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Afternoon Adventure: Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat

Take part in the “Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat" tour at the high point of Ho Chi Minh Tours while history meets adventure on the undulating waters of the Saigon River. This is an afternoon escape, very unique and away from city-beaten tracks, where a scenic river cruise slowly unfolds the lush countryside until you eventually get to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. Ideal for history lovers, adventurers, and seekers of tranquility alike, the tour provides perfect knowledgeable relaxation accompanied by new insights into one of Vietnam’s icons. Get ready to explore “Iron Land" Cu Chi like never before!

Why Choose the Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat Tour? 

Boat Tour for Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat

Boat Tour

The “Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat" rip will offer a really special experience of a relaxed vacation blended with history. Just imagine the cruise on the Saigon River that will take way off from the overcrowded Ho Chi Minh City. Moving down the water, high skyscrapers are replaced with serene green landscapes of countryside that contrast sharply with the vibrant city but equally contrast noble silence with the loud noise of the busy streets. The journey itself, too, has high spots: the greenness of the Thanh Da Peninsula, the historic Binh Loi Bridge, and the fascinating Lái Thiêu Pottery Village.

The greater-than-usual scars can be seen at the Cu Chi Tunnels, which are truly the very heart of this tour because of how much they discuss Vietnam’s history. These tunnels played a major role in the Vietnam War since they were not only secret hideouts but also bases throughout the war process. It begins with a short documentary providing background information to bring out the vibe of life struggling through the war stories. You’ll see firsthand the ingenuity of the people who lived and fought here, making history alive as you walk through these narrow tunnels.

Comfort and convenience are some of the best things about the Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat tour. You will not get bored by the traffic but enjoy the smooth journey at a distance away from the noise. Impress Travel ensures that your journey is easy since it is easily bookable, and the quality of service from A to Z is professional. Comfortable amenities, stunning views, and the expertise of guides onboard are coupled with the experience. More than a visit to a historical site, it’s just an unforgettable journey combining the best of history, nature, and convenience.

Afternoon Adventure: Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat – Detailed Tour Itinerary

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Departure from Saigontourist Office

Your tour starts at noon in front of the Saigontourist Office, situated at 102 Nguyen Hue, District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City. Arrive at the port and be greeted with a short briefing by your tour guide on the day’s activity. After a few minutes of a briefing, you will then board a comfortable car that transports you to Tan Cang Pier, where an awaiting high-speed boat advances to a haven. This short drive through the push of the city streets gives one a final glimpse of city life before the exploration begins in the afternoon.

12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Boarding and Departure

You’ll arrive at Tan Cang Pier, boarding a modern, sleek speedboat designed for sumptuous comfort and speed. As you find a perch to get comfortable, the vessel slips its lines, and the first thing you’ll see upon turning around is the incredible view of the Ho Chi Minh City skyline. The transition from the hustle and bustle of the city onto the serene waters of the Saigon River is seamless, offering a different view of the urban landscape as it disappears from view. This condition leaves a cooling breeze and soothing propulsion that one carries into the remainder of the trip.

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: River Cruise to Cu Chi

Binh Loi Bridge for Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat

Binh Loi Bridge

As the boat plies down the Saigon River, the cityscape will slowly be replaced by scenes typical of the Vietnamese countryside. This part is very scenic; views of the lush greenery of the Thanh Da Peninsula and the historic Binh Loi Bridge will provide the most picturesque backdrop. You will be guided on the major landmarks that are set forth, including the opportunity to witness the Lái Thiêu Pottery Village, where though brisk industrialization has all but extinguished the ancient practice, traditional craft traditions still pulsate. The atmosphere is relaxed and the views are great; photo shots or just enjoying the peace of the river would best fit this moment.

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Arrival at Cu Chi and Exploring the Tunnels

Stop at the Cu Chi Tunnels and get off the boat onto a land full of history. The experience starts with a short documentary portraying the history and importance of the tunnels during the Vietnam War. After viewing the film, you will be able to go on a guided tour of the intricate tunnels: small passageways underground were once the natives’ dwellings, command centers, and hiding places for the Viet Cong. For the more interested, there is an optional visit to a shooting range to test actual weapons used in the war.

