Outdoor Adventure & Cultural Exploration in South Korea - 14 Days

Highlights

• Climb to the summit of Hallasan, South Korea's highest peak
• Spend the night in a Buddhist temple and meditate with monks
• Cycle and kayak through Busan's beautiful landscapes
• Go whitewater rafting down the Donggang River

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Seoul, Fly to Jeju Island, Free Afternoon

Welcome to South Korea! You'll arrive in Seoul and make the flight connection for the short and scenic trip to Jeju Island. This volcanic island, celebrated for its natural beauty, unique cultural traditions, and temperate climate, is recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. The island is home to Korea's highest peak, Hallasan, and the world's longest underground lava tube. