Just 60 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, the Củ Chi Tunnels offer a powerful and fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history. This vast underground network was used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War as hiding spots, supply routes, hospitals, and living quarters. Today, sections of the tunnels are open to visitors, where you can crawl through narrow passageways, see hidden trapdoors, and learn about the life of soldiers underground. The site also features displays, a shooting range, and recreated wartime living areas.
Ho Chi Minh - Vietnam
Adventures
Day Trips
Ho Chi Minh - Vietnam
Day Trips
Guided Tours
There are two main tunnel sites you can visit: Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc. Ben Dinh is more popular and closer, often included in guided tours. Ben Duoc is larger and less crowded, offering a more authentic experience. Entry fees are around 90,000 VND (about $3.50 USD) for adults, and tours usually include a guide. Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours at the site. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the terrain can be dusty and uneven.
The tunnels are narrow and dark, so they might not be suitable if you’re claustrophobic. Guided tours provide essential context, often including short documentaries and exhibits. It's hot and humid, so bring water and wear lightweight clothing. Be prepared for a war-focused experience—some parts are graphic. Ear protection is recommended near the shooting range. Most tours offer hotel pickup, and combining the visit with other attractions like the Mekong Delta is possible.
Getting to the Củ Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City is easy. The most popular way is by guided tour, which includes round-trip transport and a guide—prices range from 250,000 to 700,000 VND depending on group size and tour length. You can also go by bus (No. 13 from Ben Thanh to Cu Chi Town, then transfer to Bus 79), which takes around 2.5–3 hours. Private car hire or motorbike rental offers more flexibility and takes about 1.5 hours.
The tunnels are open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, year-round. The best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and tour bus crowds. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Dry season (December to April) offers the most comfortable conditions, while rainy season (May to October) can make the paths muddy and slippery, though still accessible. Regardless of the season, mornings are cooler and ideal for exploring.