14-Day Seoul to Seoraksan Hiking Tour

Welcome to Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea!

Once through customs, you’ll be met by your friendly tour guide, and together you’ll take a private transfer to your first accommodations.

Your first day of the tour has you exploring South Korea’s political, cultural, and economic center, Seoul. Known as the nation’s heartbeat, you’re sure to feel the energy as you explore several of its districts on foot and by private vehicle today.

Highlights of the city include the pedestrian-friendly Gwanghwamum Plaza, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jogyesa Temple, Gwangjang Market, and so much more!

Enjoy a day of walking, driving and eating your way through this vibrant city!

An exciting day of hiking lies ahead, and you’ll no doubt feel the anticipation begin to rise as you take a transfer this morning from your hotel to the Hwabuk Visitors Centre, where the Munjangdae 2nd Course hike begins.

Navigating the scenic springs, cascades, and peaks of Songnisan National Park, you’ll ascend the Munjangdae Peak (1,033m/3,389ft), reaching the summit where you’ll be greeted by majestic views of the park in all directions.

Hiking through scenic woodlands, you’ll make your way to Beopjusa Temple, constructed in 553 by Silla monk Uisin. While exploring the temple complex, don’t miss the Four Buddhist Instrument Ceremony, a profoundly moving traditional musical experience performed here.

Crossing over into the North Jeolla Province this morning, you'll drive to the city of Jeonju, where you'll explore several cultural and historical artifacts, getting a feel for these unique cities' rich heritage.

Explore the well-preserved Jeonju Hankok Village, getting a taste for ancient life in South Korea as you explore the residential complex. Admire the intricate beauty of Jeondong Catholic Church and its impressive Byzantine and Romanesque architectural designs.

Next, you'll drive to the charming city of Namwon, where you'll explore a famous park home to the Gwanghallu pavilion and the sublime 6th-century temple of Hwaeomsa.

A final drive will take you to your accommodations in Gurye, where you'll rest well after a jam-packed day of exploring!

Today you’ll lace up your hiking boots again as you tackle the Banyabong Course. The 13km route will be challenging but fascinating! Known as South Korea’s largest and most mountainous national park, Jirisan is also home to the broadest range of biodiversity, making it a true hiker’s paradise.

Setting out from the Seongsamjae Pass, you’ll hike following signs for the Banyabong Peak (1,732m/5,682ft), which you’ll tour before following the same trail back to the Seongsamjae Pass.

Catch your breath after your exhilarating ascent of Banyabong during a pleasant drive along the rugged coastline towards the port city of Yeosu. Once in Yeosu, if you’ve still got some legs left, set out to explore some of the cities hidden gems at Dolsan Park or Hamel Park, both home to unique sights and folklore.

Today you’ll embark on an exotic coastal drive, exploring several natural landscapes and quaint villages as you make your way to Busan. Charming bays and inlets pave the way, while rugged mountains dominate the horizon.

Along the way, you’ll stop at a German village and a traditional seaport in Tongyeong. While in Tongyeong, you’ll also have the chance to explore the charming port village of Dongpirang.

Back on the road, you’ll head to Geoje, a shipbuilding mecca home to several harbours and the Historic Park of Geoje POW Camp, where you’ll have the chance to explore the eerily fascinating grounds that once held 170,000 prisoners.

Arriving in Busan, you’ll be greeted by the bustle of South Korea’s second-largest city. Flanked by ocean and mountains, Busan is a thriving coastal metropolis, and tomorrow you’ll have a chance to explore it.

This morning you’ll tour Yongdusan Park, where the Busan Tower sits atop a steep slope. Ascend to the tower to enjoy sweeping views of the coastal city, harbour, and surrounding mountains.

Next, you’ll continue to explore Busan on foot as you make your way towards Gwangbokro Street, chock-full of shops selling everything from trinkets to luxury handbags. Soak up the sights and sounds of this colourful city as you visit BIFF Square, Jagalchi Fish Market, and the UN Memorial Cemetery.

Back on the road, you’ll make a stop in Yangsan to check out the 7th-century Tongdosa Temple before continuing to Gyeongju

Today you’ll have a full day to explore Gyeongju at your leisure! Gyeongju is a history buff’s dream with its ancient temples, stone pagodas, royal tombs, and fortress ruins.

Unearth fascinating historical discoveries at the Seokguram grotto, a highly revered UNESCO World Heritage Site home to a serene stone Buddha dating back to the 8th century. As you explore the grotto, you’ll learn about the harmonious relationship between religion, science, and arts central to Buddhism.

A short drive will then take you to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bulguksa Temple, where you’ll witness more architectural wonders.

The day ends with a visit to the Gyeongju National Museum, the Donggung Palace, and Wolji Pond.

While in Gyeongju, you’ll also want to pay a quick visit to the Cheomseongdae, the oldest existing astronomical observatory in the world!

This morning you’ll transfer to the Confucian stronghold of Andong, where you’ll have the chance to visit a well-preserved 15th-century village, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village provides fascinating insights into traditional Korean village life during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

While in Andong, visit the striking Jebiwon stone Buddha and the Andong Folk Museum before calling it a day!

Today you’ll experience more exciting cultural sightseeing and a spectacular hike in Taebaeksan National Park.

The day begins with a short visit to the Confucian Shrine academy Dosan Seowon, where you’ll have a chance to explore the complex on foot before heading to Taebaeksan National Park to hike the Yuilsa Course.

A spectacular 4-hour hike unfolds through charming woodlands sprinkled with beautiful alpine plants and wildflowers. The trail ends at the Taebaek Coal Museum, where you’ll have the chance to learn about South Korea’s once-booming coal mining operation based in the highland town of Taebaek.

Transfer to your accommodations in Jeongseon following the museum visit.

The day begins with a drive through the beautiful Misan Valley, guiding you alongside small villages and working farms as you head to the city landscapes of Yangyang. Once in Yangyang, you’ll be greeted by the idyllic scene of a sun-kissed beach as you post up on Naksan Beach for a leisurely afternoon.

Later you’ll head back out on the road bound for Seoraksan National Park, which you’ll have the opportunity to hike and explore tomorrow.

Today you’ll choose from a selection of exciting hikes in the Seoraksan National Park, each varying in length and difficulty.
Some park highlights include the Seoraksan Peak (1,708m/5,603ft), Geumgang Cave, Gyejoam Hermitage, Biryong Waterfall, and the cable car to the Gwongeumseong.

This morning you’ll drive to the most northern tip of the east coast of South Korea, enjoying gorgeous rural scenery on the way to the Unification Observatory. The observatory, established in 1983, invites you to learn about the divisions and hope for unification between North Korea and South Korea.

You’ll drive along an eery road flanked with tank traps as you spot the infamous border between the two divided countries in the distance. You’ll be close enough to the north to witness its soldiers patrolling the beach and nearby islands, an experience that’s sure to stick with you.

Finally, you’ll visit the DMZ Museum, where you’ll learn further details of the bitter division between North and South Korea and the importance of the demilitarized zone that separates them.

Your hiking and cultural tour in South Korea comes to an end following breakfast today. Pack up and check out of your accommodations, and then a private transfer will take you to the airport to depart.