Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels: Uncover Vietnam’s History Near Ho Chi Minh City

A Window into Vietnam’s Wartime Resilience
Nestled in Cu Chi Ward, ~70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City’s Ward 1, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a globally celebrated historical site, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually. Spanning a 250-km underground network built from 1946 to 1968 during the First Indochina War (1945–1954) and Vietnam War (1955–1975), these tunnels were a strategic stronghold for Viet Cong guerrillas, featuring living quarters, hospitals, and command centers. Recognized as a national monument, their intricate design captivates historians and travelers in a 6,772 km² megacity. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, using low-emission vehicles and expert guides, offer a sustainable way to explore this iconic site, supporting local communities. Start your historical journey—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com! TripAdvisor Ho Chi Minh City

Administrative Update
Vietnam recently merged Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, creating a 6,772 km² megacity with 13.7 million residents across 168 wards, including Cu Chi District now Cu Chi Ward. This reorganization streamlines governance, enhancing access to the Cu Chi Tunnels with improved roads, bus routes, and a VND1 trillion flood control project, linking Cu Chi Ward to urban Ward 1 and suburban Can Gio.

Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers immersive, eco-conscious tours to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Our tours use low-emission vehicles and bicycles, guided by historians who share Vietnam’s wartime narratives. Supporting communities in Cu Chi Ward, Ward 1, and Thu Duc, we align with the city’s “Green Metropolis” vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and explore sustainably! TripAdvisor Reviews

Located in Cu Chi Ward, ~70 km from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ward 1, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a 250-km underground network, constructed from 1946 to 1968, spanning Cu Chi and Hoc Mon wards. Set in a tropical monsoon climate—dry season (December–April, 25–35°C or 77–95°F) and rainy season (May–November, 23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F)—the tunnels feature two main sites: Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc, open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Built by Viet Minh and Viet Cong fighters, these multi-level tunnels supported guerrilla warfare, logistics, and daily life during the wars against French and American forces. Recognized as national monuments in 1979 (Ben Duoc) and 2004 (Ben Dinh), they offer crawlable tunnels, historical exhibits, and firing ranges, accessible via bus or guided tours, near the Saigon River.

The Cu Chi Tunnels in Cu Chi Ward are reachable from Ho Chi Minh City’s transport hub:

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually via Terminal T3 (Vietnam Airlines domestic) and T1/T2. Round-trip costs:

  • Hanoi: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • Bangkok/Singapore: $200–$500.

  • Taxis/Grab to Ward 1 (7 km): $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Hanoi (30–34 hours, $35–$60 or 875,000–1,500,000 VND), Da Nang (18–22 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND), or Can Tho (3–4 hours, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Local bus #79 from Ward 1 to Cu Chi: $1.30 (30,000 VND, 2 hours).

• By Train: Saigon Railway Station in Ward 7 connects to Hanoi (30–34 hours, $40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND). A high-speed rail is planned for 2030.

Getting to Cu Chi Tunnels:

• Bus #79: From Ben Thanh Market (Ward 1) to Cu Chi Bus Station, $1.30 (30,000 VND), then Grab ($3 or 75,000 VND, 15 minutes).

• Grab/Taxi: $30–$40 (750,000–1,000,000 VND) one-way from Ward 1, 1.5 hours.

• Guided Tours: $50–$70 (half-day), including eco-friendly transport and guide.

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND), 1.5 hours, but requires experienced drivers due to traffic.

Tip: Book our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70) for safe, guided transport to the tunnels.

The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–35°C or 77–95°F), ideal for exploring tunnel entrances and outdoor exhibits. Tet (January–February) adds festive decorations but draws larger crowds. The rainy season (May–November) brings cooler temperatures (23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F) and 15–25% tour discounts, with covered exhibits suitable during showers. Morning visits (7:00 AM–10:00 AM) minimize crowds and heat, while April 30th (Reunification Day) features special historical displays but higher visitor numbers.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for December–April; visit early for a quieter experience. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable and safe visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight, breathable outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Long sleeves and pants for tunnel crawling.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat for outdoor areas.

• Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for uneven terrain; avoid sandals.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, mosquito repellent.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Maps.me, portable charger, camera for photos (non-flash in exhibits).

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, biodegradable wipes for post-crawl cleanup.

Tip: Carry small VND notes for tickets; bring a small flashlight for tunnel exploration.

The Cu Chi Tunnels, a 250-km underground network in Cu Chi Ward, are a national cultural and historical monument, recognized in 1979 (Ben Duoc) and 2004 (Ben Dinh) by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture. Built from 1946 to 1968, they served as a Viet Cong stronghold during the First Indochina War and Vietnam War, enabling guerrilla tactics, logistics, and daily life beneath enemy lines. Featuring hidden entrances, ventilation shafts, Hoang Cam kitchens, hospitals, and command centers, the tunnels baffled opponents, earning global acclaim as a symbol of Vietnam’s resilience. Visited by world leaders, veterans, and scholars, the tunnels inspire awe, with a German politician noting, “Crawling 70 meters here answered how a small nation defeated a superpower”. Today, restored sections and exhibits draw millions, offering profound historical insights.

