While Vietnam is known for its jungles, rice fields, and coastal area, many first-time visitors don’t realize that the country has a desert region. Located by the southern beach town of Mui Ne, the area’s dunes should be put on everyone’s travel bucket list.
Mui Ne Dunes
There are two famous dune sites by Mui Ne: the Red Sand Dunes and White Sand Dunes. Most organized tours of the area will visit both, but they can also be reached independently or with a private guide. Each place is able to be seen at all times of the day, but sunsets are most popular for tourists and photographers.
Red Sand Dunes
Located about 17 km (10 mi) away from Mui Ne Beach, the Red Sand Dunes are the smaller of the two. Their red-brownish, wavy hills reflect the sunlight beautifully at the start and end of each day. Additionally, this is a favored place for tourists to come and go sledding down these mountains of sand safely.
Dune buggy riding, picnicking, and taking photographs are common activities to do in this area.
White Sand Dunes
The White Sand Dunes are more significant than its sister site and resemble the Sahara Desert. With wavy mounds of pure, white sand, visitors enjoy exploring the area and sledding down the dunes. Some natives call this area the “White Lake” or “Bau Trang,” and it’s less than 10 km (6 mi) from the red dunes.
The best time to visit is in the early morning when the crowd level is low, or in the late afternoon for a fantastic sunset show by Mother Nature.
The next time you’re planning on visiting southeastern Vietnam, be sure to add a stop at the dunes for some fresh air and fantastic photo opportunities.