Private Tour to Long Tan – Former Australian Military Base

If you’re interested in Vietnam’s history and want to understand the Australian (ANZAC) contribution to the Vietnam War, this private tour to Long Tan offers an insightful, respectful journey. Combining comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides—many of whom have personal war experience—and well-chosen sites, it’s an immersive way to connect with a pivotal chapter in Vietnam’s past.

What we love about this tour are its personalized approach, the depth of historical storytelling, and the chance to pay respects at significant memorials. Plus, the inclusion of a private guide and vehicle ensures a flexible, intimate experience. On the flip side, some travelers might find the 7-hour trip slightly long, especially if they prefer shorter, more relaxed outings. It’s best suited for history buffs, veterans, or anyone keen to gain a nuanced understanding of the Vietnam War from the Australian perspective.

This tour offers excellent value for the depth of insight you get, making it ideal for those wanting a meaningful, well-organized experience in Vietnam.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: Guided by knowledgeable, often war veteran guides who share firsthand stories.
• Historical Significance: Visits to Long Tan Cross, Long Phuoc tunnels, Horseshoe FSB, and Nui Dat provide comprehensive insights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance fees included.
• Authentic Connection: Opportunities to meet Vietnamese veterans and pay respects at memorial sites.
• Balanced Duration: Around 7 hours, with enough time to absorb history without feeling rushed.
• Value for Money: At roughly $94.83 per person, including guide, transport, lunch, and entrance fees, it offers a well-rounded experience.

The Journey: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting out: A Comfortable, Scenic Drive

Your day begins at 8:00 AM with hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City. From there, the journey takes you through Vietnam’s lush countryside—rice paddies, small villages, and green fields as far as the eye can see. The roughly 68-mile drive (about 110 km) to Long Tan is both scenic and educational, with your guide sharing context about Vietnam’s landscape and war history along the way.

Key Stop 1: Long Tan Cross Memorial

Arriving at the site of the Long Tan Cross is a poignant moment. This iconic memorial honors those 18 Australian soldiers who lost their lives during the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. The cross itself is positioned on the battlefield and offers a tangible link to that intense engagement.

Reviewers highlight their emotional connection here. One mentions, “Very respectful service at the Long Tan site,” emphasizing the respectful atmosphere. Guides are known to share stories about the soldiers and the battle, making the experience more personal. The site’s serenity makes it a fitting place to reflect and pay respects.

Exploring the Battlefield and Surroundings

Guided walks around the battlefield enhance the visit. You’ll hear about the Australian forces’ strategies and the Viet Cong’s tactics, presented by guides who often have personal military experience. The tour also covers the nearby Long Phuoc tunnels—a network of underground passages used during the war—giving insight into how soldiers operated in this challenging environment.

Humanitarian Efforts and Local Connection

A notable aspect of this tour is how guides often highlight the Australian aid projects in the area, like local schools and community efforts that continue to foster bonds. One reviewer mentions the guide’s effort to find Vietnamese veterans of the battle, a heartfelt gesture that adds depth to the visit.

The Additional Sites: Nui Dat and Horseshoe FSB

The tour continues to Nui Dat, the former Australian base, and Horseshoe FSB, a former fire support base. Guides describe how these locations played strategic roles, giving you an understanding of the war’s tactical landscape. The views from Nui Dat offer a glimpse into the terrain that influenced military decisions.

Meeting Vietnam Veterans

A unique feature of this tour is the attempt to connect visitors with Vietnamese veterans of the battle. Many reviews praise guides like Tuan, a war veteran himself, who shares stories and personal insights. One reviewer notes, “He was in the war and was able to tell us all his stories,” making the experience deeply authentic.

Lunch and End of Day

The tour concludes with a well-deserved lunch—reviewers often mention a delicious Pork Pho—before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City. The entire journey wraps up around 3:00 PM, leaving you with a sense of connection and understanding that few other tours can match.

Deep Dive: Why This Tour is a Great Value

Private & Personalized Approach

Having a private guide and vehicle means no waiting around for other groups, and your guide can tailor the experience to your interests. Many reviewers mention guides like Alex and Tuan, who are praised for their knowledge, respectful demeanor, and storytelling. One reviewer states, “Tuan was a great guide, very knowledgeable and kind,” highlighting how personal interaction enhances the experience.

History & Respect

This tour doesn’t shy away from the emotional weight of the Vietnam War. It emphasizes respect, remembrance, and understanding, making it suitable for those with a genuine interest in history or personal connections to the conflict. Visitors often comment on the respectful atmosphere and the emotional impact of paying respects at Long Tan.

Comfort & Logistics

The use of air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pickup/drop-off simplifies logistics, especially after a long drive. Entrance fees are included, and the flexible itinerary allows for a personalized experience. Reviewers note the comfortable transport and the opportunity to ask questions freely, which makes the day feel intimate rather than rushed.

Value for Money

At around $94.83, including guide, transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, this tour offers an excellent package. Considering the depth of insight, the personal connection, and the historic significance, many find it to be a worthwhile investment.

What Could Be Improved?

Some travelers might find the 7-hour duration a bit long if they prefer shorter outings. Also, those with limited mobility should check access at specific sites, although the tour is generally well-organized and accommodating.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, veterans, or relatives of soldiers who want a meaningful connection to Australia’s role in Vietnam. It also suits travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, respectful remembrance, and authentic site visits. If you’re seeking a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War beyond textbooks and want to meet guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, this is an excellent choice.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Do It

This private tour to Long Tan offers more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a chance to connect with a significant part of war history in a respectful, meaningful way. The guides’ storytelling—often infused with personal or veteran experiences—brings history to life and fosters a genuine understanding. The combination of scenic drives, historic sites, and the opportunity to meet Vietnamese veterans makes it a rare, authentic experience.

For those who want to learn, reflect, and pay respects, this experience strikes the right balance between education and emotion. It’s a thoughtfully curated journey that will leave you with a profound sense of connection and appreciation.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Ho Chi Minh City, making the whole day seamless and stress-free.

How long does the trip last?
The entire tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from pickup to return, with most of the time spent traveling and visiting key sites.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees for the sites visited, such as Long Tan Cross and other battlefield sites, are included in the price.

Can I meet Vietnamese veterans during the tour?
The guide makes efforts to locate Vietnamese veterans of the Battle of Long Tan, providing an authentic opportunity to meet and hear personal stories.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized and flexible experience.

What’s the price per person?
The tour costs about $94.83 per person, which covers transport, guide, entrance fees, and lunch.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s advisable to consider mobility and interest in military history. The tour is respectful and educational.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to book about 39 days in advance to secure your preferred date, especially during peak travel seasons.

In essence, this Long Tan tour is a well-rounded, respectful, and deeply informative journey into one of Vietnam’s most significant military moments. Whether you’re a history buff, a family member of a veteran, or simply curious, it’s a meaningful experience that’s worth considering.