Remembering Long Tan- Nui Dat Battle : A Tour of Historic Sites

A compelling journey through Vietnam’s military history — visiting Long Tan, Nui Dat, and the Long Phuoc Tunnels

This 7-hour tour from Ho Chi Minh City takes you on a detailed visit to the sites of the famous Battle of Long Tan and the Nui Dat military base. Priced at $107.10 per person, it offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and personal storytelling, all delivered by knowledgeable guides. You’ll be picked up from your hotel early in the morning, with comfortable air-conditioned transport that makes the long drive manageable and relaxed.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see some of the most significant Australian and New Zealand military sites in Vietnam, such as the 161 Kiwi artillery, the SAS hill, and the Luscombe airfield — sites that carry stories of bravery and camaraderie. The inclusion of the Long Phuoc Tunnels adds a tangible sense of the wartime logistics and underground life that many travelers find both fascinating and sobering.

A possible consideration is the 7-hour duration, which involves some driving and walking around expansive sites — travelers should be prepared for a fair amount of time on the move, and those with mobility concerns may want to plan accordingly. The tour is best suited for history buffs, veterans, or anyone curious about Vietnam’s connection to Australian soldiers, as reflected in the glowing reviews praising guides like Dingo Chien for their detailed knowledge and friendly approach.

If you’re interested in a comprehensive, authentic experience that combines military history with vivid landscapes, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided insights paired with real sites that tell stories beyond textbooks.

Key Points

• In-depth historical experience at sites like Nui Dat and Long Tan, guided by knowledgeable experts.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free.
• Visit key military sites, including the 161 Kiwi artillery and Luscombe airfield, offering a tangible connection to Vietnam’s war past.
• Authentic storytelling from guides like Dingo Chien, praised for their expertise and humor.
• Includes a visit to Long Phuoc Tunnels, providing insight into wartime storage and underground life.
• Value for money with all fees, taxes, and lunch included in the price.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early from Ho Chi Minh City

The tour begins promptly at 7:30 AM with hotel pickup, which is a real advantage — you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or finding meeting points. The ride to Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province takes around two hours, giving you time to relax and get into the mood for what’s ahead. A short stop at the rest stop allows for a quick stretch, bathroom break, and a chance to prepare for the day’s emotional journey.

Visiting Historic Battle Sites at Nui Dat

The core of the tour is the visit to Nui Dat, where you’ll explore key sites like the 161 Kiwi artillery, Kangaroo Pad, SAS hill, Luscombe airfield, and the Luscombe bow. These locations are not just markers on a map — they are the actual spots where soldiers fought, performed reconnaissance, and performed concerts during the battle.

We loved the way the guides follow military maps to give you a sense of the geography, helping you picture what the battlefield looked like during the conflict. One reviewer raved about the guide, Dingo Chien, highlighting his knowledge, friendliness, and the way he went above and beyond to enrich the experience.

The highlight for many is a visit to the 6 RAR flagpole, a symbolic and well-preserved memorial site. Plus, the stop at Horseshoe Hill reveals another important base where the soldiers — or “Diggers” — were stationed. These sites are a stark reminder of the strategic importance of the area, and you’ll get plenty of history, anecdotes, and personal stories to deepen your understanding.

Exploring Long Phuoc Tunnels

Next, the tour moves to the Long Phuoc Tunnels, an underground network used to store ammunition and supplies. This part of the tour is often described as eye-opening, giving visitors a tangible sense of wartime logistics. Walking through the tunnels, you can imagine the day-to-day life of soldiers and the constant danger they faced underground.

The admission to Long Phuoc Tunnels is included, and it adds a hands-on dimension to the day, making history feel more real than just reading about it. Visitors have found this segment to be fascinating and thought-provoking, especially given the tunnels’ preservation.

Returning to Ho Chi Minh City

The journey concludes with a two-hour drive back to Saigon, arriving around late afternoon or early evening. The entire experience is smooth, with comfortable transport, bottled water, flowers (for remembrance), and a delicious included lunch that offers a break from the historical immersion. The tour is private, meaning your group enjoys a more personalized experience without the noise and distractions of larger tours.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer expressed how Dingo made the day both informative and enjoyable, emphasizing his detailed knowledge and humor. Others appreciated the balance of history and personal stories, noting that guides can really make or break a battlefield tour.

The value of the tour seems to lie heavily in the knowledgeable guides and the authentic sites, which are much more meaningful than a simple museum visit. The inclusion of free time to explore, combined with the well-planned itinerary, ensures you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed.

How This Tour Adds Real Value

When evaluating the price, remember that it includes all fees, taxes, transportation, lunch, flowers, and a guide. Compared to the cost of individual site entries, it’s quite competitive, especially considering the depth of experience provided.

The guided narrative brings significance to each location, transforming a visit into a personal story. Plus, the small group or private setting ensures that the experience remains intimate and engaging — you’re encouraged to ask questions and participate actively.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in Australian military history in Vietnam. Veterans, family members, or folks with a curiosity about the war’s logistics and tactics will find this particularly compelling. It also suits travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized day with insightful storytelling and meaningful site visits.

However, because of the walking involved and the length of the day, travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a more casual or shorter experience might want to consider their physical readiness.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for an immersive, well-guided journey into Vietnam’s wartime sites, this tour offers a thoughtful, engaging way to connect with history. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the chance to see iconic battle sites and underground tunnels, makes it a deeply authentic experience. The inclusion of lunch, flowers, and transportation adds to the value, making it a hassle-free way to learn.

This tour is especially suited for history buffs, veterans, or anyone wanting to understand Vietnam’s complex past from an Australian perspective. It’s a respectful, informative, and memorable way to spend a day outside the city, with plenty of opportunities for reflection and learning.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off services at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, making your day hassle-free.

How long is the drive to the sites?
The drive to Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province takes about two hours, with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The return trip is also around two hours.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers all fees and taxes, transportation, lunch, bottled water, flowers, and the services of an English-speaking guide.

Are all the sites included in the tour?
Yes, the tour visits key historic sites like Nui Dat, Horseshoe Hill, Luscombe airfield, and the Long Phuoc Tunnels. Admission is included for the battle sites and tunnels.

Is this a private experience?
Yes, the tour is private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a personalized and focused experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring sites that involve some walking and climbing. Bring sun protection and water for hydration.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This well-rounded tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Vietnam’s military history, enriched by expert guides and authentic sites. If you want an engaging, informative, and respectful journey through some of the most significant battle sites, this experience is definitely worth considering.