Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta: Day Trip from Ho Chi Minh City

Summary

Cu Chi tunnels then the Mekong—history, boats, fruit & music in one wild day

You’ll crawl through real Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, share stories with your guide, taste local lunch dishes (vegetarian options too), then drift along Mekong Delta canals by boat—sampling honey tea and fresh fruit while live folk music plays nearby. It’s one of those days that lingers long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

I thought I knew what “tight space” meant until we reached the Cu Chi Tunnels outside Ho Chi Minh City. The air inside was thick—like old earth and metal—and honestly, I hesitated before crawling in. Our guide, Huy, grinned and told us stories about his uncle hiding here during the war. He pointed out blackened kitchen stones and even let us handle some of the hand-made traps (carefully). There was this moment when I brushed my hand along the tunnel wall and felt how cool it stayed, even with everyone’s nervous laughter echoing behind me. I still think about that silence underground.

Lunch came after—a big table in a simple place, all bright plastic chairs and steaming bowls. We tried fried spring rolls and something with lemongrass that made my fingers smell citrusy for hours. Huy teased me for not finishing my chili (I tried, really). Then we drove to My Tho in the Mekong Delta—suddenly everything slowed down. The river smelled sweet and muddy at once. On the motorboat, kids waved from stilt houses; later we switched to a little rowing boat through these green canals where bees buzzed so close you could hear their wings over the water.

There was honey tea—almost too sweet—and coconut candy that stuck to my teeth while an old man played folk songs on a dan tranh. I didn’t expect to like that part as much as I did. It was humid but breezy under the trees. I caught myself just watching sunlight flicker on the water instead of taking photos for once. The drive back was quiet; everyone kind of lost in their own thoughts or napping against the window. Funny how a day can feel both packed and peaceful at once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta tour

• Drive to Cu Chi region
• Explore Cu Chi tunnel network
• Watch documentary on tunnels
• Enjoy traditional Vietnamese lunch
• Drive to My Tho in Mekong Delta
• Boat cruise on Mekong River
• Visit Four Animal Islands
• Explore smaller canals and orchards
• Taste honey tea, fruits, and candy
• Enjoy live Southern Vietnamese folk music
• Return to hotel by van

Top questions

How long is the Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta day trip?

The tour lasts one full day, including pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Is lunch included on this tour?

Yes, a traditional Vietnamese lunch is included—with vegetarian options available.

Do you get to go inside the Cu Chi Tunnels?

Yes, you can crawl through sections of the tunnels if you wish—it’s optional but encouraged.

Are entrance fees included?

All entrance fees are included in the tour price, including boats.

What transportation is used during the tour?

You’ll travel by air-conditioned bus or van between sites, plus motorboat and rowing boat on the Mekong Delta.

Is there hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided within central Ho Chi Minh City.

Are there activities for children or families?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions.

Can you try shooting real guns at Cu Chi Tunnels?

Shooting real guns is available at Cu Chi Tunnels for an extra cost if you choose.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Ho Chi Minh City, all entry fees (even boats), an experienced English-speaking guide who shares local stories along the way, fresh bottled water throughout, a traditional Vietnamese lunch with vegetarian choices if needed, plus comfortable transfers by air-conditioned bus between each stop before returning to your hotel in the evening.