Private Tour to Long Tan – Former Australian Military Base

Exploring the Long Tan Battlefields: An Honest Review of a Private Vietnam War Tour

If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City and have an interest in history—particularly the Vietnam War—this private tour to the Long Tan battlefield offers a deeply personal and insightful experience. Spanning about 7 hours, it takes you from the bustling city out into the Vietnamese countryside, to a site famous for one of the Australian forces’ most notable engagements during the war. The tour’s standout feature is the opportunity to learn from guides who either have first-hand experience or are veterans themselves, offering a perspective you won’t find in textbooks.

One of the things we love about this tour is how well-organized it is—everything is included, from hotel pickup to entrance fees—making it straightforward and stress-free. The flexibility of the itinerary, allowing you to stop for lunch or spend more time at certain sites, makes it especially appealing for travelers seeking a personal touch.

However, a consideration for some might be the drive itself—about 2 hours each way—which requires some patience, especially if you’re eager to spend more time on the grounds. Still, most find the comfort of the private vehicle and the scenic countryside drive well worth it.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, veterans, or anyone wanting to pay respects at a significant war memorial while gaining an authentic understanding of Australian involvement in Vietnam. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided storytelling backed by personal connections to the place.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: This is a private tour, so your group gets dedicated attention and a flexible itinerary.
• In-Depth History: Guides include ex-veterans, offering authentic stories and first-hand insights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Travel in a well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Meaningful Sites: Visit the Long Tan Cross, the Fire Support Base site, and Long Phuoc tunnel—each with historical significance.
• Cost-Effective: At approximately $92.65 per person, considering entrance fees and transport, you’re getting good value for a comprehensive, guided experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Reviewers highlight how guides like Tuan and Alex make history come alive, sharing personal stories and detailed context.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Ho Chi Minh City

Your day begins early, with a pickup around 8:00AM from your hotel. The tour is all about comfort and ease—no rushing, no stress, just a smooth ride out into the Vietnamese countryside. The drive lasts about two hours, giving you time to settle in and absorb the scenery, which includes rice paddies, small villages, and lush greenery. It’s a chance to see the stark contrast between the city’s hustle and the quiet rural areas where much of the war’s history unfolded.

The Journey to Long Tan

Most travelers appreciate how the guide’s commentary enriches the drive, providing background on the battle sites and Vietnam War context. According to reviews, the guides are extremely knowledgeable; one reviewer mentioned how Tuan, a veteran himself, shared his personal stories, making the experience more vivid and emotionally impactful. The private vehicle’s comfort is frequently praised, as it allows for a relaxed journey without the chaos of group buses or public transport.

Visiting the Long Tan Cross

The first major stop is the Long Tan Cross, a poignant memorial dedicated to the Australian soldiers who fought and fell here in 1966. Walking around the memorial, you’ll feel a respectful quietness, reinforced by guides who recount the 1966 battle—108 Australian and New Zealand troops against a much larger Viet Cong force. Several reviews describe the emotional weight of this site, with Tuan and Alex conducting ceremonies and sharing stories that deepen your understanding of the sacrifices made.

Exploring the Battlefield & Other Sites

Next, you’ll explore the battlefield area, guided through the “horseshoe”—the former Fire Support Base—and the Long Phuoc tunnel. The latter was a strategic point during the war, and walking through it offers a tangible connection to the soldiers’ experience. Reviewers note that guides often attempt to locate Vietnamese veterans, which adds layers of authenticity and a chance for more personal stories.

Some reviews mention that the area has been affected by mining, with Nui Dat—another Australian base—being slowly mined out. The remaining sites and the memorials are well preserved, allowing for respectful reflection.

Human Connection & Local Stories

A unique aspect many reviewers highlight is the guides’ effort to connect visitors with local Vietnamese veterans or community history. If possible, guides will help you meet someone who fought in the battle, providing first-hand perspectives that truly bring history to life. Reviewers like Sara and Dean share how these encounters made their visit unforgettable, framing the battle in a human, relatable context.

Lunch & Return

The tour offers flexibility for lunch—whether you choose to stop at a local Vietnamese eatery en route or wait until you return to Ho Chi Minh City. This personalized approach allows travelers to customize their experience, whether seeking a quick snack or a more substantial meal.

The return trip, which lasts another two hours, provides a chance to relax, reflect, and perhaps discuss what you’ve learned. Many reviews emphasize the satisfaction of a well-organized, meaningful day that ends comfortably back at your hotel.

Price & Value Analysis

At approximately $92.65 per person, this tour provides excellent value, considering the inclusion of private transport, English-speaking guides, entrance fees, and hotel pickup/drop-off. The reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, with some having served in the war, adding credibility and depth.

Compared to typical group tours, the private aspect means you get undivided attention—a key aspect when tackling such a meaningful topic. The cost reflects the personalized, high-quality experience that differentiates this tour from cheaper, less tailored alternatives.

Why This Tour Works

The reviews reveal that this tour resonates most with travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they seek understanding, connection, and respectful remembrance. For those interested in Australian involvement in the Vietnam War, it offers a rare chance to see the sites firsthand with guides who can narrate from personal experience.

It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, veterans, or anyone wanting to pay homage to fallen soldiers. The emotional weight, combined with the scenic journey and the personal stories shared, make it a profound experience that many find deeply moving.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Long Tan offers a well-rounded, respectful exploration of one of Australia’s significant Vietnam War battlefields. It combines comfort, authenticity, and rich storytelling, making it a compelling choice for those interested in history or seeking a meaningful connection to a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s past.

While the drive might be long for some, the quality of the guides—many of whom have served or are deeply passionate—turns the journey into an educational and emotional experience. The inclusion of site visits, ceremonies, and potential first-hand veteran encounters makes this tour stand out for its depth and sincerity.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines scenic views, heartfelt stories, and respectful remembrance, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to reflect on history, honor those who fought, and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made during a complex and tumultuous period.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, offering a tailored and intimate atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transfer by air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and hotel pickup and drop-off within Ho Chi Minh City.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How long is the drive to Long Tan?
The drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Long Tan takes about two hours each way, offering scenic countryside views.

Who are the guides?
Guides include experienced locals, with some being war veterans, offering authentic insights and personal stories about the battle.

Is there a chance to meet Vietnamese veterans?
The guide will try to locate local Vietnamese veterans who may have fought in the battle, providing valuable first-person perspectives.

What sites do we visit?
You’ll visit the Long Tan Cross memorial, the Fire Support Base site (horseshoe), the Long Phuoc tunnel, and possibly more, depending on your preferences.

Is there enough time at each site?
Yes, the itinerary is designed for thorough exploration, with about 2 hours at the battle sites, allowing for reflection and photos.

Can I bring food or stop for lunch?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to stop at a local eatery or wait until you return to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those interested in history, remembrance, or Australian-Vietnam War connections.

This tour combines history, personal stories, and scenic drives into one compelling package. Whether you’re a history buff, a veteran, or simply curious, it offers a respectful way to connect with a significant chapter of Vietnam’s past.