Cu Chi Tunnels travel guide - All you need to know

The history of the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels is a vast underground network in Cu Chi and neighboring areas. This complex is a significant part of Vietnamese history. It began to form during the Indochina War (1946-1954), with its initial construction starting in 1948. Early on, soldiers and civilians dug short, isolated tunnels with simple structures. The idea was to hide from French forces and store documents and weapons.

Over time, each village in and around Cu Chi developed its own tunnels. As the need for interconnectivity grew, these individual tunnels were linked, forming an extensive network that spread across multiple areas. By 1961-1965, one of the most intense periods of the Vietnam War, the northern communes of Cu Chi took another step. They built the main tunnel line, referred to as the “backbone.” Branch tunnels were then added, connecting hamlets, communes, and regions. Ultimately, Cu Chi had a continuous and highly effective underground system.

The exterior above the Cu Chi Tunnels was as meticulously built as what’s underneath. On the ground, a guerrilla battlefield emerged. There are fighting positions, trenches, minefields, and booby traps. All are camouflaged. This transformed the tunnels into more than just hiding places but rather fully functional bases. They served as living quarters, meeting rooms, first-aid stations, weapon storage sites, and even battle zones.

The inside of the Cu Chi Tunnels

By 1965, the Cu Chi Tunnels had reached 200 kilometers (about 125 miles) in total length. However, after reunification, only 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) are preserved by the Vietnamese government. Less is used for tourism purposes.

As the Cu Chi Tunnels were built in solid soil, they could endure harsh conditions with three depth levels. The upper level, 3 meters below ground, could withstand artillery shells and the weight of tanks. The middle level was 6 meters deep. The lowest level reached about 9 to 12 meters underground. This level was resilient enough to withstand even the largest bombs deployed during the war. Access points and exits were cleverly concealed with camouflaged hatches. Air circulation was ensured through vertical vents. In some parts of the tunnels, underground wells were drilled to supply water.

The Cu Chi Tunnels had more functional spaces than anyone might think. Each served a critical role during the war. These included underground kitchens equipped with a stove called “Hoang Cam,” named after its creator. This stove was designed to vent smoke out of the tunnels yet dissipated to avoid detection. Some areas even had film screening rooms for morale boosting and tactical training.

A 3D miniature model of the Cu Chi Tunnels map showing three different depth levels. Source: Flickr

So, how small are the Cu Chi Tunnels? The Cu Chi Tunnels were big enough to accommodate Vietnamese soldiers but small enough to stop any trespassing. The passageways were between 1 and 1.2 meters in height and 0.6 and 0.8 meters in width. This is only enough for individuals of shorter stature (about 160 centimeters tall or 5ft3) to stoop through. Taller people might need to crouch or crawl.

The best time to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi is one of 24 districts in Ho Chi Minh City. Therefore, it has a relatively similar weather pattern, hot and humid, with two distinct seasons. The rainy season lasts from May to October and the dry season from November to April.

Many visitors prefer to visit Cu Chi Tunnels during the dry season. This is because, during this time, the tunnels are drier and less humid. The average temperature inside the Cu Chi Tunnels is around 28°C (82°F). However, even if you visit the Cu Chi Tunnels during the rainy season, it’ll be fine. The tunnels’ entrances are actually within covered underground sections. So there’ll be no water leaking in. Still, during this time, expect the air inside to be damp and the walls to be wet to the touch.

Overall, a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels during the dry season results in a better experience. Still, the tunnels remain a great destination in Ho Chi Minh City year-round.

How to get to the Cu Chi Tunnels

The tourism center from which you can access the Cu Chi Tunnels (Khu Di Tich Lich Su Dia Dao Cu Chi) is located in Phu Hiep Hamlet, Phu My Hung Commune in Cu Chi. It’s about 55 kilometers northwest of central Ho Chi Minh City. To reach the site, you can take either the QL22 or TL15, both of which lead directly to Cu Chi.

For a more convenient and informative experience, it’s recommended to join a guided tour with an English-speaking guide. The journey typically takes around 2.5 hours. Public buses may take longer—up to 3.5 hours. If opting for public transportation, buses 4, 122, and 70 are available, though they may require multiple transfers.

Other options like taxi, Grab, and eco-friendly Xanh SM services are also available for a convenient and comfortable journey.

Both QL22 and TL15 routes lead directly to Cu Chi.

Many people prefer to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels in the morning to explore the area at a comfortable pace and return by midday. This allows you to avoid traveling back to the city in the evening when it’s dark. Though the site remains open until 5:00 PM, an early visit ensures a more comfortable and well-paced experience.

