Hoi An: Marble Mountains, Monkey Mountain and Cooking Class

Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty make it a captivating destination. This guided tour takes visitors on a journey through the Marble Mountains, Monkey Mountain, and a hands-on cooking class. Travelers can marvel at breathtaking vistas, explore sacred caves, and learn to prepare iconic Vietnamese dishes. With immersive local experiences and a chance to create lasting memories, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the vibrant charm of Hoi An.

Good To Know

• The tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a guided market visit, basket boat rowing, Marble Mountains, Lady Buddha statue, and a hands-on cooking class with lunch.
• Visitors can enjoy the local culture by interacting with friendly vendors and exploring the diverse offerings at Hoi An Market.
• The Cẩm Thanh Village experience provides a scenic boat ride and insight into the daily lives of the villagers, showcasing the authentic rural charm of Hoi An.
• The cooking class led by a local chef allows participants to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes like Pho, Spring Rolls, and Banh Mi.
• Exploring the Marble Mountains and Monkey Mountain offers breathtaking views, religious significance, and the opportunity to spot resident macaque monkeys in their natural habitat.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This Hoi An: Marble Mountains, Monkey Mountain and Cooking Class offers an engaging day-long tour that combines visits to the iconic Marble Mountains, the scenic Monkey Mountain, and a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An.

Priced from $65 per person, the tour lasts 9 hours and accommodates up to 12 participants.

A 9-hour tour priced from $65 per person accommodating up to 12 participants.

Highlights include a guided market tour, basket boat rowing, and visits to the Cẩm Thanh village, the Marble Mountains, and the Lady Buddha statue on Monkey Mountain.

The tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, admission fees, and an English-speaking guide.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Hoi An, followed by a guided visit to the local Hoi An Market for approximately 30 minutes.

Next, the group travels to Cẩm Thanh, where they enjoy scenic views and a guided tour for 1.5 hours.

The highlight of the day is the 2-hour cooking class, where participants learn to prepare local Vietnamese dishes and enjoy the fruits of their labor for lunch.

After, the group visits the Marble Mountains for a guided tour and photo stop, followed by a stop at Monkey Mountain to see the 67-meter Lady Buddha statue and take in panoramic views.

• Guided market tour in Hoi An

• Basket boat rowing in Cẩm Thanh

• Cooking class and lunch

Market Visit at Hoi An Market

The guided tour at Hoi An Market offers travelers a chance to enjoy the vibrant local culture. Guests will wander through the bustling stalls, filled with an array of fresh produce, fragrant spices, and handcrafted goods. As they navigate the labyrinth of vendors, they’ll have the opportunity to interact with the friendly sellers and learn about the market’s role in the community.

| Item | Description | Price Range |

| — | — | — |

| Produce | Vibrant fruits and vegetables | $0.50 – $3 per kg |

| Seafood | Fresh catch from local waters | $2 – $10 per lb |

| Textiles | Handwoven fabrics and garments | $5 – $20 per item |

| Souvenirs | Unique handicrafts and trinkets | $1 – $15 per piece |

| Street Food | Delicious local delicacies | $1 – $3 per serving |

This immersive market experience sets the stage for the culinary delights to come.

Cẩm Thanh Village Experience

After exploring the lively Hoi An Market, the tour continues to the tranquil Cẩm Thanh village.

Here, visitors will:

• Set out on a scenic boat ride through the coconut palm-lined waterways, experiencing the serene atmosphere of the local community.

• Witness the traditional craft of basket boat rowing, a unique mode of transportation deeply rooted in the village’s culture.

• Gain insight into the daily lives of the villagers and their connection to the surrounding environment during a guided tour.

The Cẩm Thanh experience offers a glimpse into the authentic rural charm of Hoi An.

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Cooking Class and Lunch

After the market visit, the tour continues with a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef. In the cooking class, you will learn to prepare three authentic Vietnamese dishes:

| Dish | Key Ingredients | Cooking Method |

| — | — | — |

| Pho | Rice noodles, beef broth, herbs | Simmering |

| Spring Rolls | Rice paper, vegetables, shrimp | Rolling and frying |

| Banh Mi | Baguette, pâté, pickled vegetables | Assembling |

The chef will guide participants through each step, sharing insights into traditional Vietnamese cuisine. After the cooking, everyone enjoys the fruits of their labor over a delicious lunch.

Exploring the Marble Mountains

Following the completion of the cooking class and lunch, the tour moves on to the Marble Mountains. This iconic cluster of five limestone hills holds great religious significance, with numerous cave pagodas and temples to explore.

Visitors can:

• Climb the 146 steps to the peak of the highest mountain, where a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape awaits.

• Discover the Am Phu cave, a network of tunnels and grottoes representing the underworld in Vietnamese mythology.

• Visit the Huyen Khong cave, home to a complex of Buddhist shrines and smaller caves.

Visiting Monkey Mountain and Lady Buddha

From the Marble Mountains, the tour continues to Monkey Mountain, also known as the Son Tra Peninsula.

The highlight here is the 67-meter tall Lady Buddha statue. Visitors will enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding forests. The mountain got its name from the resident macaque monkeys that inhabit the area.

After taking in the impressive Lady Buddha, the tour explores the lush forests and trails on the mountain. This is an excellent opportunity to spot the playful monkeys in their natural habitat.

The tour then returns to Hoi An, completing a full day of diverse cultural experiences.

Getting to and From Hoi an

Hoi An can be easily accessed from various parts of Vietnam. The town is well-connected by several modes of transportation:

• Train: Catch a train to Danang Station, then take a 45-minute taxi or bus ride to Hoi An.

• Bus: Hop on a bus from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Hue, with the journey taking around 4-8 hours.

• Plane: Fly into Danang International Airport, located just 30 km from Hoi An, and arrange a transfer to your hotel.

Once in Hoi An, getting around the ancient town and visiting nearby attractions like the Marble Mountains is convenient through the tour’s included transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Cooking Class?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the cooking class. Participants can let the guide know about any dietary needs or preferences, and the chef will accommodate them during the cooking lesson.

Can I Bring My Own Camera/Camera Equipment?

Yes, you can bring your own camera and equipment on the tour. The itinerary specifically includes opportunities for taking photos at the Marble Mountains and Monkey Mountain, so feel free to capture the sights.

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for families with young children. There are many steps and steep inclines, which could be challenging for small kids. The cooking class and boat ride may also be less engaging for young travelers.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Transportation Provided?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the transportation. Guests can choose to travel by private car instead of the standard shuttle for an additional fee. This provides a more comfortable and personalized experience during the tour.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Handicrafts During the Tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs and local handicrafts during the tour. The guided market visit and stops at Marble Mountains and Monkey Mountain provide chances to browse and buy authentic Vietnamese products.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending culture, culinary exploration, and natural wonders. Visitors can discover the vibrant history and cuisine of Hoi An, learn traditional cooking techniques, and marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Marble Mountains and Monkey Mountain. It’s an ideal way to fully take in the rich tapestry of this enchanting destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: