Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary Sunset Tour And Cruise Trip

Hoi An’s historic My Son Sanctuary offers a captivating window into the ancient Champa Kingdom. On this sunset tour, visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed site‘s 8th-century Hindu temples and enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage. The excursion culminates with a serene boat cruise along the Thu Bon River, allowing travelers to witness the sanctuary’s striking backdrop as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. But what else can you expect from this captivating cultural journey?

Key Points

Explore the 8th-century Hindu temples of My Son Sanctuary on a guided tour, including a Cham Folk art dance performance.
Enjoy a tranquil sunset cruise along the ThuBon River, completing the cultural experience.
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service, with a group size limited to 14 participants.
Tour duration ranging from 4.5 to 5.5 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Competitive pricing starting from €23.94 per person, with additional charges for holidays and remote pickup locations.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "My Son Sanctuary Sunset Tour and Cruise Trip" in Hoi An offers visitors an opportunity to explore the ancient Hindu temple complex and witness a captivating sunset cruise on the Thu Bon River.

Priced from €23.94 per person, the tour lasts 4.5 to 5.5 hours and includes hotel pickup, a guided tour of My Son Sanctuary, a Cham Folk art dance show, and the river cruise.

The tour group size is limited to 14 participants, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers should note that additional fees may apply during certain holidays and for hotels located more than 5km from the Hoi An city center.

Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Hoi An between 13:00-13:30.

You’ll then drive for an hour to reach the historic My Son Sanctuary.

During the guided tour, you’ll:

Explore the oldest Hindu temple complex, dating back to the 8th century
Admire the stunning sculptures and learn about the rich history of the Champa Kingdom
Enjoy a captivating Cham Folk art dance show

After the sanctuary visit, you’ll transfer to a local boat station and embark on a 30-minute cruise along the Thu Bon River to witness a breathtaking sunset.

The tour then concludes with your return to your hotel in Hoi An.

Inclusions and Fees

Pickup and drop-off service from Hoi An hotel center, a tour guide, 1 bottle of water, and a cruise trip are all included in the tour fee.

The entry fee to My Son Sanctuary is 150,000 VND per person. Tips aren’t included.

Additional charges apply for certain holidays, such as an extra 100,000 VND per person during Tet (Lunar New Year) and a 150,000 VND surcharge for specific holidays like New Year and National Day.

On top of that, there’s a 50,000 VND surcharge for locations over 5km from the Hoi An Post Office.

Important Information

For communication about pick-up and drop-off, the tour operator specifies the use of mobile apps such as WhatsApp, Line, Kakao Talk, or WeChat.

Travelers are required to provide the hotel name and address for pickup, and a surcharge of 50,000 VND applies for locations over 5km from the Hoi An Post Office.

Plus, the tour operator provides the license plate and tour guide information prior to the activity.

Specify mobile app for communication about pick-up/drop-off (WhatsApp, Line, Kakao Talk, WeChat)
Provide hotel name and address for pickup; surcharge of 50,000 VND for locations over 5km from Hoi An Post Office
License plate and tour guide information provided before the activity

Preparation and Restrictions

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a sun hat, a camera, and sunscreen. Cash is also recommended, as tips aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or those over 70 years old. This is due to the physical demands of exploring the ancient My Son Sanctuary site. Visitors should be aware of these restrictions before booking the tour.

With proper preparation and an understanding of the limitations, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning sunset cruise and the cultural experience of the My Son Sanctuary Sunset Tour.

Exploring My Son Sanctuary

After the transfer to the My Son Sanctuary site, the guided tour takes visitors on a captivating exploration of the ancient Hindu temple complex.

Visitors can expect to:

Admire the 8th-century sculptures and intricate architectural details of the temple ruins.
Learn about the rich history of the Champa Kingdom, which flourished in this region for centuries.
Witness a Cham Folk art dance performance, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the area.

The tour provides a balanced blend of historical insights and immersive cultural experiences, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the significance and grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Cham Folk Art Dance Show

As the guided tour of the My Son Sanctuary concludes, visitors are treated to a captivating performance of Cham Folk art dance.

This traditional dance form originated from the ancient Champa Kingdom and showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Performers, dressed in vibrant costumes, gracefully move to the rhythmic beats of drums and gongs, creating a mesmerizing display.

The dance incorporates symbolic hand gestures and intricate footwork, transporting the audience to a bygone era.

This cultural interlude offers a fitting end to the tour, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the enduring traditions of the Cham people.

Sunset Boat Cruise

The river boat journey offers a tranquil finale to the day’s activities.

Cruising along the Thu Bon River, visitors can bask in the serene beauty of the sunset. The boat ride provides:

A chance to unwind and reflect on the history and cultural insights gained at the My Son Sanctuary.
Stunning views of the river’s picturesque banks, with the fading light casting a warm glow over the landscape.
An opportunity to capture the magical moment as the sun dips below the horizon, marking the end of an enriching tour experience.

This leisurely cruise completes the well-rounded exploration of the Champa Kingdom’s architectural and artistic legacies.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour information, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, only 1 bottle of water is provided as part of the tour package.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Boat Cruise?

The tour does not have any specific age restrictions for the boat cruise. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or those over 70 years old due to the nature of the activity.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

There is no option to extend the duration of the tour. The tour package has a set itinerary of 4.5 to 5.5 hours, with no flexibility to add additional time or activities.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities?

The tour itinerary and activities can’t be customized, but customers can request modifications to the pickup/drop-off locations or timing for an additional fee. The tour operator give you a standard experience for all participants.

How Accessible Is the My Son Sanctuary Site for Individuals With Disabilities?

The My Son Sanctuary site isn’t fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. Certain areas may have uneven terrain and steps, which could be challenging. Visitors should contact the tour operator to discuss any accessibility needs before booking.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

This Hoi An tour offers a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient My Son Sanctuary, witness a traditional Cham Folk art dance, and enjoy a serene sunset cruise on the Thu Bon River. With its combination of historical significance, culture, and natural beauty, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the unique charms of Hoi An and its UNESCO-protected surroundings.