Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels & Rice Paper Village with Lunch
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape the crowds and discover the more authentic side of the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels at Ben Duoc, a site rich in history yet far less touristy than the usual routes. This full-day journey takes you deep into Vietnam’s wartime past, where you’ll explore underground bunkers, hidden passageways, and historical exhibits that offer a powerful glimpse into life during the war.
Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local countryside restaurant. On the way back to the city, stop at a traditional rice paper village along Provincial Road 15, where you’ll see how local families handcraft bánh tráng—an essential part of Vietnamese cuisine. Try making your own and gain insight into the daily life of rural artisans.
This tour is perfect for travelers looking to go off the beaten path and experience history and culture in a more personal, immersive way.
Highlights
Less-touristy Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels
Authentic Local Lunch
Traditional Rice Paper Village Visit
Available options
Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels & Rice Paper Village with Lunch
What's included
Bottled water
Entrance fee
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Speaking-English guide
Detailed itinerary
1
7:30-8:00 AM – Pick-up at Your Hotel (Ho Chi Minh City Center)
Begin your day with a comfortable drive to the Cu Chi countryside, heading toward the less-crowded Ben Duoc section of the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. Enjoy the scenic route out of the city as your guide shares fascinating insights into Vietnam’s war history and rural life.
10:00 AM – Explore Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels
Arrive at Ben Duoc, a more authentic and peaceful part of the Cu Chi Tunnel network, where fewer tourists venture.
Learn how Vietnamese soldiers and civilians lived, fought, and survived underground.
Experience a short walk through safe sections of the tunnels (optional).
Visit wartime relics, traps, hidden bunkers, and command centers.
See the impressive memorial temple honoring fallen soldiers.
12:00 PM – Vietnamese Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Savor a delicious meal at a countryside restaurant with traditional Southern Vietnamese dishes. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
2
Stop 2
1:30 PM – Visit Rice Paper Village
On the way back, stop at a family-run rice paper village where locals produce bánh tráng – the essential ingredient for Vietnamese spring rolls.
Learn about the traditional process from rice batter to drying mats.
Try your hand at making rice paper and enjoy a fresh sample.
Support local artisans with the option to purchase handmade snacks.
3:30 – 4:00 PM – Return to Ho Chi Minh City
Relax on the drive back to your hotel. Tour ends with drop-off at your accommodation.
What to bring:
-Comfortable shoes
-Comfortable clothes
-Insect repellent
-Cash
-Camera
What's not included
Tip (non-mandatory)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The meeting point location is near the Rivergate Residence and next to Kim Lien Pagoda.
About Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its rich history, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture, it offers a dynamic travel experience with its lively street food culture, historical landmarks, and energetic nightlife.
Top Attractions
War Remnants Museum
This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War and its impact on the country. It houses a collection of war machinery, photographs, and artifacts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Cu Chi Tunnels
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Historical
Half-day tour
Moderate (tour prices vary)
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, this cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Ben Thanh Market
One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience local culture and shop for bargains.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to Moderate
Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Offers panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck provides a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City's skyline and landmarks.
Observation Deck
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pho
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as meat, herbs, and bean sprouts.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Com Tam
Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fish sauce.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Goi Cuon
Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice vermicelli, served with a peanut or fish sauce dipping sauce.
Appetizer
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Golfing at Long Thanh Golf Resort
Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels
Boat tours in the Mekong Delta
Beach relaxation in Vung Tau
Nature walks in Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting historical sites like the War Remnants Museum
Exploring local markets and temples
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be quite hot.
25-35°C
77-95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Bargain for better prices at markets
Getting there
By air
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Saigon Railway Station
By bus
Mien Dong Bus Station, Mien Tay Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are an affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic. Routes are numerous and well-marked.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
District 1
District 3
District 5 (Chinatown)
District 7
Phu Nhuan District
Day trips
Mekong Delta
130 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands known for its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.
Cu Chi Tunnels
60 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Half day
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Vung Tau
120 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
Festivals
Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) • January or February (varies each year)
Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival • December (varies each year)
Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient and affordable transportation
- Bargain for better prices at markets and street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile
- Try street food and local eateries for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