4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Lunch or Early Dinner

Lunch With tunnels of Cu Chi carefully explored, you’ll be invited to enjoy one of the great meals. Depending on the day’s scheduling, you will enjoy your meal at a floating restaurant near Cu Chi or a riverside restaurant back at Tan Cang Pier. Both give you a free and easy window to digest today’s experiences with great Vietnamese meals as well as a chance to try local specialties to help you refuel for your journey back to Ho Chi Minh City.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Return to Ho Chi Minh City

By the afternoon, you will stumble back on board and set off back for Ho Chi Minh City. The return journey is just perfectly timed to allow one to take in the beautiful sunset, which showers the Saigon River with warm, golden light. Time for quiet relaxation and the last scenic views over a rich history that you have discovered. The return journey is peaceful; it sits well as the end of an adventure.

6:00 PM: Arrival at Tan Cang Pier and Conclusion of the Tour

This tour eventually ends when making a return to Tan Cang Pier at around 6:00 PM. From here you are transferred back to the original point of meeting at the Saigon Tourist Office in the morning. You will step off the boat with an experience not only of a beautiful river journey but also with your awareness heightened about the history of Vietnam. Whether you want to continue exploring Ho Chi Minh City or head back to your accommodation, this “Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat" tour will no doubt be a standout of your time here in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City for Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat

Ho Chi Minh City

Tips and Useful Information for Visiting Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat

What to Wear and Bring for Visiting Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat

When coming to Cu Chi Tunnels, it’s comfortable first. The passageways are tiny, so you’ll have to crouch a little while going through them; therefore, one needs to be appropriately dressed. Lightweight, breathable clothing that will allow ease of movement is effectively advised. For example, you can consider a nice pair of loose pants matched with a made-up light-colored shirt or T-shirt, suitable for soaking up the atmosphere. Light-colored clothes reflect the sun, due to the tropical environment, and help keep one cool.

Don’t forget about footwear. Close-toed shoes are a must since the passages can have relatively uneven terrain. The best choices are usually something sturdy, like a sneaker or hiking shoe. Do not wear sandals and flip-flops as they do not guarantee proper protection and support.

On packing, do carry a light backpack that should contain some selected things. One of these includes a bottle of mosquito repellent as the mosquitoes can be a menace here, especially when it’s raining in season. Pack drinking water to hydrate yourself as touring these tunnels can tire a person out, leaving them drained, and the need to drink to replenish the energy used to sweat to escape the tropical heat. A camera or smartphone is a must because the scenic sights along the Saigon River and the many important sites along the Cu Chi Tunnels are equal. Lastly, a small towel or handkerchief may be needed for an instance to wipe away sweat during your navigation.

Best Time to Visit

Timing is everything when planning your visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. It is during the dry season, roughly from December to April, that the weather is generally cooler and less humid compared to the other months, thus making wandering around in the tunnels and across the unplugged section comfier.

If at all possible, steer clear of peak times when the site hosts a high volume of visitors, such as at the weekends or during national holidays. Whisking along the River Spey on a weekday will be much more laid-back, so you can take in all that history and ambiance involved with the tunnels of the railways.

Second is the weather. The best time of year is during the dry season, but some abrupt weather changes may occur. A trip by boat along the Saigon River can be best experienced during clear weather, yet in the case of precipitations, light rain jackets or a poncho will do great. In places inside the tunnels, the weather at times grows quite warmer than outside, so it is best if you dress with layers that would keep you perfectly comfortable throughout the day.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi Tunnels

Health and Safety Tips for Visiting Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat Tour

The Cu Chi Tunnels are quite demanding physically in terms of agility because the original purpose behind their design was for small, light, quick movements. The low ceilings and narrow spaces call for a lot of crouching and crawling, with one being very careful not to bump their head or other parts of their body against the walls or the ceiling. If you have any mobility issues or are claustrophobic it is, therefore, better to explore the portions of wider tunnels or have a view from above of the exhibits.

Stay hydrated. It can be easy to get dehydrated in tropical heat when you are active, so you’ll want to drink a lot of water before, during, and after your visit. Yes, the tour does have breaks to rest and refresh, but during this time, rehydrate as well.

Manage the tropical sun just the same way by putting on a hat and using sunblock before you embark on the boat. As much as the tunnels provide a little bit of cover from the sun, the rest of the tour will be under the mercies of the other elements; so, covering your skin from this is very important.

Cultural Etiquette

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is a visit steeped in history and culture. An important site in terms of Vietnamese history, therefore, it commands high respect upon visiting. Behavioral etiquettes that need to be maintained while visiting involve speaking quietly in the tunnels to keep the atmosphere solemn, and show respect to the site as a remembrance place.

Just how easy it is to wield the power of a friendly smile when interacting with locals on your tour. Vietnamese people are gentle and Opening up a collection of essential Vietnamese phrases in one’s arsenal, like “Xin chào" (Hello) or “Cảm ơn" (Thank you), certainly brings more life to international communication. Remember that while passing through one of the local markets or shops, bargaining is part of the purchasing process but in a polite way and, of course, with the help of a friendly smile.

Conclusion

This “Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat" tour, then, becomes quite a remarkable kind of Ho Chi Minh Tour on offer, beckoning its guests with an interesting mix of river cruising and richer historical impressions. From the serene views along the Saigon River to the historic depth of the Cu Chi Tunnels, this assures quite a memorable experience, both tranquil and edifying in its tone. In combination with expert guidance and impeccable organization by Impress Travel, undoubtedly, the experience will be unforgettable. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the country of “Iron" Cu Chi; travel today!  Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling Ho Chi Minh City to and to book Ho Chi Minh City Tours at the best prices.

Call to Action: Book Your Adventure Today!

Ready for an unforgettable trip? “Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat" is your ticket to experience the best Ho Chi Minh Tour. Miss, not the chance to get out into the tranquil Saigon River and explore deep inside Vietnam’s interesting history with an iconic visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This tour is an apt composition for adventure, relaxation, as well as getting learned; history enthusiast, an adventurer, or anyone who fancies unveiling the hidden treasures of Vietnam.

It’s easy to book your tour visit our website or contact us directly to secure your place on this spectacular journey. Impress Travel is fanatical about travel experiences, and our trip operation is set to make all details flawless and highly memorable.

Don’t wait book your “Saigon to Cu Chi Tunnels by Boat” tour today and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!

Contact Information:

  • Website: Impress Travel
  • Email: info@impresstravel.com
  • Phone: (+84) 912 379 189

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Tours Itinerary

Day 01

WELCOME TO VIETNAM & HO CHI MINH ARRIVAL

  • On arrival in Ho Chi Minh city, our guide & driver – Impress Travel Team will be there to meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.
  • Enjoy free leisure time
  • Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh city

 What is included today: Transfer, tour guide, hotel in Ho Chi Minh city

Day 02

HO CHI MINH CITY TOUR AND CU CHI TUNNELS

Your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. We will visit the following places of interest:

  • The Reunification Palace: Here on April 30th, 1975 the Vietnam War officially ended when tank number 843 of the North Vietnamese Army crashed through the gates of what was, at the time the residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam.
  • War Remnants Museum: Formerly known as the Museum of American War Crimes, this is a poignant display of the futility of war. Some of the black and white photography in the ‘Requiem’ exhibit is particularly touching, dedicated to both foreign and Vietnamese journalists and photographers who perished during the conflict. The courtyard outside contains the spoils of war, namely rusting jets, tanks and cannons captured from the American military machine.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office: Built between 1877 and 1883 this is one of the best examples of classical French colonial architecture. Remarkably every stone used in its creation was shipped from France to Vietnam. Her two 40m towers, topped with iron spires dominate the city’s skyline. The Old Post Office is another example of French colonial architecture and is also the country’s largest post office.
  • Jade Emperor Pagoda: Building in 1909 in honor of the supreme Taoist god, this is one of the most spectacularly atmospheric temples in HCMC, stuffed with statues of phantasmal divinities and grotesque heroes. The pungent smoke of incense fills the air, obscuring the exquisite woodcarvings.
  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Watch a short introductory video showing how they were constructed, then spend the next hour exploring the maze of tunnels. Also, on display are various mantraps, the remains of an American tank and numerous bomb craters made by 500 pound bombs dropped by B52 bombers. For those interested there’s even the opportunity to fire off rounds from an AK47 or MK16 at the nearby rifle range

• Free time & overnight at hotel in central Ho Chi Minh City

Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, hotel accommodation

Day 03

HO CHI MINH – MEKONG – MY THO (B,L)

