Cu Chi Tunnels
Phu Hiep, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh, Southern Vietnam
Built by the Viet Cong in the 1940s as protection from French air raids during the Indochina conflict, the Cu Chi Tunnels extend underground for more than 155 miles (250 kilometers) in the vicinity of Ho Chi Minh City alone. This network of tunnels later provided vital access to and strategic control over the rural areas surrounding the city during the Vietnam War (also known as the Second Indochina War or the American War). Cu Chi Tunnels tours offer a poignant reminder of the hardships of war.
The basics
During the war, the tunnels housed living quarters, hospitals, booby traps, and storage facilities for the Viet Cong, all secretly accessed by concealed trap doors. Life in the tunnels was difficult---not only because of the war, but also due to the presence of natural hazards, including tunnel rats and venomous snakes. Taking a Cu Chi Tunnels tour offers a poignant reminder of the hardships of war.
Today, two areas are open to visitors on guided tours, both with tunnels that have been expanded in size. They're still a tight fit, but that adds to the experience of discovering what it must have been like for the Viet Cong soldiers living and operating here. Many visitors come to the tunnels on a half-day tour or full-day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, sometimes combined with a cruise along the Mekong Delta or Saigon River.
Things to know before you go
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a must for history buffs.
If you come on your own, you'll still need to buy Cu Chi Tunnels tickets and hire a tour guide to enter the tunnel network.
Touring the tunnels involves hunching over to walk underground. If you're prone to claustrophobia, consider giving this one a pass.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for uneven surfaces.
Don't forget to bring insect repellent to fend off mosquitoes.
How to get there
The Cu Chi Tunnels are around 30 miles (50 kilometers) from Ho Chi Minh City. A guided private or small-group tour is the most hassle-free way to visit the Cu Chi Tunnel system. You can also get to the tunnels on your own by taking bus 13 from the BEN CV 23/9 bus station.
When to get there
The main factor in determining when to visit the underground tunnels is the weather. The dry season (December to April) is the hottest time of year. With higher temperatures comes lower humidity and an escape from the usual stickiness of this tropical climate (and fewer bugs). Monsoon season (May to November) brings higher humidity and daily rains, but it's also slightly cooler.
A tale of two tunnels
There are two areas of the Cu Chi Tunnels available for tours. Most visit Ben Dinh, the more popular section. It's often crowded, and the nearby firing range is close, so it can be loud. The second site, Ben Duoc, is about 30 minutes further away from Ho Chi Minh City, but it also has the Ben Duoc Martyr's Memorial Temple on its grounds, which is surrounded by quiet gardens.
Ways to explore
During the war, the tunnels housed living quarters, hospitals, booby traps, and storage facilities for the Viet Cong, all secretly accessed by concealed trap doors. Today, two areas are open to visitors on guided tours, both with tunnels that have been expanded in size. They’re still a tight fit, but that adds to the experience of discovering what it must have been like for the Viet Cong soldiers living and operating here.
Many visitors come to the tunnels on a half-day tour or full-day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, sometimes combined with a cruise along the Mekong Delta or Saigon River. If you come on your own, you’ll still need to buy Cu Chi Tunnels tickets and hire a tour guide to enter the tunnel network.
Accessibility
Touring the tunnels involves hunching over to walk underground, so they’re not wheelchair-accessible. If you’re prone to claustrophobia, consider giving this one a pass.
Age limits
Recommended for children aged 8 and above
What to pack
Insect repellent to fend off mosquitoes
What to wear
Lightweight layers you don’t mind getting dusty if you plan to enter the tunnels.
Not allowed
Touching exhibits, littering, entering restricted areas, smoking
Amenities
Restrooms, souvenir shop
Address
The Cu Chi Tunnels are around 30 miles (50 kilometers) from Ho Chi Minh City. A guided private or small-group tour is the most hassle-free way to visit the Cu Chi Tunnel system.
Driving
From Ho Chi Minh City, head west toward the Cu Chi District using National Highway 22. As you approach the Cu Chi District, there will be signs guiding you to the Ben Dinh site. The tunnel site will be on your left.
Public transportation
You can take Bus 13 from Ben Thanh Market or Bus 94 from Mien Tay Bus Station.
Best times to visit
The best times to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels are early morning at opening or late afternoon from 3pm. Avoid the hottest part of the day from 11am to 2pm.
Best days to visit
Visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds of weekend day-trippers.
Best months to visit
The dry season (December to April) is the hottest time of year. With higher temperatures comes lower humidity and an escape from the usual stickiness of this tropical climate (and fewer bugs). Monsoon season (May to November) brings higher humidity and daily rains, but it’s also slightly cooler.
Special events
Plan your trip around Têt (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) in February.
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