Discovering the intricate network of Cu Chi Tunnels is a must-do for any visitor to Ho Chi Minh City. This immersive 6-hour tour takes you on a journey through Vietnam’s resilient past, allowing you to step into the shoes of the Viet Cong fighters who used these underground passages during the war. From exploring living quarters to witnessing weapons factories, the experience offers a unique perspective on the country’s history. What secrets will the tunnels reveal?
Good To Know
- Take a 1.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a top adventurous destination in Southeast Asia.
- Explore the 250 km complex of underground rooms, hospitals, and weapons factories that served as a military headquarters during the Vietnam War.
- Crawl through the narrow tunnels and witness the harsh conditions experienced by the Viet Cong forces.
- Optionally, shoot with AK47 or M16 rifles for an immersive experience.
- Conclude the tour with a tasting of boiled tapioca and hot pandanus tea.
Tour Overview and Highlights
Visitors can experience Vietnam’s turbulent history firsthand at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a top adventurous spot in Southeast Asia. Recognized as one of the TOP 7 adventurous destinations in the region and TOP 12 underground wonders globally, the tunnel complex spans 250 km with depths of 3m, 6m, and 12m.
Explore underground rooms, hospitals, and weapons factories while learning about Vietnamese history and culture. For the adventurous, there’s an optional experience to shoot with AK47 or M16 rifles in a supervised area.
This unique tour offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past and a chance to take in its rich heritage.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Ho Chi Minh City.
Itinerary Details
The Cu Chi Tunnels tour lasts 6 hours, including a 1.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City.
Pickup locations are in Districts 1, 3, and 4.
The itinerary includes watching a documentary, exploring living areas, crawling through the tunnels, and visiting a rice paper workshop.
The tour ends with a tasting of boiled tapioca and hot pandanus tea.
The order of the itinerary may change due to weather or guide arrangements.
Private or small group options are available for those seeking a more personalized experience.
Booking Information
The tour can be booked from $39.85, but a discounted rate of $31.88 per person is currently available, representing a savings of up to 20%.
Currently, the tour can be booked at a discounted rate of $31.88 per person, offering savings of up to 20% from the original $39.85 price.
Booking is flexible – reserve now and pay later. Cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.
Visitors should note a 30% surcharge applies during public holidays like New Year and Tet Festival.
The tour price includes free pickup and drop-off, a professional English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, a light snack, and bottled water.
Bullet fees at the shooting range are an additional cost of approximately 600,000 VND for 10 rounds.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes free pickup and drop-off at the city center, a professional English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, a light snack, and bottled water.
However, it excludes other meals, tips, personal expenses, and bullet fees at the shooting range, which cost approximately 600,000 VND for 10 bullets.
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and bring a camera.
The order of the itinerary may change due to weather or guide arrangements.
Private or small group options are also available for a more personalized experience.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPreparation and Important Notes
When planning your visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat to protect yourself from the elements. Bring a camera to capture the underground network and the local life. Keep in mind that the order of the itinerary may change due to weather or guide arrangements. For your convenience, consider a private or small group tour option.
| Recommended Items | Suggested Attire | Important Notes |
| — | — | — |
| Comfortable Shoes | Lightweight, Breathable Clothing | Itinerary Subject to Change |
| Sunglasses | Long Pants Recommended | Private/Small Group Tours Available |
| Sun Hat | Comfortable, Appropriate for Outdoors | – |
| Camera | – | – |
- Saigon: Hidden Gems and Coffee With Local Student
- Saigon: Private Backstreets Walking Food Tour W 10 Tastings
- Ho Chi Minh: Motorbike Street Food Tour With Local Students
- Saigon: Night Craft Beer and Street Food Tour By Vespa
- Saigon by Night: Private City Tour by Jeep and Skybar Drink
- Ho Chi Minh: Cu Chi Tunnels Guided Tour With a War Veteran
History and Significance of Cu Chi Tunnels
Constructed during the Vietnam War, the Cu Chi Tunnels stand as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.
This extensive network of underground passages, spanning over 250 kilometers, served as a vital military headquarters, hiding spot, and supply route for the Viet Cong. Remarkably, the tunnels were dug by hand and included living quarters, hospitals, and even weapon factories.
