Spend 14-days exploring South Korea’s natural and cultural landscapes with a guide
Discover the natural and cultural landscapes of South Korea on this 14-day in-depth guided hiking and cultural tour spanning five provinces.
Beginning with two days in the capital of Seoul, you’ll find yourself immersed in the city’s magnetic energy as you explore its plazas, palaces, museums, markets and temples.
Setting out on the road from Seoul, you’ll then travel by private vehicle, making your way to the country’s most spectacular national parks, majestic cities, and traditional villages.
Enjoy spectacular hikes in the Songnisan, Jirisan, Taebaeksan, and Seoraksan National Parks, where nature and culture combine seamlessly to create vistas of majestic temples set against towering, rugged peaks.
Be swept back in time, coming to know the rich history and cultural heritage of South Korea with visits to the Gyeongbokgung Palace and a fascinating afternoon spent exploring a well-preserved 15th-century village. The tour will also introduce you to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Seokguram Grotto and the Bulguksa Temple.
Enjoy two spectacular weeks immersed in the captivating culture of South Korea, achieving the perfect balance between outdoor adventures and cultural immersion. Book the 14-Day Seoul to Seoraksan Hiking Tour today!
Highlights of the 14-Day Seoul to Seoraksan Hiking Tour
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14-Day Seoul to Seoraksan Hiking Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival
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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Seoul
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Discover Seoul
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!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Seoul
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Hiking in Songnisan National Park
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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Songnisan
Distance: 6 hours, 9.7km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Explore Jeonju Village, Namwon, and the Hwaeomsa Temple
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!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Gurye
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Hiking in Jirisan National Park
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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Gurye
Distance: 9 hours, 13km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Enjoy a Scenic Drive to Busan
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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Busan
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Explore Busan, Yangsan and Gyeonju
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
Overnight Location: Hotel in Gyeongju
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Explore Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Site
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!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Gyeongju
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 Visit Hahoemaeul Village and Drive to Andong
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!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Andong
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 Hike in Taebaeksan National Park
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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Jeongseon
Distance: 4 hours
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 Explore the Misan Valley and Relax at Naksan Beach
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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Seoraksan
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 Choice of Hikes in Seoraksan National Park
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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Seoraksan
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast
Day 13 Discover the Unification Observatory and the DMZ Museum
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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Seoul
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 14 Departure
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.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
14-Day Seoul to Seoraksan Hiking Tour Dates and Prices
This guided tour in South Korea is run as a custom tour for your group and the price depends on the number of participants. The minimum group size is 3 people.
Prices below are per person sharing a double or a triple room:
- Guided groups of 4: $8,045 USD* per person
* Pricing for this tour depends on the size of your group. Please click the Book Now button below to get the exact pricing for your trip dates.
Book NowAccommodation on the 14-Day Seoul to Seoraksan Hiking Tour
This tour is based in 3-star and 4-star hotels. The hotels offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and either basic or modern amenities.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel.
Hotels on Standard Tour
3-star and 4-star hotels in South Korea
The accommodation on this tour will range from 3-star to 4-star hotels in a variety of locations as you travel across different provinces and regions of South Korea.
What’s Included in the 14-Day Seoul to Seoraksan Hiking Tour?
Meals
13 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 13 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
All transportation during the tour is included on a private vehicle basis, including airport transfers and all necessary luggage transfers between accommodations during the tour.
Also Included
- English-speaking guide
- All entrance fees to excursions mentioned in the itinerary
Not included
- Flights to and from South Korea
- Visas if required
- Travel insurance
- Tourist taxes if applicable
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Fees not mentioned as 'included'
Optional Extras
- Activities and excursions unless otherwise mentioned as included
- Single room supplements
- Any additional nights before or after the tour
Frequently Asked Questions about 14-Day Seoul to Seoraksan Hiking Tour
EXODUS DMC offers a full spectrum of services to travellers in South Korea. They have been offering quality service to travellers from all walks of life for two decades and have established a track record of excellent service.
With 20 years of experience, extensive local knowledge, plenty of resources, a strong network, and lasting connections to a wide variety of local suppliers, EXODUS is committed to bringing travellers top-quality service and extraordinary value.
Exploring Korea with EXODUS DMC is not just rewarding, but also easy, as they’re constantly at your beck and call while you travel. They strive for your total satisfaction and offer unbeatable quality in all that they do.
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