Mui ne, Vietnam

I planned to visit Vietnam for 2 days during my ASEAN trip last April and initially the plan was to get around Ho Chi Minh the first day then discover Mekong delta and Cu Chi Tunnels on the 2nd day. But then while I was browsing that time, I ran into a picture of sand dunes in Mui Ne, Vietnam, it captured my eye and I told my self I should come here. No regrets as I loved this place, its not just the relaxing vibe but also the excitement as this was my first time to be in a dessert. Listing the places to explore here in Mui Ne aside from my favorite white sand dune.

Mui Ne Beach

Arrived in Mui Ne early in the morning at 4:00 AM just in time for taking a short rest and watch the sunrise in the beach.

Mui Ne Fishing Village

A visit to Mui Ne's fishing village provides a peek to the lives of the local Vietnamese fishermen. In the morning, they bring their catch to the shore where their wives and other family members sort out their catch and sell them.

Fairy Springs

Hidden in an inconspicuous alley is a shallow stream surrounded by amazing limestone formation is Mui Ne's Fairy Stream. Got to walk in this wonder of nature barefooted with its dark orange sand and delightful landscapes.

Notes:
You can deposit your shoes at the entrance or carry them along with you.
Wear Sunscreen and don't forget your shades to protect your eyes from the sand.

Entrance Fee: Free

Fermenting fish to make fish sauce.

White Sand Dunes – Ride an ATV and/or sand boarding

Dessert in Vietnam? I was surprised to know that there are sand dunes in Vietnam. As soon as I knew about this, it did get on top of my list. Got a chance to ride ATV and slide down the sand dunes that I almost regret as I struggle to climb back up.

Struggling to get back up.

Notes:
Sunblock and hat is a must
Protect your phone and cameras from sand

Lotus Lake – Enjoy the view

Just beside the white sad dune is a picturesque lotus lake.

Red Sand Dunes

 Red Sand Dune, more orangey than red is a nice spot for watching sunset. Sat on the sand and watched the sky as it turned dusky purple until the sun completely sets.

I only had a whole day in Mui Ne and made the most out of it. Had my lunch and dinner in Saigon Cafe; rented a motorcycle with a friendly driver to tour me around for $10.

How to get in Mui Ne

Mui Ne is located in the south of Vietnam. In my case, I travelled from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne via FUTA bus and chose the last trip which is at 11PM. It was a comfortable 4 hour ride on a sleeper bus. Upon boarding the bus, the bus attendant asked the name of my hotel. I didn't actually book any hotel, I told them to drop me off in Saigon Café where I booked my motorcycle tour upon arrival.

Going back to Ho Chi Minh City, the receptionist os Saigon Cafe told me she can book the bus for me instead of me going to the terminal to buy the ticket and the bus also just picked me up from there.

Bus ticket: 130,000 VND

Related Links:

Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary and Expenses
AirAsia ASEAN Pass
Border Crossing: Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Phen via Mekong Express (Mocbai-Bavet Border) 
Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam