Discovering Vinh Moc Tunnels. An Ultimate Visitor’s Guide
Exploring Vinh Moc Tunnels is like going back in time, where the determination of the Vietnamese people shows through one of the hardest times in history.
This guide from VIET DOVE Travel will take you through the highlights, structure, and expectations of this interesting site.
What Makes Vinh Moc Tunnels Unique?
- Constructed in 1966-1967 by hand using simple tools.
- A secure refuge for almost 900 people during bombings.
- From starting families and giving birth to living daily life underground, everything happened here.
- Stretching 7 hectares, and numbered as 13 entrances, with a few leading to the sea.
The Structure of the Vinh Moc Tunnels
Three Levels Underground
Inside the tunnels, there are three major levels, each shown clearly on the map.
- Level 1 (11m deep, green zone): command, HQ, and defense.
- Level 2 (15m deep is in the red zone): the main living area for families.
- Level 3 (23m deep, orange zone): it is the lowest, and consists of water wells and storerooms
Each level has been deliberately built in different directions so that if bombed would not cause all the levels to collapse.
Though made entirely of earth, the tunnels feel incredibly solid and secure.
It is hard to think that it is only soil that would be that strong.
Smart Engineering
Ventilation wells camouflaged with bamboo ensured fresh air.
Smokeless kitchens allowed safe cooking without revealing smoke.
Soil was removed clandestinely at night to be dumped in the ocean.
Touring Inside the Tunnels
Starting the Journey Gate 3
Most visitors begin at Gate 3, where you’ll see reinforced entrances and small “frog bunkers” used for defense.
I was surprised to feel the cool air entering the tunnels in summertime due to the entrances facing the ocean.
Conversely, in winter, the tunnels do a great job blocking cold winds coming from the north, making it feel warm inside underground.
👉 While exploring Central Vietnam, many travelers combine their trip to the historic Vinh Moc Tunnels with a Hue city Full Day Private Tour from Hoi An & Danang, allowing them to discover both the wartime heritage and the royal legacy of the former imperial capital in just one journey.
Life Underground. Level 2
- It's where living of the local families live.
- A maternity room where 17 babies were born.
- a hospital, meeting halls, a nursery, and even a cultural space.
- A large hall for ceremonies and to watch films together.
Going Deeper Level 3
Home to two freshwater wells, a rare find near the ocean. There are also storage rooms for weapons, food, and supplies.
Some bathing and functional living spaces still exist.
Exit to the Ocean. Gate 4 and Gate 5
At Gate 4, you now suddenly exit and walk into a large viewing area of the beautiful ocean.
Then you can enter back through Gate 5 and walk back in the opposite direction to return to your original entrance as a full circle.
The Vinh Moc Museum
When you walk into the main entrance, a small museum displays maps, photos, and some relics. This is the important part for context before you walk into the tunnels.
Practical tips for visiting
- Opening hours 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Entrance fee: 60,000 VND per person (2025)
- Wear comfortable shoes: the ground is uneven
- Watch your head: some tunnels require crouching
- Bring a flashlight: It's lit, but it is nice to have, especially in the lengthy tunnels
- The best time to visit is during the dry season: from March to August
Conclusion
The Vinh Moc Tunnels are a living monument of endurance and resourcefulness and an experience of what people did to make their lives safe and sustained.
And when taking a visit with VIETDOVE Travel, a visit is not only an experience in history but a deeper aspect of human resilience.
Readmore: Vinh Moc Tunnels: A Living Witness of the Vietnam War
