Suoi Voi Hot Springs
Natural thermal pools in the forests of Phu Loc district, a short drive south of Hue.
Overview
Suoi Voi (Elephant Springs) is a natural swimming area 55 km south of Hue, where a mountain stream from Bach Ma flows through ancient forest into crystal-clear pools. The main Elephant Pool reaches 2 metres deep and takes its name from a rock formation that resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the water.
Get There
Suoi Voi is in Loc Tien Commune, Phu Loc District, about 55 km south of Hue city centre and 48 km from Da Nang.
By motorbike or car: Head south on Highway 1A past Phuoc Tuong Pass. Look for the km 879 marker — turn off there and follow the road 7 km to the entrance. The drive from Hue takes about 1 hour by motorbike.
From Da Nang: Head toward Hue on Highway 1A for approximately 48–55 km and exit at the km 879 marker.
The site is also a convenient stop if you are travelling between Hue and Da Nang.
Hotels
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The Legend
The name "Suoi Voi" — Elephant Springs — comes from a large rock formation at the water's edge that resembles an elephant with its trunk extended into the stream. Locals also call it "Suoi Me," meaning "giant elephant" in the local dialect. The spring originates from Bach Ma mountain and flows through more than 50 hectares of pristine forest within the Bach Ma National Park buffer zone.
What to See & Do
- Dam Voi (Elephant Pool): The main swimming area — a natural reservoir roughly 30 m² and up to 2 metres deep, with crystal-clear water and colourful pebbles visible on the bottom
- Swimming and bathing in the pools along the stream
- Rock-hopping, wading, and catching crabs and snails from the rocks
- Rope-swinging across the water in the upper sections
- Forest walks through ancient woodland with wildlife including gibbons and deer
- Purple sim flowers bloom along the banks in summer
Food
Stalls at the site serve grilled "ga kien" (wild chicken) with vermicelli and chicken liver soup — the local speciality. Grilled fish, frog, and snails are also available. Order before you swim so the food is ready when you get out. Shelter rentals (150,000–250,000 VND) provide a shaded area to eat.
Practical Information
- Entrance fee: 15,000–20,000 VND per person
- Shelter rental: 150,000–250,000 VND
- Hours: Open all day; busiest on weekends and public holidays
- Best time to visit: May–July (dry season, water is clearest and most abundant)
- Life jackets available for rent — recommended for children and non-swimmers
Tips
- Wear secure footwear — the rocks are slippery
- Apply waterproof sunscreen before entering the water
- Bring a change of clothes
- Leave jewellery at your accommodation
- Take all rubbish out with you
