Everything you need to know about the Cu Chi Tunnels tour

The Cu Chi Tunnels are located about sixty kilometers away from Ho Chi Minh City. This place is not just a bunch of holes in the ground but a massive network of underground life. If you want to visit this site then you need to plan your day properly. Most people spend about half a day here but the impact stays much longer.

The two different sites

There are actually two places you can visit. One is called Ben Dinh and the other is Ben Duoc. Most tour buses take you to Ben Dinh because it is closer to the city. The tunnels there have been made bigger so tourists can fit inside easily. If you want a more quiet and real experience then you should go to Ben Duoc. It is further away but it feels less crowded and more authentic.

How to get there from the city

You have three main choices to reach the tunnels. You can book a group tour which is the cheapest way. These tours usually include a guide and a bus pick up from your hotel. The second choice is a private car which is better if you are with family. The third and most fun way is the speedboat. You travel on the Saigon River and see the city from the water. It is more expensive but it saves you from the crazy city traffic.

What happens during the tour

When you arrive you will first watch a short black and white film. It explains how the tunnels were built using just simple tools and hands. After that a guide will lead you into the forest. You will see hidden booby traps made of bamboo and steel. They are scary to look at but they show how the soldiers defended themselves.

The highlight is the tunnel crawl. You can go down and walk for twenty or forty or even sixty meters. It is very dark and the air is thick. You will realize how difficult it was for people to live there for years. They had kitchens and hospitals and even meeting rooms all under the dirt.

The firing range experience

There is an area where you can pay extra to fire real weapons from the war. You can try an AK47 or an M60. It is very loud so if you have sensitive ears you should stay away from this section. The bullets are sold in sets of ten and it is a very popular activity for many visitors.

Food and souvenirs

At the end of the walk the guides will give you boiled tapioca with crushed peanuts and sugar. This was the main food for the soldiers during the war years. It is very filling and tastes quite good. There is also a small shop where you can buy things made from recycled tires or old shells.

Practical tips for your visit

You should carry a bottle of water because the jungle is very humid. Use a lot of insect repellent because there are many mosquitoes in the trees. Wear comfortable shoes that you do not mind getting dirty. The red soil in this area can stain your clothes and shoes very easily.

If you are traveling with kids or elderly people then keep in mind that there is a lot of walking. Most of the paths are shaded by trees but it is still quite hot. Try to start your tour early in the morning to avoid the midday sun.

Common questions about the Cu Chi Tunnels

What is the best time to visit the tunnels?

You should try to reach the site around eight or nine in the morning. The weather is much cooler then and the large tour buses usually arrive after ten. If you go early you can explore the area in peace without too many people around you.

How much does it cost to enter?

The ticket price is different for the two sites. Ben Duoc is usually a bit cheaper than Ben Dinh but both are quite affordable. You will need to pay extra if you want to use the firing range. Make sure you carry some cash in local currency because they might not accept cards at the small food stalls.

Can children go inside the tunnels?

Yes children can go inside but you must stay with them at all times. The tunnels are very dark and can be scary for very young kids. If your child is active and likes exploring they will enjoy it. Just make sure they do not run off the main paths because the forest area is very large.

Is it safe for people with health issues?

If you have breathing problems or heart issues you should not go inside the tunnels. The air is very thin and it gets very hot. You can still enjoy the rest of the tour because most of the things to see are above the ground. You will not miss much if you decide to stay in the fresh air.

How long does the whole tour take?

From the time you leave your hotel in the city to the time you get back it will take about six hours. The actual walk around the site takes about two hours. The rest of the time is spent traveling on the road or the river.

Conclusion

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is an experience that stays with you for a long time. It is not just about the war or the weapons. It is about seeing how humans can adapt to the most difficult situations. You get to walk through history and feel the soil under your feet.