• Guerrilla Ingenuity: Learn how Viet Cong fighters hand-dug 250 km of tunnels, using bamboo tools and concealing entrances under leaves, evading detection by American forces.

• Daily Life Underground: Discover stories of families living in tunnels, cooking in Hoang Cam kitchens with smoke-dispersing vents, and maintaining morale through songs and meetings.

• Strategic Warfare: Hear about booby traps, like spiked pits, and how tunnels enabled surprise attacks, disrupting enemy operations during the Tet Offensive of 1968.

• Global Visitors’ Reflections: Notable figures, from UN officials to American veterans, have shared emotional accounts of respect for Cu Chi’s tenacity, with exhibits showcasing their testimonials.

• Local Heroes: Explore narratives of Cu Chi villagers, like women who smuggled supplies or acted as spies, supporting the war effort while protecting the tunnels.

Tip: Audio guides ($2 or 50,000 VND) narrate these stories, included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

1. Crawl Through Restored Tunnels

Navigate 20–100-meter tunnel sections at Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc, experiencing wartime conditions.

• Cost: Included in entry: $5 (116,000 VND) adults, $2.50 (58,000 VND) children.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

2. Explore Historical Exhibits

View displays of booby traps, weapons, and Hoang Cam kitchens, showcasing tunnel life.

• Cost: Included in entry ticket.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Guided in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

3. Visit Ben Duoc Memorial Temple

Pay respects at this temple in Phu My Hung, honoring fallen fighters, with serene architecture.

• Cost: Included in entry ticket.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Adventure Tour ($60–$80).

4. Try the Firing Range

Fire wartime weapons like the AK-47 or M16 at Ben Dinh’s range (optional).

• Cost: $2–$5 per round (50,000–125,000 VND, minimum 10 rounds).

• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:30 PM.

• Tip: Available with our Saigon Adventure Tour ($60–$80).

5. Watch Documentary Films

Learn through short films at visitor centers, detailing Cu Chi’s role in the wars.

• Cost: Included in entry ticket.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

Costs and Budget Planning

Tunnel Costs

• Entry: $5 (116,000 VND) adults; $2.50 (58,000 VND) children (6–15); free for under 6.

• Audio Guide: $2 (50,000 VND).

• Firing Range: $2–$5 per round (50,000–125,000 VND, minimum 10 rounds).

Transportation

• Bus #79: $1.30 (30,000 VND) from Ward 1 to Cu Chi, plus Grab ($3 or 75,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $30–$40 (750,000–1,000,000 VND) one-way from Ward 1.

• Guided Tours: $50–$70 (half-day), $100–$150 (full-day with Mekong Delta).

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

Dining (On-site or Nearby)

• Cafes: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) for meals.

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Accommodation (Ward 1 or Cu Chi Ward)

• Hostels: $8–$20/night (200,000–500,000 VND).

• Hotels: $25–$80/night (625,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Resorts: $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $20–$50 (includes entry, bus, on-site meals).

• Mid-range: $50–$100 (includes tour, Grab, dining).

• Luxury: $150–$300 (includes private tour, upscale lodging).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are scarce in Cu Chi Ward.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks ahead, especially for December–April or April 30th.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Use sunscreen; visit early to avoid heat.

  • Rainy Season: Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); explore covered areas.

• Health Precautions: Avoid tunnels if claustrophobic or have respiratory issues; stay hydrated.

• Sustainability: Choose eco-friendly tours; support local cafes near the site.

• Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Ben Dinh Tunnels (Cu Chi Ward) as a landmark.

• Safety: Follow guide instructions in tunnels; watch for uneven terrain.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly; maintain silence at memorial sites; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Accessibility: Limited for mobility-impaired visitors; Ben Duoc offers wider tunnels.

Our sustainable tours showcase the Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon’s heritage:

• Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70/person): Cu Chi Tunnels (Ben Dinh), War Remnants Museum. Includes eco-transfers, guide, snacks.

• Saigon Adventure Tour ($60–$80/person): Cu Chi Tunnels (Ben Duoc), firing range, Ben Thanh Market. Includes eco-transfers, guide, lunch.

• Saigon Cultural Escape ($100–$150/person): Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, local craft villages. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

• Saigon Historical Odyssey ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Cu Chi Tunnels, Independence Palace, Mekong Delta. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links on this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels in Cu Chi Ward offers a profound journey into Vietnam’s wartime history, just a short trip from Ho Chi Minh City. With Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, you’ll explore this iconic network sustainably, immersing in powerful stories and nearby cultural sites while supporting local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our tours and book your Saigon historical adventure today!

Ready to experience the Cu Chi Tunnels’ historical legacy? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and uncover Ho Chi Minh City’s enduring past!