Private Tour: Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple
Active
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
This private day trip from Ho Chi Minh City takes you to two intriguing locations: Cao Dai Temple and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Accompanied by an informative private guide, you’ll learn about the Cao Dai sect during a ceremony inside the colorful temple. After a restaurant lunch, discover the labyrinthine underground system of the Cu Chi Tunnels, which served as military quarters during the Vietnam War.
Available options
Private Tours
Private Tours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Professional guide
Hot tea and tapioca snacks
Lunch
Transport by air-conditioned private car
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City, hop in your air-conditioned private vehicle for a comfortable 2.5-hour drive through the countryside to Tay Ninh, located near the Cambodian border.
Your private tour begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Cao Dai Temple, home of the distinctive Cao Dai religion, which combines the teachings of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and Christianity, including a belief in the occult. You will have the opportunity to take part in a colorful midday ceremony and take photos as your guide offers insight into the unique rituals.
2
Stop 2
After a Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, you’re taken to the Cu Chi tunnels, an elaborate network used as a strategic military base by the Viet Cong because of its proximity to the southern capital of Saigon. It contained schools, hospitals, hidden kitchens, meeting rooms and living quarters during the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War) that connected several villages. Today, it is preserved by the government as a memorial park.
See a short film about the historical importance of the Cu Chi tunnels before walking with your guide into the forest where the tunnels are located. Discover what life was like down below as you crawl into narrow passageways that each cover a distance of 98 to 328 feet (30 to 100 meters).
Today the remaining channels offer visitors a real feel for what life was like for guerrilla fighters and their families who lived below ground during the war. After your exploration, take a break in the forest with some hot green tea boiled with pandan leaves, accompanied by steamed tapioca.
After your visit, your full-day private tour ends with drop-off at your hotel.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.5
23 reviews
5★
5
4★
9
3★
4
2★
3
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
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3★
0
2★
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1★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Itinerary is subject to change.
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
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
