Small-group Cu-Chi Tunnel: 1-Day Ben-Duoc Temple & Liberated Zone

Ho Chi Minh City , Vietnam

Small-group Cu-Chi Tunnel: 1-Day Ben-Duoc Temple & Liberated Zone

Active

(521 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We are the only company in Ho-Chi-Minh city to offer a small-group tour to Ben-Duoc tunnels, a non-touristy route for those who want to get insight of the Vietnam War. Bến Dược tunnels is about 20km farther away than popular-Bến-Đình area and attracts fewer foreign tourists. There is also a massive temple in memory of Vietnamese killed at Củ Chi, it is, at present, the largest war memorial in Việt Nam. If you are looking for an authentic experience to a less touristy site in a small budget, this package is a perfect choice for you.

Available options

Small-group Cu Chi - Ben Duoc Authentic Tunnels (6 - 7 hours)

Small group tours : limited to 12 participants per group.<br/>Pickup included

Personal Tour by Private car

Personalized and Flexible<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Vietnamese Set Menu Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Vietnamese English-speaking guide

01 bottle of 500ml/Person

Boiled Tapioca and tea

Detailed itinerary

Hotel pickup at 8:00am and leave Ho Chi Minh city, we drive about 1,5 hours through pleasant countryside to Cu Chi District.

Amidst the vibrant bustle of Sài Gòn’s streets, we set off towards the historic Củ Chi Tunnels, leaving behind the urban buzz for a journey through Việt Nam’s rich history and culture. We’ll be taking a brief pit stop at a local lacquerware factory to freshen up and use the restroom.

Upon arrival, You’ll first visit the Củ Chi Liberation Area Reconstruction Zone, which covers 50 hectares and recreates events from the country’s struggle during the war, including the periods of intense conflict. This zone offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand how the war affected the daily lives of the people who lived and fought in Củ Chi between 1961 and 1972.

Stop 3

After that, we will spend around 1.5 – 2 hours in the tunnel area. Your visits will include, in no specific order:

Watch a brief propaganda video about the Việt Nam War to gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnamese perspective.

We’ll explore various underground bunkers, including a kitchen, meeting room, and ammunition storage, and also visit weapon and booby trap exhibitions during your visit.

Navigating the authentic VC tunnels, with optional choices of 20m, 60m, or 100m distances.

Visit to a shooting range where you can have the option to try firing AK47s and M16s (Please note that the cost of bullets is not included).

Experience the taste of local tea and tapioca, which sustained VC fighters during the war for years.

This massive temple in memory of Vietnamese killed at Củ Chi, it is, at present, the largest war memorial in Việt Nam.

Your delicious five-course lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Savor the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine while taking in the ambiance and hospitality of the locals.

After immersing ourselves in the rich history of Củ Chi Tunnels, we leave the site behind and journey back to Hồ Chí Minh City.

We’ll drop you back to pick-up point or somewhere in city center as your request.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Tips and Gratuities (recommended)

Drinks (beer, soft drinks…)

Travel insurance

Shooting fee (bullets)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

516 reviews

5★

485

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

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