What to eat when visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels

When visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, one must sample the local cuisine, which is far from fancy yet deeply rooted in history and tradition. The most popular dish, more like a snack to nibble on now, yet the primary meal that kept the war-induced hunger away, is the steamed cassava roots. Here, this delicacy is always served with peanut salt and sugar in a decorated porcelain sauce bowl shared among the eaters.

Cassava is one of the staple agricultural products in Cu Chi. Although dishes made from cassava can be found everywhere in Vietnam, especially in the south, the cassava grown and served in Cu Chi always tops the list due to its associated history. During the war, cassava was among the primary ingredients of a rationed meal for Vietnamese soldiers. Today, not many people would’ve thought this ivory-white vegetable, yellowish and slightly translucent when cooked, could be so appealing.

Steamed cassava is mildly sweet and starchy, that of potato, yet chewier and more aromatic. When consumed with peanut salt and sugar, the flavor is greatly enhanced. Cassava found from roadside vendors in Cu Chi can be topped with a spoonful of fatty coconut milk. It’s also used as the main ingredient for many other desserts.

Steamed cassava roots served with peanut salt and sugar. Source: Flickr

Another must-try dish in Cu Chi is beef spring rolls (Bo Cu Chi Cuon Banh Trang). Cu Chi is where you can find some of the best dishes made from beef. This is because cows in Cu Chi are grazed in a traditional way, resulting in tender and flavorful beef. For a full dining experience, visit the nearby Ben Duoc Restaurant. They serve authentic dishes, which are perfect for recharging after exploring the tunnels.

7 Things to do in the Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi has more fun activities than anyone might expect. Initially an exhibiting site for underground tunnels, this place has become a tourism complex incorporating various entertaining options. Here are the top things to do in the Cu Chi Tunnels:

1. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

Since the Cu Chi Tunnels is an extensive underground complex, one can access it from different locations. However, as of now, there are only two locations where the tunnels are exhibited: Ben Duoc and Ben Dinh. While Ben Duoc Tunnels are more popular, Ben Dinh Tunnels are equally worth a visit. It’s located in Ben Dinh Hamlet, Nhuan Duc Commune, on the TL15 route, about 12 kilometers away to the southeast.

Entrance tickets to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels are 35,000 VND/person for Vietnamese visitors and 70,000 VND for foreign visitors. Prices may vary between Ben Duoc and Ben Dinh Tunnels. If you’re on a guided tour, the entrance fee is usually included.

A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels usually starts with a presentation. Source: Flickr

A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels usually starts with a presentation conducted by a local tour guide. The presentation takes place in a wooden, thatched-roof shack built about one meter below the ground surface. This simulates the actual meeting room for soldiers and officers during the war. Once inside, a large, standing map shows the locations of different sections of the tunnel system. There’s also a TV screen used to show a short documentary to visitors and other items associated with the war.

A 155-millimeter caliber artillery. Source: Flickr

After the presentation, you’re led out into the jungle. Along the trail that leads you to the tunnels, visitors come across several artifacts of heavy military equipment deployed in battle. The most impressive? Perhaps, it’s the 155-millimeter caliber artillery, fixed on a concrete pedestal, barricaded. Nearby, clusters of bomb and artillery shells, most of which are intact yet mossy, are exhibited, showing how destructive war can be.

Bomb and artillery shells. Source: Flickr

Moving on, you’ll see one or two locations on the sides of the trail where secret hatches are cleverly camouflaged with dry leaves. Here, the local guides, usually dressed up in green soldier uniforms, demonstrate how to enter and conceal the hatch. These hatches, about the size of an A3 sheet, aren’t where visitors actually enter the tunnels. Still, it’s worth giving it a try and see whether you’ll fit in.

A local guide demonstrating the entry into a secret hatch. Source: Flickr

Once you arrive at the location where you’re invited to crawl inside the tunnels, you’ll be advised to leave your backpack behind. If an acquaintance of yours chooses to stay out, leave your backpack to them. It’s much easier to crawl inside the tunnels without any cumbersome belongings. Don’t be worried if you’re claustrophobic. The first exhibited section of the tunnel is only 20 meters long with an exit at 10 meters in case you want to get out. The second section is another 70 meters, again with an exit.

Crawling inside the tunnels is easier when free from any cumbersome belongings. Source: Flickr

Note that the current dimensions of the Cu Chi Tunnels (1-1.2 x 0.6-0.8 meters) have actually been expanded to make the space inside more accessible than the actual dimensions in the past. Here’s a helpful tip: Stay directly behind the guide if you’re on a guided tour. Being at the back or sandwiched between others can feel unsettling, especially if the person ahead of you suddenly stops.

