What is Hoa Phu Thanh Tourist Area like?
Hoa Phu Thanh Tourist Area is a rustic outdoor playground built along a mountain stream in the hills west of Da Nang. It’s not a polished theme park — instead, it’s a mix of natural scenery and adventure setups like rafting runs, zipline cables, and a few simple facilities scattered through the forested valley. The vibe is local and energetic, with just enough infrastructure to keep things safe while still feeling wild and exciting.
Location of Hoa Phu Thanh Tourist Area
Hoa Phu Thanh is located in Hoa Vang District, about 45 to 60 minutes southwest of Da Nang city center. It’s in the same general direction as Ba Na Hills, though not directly next to it — expect around 20–25 minutes between the two by car. Once you leave the busy streets of Da Nang, the drive becomes more scenic, with winding roads through hills, forests, and quiet countryside.
How to get there
Taxi vs. private Car
Taking a taxi from Da Nang to Hoa Phu Thanh is possible but can be expensive due to the distance. Additionally, since the area is remote, it’s advisable to arrange for the taxi to wait for you, which may incur extra charges.
Hiring a private car with a driver is a more convenient and often more cost-effective option. This arrangement allows for a round-trip with flexibility, and you can also combine your visit with other nearby attractions like Ba Na Hills or Hoa Trung Lake.
Driving a motorbike
For those comfortable on two wheels, renting a motorbike offers the most freedom. The ride becomes scenic once you’re out of the city, with hilly and forested landscapes. However, be aware that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is officially required in Vietnam. While rental shops may not enforce this, lacking an IDP can lead to fines if stopped by police, and your insurance may not cover you in case of an accident.
Visiting information
Opening times
Hoa Phu Thanh Tourist Area is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon. The key activity — rafting — only takes place twice a day: at 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM. You should arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in and safety instructions. There’s not much else to do while waiting, so avoid arriving in between those time slots if rafting is your main goal.
Entrance & activity fees
- Entrance fee: 100,000 VND
- Rafting: 250,000–400,000 VND per person (depending on the package)
- Zipline: 50,000–300,000 VND
- Other activities like the fish massage, water slide, and swimming pool are generally free after paying the entrance fee
- Locker rental: Free
- Photo packages: Around 5,000 VND per photo or ~50,000 VND for a set
Age & safety requirements
- Rafting is suitable for ages 14 to 65, and you must wear the provided life jacket and helmet
- Zipline has a weight limit (often under 80 kg), and archery may not always be available
- The area is well staffed with safety personnel positioned along the river during rafting sessions
What to Bring
- Wear quick-dry clothing or a swimsuit under your clothes
- Bring a change of clothes, towel, and possibly water shoes or sandals that won’t slip off
- Cash is useful for food, drinks, and buying photos — cards are not widely accepted
- Consider bringing snacks, especially if you’re arriving between rafting sessions — on-site food is limited and basic
- A waterproof phone case is helpful if you want to bring your phone, but many opt to buy photos instead due to risk of losing it in the water
Things to do at Hoa Phu Thanh
Hoa Phu Thanh is all about getting active and enjoying the outdoors. The setup is simple, but there’s enough to fill a fun half-day — especially if you time it right for the rafting. While rafting is clearly the highlight, a few other lighthearted attractions are available around the main area, and they’re mostly included in your ticket.
1. White-Water Rafting
This is the main reason to visit. You’ll ride a two-person inflatable boat down a 3-kilometer stretch of stream with small rapids, drops, and narrow curves. It’s fast enough to be thrilling, but safe enough for most people. Rafting runs twice a day at 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM, and you must arrive early for check-in and gear setup. The route takes about 45 minutes, and staff are stationed along the way for safety. You’ll be provided with a life jacket and helmet, and you can also buy photos at the end, taken by photographers positioned along the river.
2. Zipline
A short zipline ride crosses part of the stream. It’s not very high or long, but offers a fun, quick adrenaline boost. Good for first-timers or as a warm-up before rafting. Some visitors found the price a bit high depending on where they booked, so it’s best to check costs in advance or choose a combo ticket.
3. Swimming pool & water slide
There’s a small swimming pool with a basic water slide near the main facilities. It’s nothing fancy, but a good way to cool off while waiting for your rafting time or after you’ve finished. This is included in the entrance ticket and open to all visitors.
4. Fish massage
Sit on the edge of a small pool and let tiny “doctor fish” nibble at your feet — it’s a popular and strange experience for first-timers. You won’t need to pay extra for it, and it makes for a fun (and ticklish) photo moment between activities.
5. Archery (If available)
An archery range is sometimes set up near the pool area, but availability seems to vary. Even when open, the range is quite small — best seen as a bonus activity rather than a main reason to visit.
Best time to visit Hoa Phu Thanh
The best time to visit Hoa Phu Thanh is during the dry season, from March to September, when the weather is more stable and the water flow is ideal for rafting. During the rainy season (typically October to February), heavy rain can affect river conditions and make activities less enjoyable or even unsafe.
Rafting is scheduled at fixed times regardless of the season — but dry, sunny days make the experience more comfortable. If possible, aim for a weekday visit to avoid local crowds, especially during school holidays or weekends.
Is it worth visiting?
If you’re looking for something active and different from the usual beaches and city sights, Hoa Phu Thanh is one of the better places around Da Nang for outdoor fun. It’s especially worth it if you’re into water activities, a bit of adrenaline, and don’t mind the drive out. The rafting is the main highlight — exciting but still accessible — and a great way to cool off on a hot summer day.
That said, it’s not for everyone. The area is a bit remote, and the facilities are simple. If you prefer cultural sights, city exploring, or relaxing at the beach, you might want to skip it. But for travelers who enjoy light adventure and don’t mind getting a little wet, it’s well worth adding to your Da Nang itinerary.
Tips for visiting Hoa Phu Thanh
Hoa Phu Thanh is a fun and active destination, but it’s a bit remote and not overly touristy — so a little planning goes a long way. Here are a few practical tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Arrive early for rafting
Rafting only happens twice a day, and you need to check in at least 15 minutes before the start time. Avoid arriving in between time slots, or you’ll end up waiting around with not much to do.
Lockers are available
There are free lockers on site where you can store valuables before heading out on the water. This is helpful since you won’t want to bring your phone or wallet during rafting or ziplining.
Food is basic – consider bringing snacks
There is a small on-site restaurant, but options are limited and may not suit everyone. Bringing your own snacks or even a small picnic is a smart move, especially if you’re staying for a few hours.
Buy photos after rafting
Photographers stationed along the rafting route capture great action shots. You can buy them afterward at very affordable prices. It’s an easy way to get fun memories without risking your own phone or camera.
Plan transport in advance
Because of the location, it’s hard to find a return taxi or ride app once you’re done. Arrange your ride in advance — whether it’s a private car, motorbike rental, or round-trip transfer — to avoid getting stuck.
Combine with Ba Na Hills
Hoa Phu Thanh is in the same general direction as Ba Na Hills, so it’s easy to combine the two into a full-day trip. Visit Ba Na Hills in the morning, then head to Hoa Phu Thanh for an afternoon rafting session.
