We Rank Cu Chi Tunnels’s 5 Top Tours

The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of Vietnam’s most fascinating sights, offering visitors a glimpse into the underground life of guerrilla fighters during the war. Unlike many tourist attractions, the tunnels give a visceral sense of the resilience and ingenuity of those who fought here. Whether you’re interested in crawling through tunnels, enjoying scenic boat rides, or exploring Saigon’s historic sites afterward, there’s a tour that fits your style. We particularly like tours that combine authentic experiences with comfort — like the full-day tour that includes a Mekong Delta cruise and Vietnamese lunch, which offers a well-rounded day in southern Vietnam.

For a faster, more luxurious experience, the VIP speedboat tour stands out with its scenic ride and premium service, perfect for travelers short on time or looking for a bit of style. Each of these options highlights a different way to experience Cu Chi, from hands-on exploration to scenic cruising, ensuring there’s something for every interest and energy level.

1. Ho Chi Minh: Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour

This full-day adventure takes you from Ho Chi Minh City to explore Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta, two iconic sights that reveal much about Vietnam’s past and present. The tour includes a ride on a traditional sampan boat, a hearty Vietnamese lunch, and opportunities to learn about the region’s culture and history. At Cu Chi, you’ll walk through an enormous network of tunnels, some of which you can crawl through, gaining a tangible feel for guerrilla warfare.

What makes this tour stand out is the mix of historical immersion and scenic beauty. Visitors often enjoy trying their hand at the shooting range, a popular and interactive part of the day. The local lunch is praised for its authentic flavors, giving a taste of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. With a high rating of 4.7/5 from over 8,000 reviews, the trip consistently delivers value and a memorable experience. Guides like Ben and Duc receive glowing praise for their knowledge and engaging manner, even when unruly travelers try to distract them.

Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive day filled with history, culture, and scenery, this tour offers excellent value for the price — around $44 per person for a full 10-11 hour experience.

2. VIP Tour From Ho Chi Minh to Cu Chi Tunnels by Speed Boat

For travelers who prefer a luxurious and quick way to see Cu Chi, the VIP speedboat experience is a top pick. Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, this tour whisks you away on a premium speedboat along the Saigon River, offering scenic views and a smooth ride that cuts travel time considerably. The boat ride lasts about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and take in the city’s skyline on the way to the tunnels.

Once there, you get to crawl through the tunnels and explore hidden trapdoors and secret meeting rooms, making it an engaging and intimate experience. The tour includes a delicious traditional Vietnamese lunch, with an added bonus of a complimentary drink per guest. The limited group size ensures personalized attention and a more exclusive feel. Though reviews are fewer (34), they are highly positive, with a 4.8/5 rating emphasizing the quality of service and scenery.

Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those short on time, seeking a touch of luxury, or wanting to combine scenic river views with the underground history — at $90 per person, it’s a premium but memorable experience.

3. Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon City Private Tour

If you prefer a more personalized experience, this private tour offers a customized day exploring Cu Chi Tunnels along with Saigon’s key sights. The itinerary covers the underground network, allowing you to crawl through tunnels and see the complexity of the wartime infrastructure. You’ll also visit Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace, gaining a fuller understanding of Saigon’s history and architecture.

This private tour, rated 5/5 with just five reviews, is praised for its flexibility and expert guidance. Your guide is knowledgeable about Vietnam’s war history and can tailor the tour to your interests, making it a good fit for travelers who want a more in-depth, private experience. The cost is $108 per person for roughly 8 hours, offering a balanced price for a tailored visit.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, in-depth day that combines history, culture, and underground exploration in a private setting.

4. A Day Tour to Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta

This private single-day tour blends two iconic destinations: Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta. The day includes a visit to a symbol of Vietnamese revolutionary heroism, a boat ride through the delta, and exploration of rural life. The tour emphasizes local hospitality and gives insight into Vietnamese resilience during wartime, with stories and sights that bring history alive.

Reviewers note the friendly guide Jackie and well-organized logistics as highlights. The tour includes tastings of locally made delicacies and visits to typical agricultural villages, providing a comprehensive view of southern Vietnam’s landscape and culture. At $124 for about 8 hours, it’s a more expensive but immersive experience suitable for those wanting an all-in-one day.

Bottom line: This tour delivers a full picture of southern Vietnam’s history and rural life, perfect for travelers wanting a deeper cultural connection.

5. Ho Chi Minh City: Cu Chi Tunnels Morning or Afternoon Tour

For those on a budget or short on time, this half-day tour offers a straightforward way to see Cu Chi Tunnels. Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll explore the tunnels used by guerrilla fighters and even try your hand at the shooting range. The tour is flexible with options for morning or afternoon departures, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

Rated 4.7/5, this tour is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers at just $13 per person, especially if you’re keen to experience the tunnels without extra frills. The shorter duration makes it less comprehensive but still allows you to walk away with a good sense of the wartime underground network. Some reviews mention that the tour is very prompt and informative.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a quick, affordable introduction to Cu Chi, especially if you’re limited on time or budget.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your Cu Chi experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interest level. If you want a full day with Mekong Delta scenery and a variety of activities, the full-day tour is hard to beat. For a luxury experience with scenic boat rides, the VIP speedboat tour suits travelers who prefer comfort and speed.

Those seeking a more personalized or in-depth visit should consider the private Saigon tour, which allows customization. Budget travelers or short-trip visitors will find the morning or afternoon tour offers great value and convenience.

Remember to book early, especially during peak seasons, since popular tours fill quickly. Also, check availability for specific times, as some tours operate only on specific days or require advance reservations.

Final Thoughts

The range of tours in Cu Chi Tunnels means there’s something for all — whether you want an all-day adventure, a luxury speedboat experience, or a quick half-day visit. For history buffs, crawling through tunnels and exploring the war sites is unforgettable. For those short on time or seeking comfort, VIP rides or private tours deliver a smooth experience.

Our top recommendations include the full-day tour for overall value and variety, and the VIP speedboat for a luxurious, scenic ride. Whichever you choose, early booking is advised to secure your spot in these popular experiences. Enjoy your journey into Vietnam’s past and present — beneath the surface of Cu Chi!