Question 1

What is the "Unsolicited "Free" Marble Mountains Guide Scam" scam in Da Nang?

Accepted Answer

At the Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn) ticket booths on Huyen Tran Cong Chua street, locals approach tourists posing as volunteer guides who offer to show them hidden caves and temples for free. After a 30-60 minute tour they demand large payments — typically 300,000–500,000 VND per person — and become aggressive or block the exit path if refused. The "guide" has no official identification and is not affiliated with the site management. Decline all unsolicited guide offers at the ticket gate. Official licensed guides must wear an ID badge issued by the Marble Mountains Management Board and are booked at the official kiosk inside the entrance, not approached outside.

Question 2

What is the "Motorbike Rental Damage Claims" scam in Da Nang?

Accepted Answer

Rental shops hand over motorbikes with pre-existing damage that is not documented on the contract. When you return the bike, the shop insists you caused the damage and demands large payments to cover repairs. Before renting, photograph every scratch, dent, and fault on the bike and make the owner confirm these on the rental agreement. Pay by card to create a paper trail. Read reviews and use reputable rental shops recommended by your hotel.

Question 3

What is the "Marble Mountains Gem Shop Referral Scam" scam in Da Nang?

Accepted Answer

At the base of the Marble Mountains in Ngu Hanh Son, official-looking "information officers" wearing lanyards hand out flyers and tell visitors that the ticket office has moved or that a new viewing platform requires a separate ticket purchasable from a nearby shop. The shop sells overpriced marble statues and gems at multiples of market price, and visitors who enter feel obligated to buy before leaving. Purchase all Marble Mountains entry tickets only from the official booth at the main entrance on Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street. Ignore anyone in a lanyard who redirects you to a shop, and never enter a shop recommended by an unsolicited stranger near tourist sites.

Tour & Activity Scams in Da Nang

Unsolicited "Free" Marble Mountains Guide Scam

Motorbike Rental Damage Claims

Marble Mountains Gem Shop Referral Scam

Experienced a scam here?