Cu Chi Tunnels tour: an exciting historical discovery journey

Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the important historical sites of Vietnam, is located about 70km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. Cu Chi Tunnels tour not only allows visitors to learn more about history but also to experience the life of the people during the war and the rustic beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. Let's explore this historical site!

1. Overview of Cu Chi Tunnels:

Cu Chi Tunnels is a magical tunnel system of more than 200km long, known as the "Iron Land" because it was once a hiding place and living place for Vietnamese soldiers and civilians during wartime. The tunnels were built in the 1940s, making an important contribution to the resistance war against France and the US, marking many glorious campaigns of the Cu Chi army and civilians during the fierce war years.

Perhaps, what surprises tourists worldwide about Vietnam's Cu Chi Tunnels is a mysterious and solid "miniature underground village" with full living areas in a narrow tunnel such as a kitchen, hospital, meeting room and other functional areas. What are you waiting for? Find out about the attractive Cu Chi tours when you come to Saigon!

2. Cu Chi Tunnels tour from Ho Chi Minh City:

Visiting Cu Chi Tunnels usually takes only about 3 to 5 hours. The tour time depends on the type of tour and the activities you choose. However, to have the most complete exploration experience, visitors should spend at least one session a day. You can refer to some of the following types of tours:

• Half-day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: suitable for visitors with busy schedules and the tour only visits part of the site.
• Full-day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: a rich and complete experience exploring the tunnel area and activities around the rubber farm, handicraft village, local lifestyle activities, etc.
• Private Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: suitable for visitors who need flexibility in time and destination because they can arrange a private schedule with the tour operator according to their needs.

In addition, the travel time from Saigon to Cu Chi usually takes about 1.5 hours each way, so you should also consider choosing a schedule that suits your health.

3. Unique experiences not to be missed at Cu Chi Tunnels:

Visitors participating in the tour to explore the "Iron Land" will visit the main areas in the tunnels such as the command bunker, kitchen bunker, hospital and underground passages. Each area is preserved and restored to match history, helping visitors better understand the lives and activities of soldiers underground. Some key highlights of the tour that visitors should not miss when having the opportunity to come here:

• Experience walking in the famous historical base bunker:

The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to explore the complex and mysterious underground tunnel system. Visitors will have a challenging journey when walking in a narrow and stuffy space with small, dark passages. Through that, visitors will feel the resilience, ingenuity and creativity of the Cu Chi soldiers and civilians in building, protecting the tunnel network and living under these harsh conditions.

• Sightseeing Museum and the Military Liberation Zone’s reenactment area

In addition to the underground bunkers, visitors can also visit the exhibition area of ​​war artifacts and watch documentaries about the history of Cu Chi tunnels to better understand the historical context and the touching stories of those who fought and sacrificed for freedom and national peace.

• Try your hand at the shooting range

One of the other exciting activities that visitors can try when they have more time in the tunnels is to experience being a soldier at the shooting range, where visitors can use classic rifles used in the war to learn more about military history. This will be an interesting activity but only suitable for those who love thrills.

• Enjoy local cuisine

After physical activities, visitors should enjoy local specialties such as boiled cassava, rice paper rolls, fresh coconut water, etc. The journey to explore this land will not be complete without the typical culinary flavors. These simple but flavorful dishes will bring a unique and unforgettable culinary experience when immersed in the real lifestyle of the people here.

• Experience folk activities

In addition, visitors can also participate in folk activities such as farming, cooking in traditional style and trying to make handicrafts. These activities help visitors understand more about the daily life of Cu Chi people and enjoy relaxing moments with family and friends.

4. Tips to Visit Cu Chi Tunnels:

To have a complete trip, visitors should refer to some of the following tips:

What is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit the Tunnels is during the dry season (November to April). The weather during this season is usually drier and cooler, making it convenient for traveling and exploring the tunnel system. Visitors should consider traveling during the rainy season because the tunnels will be wet and slippery.

Things to know before you go:

• Book tickets in advance.
• Bring identification to confirm your identity.
• Wear comfortable, easy-to-move-in, and sweat-absorbent clothing.
• Always carry drinking water to stay healthy.
• Bring a flashlight when walking in dark areas.
• Do not litter, vandalize buildings and respect monuments.

Entrance Fees:

The entrance fee to Cu Chi Tunnels usually ranges from 90,000 VND to 110,000 VND for adults, and 45,000 VND to 55,000 VND for children. The ticket price may change depending on the tourist season and promotions.

Cost of package tours from Ho Chi Minh City:

Cu Chi Tunnels tour price usually includes transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a guide. Prices vary based on services, quality, and the reputation of the tour company.

• Half-day Tour: 

400,000 - 600,000 VND/Adults

200,000 - 300,000 VND/Children

• Full-day Tour: 

800,000 - 1,200,000 VND/Adults

400,000 - 600,000 VND/Children

• Private Tour: 

2,000,000 - 3,000,000 VND/1-2 people

3,000,000 - 4,500,000 VND/3-5 people

4,500,000 - 6,000,000 VND++/groups of more than 5

Should having a tour guide when visiting Cu Chi Tunnels:

A tour guide can enrich your visit by providing detailed historical and cultural information, sharing local stories, answering questions, and offering support throughout the trip.

Ensuring children's safety:

When visiting the tunnels with children, consider the following for their safety and well-being:

• Avoid taking very young children into the narrow and dark tunnels; the ideal age is 6 years and older.
• Keep children close and supervise them closely in the tunnels.
• Provide a brief, age-appropriate introduction to the site.

With the above information, we hope you will have a better understanding of the longest tunnel relic site in Vietnam - Cu Chi Tunnels and have the best preparation for your trip.