Located approximately 70km northwest of central HCM City, the Cu Chi Tunnels served as a key stronghold for the Saigon-Gia Dinh Command Headquarters during the resistance war. The tunnels played a significant role in Vietnam's eventual victory and the country's reunification on April 30, 1975.
Today, this historic site has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in HCM City.
According to representatives from the Cu Chi Tunnels historical site, visitor numbers in April have risen by around 30 percent compared to previous months. The site is expected to welcome even more guests as the 50th Reunification Day anniversary approaches.
Foreign visitors pose for a photo at Cu Chi Tunnels.
Dang Hoang Luan, an international English-speaking tour guide who regularly escorts foreign travellers, regards the tunnels as an essential stop for anyone visiting HCM City.
With years of experience leading historical tours to Cu Chi, Luan shared that most visitors join the tour out of curiosity.
"Why did a small country like Vietnam defeat the modern military might of the United States? That's the question many tourists ask. I bring them here so they can discover their answers," he told Dantri/Dtinews.
Luan emphasised that guiding American and other foreign tourists to the tunnels is not intended to evoke resentment about the past.
"What truly matters is helping visitors understand how the Vietnamese united and fought with extraordinary resilience. This place also reflects the devastating consequences of war, reminding everyone of the value of peace and national independence," he said.
Guided by Luan, many international visitors have been moved by stories of the indomitable spirit of Cu Chi's Steel Land fighters.
Today, tourists can choose between half-day tours, lasting five hours in either the morning or afternoon and priced from VND600,000 per person, or full-day tours ranging from VND1-2 million, depending on group size.
Visitors gain insights into how soldiers once dug tunnels, transported soil in secret, descended into hidden bunkers and camouflaged themselves to survive.
Joe Hattab, a tourist from Spain, expressed amazement and admiration for the bravery of the Cu Chi people.
"Crawling through the tunnel was an intense experience. The Vietnamese people are courageous and resourceful," he said.
The Cu Chi Tunnels were initially constructed between 1946 and 1948 during the resistance against French colonial forces to provide shelter, weapon storage, and supply transport.
The underground system stretches over 250km, built at depths ranging from 3m to 12m, and consists of three levels designed to withstand heavy bombing.
Between 1961 and 1965, the tunnels expanded into a complex network of interconnected branches. The area was fortified with spike traps and landmines, becoming a vital defence system during the American War.
Following the war, the Cu Chi Tunnels were recognised as a national historical monument, offering generations a window into Vietnam's remarkable struggle for independence.