2. Visit Ben Duoc Memorial Temple

After exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, a meaningful next step is to visit Ben Duoc Memorial Temple (Den Tuong Niem Ben Duoc). This is a site of great historical significance, located only a few minutes walk away from the tunnels. Ben Duoc Memorial Temple was built to honor the sacrifices of those who fought and died during the resistance wars against French and American forces in the Saigon-Gia Dinh-Cho Lon region.

Constructed from 1993 to 1995, the 7-hectare memorial includes several key structures. The Tam Quan Gate features round columns and intricately designed roofs inspired by traditional village gates. The House of Inscription contains a monumental stone stele engraved with a free verse called “Forever Remembered,” a tribute to fallen heroes.

The House of Inscription (right) and the Nine-Story Tower (left). Source: Flickr

At the heart of the complex lies the Main Temple, arranged in a solemn U-shaped layout. The central altar honors the Vietnamese homeland with a statue of President Ho Chi Minh. The names of over 45,000 martyrs are inscribed on golden-lettered granite plaques along its walls. Visitors can also ascend the Nine-Story Tower, where you can get panoramic views of the vast surroundings.

At the Main Temple’s rear, a 16-meter stone obelisk stands tall in an aged white hue. It’s topped with a head in the shape of a falling teardrop, indicating the mourning of the martyrs who fell for the independence of the nation. Looking from afar, the monument resembles a giant pen writing onto the sky the epic of Vietnam and its people.

3. Experience sport shooting with real guns

One of the most sought-after activities when visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is shooting real guns at a nearby shooting range. This extreme experience attracts many visitors, especially international tourists. While gun ownership is prohibited in Vietnam, it’s legally allowed in some countries for self-protection or sport. As a result, shooting in a controlled environment has become a popular extreme sport enjoyed by many.

The shooting range (Khu Dich Vu Ban Sung The Thao Quoc Phong) offers a variety of firearms. There are the iconic AK-47, M-16, and Type 63 rifles, as well as machine guns like the M30, M60, and PKM. There are also pistols, such as the K54, and classic models like the M1 Garand carbine. These firearms are primarily old models repurposed for tourism, so their operation might not always be flawless. However, any malfunctions are promptly handled by on-site professionals.

A participant with earmuffs and an unloaded AK-47 rifle. Source: Flickr

Visitors must purchase at least five rounds to participate. Each round costs from 40,000 to 60,000 VND, depending on the firearm. Safety is cautiously taken. The firing process is closely supervised, with targets set about 30 meters away. Each participant is given basic instructions and earmuffs, the latter of which are optional but recommended. Participants must be over 18 years old and free of alcohol or stimulants before shooting. Visitors can collect empty cartridges as souvenirs.

4. Paintball at Cu Chi Tunnels

While shooting real guns offers an exhilarating individual challenge, a paintball battle at the Cu Chi Tunnels is more about teamwork and strategy. This activity is perfect for entertainment and team coordination while enhancing your reflexes and physical fitness. Participants are equipped with masks, uniforms, body armor, and realistic M-16 or AK-47 paintball guns. This allows participants to feel like a real soldier in action.

For those wanting to test their marksmanship, there’s a shooting range featuring military-standard challenges, including fixed, mobile, and hidden targets.

Pricing for paintball is more affordable compared to shooting real guns. Each round costs from 3,000 VND. At least one magazine must be purchased to participate. Magazine sizes vary by weapon type. AK-47s and M-16s hold 20 rounds per magazine, while pistols carry 7. A service fee of 50,000 VND per hour covers all essential equipment.

5. Zipline and treetop activities

Another exciting activity to try when visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is the treetop adventure park, which opened in 2022. This site features 15 treetop challenges with a total length of 350 meters. This offers visitors a unique way to explore the forest canopy.

A canopy walk in the Cu Chi Tunnels’ treetop adventure park

Among the standout attractions is the 80-meter zipline that takes you soaring above the trees. For those looking for even more excitement, the Tarzan jump, with a height of 8 meters, can really give anyone an adrenaline rush. Other activities, including a canopy walk and obstacle courses, allow participants to test their balance and agility while immersed in nature. Safety standards are strictly observed here.

An obstacle course with swings is a more challenging activity.