Visitors can explore the intricate system, crawling through narrow passages and discovering the harsh conditions endured by the Vietnamese forces.
The Cu Chi Tunnels remain a powerful symbol of the country’s perseverance in the face of adversity.
Exploring the Tunnel Complex
As visitors explore the vast Cu Chi Tunnel complex, they’ll be struck by the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese forces who constructed this expansive underground network.
Crawling through the winding tunnels, they’ll see firsthand the rooms, hospitals, and weapons factories that were hidden just meters beneath the surface. The tunnel system was an engineering marvel, with various entry and exit points, ventilation shafts, and booby traps designed to thwart the enemy.
Emerging topside, guests can try their hand at firing an AK-47 or M16 at the supervised shooting range, a thrilling hands-on experience.
Shooting Range Experience
What could be more thrilling than firing a legendary AK-47 or M16 at the Cu Chi Tunnels’ supervised shooting range? For an additional fee, visitors can experience the power of these iconic weapons. The shooting range provides a safe and controlled environment to try your hand at target practice.
| Bullet Packages | Price |
|——————-|——-|
| 10 bullets | 600,000 VND |
| 20 bullets | 1,200,000 VND |
| 30 bullets | 1,800,000 VND |
| 40 bullets | 2,400,000 VND |
| 50 bullets | 3,000,000 VND |
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity offers a glimpse into the tactics and firepower used during the Vietnam War. Experienced guides will provide instruction and ensure a safe, unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Visiting the Tunnels?
There are no age restrictions for visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, but children under 6 may find the experience challenging. Guests of all ages can explore the tunnels, but parental discretion is advised for younger visitors.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Site?
Visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks to the Cu Chi Tunnels site. However, light snacks and bottled water are provided as part of the tour package. It’s best to rely on the inclusions to fully enjoy the experience.
Are There Any Toilet Facilities Available Within the Tunnel Complex?
Yes, there are toilet facilities available within the Cu Chi Tunnel complex. Visitors can use the restrooms located in the main visitor center area before and after exploring the tunnels.
Can I Take a Guided Tour in My Native Language?
Yes, you can take a guided tour in your native language. The tour provider offers professional English-speaking guides, and they can also arrange for guides in other languages upon request, depending on availability.
Is There Any Wheelchair Accessibility in the Tunnel Areas?
The Cu Chi Tunnels aren’t fully wheelchair accessible due to the tight, uneven spaces. However, the above-ground areas have some wheelchair-friendly paths, and the tour can accommodate guests with limited mobility. Visitors should check with the tour operator for specific accessibility details.
The Sum Up
Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels is a captivating experience that offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history. Crawling through the intricate network of underground passages, visitors can enjoy the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people. This tour provides an enriching opportunity to connect with the country’s past and gain a deeper appreciation for its remarkable heritage.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Ho Chi Minh City
- Essential Mekong Delta: Highlight Tour From Ho Chi Minh City
- Get Hands-On: Vietnams Famous Salted Coffee
- HCMC:Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels:Authentic & Less Touristy-Max10
- Sense Spa Signature Aroma Massage (60 Min.)
- Vietnamese Craft Liquor Tasting Led by Food & Drink Writer
- Ho Chi Minh: Vietnamese Water Puppet Show Ticket
Looking for something different? Other Ho Chi Minh City activities we've written about
- Essential Mekong Delta: Highlight Tour From Ho Chi Minh City
- Get Hands-On: Vietnams Famous Salted Coffee
- HCMC:Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels:Authentic & Less Touristy-Max10
- Sense Spa Signature Aroma Massage (60 Min.)
- Vietnamese Craft Liquor Tasting Led by Food & Drink Writer
- Ho Chi Minh: Vietnamese Water Puppet Show Ticket
- HCMC: One-Day Barista Experience Class
- Ho Chi Minh City: Coconut/Eggs Coffee Making Class
- Ho Chi Minh City: Sensory – Tasting Coffee
- Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnamese Specialty Coffee Journey
- Mekong Delta Full Day – My Tho & Ben Tre – Four Islands Tour
- Good Morning Saigon by Motorbike I Option: Female Ao Dai