Overview
The
Cu Chi Tunnels, a 250km subterranean network northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, epitomize Vietnamese resistance during the Vietnam War. Beyond mere shelter, these tunnels—originating in the 1940s during the Indochina War—served as a strategic stronghold for the Viet Cong, offering communication, storage, and a formidable advantage against American forces. Situated within occupied Cu Chi, the complex labyrinth of chambers, traps, and dead ends enabled covert surveillance and perilous enemy incursions. While crucial to Viet Cong victory, life within was harsh, plagued by disease, scarcity, and venomous wildlife. Despite relentless American attempts at annihilation through destruction and defoliation, Cu Chi endured. Today, it stands as a testament to resilience and ingenuity, having recovered from wartime devastation to become a significant historical site and symbol of reconstruction. Furthermore, the Cu Chi Tunnels represent only a fraction of a larger, interconnected network extending throughout Vietnam and into Cambodia.
Top Attractions
Local guide explaining the map of Cu Chi Tunnels Complex - Mr Linh's Adventures
Embark on a journey into the heart of Vietnamese wartime history with these immersive experiences at the Cu Chi Tunnels:
Tunnel Exploration
Crawl through the narrow passages, discover the different rooms and understand how the Viet Cong lived and moved in this underground labyrinth.
Discovery of Traps
Admire the ingenious traps used during the war, testaments to the ingenuity and determination of the Viet Cong.
Will you try Riffle Shooting ? Mr Linh's AdventuresRifle Shooting
Try your hand at AK-47s shooting at a shooting range, a unique experience to put yourself in the shoes of the soldiers.
Museum Visit
Learn more about the history of the tunnels, the Vietnam War, and the survival techniques used by the Viet Cong through the museum's exhibits.
Good to know
The entrance fee to Cu Chi Tunnels usually ranges approximately $19-$30 USD for foreign tourists. The ticket price may change depending on the tourist season and promotions.
See & Do
Map of the Cu Chi Tunnels System - Collected
A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels offers far more than a simple sightseeing trip; it's an immersive journey into a pivotal period of Vietnamese history. Step into the very heart of the resistance by exploring the tunnels themselves. Navigate the narrow, earthen passages, unveil hidden chambers, and gain a visceral appreciation for the arduous conditions endured by the Viet Cong. Envision life beneath the surface, marvel at the ingenuity born of necessity, and grasp the strategic significance of this remarkable labyrinth.
Openings are not for sensitive souls! Mr Linh's Adventures
Beyond the historical depths
Complement your exploration with an authentic taste of local life. Following your physical journey, indulge in the simple yet exquisite flavors of regional specialties, such as boiled cassava, delicate rice paper rolls, and refreshing coconut water. This culinary immersion is an essential element of understanding the true essence of the land, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that resonates with the genuine lifestyle of the local people.
Furthermore, enrich your understanding by participating in traditional folk activities. Engage in farming practices, discover the art of traditional Vietnamese cooking, or try your hand at crafting local handicrafts. These hands-on experiences provide a deeper connection to the daily lives of the Cu Chi people, offering moments of relaxation and shared enjoyment with loved ones.
Go Green
For an even more immersive and rewarding experience, Mr Linh's Adventure offers unique tours in the Cu Chi Tunnels region. Our passionate local guides will help you discover the secrets of the tunnels, share fascinating stories about the Vietnam War, and take you to meet local communities. You will have the opportunity to discover the daily life of the inhabitants, share a traditional meal and immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture.
Heritage
US M41 tank, destroyed by a delay mine in 1970 - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Cu Chi Tunnels, a major historical site, eloquently bear witness to the Vietnamese resistance during the Vietnam War. More than just an underground network, they embody a powerful symbol of courage, ingenuity, and determination. A visit to these tunnels offers a profound immersion into the history of this conflict, allowing one to grasp the scale of the sacrifices made by the Vietnamese people and to understand the lasting impact of the war on the country.
While these labyrinths attract visitors from all over the world, the historical show presented at Cu Chi enriches the experience with a captivating immersive dimension. This open-air performance transports spectators to the heart of Vietnam's past through a poignant narrative, skillfully blending cultural education and striking visual performances. Whether one is passionate about history or simply eager to discover the rich heritage of Vietnam, this experience proves to be unmissable.
Memorial Temple of Ben Duoc - Mr Linh's Adventures
In Cu Chi, two main sites welcome the public, each offering a unique perspective on the history of the tunnels. Ben Duoc, although located about 30 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City, is appealing for its more serene atmosphere and the presence of its memorial temple. Ben Dinh, more easily accessible and therefore more frequented, remains the preferred choice for the majority of tourist circuits.
During the visit, passionate guides reveal the ingenious plans and construction secrets of these tunnels. Visitors have the unique opportunity to experience the narrowness of the passages themselves, thus imagining the grueling conditions endured by the combatants. The exhibitions of traps and the screening of a propaganda film offer a striking insight into the violence and reality of the war.
Food & Drinks
Iconic Cu Chi veal - Internet
Did you know that the Cu Chi region is not only known for its poignant history? It also delights palates with a local gastronomy that is as flavorful as it is authentic. If cassava and peanuts are often served to visitors of the Cu Chi tunnels to illustrate the basic food that the Viet Cong fighters consumed during the war, there are many other flavors a guster! Let's discover some of the culinary gems that make Cu Chi famous.
Cu Chi Beef
It's impossible to talk about Cu Chi without mentioning its iconic beef. Renowned for its exquisite tenderness and delicate aroma, it is revealed through a range of tempting preparations: steamed beef rolls served with rice paper, a fragrant hotpot with wild vegetables and beef, charcoal-grilled skewers exuding smoky aromas, or a convivial fondue where thin slices of beef are quickly dipped in a vinegary broth.
Cassava Braised in Coconut Milk
Behind its apparent simplicity lies a strong history. A staple food during the resistance period, cassava, steamed until tender, is coated in creamy coconut milk. This combination of the soft cassava and the richness of the coconut milk offers a taste experience that is both modest and deeply satisfying.
Pineapple and Durian Juice
Among the most popular drinks in Cu Chi, pineapple and durian juice stands out for its originality. The combination of the sweet and tangy pineapple and the intense and creamy flavor of durian creates a drink that is both sweet, fragrant, and deliciously refreshing, ideal for hot Vietnamese days.
Directions
Location
Cu Chi Tunnels is located at Provincial Road 15, Phu Hiep Hamlet, Phu Hung Commune, Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City. 70km northwest of the center.
How to get there
You can get there by bus, taxi or motorbike.
♦ Bus route number 13: Departs from Ben Thanh to Cu Chi Bus Station, from Cu Chi Bus Station take bus number 79 to Ben Duoc tunnel.
♦ Bus route number 13: Departs from Ben Thanh to An Suong bus station, from An Suong bus station take bus number 122 to Tan Quy bus station, from Tan Quy bus station take bus number 70 to Ben Dinh tunnels.
Entry to the Cu Chi Tunnels, which includes a guided tour, costs approximately $19-$30 USD for foreign tourists and 90,000-110,000 VND for Vietnamese nationals. Students (7-16 years) with valid ID receive a 50% discount, and children under 7 are admitted without charge.
Best season to visit
The best season to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is sunny and dry.
Explore the
Cu Chi Tunnels for a memorable immersion into a pivotal period of Vietnamese history, and witness the enduring spirit of its people.