Pick-up time: 8:00-8:30/ End tour 18:00 19:00
Our guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel, and drive 1,5 hours to Mỹ Tho. We will stop along the way for refreshments and toilet.
• Upon arrival, we board a motor-boat and cruise along a vast network of canals and channels to enjoy wonderful views of the Mekong River, including four famous islands “Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle and Phoenix”.
• Stop at one of the floating fish houses, in nets and wire baskets under their house, the villagers cultivate freshwater fish and shrimp – a major export product of the region.
• Cross the River to the other side, you will stop at a traditional workshop to witness a step-by-step process on how to make coconut candy, honey farming… while trying some yourself and listening to traditional music.
• Enjoy what local people offer by hand rowing a sampan along the shady, breezy canal. We will transfer to local transportation called Xe Lôi to travel throughout the villages.
• Lunch will be served at a riverside restaurant with a Vietnamese 5-course set menu. Please request in advance if you have a food allergy, you are a vegetarian, or you observe Halal.
• Take a rest after lunch before boarding the motor-boat back to Mỹ Tho. We drive to Vĩnh Tràng pagoda, an ancient southern architectural gem built in the middle of the 19th century. There are many Buddha statues including some that are over a hundred years old.

We drive another 1,5 hours back to Hồ Chí Minh city and drop you at your hotel or somewhere in District 1 on request. End of services.
***Please note that timing and itinerary are subject to change without notice. However, we will do everything we reasonably can to make sure everything goes according to plan.
Inclusions: breakfast, A/C land transfer, lunch, local English-speaking tour guide, entrance fee, boat trip, hotel

Day 04

HO CHI MINH– FAREWELL ( B )

• Your free leisure time may be spent shopping in Ho Chi Minh City center at Supermarkets etc or at Ben Thanh market.
• You will be transferred to the Ho Chi Minh city airport via your scheduled flight back home or continue seeing other cities in Vietnam.
• We hope you enjoyed your trip and see you again!

Inclusion:  hotel breakfast, English speaking tour guide, private A/C transfer, hotel accommodation – check out before 12:00 mid-day

What’s included in this trip:

  • Accommodation based on Twin/Double sharing room, ( notice: a single room is surcharged following single supplement policy/ all room night including daily hotel breakfast.
  • All the meals as mentioned in the detailed itinerary
  • Entrance Fee to visit attractive places are mentioned as itinerary
  • Private Car/Van/Bus with air-conditioned and good experienced driver.
  • Boat trip in My Tho
  • Experienced English speaking tour guides as specified ( French-speaking guide/ Chinese speaking guide are available on request )
  • Complimentary drink water and Tissue on Van/Bus/Van as mentioned on itinerary
  • International Ticket Fare with insurance surcharge and Fuel surcharge
  • Arport tax.
  • Visa Fees & Travels insurance
  • Porter Charges & Camera Fees.
  • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) do not mentioned as in this itinerary
  • Tipping for Tour guides, Bus driver, Crew
  • Other personal expenses such as beverages, telephone calls, laundry services, Minibar, etc….
  • Other services are not specifically mentioned in the tour Itinerary and the above Inclusion

3 STAR HOTELS & CRUISES IN VIETNAM  SELECTED

 

Destination

Room Type

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

Ho Chi Minh City 3-star Hotels

Signature Deluxe

 HA HIEN SIGNATURE HOTEL 

Refer:http://hahienhotel.vn

 

4 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED

 

Destination

Room Type

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

Ho Chi Minh City 4-star Hotels

Palace Saigon Suite Room

SAIGON PALACE HOTEL

Refer: www.palacesaigon.com/en/

5 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED

 

Destination

Hotel Category

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

Ho Chi Minh city

Superior Room Sofitel Hotel Saigon

SOFITEL HOTEL SAIGON

Refer: https://sofitel.accorhotels.com/

 

The hotels and cruise are subject to change to similar category in case of fully booked

Vietnam Travel Map: 15 Days

Ranana

You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.

We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.

Ebrahim

Tour of Vietnam

Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!

Solly Pochee

The tour was fantastic

I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee

Bernard Lim

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.

Derek.Schooling

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel

This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.

My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress

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