Kon Tum to Quang Ngai: Scenic Drive Guide

The drive from Kon Tum to Quang Ngai is a 140-kilometer journey along National Route 24, crossing the Central Highlands and descending to the coast. The road is known for its sharp switchbacks, especially through the Mang Yang Pass, where fog often cuts visibility to 50 meters in the early morning.

This route connects Vietnam's rugged interior to the South China Sea, offering a dramatic shift in elevation from 525 meters at Kon Tum to sea level at Quang Ngai. It's a drive that favors careful drivers and curious travelers.

Road quality on this stretch is generally good, but the high passes demand attention. The fatal accident rate has dropped significantly since 2019 due to improved guardrails.

Drive with lights on, even in the day, to be visible. Pause at the many overlooks for photos, but never stop on curves.

For families, ease children with frequent breaks: try the Mang Yang Hill rest stop where kids can stretch their legs. Restaurants along the way offer simple hygiene; choose ones bustling with locals.

If driving long hours: schedule a rest in Dak Glei, about 45 km from Kon Tum, or in Son Ha, 30 km before Quang Ngai.

Pet-friendly travelers will find most roadside stops allow dogs on leashes; but confirm at cafes before entering.

Hidden off-route: take the CD1 road toward Gia Vuc, 15 km off Highway 24, to see the waterfall Ban Gioc – a popular local picnic spot (not to be confused with the border waterfall).

For discovering more gems, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The landscape transforms from pine-draped highlands to tropical plains. At the Mang Yang Pass, you'll find the famous Yaly Lake viewpoint, where the river snakes through green hills.

Forests of rubber and coffee give way to rice paddies near Quang Ngai. The area is dotted with the still-standing remnants of the Triệu dynasty's Cham towers, a pre-Angkor civilization. These are not UNESCO-listed, but the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a detour 70 km south of Quang Ngai.

Local commerce thrives on the roadside: vendors sell pomelo, passion fruit, and wild honey. The town of An Khe is a good place to stop for a lunch of banh canh, a thick noodle soup, at busy stalls.

Don't miss the Dak Blo Creek for a refreshing dip.

Driving time from Kon Tum to Quang Ngai is roughly 3–4 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The route involves two major climbs: the Mang Yang Pass and the An Khe Pass, both requiring patience with slow trucks.

• Fuel stations are plentiful in Kon Tum and Quang Ngai, but sparse between; fill up before leaving.
• Diesel costs about 21,000 VND/liter, and you'll need about 12 liters for the trip.
• Tolls are minimal – only a small fee at the An Khe Pass (about 20,000 VND for cars).

National Route 24 is well-maintained asphalt, but watch for potholes near the pass summits. Restrooms are available at gas stations and roadside cafes, but toilets may be squat-style.

Mobile coverage is decent most of the way, with interruptions in deep valleys.