Excursion Cu chi tunnels tour at Ho Chi Minh

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an incredible network of hundreds of miles of narrow tunnels that were built during resistance to the French colonization and utilized extensively during the Vietnam War. The tunnels provide a window onto life during the war. A guided exploration of the complex network reveals underground storage rooms, makeshift hospitals and sleeping quarters that were used to evade enemy bombings.

Transferring from Ho Chi Minh City by speedboat, pass mangrove and palm trees while observing local life along the banks of the Saigon River. On arrival, meet an old Vietnamese war veteran ready to share his experiences of living in the labyrinthine tunnels, which some veterans called home for as many as 12 years. A short introductory film demonstrates how the tunnels were built and shed light on the perseverance, intelligence and fortitude the Vietnamese people showed in their resistance against strong, well-armed forces.

Then it is time to explore; some of the tunnels have been enlarged to accommodate today's tourist so it is possible to crawl inside for the real experience, but there is also so much to see above ground.

Afterwards, stop for lunch at a local restaurant, and have the rare chance to meet Dr. Nguyen Quang Hung, a famous war veteran, who fought with the NVA (North Vietnamese Army) against the American invaders and South Vietnamese army in Laos and South Vietnam. He fought for 6 years and took parts in major battles like Lam Son 719 in Laos in 1971, Quang Tri in 1972 and the final push to Sai Gon in 1975 to reunify the country. In 1989, Dr. Hung met Moley Safer, the famous CBS 60 Minutes news correspondent and appeared in CBS 60 Minutes episode named "The Enemy". Dr. Hung also was invited to tour 11 states in the US to share his story.

Upon his returning to Vietnam, Dr. Hung and his university have worked tirelessly to bridge the gaps of understanding between veterans and peoples of the two countries through student exchange programs, working with individuals and groups of veterans on many peace projects. Have the chance talk with him and gain a deeper understanding of his work and Vietnam's history.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Saigon River, Cu Chi Tunnels, talk by famous war veteran Dr. Nguyen Quang Hung

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilize a wheelchair. Walking through the tunnels requires additional exertion. Guests participating on this portion of the tour should be fit and not prone to claustrophobia; guests may opt not to enter the tunnels. In the tunnels closest to the surface the actual rooms may be open to the sky above, with the tunnels in between fairly short. Approximately two hours are spent on site Cu Chi site. In Cu Chi guests will see sensitive material, including graphic pictures and displays of the atrocities of war. Sturdy shoes, sun protection, and mosquito repellant are recommended. The duration of the boat ride between the pier and the tunnel are is approximately 1.25 to 1.5 hours in each direction. Bring local currency for any purchases; US dollars and credit cards are accepted in many stores.