Deep in the jungles of South Vietnam lies a remarkable landmark hidden beneath the surface, telling an incredible story of resilience and ingenuity: the Cu Chi tunnels. Just an hour from Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are among the top places to visit in Vietnam. Discover a network of tunnels over 200 kilometers long with remnants from the Vietnam War that would make any history whiz geek out. To help you enjoy your underground adventure, here's our ultimate guide to prepare you for a history lesson you wouldn't want to miss!
A Brief History of the Cu Chi Tunnels
The narrow passageway inside the Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels were built and expanded in the late 1940s, originally used as a strategic base for the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. These interconnected passageways played a crucial role in the war by providing Vietnamese soldiers a space for living quarters, kitchens, urgent care, supply routes, storage areas, and communication centers. Conditions were brutal, dark, and limited, but these tunnels were invaluable as they allowed Vietnamese fighters to move undetected and withstand bombings and raids.
The military health bunker
Today, the Cu Chi tunnels have become a living museum for all history lovers and curious travelers alike. Explore reconstructed and original passageways at Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc, and step into a world that once served as a people’s lifeline.
Choose Your Cu Chi Tunnels Tour
Every new adventure starts with picking the right guide. Here, we’ve prepared several tour options for you, each with its own unique inclusions.
Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour
Step inside the tunnels made by the Viet Cong!
If you’ve got about 6 hours to spare, head underground and explore the network of tunnels that the Viet Cong used during the Indochina conflict through this half-day Cu Chi Tunnels tour.
Witness how local fighters created a base of operations away from enemy vision and learn how the residents survived during these trying times. If you're lucky, you may even discover areas that used to be covered in booby traps! Don't fret—it's completely safe and these areas hold great stories.
Mannequins in Viet Cong attire
Private Bundle Tour
Learn about the Cu Chi Tunnels from the friendliest tour guides!
Now, you may wonder, "What's the difference between this tour and the last?" Well, it's pretty simple—this one lets you add a city tour.
For tourists who don't want to return to the hotel after exploring Cu Chi Tunnels, this tour adds extra stops to three must-visit tourist places in Vietnam—the War Remnants Museum, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Post Office. Get into the Vietnam War's history and admire the beautiful architecture of these iconic landmarks.
Enjoy a private tour with your loved ones!
You can also opt for a more intimate experience with the private tour. Make sure to snap shots while you crawl into the tight spaces of the Vietnam tunnels to experience what it was like for these soldiers back in the day. You’re likely to learn a thing or two about resilience!
Cu Chi Tunnels Full-Day Tour
Maximize your day with history, culture, and stunning landscapes!
Got time?
This full-day adventure combines a Cu Chi Tunnels tour with a visit to the Cao Dai Temple and Ba Den Mountain. Explore the underground tunnels in the morning, then head out to witness the colorful rituals at Cao Dai Temple. Wrap up your day with panoramic views atop Ba Den Mountain, the highest peak in southern Vietnam.
The outside of the Cao Dai Holy See
Another full-day option to consider is the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Day Tour, which combines an immersive history experience with fun outdoor activities along the Mekong Delta, another top tour attraction in Vietnam. From crawling narrow passageways to riding along winding rivers, this tour is perfect for those seeking an exciting hands-on adventure!
Get the best of both Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta all in one day!
Meet a War Veteran
Check out these wartime relics that stood the test of time! Credits: Klook
Who better to recount the stories of Cu Chi Tunnels than someone who lived through it? That's right, your tour guide for this activity is none other than a war veteran! In this epic retelling of the history behind the Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam, visitors get to listen to first-hand accounts of the war. You may even learn about the guerilla tactics that the Vietnamese used to fend off attackers, but don't try them at home!
Getting there
Van/Minibus via Tour Package
Traveling to a historical landmark located inside a jungle can be a challenge, especially for first-time travelers to Vietnam. Luckily, transportation for the tours above is pre-arranged via meet-up or pickup, usually by bus or van, to accommodate the group.
But if you're looking for more alternatives, we’ve got you covered with these four services that will surely make the trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels all the more enjoyable.
Private Car
Get your own vehicle for your family and friends! Credits: Martin Baron via Unsplash
With the many places to visit in Vietnam, it sure helps to have a private car take you around. Hire a van from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels.
Worried about how big your group is? Don't worry: you can hire cars that fit up to twelve guests! This way, you can get to your destination faster and have more sweet time to tour the area.
Limousine Package
Did someone say Limo? If you're looking for a fancy option, this one's for you!
