Hue tourism offers more than just exploring historical landmarks like palaces, temples, and royal tombs. To truly complete your experience, eco-tourism sites are the perfect choice—especially on sunny summer days. One such destination that combines relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty is Elephant Springs (Suoi Voi), a must-visit spot for those looking to swim, play, and unwind in a stunning natural setting.
A Glimpse of Elephant Springs in Hue
Elephant Springs, also known locally as “Suoi Me” – meaning “Giant Elephant Stream” – is a hidden gem in the heart of Hue’s countryside. This peaceful natural retreat has become a favorite among visitors looking to swim, relax, and breathe in the fresh, cool mountain air.
Surrounded by lush green hills and shaded by tall trees, the area maintains its rustic charm with large natural rock formations lining the clear, refreshing stream. Traditional thatched huts provide simple yet cozy resting spots, allowing guests to unwind to the soothing sounds of flowing water, rustling leaves, and birds singing in the background.
Thanks to its pleasant temperatures and refreshing atmosphere, Elephant Springs is an ideal summer escape. It’s not only popular with both domestic and international travelers, but also loved by locals, who often gather here with family for weekend picnics and outdoor fun.
Where Is Elephant Springs Located?
Elephant Springs is situated at Kilometer 879 along National Highway 1A, in Loc Tien Commune, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien Hue Province. It’s approximately 58 kilometers from Hue City and just over 48 kilometers from Da Nang – making it a perfect stop between the two cities.
Entrance Fee to Elephant Springs
The entrance ticket is clearly posted at 15,000 VND per person (around $0.60 USD). Additional services, such as renting huts or ordering food and drinks, may incur small extra charges. It’s recommended to bring some cash if you’d like to enjoy the full experience during your visit.
The Origin of the Name “Elephant Springs”
Elephant Springs has recently become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hue. One reason this destination draws so much attention is its unique name. The name “Elephant Springs” comes from several large rocks naturally shaped like elephants, which are scattered along both sides of the stream. These rock formations give the area its distinctive identity and are a favorite photo spot for many visitors.
How to Get to Elephant Springs
Transportation Options
Motorbike: If you’re into adventure and want to fully experience the scenic beauty along the way, traveling by motorbike is highly recommended. It gives you more flexibility and freedom to explore nearby attractions at your own pace. For the best experience, you can book a guided motorbike tour with DanangMotorbikeAdventure.com. Their Hoi An to Hue motorbike tour includes a stop at Elephant Springs, allowing you to enjoy this hidden gem like a true local while riding through Vietnam’s most breathtaking coastal and mountain roads.
Private Car: For a more comfortable and flexible journey, consider booking a private car in Hoi An with Private Car Transfer HoiAn’s. This option is especially convenient for families or groups of friends, as you can travel at your own pace and make stops along the way—including a refreshing break at Elephant Springs. When the cost is shared among the group, it becomes a practical and enjoyable way to explore the region.
Bus: From Hue city center, you can take a local bus on the Hue–Da Nang route. Get off at the Loc Thuy stop, then travel about 3 km further to reach Elephant Springs. A short walk or motorbike ride will get you to the entrance.
Driving Directions to Elephant Springs
Elephant Springs is conveniently located between Da Nang and Hue, making it easily accessible from either city.
From Hue: Start your journey in Hue City, pass over Phu Tuong Pass, and continue for another 3 km until you reach Km 879 on National Highway 1A. Turn right and go straight for about 7 km to reach Elephant Springs.
From Da Nang: The trip from Da Nang covers around 58 km. Head towards Hai Van Pass and continue on the main road until you reach Km 879, then turn left. Drive approximately 3 km further to reach the site.
Exciting Experiences at Elephant Springs
Elephant Springs is quickly becoming a favorite destination for both domestic and international travelers. It checks all the boxes for a perfect getaway—whether you’re seeking relaxation, fun, or a bit of adventure in nature.
Strike a Pose with the Iconic Elephant Rock
One of the must-do activities at Elephant Springs is taking a photo with the giant elephant-shaped rock located right at the entrance. Despite its large size, the stone elephant has a charming, almost playful look that makes it a favorite photo spot among visitors.
However, safety is key. The area around the stream can be slippery due to moss-covered stones and loose gravel underwater. It’s best to stand beside the rock and strike your pose rather than climbing or hanging from the elephant’s trunk.
Explore the Lush Primary Forest Surrounding the Springs
One of the most striking features of Elephant Springs is the untouched primary forest that surrounds the area. The greenery is dense and thriving, home to hundreds of animal species—including rare ones such as mountain goats, pheasants, bulbuls, laughing thrushes, and deer.
A walk through the forest offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature. It’s a perfect activity for those who enjoy eco-tourism and wildlife spotting.
Swim and Soak in Crystal-Clear Natural Springs
No visit to Elephant Springs is complete without taking a refreshing dip in its cool, clean waters. Unlike many other streams, the water here is incredibly clear and free of sediment—you can easily see the colorful stones resting on the bottom.
What truly impresses visitors is the “kingdom of stones” beneath the surface. These natural stones vary greatly in size, shape, and color, creating a beautiful underwater mosaic. Many guests find themselves captivated by this unique feature, which adds a magical touch to the swimming experience. The pebbles here are especially distinctive, offering a visual charm rarely found in other places.
Have Fun with Water Games
Besides swimming and snapping Instagram-worthy photos, Elephant Springs offers plenty of fun for families and groups of friends. You can splash around in the water, jump into the stream, or swing from tree roots like a jungle adventurer.
These simple games add a playful and bonding experience to your visit, especially for kids and those young at heart.
Catch Freshwater Crabs and Snails
For those who love a hands-on experience, try catching small fish, freshwater snails, or crabs hiding among the rocks. While the local “king snails” are rare and often tiny, many visitors enjoy the thrill of searching for them along the mossy stream banks.
This charming activity adds a unique, interactive element to your time at Elephant Springs—especially for nature lovers and curious explorers.
Travel Tips for Visiting Elephant Springs in Hue
The beauty of Elephant Springs changes with the seasons, so timing your visit can make a big difference. The best time to go is between May and July, when summer weather is at its most pleasant. During this period, the air is fresh, temperatures are mild, and water from upstream flows down to the springs in greater volume, creating a more vibrant and refreshing landscape.
Here are some useful tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Wear a life jacket if you’re not a confident swimmer. Some areas can be quite deep—up to 2 meters—so extra caution is especially important for children.
Watch your step on slippery rocks or shallow areas. The natural stones can be mossy and slick, so move carefully to avoid slipping.
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry. You may lose them while swimming or playing in the water.
Apply sunscreen and avoid staying in direct sunlight for too long to protect your skin.
Bring your own food and drinks. Outside food is allowed, so packing a picnic can help you save money and enjoy a relaxing meal by the water.
Conclusion
Elephant Springs is truly an ideal eco-tourism destination for anyone visiting Hue. With its pristine natural landscapes, dramatic scenery, and a variety of fun outdoor activities, this hidden gem promises unforgettable experiences for all who visit.
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax, cool off, and connect with nature, Elephant Springs is the perfect choice for your next adventure in central Vietnam.
