The White Sand Dunes of Mui Ne, also known as Bau Trang, are one of the most famous and unique travel destinations in Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam. Often referred to as a “mini Sahara,” this vast area of white sand creates a breathtaking and almost surreal desert-like landscape.
1. Overview
Location: About 65 km northeast of Phan Thiet city center, located in Hoa Thang commune, Bac Binh district, Binh Thuan province.
Also known as: Bau Trang – “Bau” means lake in the local dialect.
Note: This is different from the Red Sand Dunes (Doi Cat Bay), which are closer to the center of Mui Ne.
2. Highlights
Unique landscape
The sand here is pure white, unlike the reddish sand found in other nearby dunes. Nestled among the dunes is Bau Trang Lake, which becomes especially picturesque in summer when lotuses bloom across the surface.
Exciting experiences
Sandboarding and riding quad bikes (ATVs) across the dunes are popular activities for adventure seekers.
Photography – A stunning backdrop for wedding shoots, fashion photography, or social media enthusiasts.
Watching the sunrise or sunset – The shifting light creates mesmerizing colors and shadows across the sand.
Weather
Sunny and dry most of the year, ideal for outdoor activities. It can get quite hot at noon, so it’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
Getting There
From Mui Ne: You can reach Bau Trang by motorbike, car, or jeep tour (a popular choice for tourists).
Travel time: Around 1 to 1.5 hours from Mui Ne.
Route: The coastal road offers scenic views, including beaches and dragon fruit farms along the way.
3. Travel Tips
Bring sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen, as the sunlight is intense and the sand can blow into your eyes.
Help preserve the environment by not littering.
If you’re unfamiliar with driving on sand, it’s advisable to hire a local driver with an ATV for safety.