-year-old Banyan Tree itself is majestic and absolutely worth the effort. One of the most significant natural landmarks on Sơn Trà Peninsula, the immense tree stands as a symbol of the area’s ecological importance and ancient beauty. Its towering roots spill dramatically across the forest floor, creating an almost cinematic scene. 

The round trip takes around three hours. It is moderately challenging but very manageable at a well-paced, comfortable rhythm. At the end, a buggy returned us to the resort. 

For guests searching for a memorable nature experience in Central Vietnam, this guided Sơn Trà Peninsula hike offers a rare opportunity to discover the wilder side of Danang. It is a wonderful addition to the nature activities available at InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort. You can read more here.