One of the most popular attractions in Ho Chi Minh City is the Cu Chi Tunnels. This huge network of underground tunnels, hiding places and supply routes is a must-see for anyone with a love of history!
At the Ben Duoc site, visitors can crawl through restored sections of original tunnels. While this isn't for everyone, many visitors find it to be a moving and humbling experience.
How to Get There
If you are planning on visiting Cu Chi Tunnels, it is a good idea to book a tour ahead of time. These tours are arranged by motorbike or car and can be a lot of fun.
The easiest way to get there from Ho Chi Minh City is by taxi. This is the most convenient option, but it also tends to be the most expensive.
You can also take a bus to Cu Chi. The cheapest is to catch public bus No 13 from 23-9 Park (near Pham Ngu Lao street) to Cu Chi Bus Station, then change to Bus No 79 which heads to Ben Duoc.
The price for a round-trip ticket to Ben Duoc is 135,000 VND ($5.43), including a guide. However, this site is less catered to visitors and can be a bit confusing on arrival.
Tips for Visiting the Tunnels
Located in Cu Chi District near Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a popular attraction for tourists. They are a fascinating historical site that provides an insight into the Vietnam War.
The Viet Cong used the tunnels to hide, attack and supply American troops. They also created many booby traps that were difficult for US troops to find.
If you’re visiting the tunnels on your own, be sure to wear comfortable clothing. It’s best to bring old clothes, a t-shirt and jeans or shorts that don’t mind getting dirty.
You’ll also want to carry some insect repellent. The tunnels are in a jungle area and you might get bitten by mosquitoes or other insects.
You can visit the Cu Chi Tunnels on your own or with a tour group. It’s important to know the right time to go and what to expect.
What to Bring
The Cu Chi tunnels are a must-visit when in Southern Vietnam. They offer a fascinating insight into the dark times of the Vietnam War and were used as hiding spots, hospitals, living quarters and supply routes by Viet Cong soldiers.
The tunnels are a 250 km long labyrinth of underground tunnels that stretch all the way to Cambodia's border. They were crucial to the Viet Cong's success in the war, providing a stronghold close to Saigon and allowing them to surprise U.S. troops with traps, guns and explosive devices.
To get to the tunnels you'll need to book a tour. These generally last for half or full days.
When visiting the tunnels you'll want to make sure you're well-hydrated and have plenty of water. You'll also want to bring your own snacks and drinks as they can be expensive on site.
There are a variety of tours available, but my top recommendation is to book a morning or afternoon guided tour. These tours will allow you to explore the tunnels and learn about their history in more detail.
What to Expect
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see for anyone interested in Vietnamese history. They’re an enormous network of underground tunnels that grew during the war against the French and allowed Viet Cong soldiers to communicate between villages and escape scouting French soldiers.
It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it’s a must-do on any Vietnam itinerary. You can crawl through restored sections of the original tunnels, observe booby traps, and shoot guns at a shooting range.
For the best Cu Chi Tunnels experience, I recommend a half or full-day guided tour from your hotel. These tours typically include pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and admission fees to the site.
Another way to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels is by boat, which takes you on a cruise along the Mekong River. This option is a great way to see both the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta.
