Widened sections of the wartime Cu Chi tunnel network at the Ben Dinh site, where visitors can crawl 20-100 m underground, see booby-trap displays and try a firing range with period rifles.
The Cu Chi Tunnels Crawl at the Ben Dinh site is an underground tunnel-exploration activity in Cu Chi district, roughly 55 km northwest of central Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The tunnel network was dug during the wars of the twentieth century and grew into a vast system of living quarters, kitchens, hospitals and command rooms. At Ben Dinh, a number of sections have been widened for visitors, and the crawl itself usually covers a stretch of roughly 20 to 100 metres, depending on which exit visitors choose. Sections are low, narrow, dark and warm, and visitors move in a stooped or crawling position. Above ground, the site presents booby-trap displays, bomb-crater areas, replica sleeping quarters and a small firing range where period rifles can be fired for a per-bullet fee. No technical skill is needed, but basic fitness, comfort with enclosed spaces and the ability to squat or crawl are important. People with claustrophobia, back or knee problems, or heavy builds often skip the crawl and walk the above-ground paths instead. There is no formal age limit, though small children may find the tunnels frightening and the firing range is not suited to them. Equipment is minimal: closed shoes, light clothing, water and insect repellent are the main items to bring, and no helmets or harnesses are provided because the route is a short guided passage. The site is run by the Ben Dinh site management, and guided groups from operators in Pham Ngu Lao and District 1 are common; guides typically give a briefing on movement and exits, and lit exit points appear along the route so that visitors can leave early. The site is a managed heritage attraction with on-site staff, and evacuation consists of leaving through the nearest exit hatch. The best window is November to April, when the grounds are drier and the air cooler. Rainy season visits can mean muddy paths and humid tunnels, and midday heat from March to May makes the crawl more tiring. Arriving at opening time, around 07:00, avoids the heaviest tour-bus crowds. Entry is about 110,000-120,000 VND, and the firing range is charged separately.
| Duration | Half day (4-5 hours including transport); the site visit itself takes 2-3 hours |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Season | November to April; the tunnels are cooler and the grounds dry |
| Address | Ben Dinh Tunnels, Nhuan Duc, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
Activity facts
- Where
- Cu Chi, about 55 km northwest of central Ho Chi Minh City
Equipment
- Closed shoes
- Light breathable clothing
- Water and insect repellent
- Small notes in VND for entry and the firing range
Location
Ben Dinh Tunnels, Nhuan Duc, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
11.1426, 106.4605 View on map
Highlights
- Crawl through a widened section of the wartime tunnel network at Ben Dinh
- See booby-trap displays and hidden trapdoor entrances at close range
- Try the on-site firing range with period rifles, paid per bullet
- Learn how underground kitchens, hospitals and command rooms were built
Tips for visiting
- Arrive near the 07:00 opening time to avoid tour-bus crowds and midday heat.
- Wear closed shoes and light clothes that can get dusty; the tunnels are warm and low.
- Carry small VND notes for entry and the firing range, which is charged per bullet.
- Visitors uneasy in confined spaces can skip the crawl and walk the above-ground paths.
- Public bus 79 then bus 13 reaches the site cheaply, though a guided tour saves time.
When to visit
November to April offers drier grounds and cooler tunnels. Arriving around the 07:00 opening time avoids the largest tour groups and the midday heat.
Accessibility
The tunnels involve crawling and stooping and are not suitable for wheelchair users or people with significant mobility limits. The above-ground paths are mostly flat and can be walked without entering the tunnels.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tunnel crawl at Ben Dinh?
Widened sections allow crawls of about 20 to 100 metres, depending on which exit is chosen. Lit exit points allow visitors to leave early.
Is the Cu Chi Tunnels crawl suitable for children?
There is no formal age limit, but the low, dark, warm passages can frighten small children. Families often let children walk the above-ground paths instead.
How far is Cu Chi from central Ho Chi Minh City?
The Ben Dinh site is about 55 km northwest of central Ho Chi Minh City, a trip of roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours by road depending on traffic.
Is the firing range included in the entry ticket?
No. The range is charged per bullet, at roughly 40,000-50,000 VND, with a minimum purchase of about 10 bullets.