My Lai Memorial & Historical Discovery
Local Taxes and Service Charges
Sightseeing & Excursions
Transportation
Drinking Water
Entrance Fees
Meals as stated
History & Culture
From Price per person
price based on 2 persons travelling or
per person for join-in tours.
$97
Excursion Highlights
- Explore the poignant history of My Lai, a site that profoundly impacted the U.S.-Vietnam War narrative.
- Engage with local villagers and gain personal insights into the lasting effects of this historical event.
- Enjoy a late lunch at the Central Hotel in Quang Ngai, reflecting on the day’s profound experiences.
My Lai Memorial & Historical Discovery
My Lai, located in the central Vietnamese district of Son My, is a site that stands as a watershed moment in the history of modern American combat, situated approximately 130 km (80 miles) from Danang. This excursion offers a deep dive into a pivotal event that reshaped public perception of the U.S.-Vietnam War. On March 16, 1968, the men of Charlie Company, 11th Brigade, American Division, entered the village of My Lai, where a “search and destroy” mission tragically escalated into the massacre of over 300 unarmed civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. Under the orders of Lt. William Calley, the soldiers entered the village firing, with no reports of opposing fire to justify such violence.
This day trip from Danang or Hoi An provides a unique opportunity to visit the My Lai museum, where you can reflect on the historical significance of this site. You will also have the chance to meet local villagers, who share their personal stories and insights, allowing you to absorb the profound history of this seminal conflict. As the day draws to a close, you will enjoy a late lunch at the Central Hotel in Quang Ngai, offering a moment to contemplate the day's experiences before returning to Danang.
Destination Information
My Lai
My Lai is a rural area in Quang Ngai Province marked by a quiet landscape of rice paddies and small villages, reflecting the agricultural rhythms that shape daily life here. The surroundings are modest and unassuming, with simple homes and fields that speak to a community closely tied to traditional farming practices. This setting contrasts with the weight of history embedded in the area, where visitors encounter sites that bear witness to the Vietnam War’s impact. The My Lai Massacre Memorial and the nearby ruins of Son My Village offer tangible reminders of the events that unfolded here, providing a solemn context to the otherwise tranquil environment. The Vietnam War History Museum further situates these experiences within the broader narrative of the region and country. Together, these elements create a place where the quiet persistence of local life exists alongside memorials that invite reflection. My Lai’s character emerges from this blend of everyday rural activity and the enduring presence of historical memory within the landscape.Travel Notes
- The My Lai Memorial is a sensitive site; visitors are encouraged to approach the history with respect and understanding of its significance.
- Meeting local villagers can provide valuable insights into the impact of the events on the community; be prepared for personal stories and emotional reflections.
- Ensure to allocate sufficient time for the museum visit, as it contains important exhibits that detail the events of March 16, 1968.
- Lunch at the Central Hotel in Quang Ngai is included; however, dietary restrictions should be communicated in advance to ensure suitable meal options are available.
- Travel from Danang or Hoi An to My Lai typically involves navigating through rural areas, which may include winding roads; clients should be prepared for potential motion sickness.
- As this tour involves a significant amount of driving, it is advisable to have entertainment options or reading materials for the journey.
- The recommended age range for this tour is suitable for adults and older children, given the historical context and discussions that may arise.
- Participants should have a moderate fitness level, as there may be some walking involved during the village tour and museum visit.
Indicative Travel Distances
- Danang to My Lai: Approx. 130 km / approx. 3 hours by road.
- My Lai to Quang Ngai: Approx. 30 km / approx. 45 minutes by road.
- Quang Ngai to Danang: Approx. 130 km / approx. 3 hours by road.
All travel distances and travel times are indicative only and may vary depending on traffic, weather, road conditions, routing, sightseeing stops and local operating conditions. Distances and travel times are based on direct routing and do not account for optional visits, detours or sightseeing activities included during the journey.
Included Services
- Transportation as outlined in the itinerary
- Services of a local guide in the selected language (where applicable)
- Sightseeing and excursions as specified in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to sites and attractions mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
- Drinking water during touring where provided
- Applicable local taxes and service charges
Excluded Services
- International and domestic flights unless specifically stated
- Travel insurance
- Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses of any kind
- Gratuities and tips for guides, drivers and other service providers
- Any items not specifically mentioned under "Included in Your Excursion"