The game area was designed and installed by an authorized agency under the supervision of the Ben Duoc Tunnel board of management. These treetop activities are perfect for adventure seekers who love a challenge and want to push their limits while adding more unforgettable memories during their visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

6. Join the “Warzone Moon” night tour

Starting in March 2024, the night tour at the Cu Chi Tunnels with a theme called “Warzone Moon” offers an immersive journey back to the life of Cu Chi from 1961 to 1964. Running from 6 PM to 9 PM, this 3-hour experience accommodates up to 60 visitors per tour at 399,000 VND per person.

The night tour showcases the resilience of the local people in Cu Chi during the war through various engaging activities. Visitors will marvel at a model battlefield brought to life with realistic light and smoke effects. This portrays the intensity of guerrilla warfare in Cu Chi. Another highlight on the tour is a 3D animated movie that recreates the Cedar Falls Operation in 1967, providing the audience with historical insight.

Adding to the authenticity, a live theatrical performance by local actors depicts village life during the war. Scenes include tunnel digging, basket weaving under the moonlight, enlistment ceremonies, rice milling, and lively exchanges of folk songs. The backdrop of bomb sounds, enemy aircraft, and artillery fire heightens the realism.

The experience concludes with a delightful tasting of traditional cakes. With captivating storytelling and interactive elements, the Cu Chi Tunnels night tour promises an unforgettable evening and a deeper connection to history.

7. Buy souvenirs to support the local communities

A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels wouldn’t be complete without buying souvenirs to support the local communities. In Vietnam, many victims of Agent Orange, descendants of those directly affected by the war, continue to face hardships due to disabilities. Despite these challenges, they contribute to the experience in Cu Chi by crafting beautiful souvenirs for visitors. These handmade items include hats, bandanas, statuettes of traditional figures, and even toy models made from ammunition cartridges.

Statuettes of different ethnic groups of Vietnam in traditional costumes. Source: Flickr

Guided tours often include a stop at these souvenir shops, either on the way to the tunnels or at the end of the trip. Purchasing these items not only allows visitors to take home meaningful keepsakes but also directly supports underprivileged individuals. These souvenirs, though relatively affordable in price, have great value and a significant impact on the local communities. It helps these communities earn a living and allows them to overcome their difficulties through craftsmanship.

Useful travel tips at the Cu Chi Tunnels

Learn several tips for visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, from guided tour options to suitable attire and tunnel dimensions. This will ensure a hassle-free, comfortable, and memorable experience at this historical site.

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels on a tour

For international visitors, taking a guided tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels is a preferred option over going on a self-guided trip. Guided tours, particularly those with English-speaking guides, offer an informative and hassle-free experience. Visitors can learn about the history, significance, and hidden details of the tunnels, which would be difficult to appreciate without a guide. Also, guided tours eliminate the stress of navigating transportation to and from the site.

A standard guided tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels typically ranges from 400,000 VND to over 2,000,000 VND per person. The price depends on the inclusions, such as pickup, drop-off locations, group size, and duration. Most tours are half-day, lasting about 6 hours, including travel time.

What to wear to the Cu Chi tunnels

Given that crawling through the tunnels is one of the main activities at the site, it’s essential to dress comfortably and appropriately. Choose lightweight and breathable clothing, as the temperatures inside the tunnels can be hot and humid. Avoid wearing many layers, as this will make you uncomfortable.

While shorts and sandals are acceptable, it’s better to wear long pants and sturdy shoes with ankle support for better protection. Insect repellent is highly recommended, especially during the rainy season. If possible, leave your backpack behind before entering the tunnels, as there is limited space, and movement can be restricted.

Body dimensions for Cu Chi Tunnels

Rest assured that the tunnels are designed to be accessible. While the tunnels may seem small, they aren’t as claustrophobic as they might appear. Remember that the tunnels have been expanded to accommodate visitors of varying body sizes.

Even people around 183 centimeters (6ft) tall can access the tunnels without trouble, though they may need to crouch. The current dimensions of the tunnels range from 1-1.2 meters in height and 0.6-0.8 meters in width. Overweight visitors can enter, though caution is advised for those with mobility restrictions.

What’s next?

After exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, visitors can make the most of their day by visiting nearby attractions. About 45 minutes away, Dai Nam Park offers a blend of cultural, recreational, and spiritual experiences. These include ancient Vietnamese architecture replicas, thrilling rides, a water park, and a zoo, making it perfect for families.

For a spiritual journey, the Tay Ninh Holy See (Toa Thanh Tay Ninh) is located an hour northwest of Cu Chi. This is a religious site of Caodaism that showcases vibrant architecture, where visitors can attend prayer ceremonies and learn about this special religion. Exploring these nearby destinations ensures a more enriching experience, adding depth and diversity to your Cu Chi Tunnels adventure.

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