Cu Chi Tunnels
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Port
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$110
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 6½ hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
The Vietnam War, or the American War as it is known in Vietnam, pitched modern American technology against fierce Vietcong resistance fighters waging a guerilla war. On this half-day tour, you'll experience a local perspective on wartime memories and see the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels.
Traveling into the countryside, you'll pass small villages, rice paddies and rubber plantations. Along the way, stop at a local village to observe the process of making fragile rice paper -- a booming home industry in this area. This rice paper is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, such as delicate spring rolls.
Along the way, you'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the Saigon River. Take in the picturesque riverfront views and serene landscape.
Arriving at the Cu Chi Tunnels, you'll discover the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese people during a walk around this underground complex built by the Viet Cong. Work on the tunnels began in 1948 during the war against the French and greatly expanded throughout the 1960s. Averaging 31 inches wide and five feet tall, the maze of tunnels was extensive, covering over 120 miles and included storerooms, sleeping quarters, kitchens, medical facilities and classrooms. At one time, more than 16,000 people lived in the tunnels. These tunnels serve as a unique historical testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the people during this era.
Return to Saigon after exploring the tunnels and surrounding area.
Please note:
The interpretive information at the tunnels is presented from a Vietnamese perspective. While the portrayal of their story may be at odds with American sentiment, it is nonetheless an interesting visit. It is important to note that, after the fall of Saigon, the guerrilla fighters were considered heroes and still are by many older Vietnamese people. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Guests visiting lower levels of the tunnels may get dirty. Participants can choose not to enter the tunnels. Approximately one hour is spent on site. Travel time to the Cu Chi Tunnels is approximately two hours each way. Traffic can be unpredictable; your patience is greatly appreciated if a delay extends the tour duration.