Built during both the Indochina War and the Vietnam War, the Cu Chi Tunnels stand as an impressive example of human resourcefulness. These expansive underground systems, with over 250 kilometers of passageways organized into three levels, demonstrate this remarkable ability.
Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels Historical Site
In Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels stand out as a prominent historical site. It’s 70km from the city center. Driving yourself is common.
1. How to go to Cu Chi Tunels
You can reach the Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City by taking a public bus. Look for buses heading towards Cu Chi town; you may need to transfer at a main bus station like Ben Thanh or Cholon. Alternatively, you can travel by motorbike, which offers more flexibility in your journey.
2. Ticket Prices (Reference):
Entrance Fee:
- Adults (Vietnamese): 35,000 VND (1.4 USD)/ person.
- Adults (Foreigners): 70,000 VND (2.7 USD)/person.
- Children (7-16), Students: 50% off adult price.
- Disabled people, children under 7, armed forces, seniors, war veterans, poor households: Free entrance.
- Cu Chi Liberated Zone Re-enactment Area free: 85,000 VND per person per visit.
There are extra fees for crawling through tunnels or playing games. All prices are clearly listed by the Cu Chi Tunnels Management Board. You won’t be overcharged.
3. Discover Cu Chi Tunnels
The construction of the Cu Chi Tunnels spanned more than two decades.. Many generations worked hard. Each digging team had 3-4 people. Some dug, others removed the soil. This system started in the late 1940s. The National Liberation Front used it effectively in the 1968 Tet Offensive.
The tunnels were dug in clay mixed with laterite. This construction provided them with strength and reduced the chance of collapse. Furthermore, the complete network of the Cu Chi
Tunnels extends for approximately 250 kilometers. It has 3 different levels:
- Top Level: 3m underground. It could withstand artillery fire and the weight of tanks/armored vehicles.
- Middle Level: About 5-6m underground. It could withstand small bombs.
- Deepest Level: 10-12m underground. Very safe. It could withstand the strongest US bombs.
4. Fun Experiences at the Cu Chi Tunnels
4.1 Tunnel Exploration
Going through the tunnels is a must-do. admire their will and strength. However, if you fear small spaces, this might not be comfortable.
Near the tunnel entrances, you can try food that soldiers and locals ate daily. This includes cassava, sweet potato, and yam with sesame salt.
4.2 Exploring the War Re-enactment Area
The war re-enactment area is in a small underground bunker. Inside is a big screen and simple chairs. You can watch valuable war footage. This highlights the daily lives and struggles of our military personnel and the general populace. Some scenes are real footage, others are re-enactments.
These include guns used by our soldiers during the resistance against the French, tanks, and fighter planes. These items are well-preserved. You can look but don’t touch to avoid damage.
4.3 Enjoying the “War Zone Moonlight” Show on the Cu Chi Tunnels Night Tour
The Cu Chi night tour offers a new experience. Explore the tunnels at night. Moonlight is the focus. This experience provides a glimpse into the nighttime lives of Cu Chi inhabitants in the liberated area during the 1961-1964 period. Re-enacted activities include digging tunnels, weaving by moonlight, young volunteers going to fight, milling rice, men and women singing on the fields, market gatherings, and performances for soldiers, guerrillas, and locals. All this happens with the sounds of bombs, artillery fire, and enemy planes.
4.4 Trying Fun Shooting Games
Young people really like the shooting area. It’s thrilling and a great way to bond with friends. The Cu Chi Tunnels provide a choice of two shooting activities: national defense sports shooting or paintball.
If you choose national defense sports shooting, you’ll use rifles. Staff will show you how to assemble and practice. You can play individually. Staff supervise closely for safety. You don’t rent the gun but need to buy bullets (40,000 – 60,000 VND per round).
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5.Important Notes When Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels
- The Cu Chi Tunnels area is vast, and you will need to walk and crawl through tunnels to explore it. Therefore, please choose comfortable clothing, wear sports shoes, and opt for loose-fitting attire.
- Drinks and food are readily available for purchase on-site.
- Visitors interested in purchasing souvenirs will find shops inside the relic area, run by the Cu Chi Tunnels Management Board. The prices of items here are listed, allowing you to browse and purchase items that fit your budget comfortably. Buying from outside vendors may result in overcharging.