Travel in style to the Cu Chi Tunnels aboard a luxurious limousine that can accommodate up to nine guests. This wonderful experience will make you feel like royalty as you cruise down the streets while enjoying complimentary drinks and snacks. But if that's not enough for you, this package also includes a river tour along the Mekong Delta. That way, you get more for your buck!
Premium Speedboat
Avoid the traffic by heading to the water!
Get off the blacktop and glide through the water at top speeds!
Cruise down the Saigon River on a speedboat that will take you close to the tunnels. While on the boat, your tour guide will teach you about life along the riverside as you pass the beautiful houses by the bank. So, get your cameras ready, as you won't experience this anywhere else!
Army Vintage Jeep
A historic ride to match the destination!
Add some thrill to your Cu Chi Tunnels Vietnam tour by riding in a classic Army Vintage Jeep. This option lets you experience the journey just like the soldiers once did, making it the perfect match for your destination. With an open-air design, you’ll enjoy the views of the countryside on the way to the tunnels.
Public Bus
Spice things up and DIY your Cu Chi Tunnels trip!
If you’re traveling on a budget or just in a frisky mood to DIY your trip to Cu Chi Tunnel, you can reach your destination by public bus from Ho Chi Minh City. Start at Ben Thanh Market in District 1 and take Bus #13 toward Cu Chi. From there, transfer to Bus #79 for Ben Duoc or Bus #63 for Ben Dinh.
After getting off at the final stop, you might need a short taxi or motorbike ride to reach the main tunnel entrances. Depending on traffic, you can get to Cu Chi Tunnel from Ho Chi Minh in roughly 2.5 - 3 hours for around VND 60,000 ($3.50 AUD) round-trip.
What to Expect at the Cu Chi Tunnels
Once you arrive, get ready to get down and dirty as you step into history. Here are some of the highlights you’ll encounter:
Crawl through the tunnels
Experience the narrow passageways firsthand and imagine what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers
Hidden trapdoors and bunkers
See the clever disguises used to keep the tunnels secret from enemy forces
Underground living spaces
Discover how communities survived below ground
Weapon workshops
Get a glimpse of how weapons and traps were crafted during wartime.
Tips for Planning Your Trip
Now that we've covered the tours, transportation, and expectations, let's talk prep. Get the most out of your visit to Cu Chi Tunnels with these tips to save yourself the hassle.
- Dress lightly and stay hydrated: It is no secret that Vietnam is a hot country, so better to prepare for the heat. Dress lightly, pack only what you need, and bring water to stay cool and hydrated while you explore the tunnels.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The trek to Cu Chi Tunnels is quite a walk, so wear your softest pair and save yourself from the pain.
- Bring bug spray: As with any tropical location, expect bugs, so do yourself a favor and get some repellent to keep them away.
- Go early: Early mornings are cooler and less crowded, which gives you more time to explore comfortably.
- Bring cash: Entrance to the Cu Chi Tunnels is about VND 90,000–110,000 (AUD 5-7), though most tours already cover this in the package price. For snacks, lunch, drinks, souvenirs, or other optional activities, you may also want to bring extra cash in Vietnamese dong since most stalls don’t take cards.
Time to get down!
This place has got people popping out of the ground!
Grab your explorer badge and visit this famous tourist attraction that marked Vietnam's history! Check out the deals featured in this guide to find the best one for you. All that's left now is to practice your duck walk for the tunnels.
FAQs about Cu Chi Tunnels
Is it worth going to the Cu Chi Tunnels?
Yes, the Cu Chi Tunnels are worth visiting because they provide a unique perspective and hands-on experience of the Vietnam War.
What was the significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels?
They were crucial underground networks used by the Viet Cong for shelter, logistics, communication, and guerrilla operations.
How long does it take to walk through the Cu Chi tunnel?
Walking through the tunnels usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour for most visitors. This can vary depending on the type of trip you choose. If joining a guided tour package, half-day tours, including travel and activities, generally last 5 - 6 hours, while full-day tours with add-ons like the Mekong Delta or Cao Dai Temple can take 10 - 12 hours.
How much does it cost to go to the Cu Chi Tunnels?
Entrance to the Cu Chi Tunnels is about VND 90,000–110,000 ($5-7 AUD), if purchasing outside a tour package. Most tours already cover this in the package price. Group half-day tours start at around $22, while private tours or full-day combos can cost $50-80+, depending on inclusions like transportation, meals, or extra destinations.
What to wear for Cu Chi Tunnels?
Light and breathable clothing is best due to the heat and humidity of Vietnam. Closed-toe shoes or comfortable sneakers are also recommended, since you’ll be walking a lot. Bringing a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are also practical, and long sleeves or pants can provide extra protection against scratches or mosquitoes if you plan to explore the exhibits above-ground.
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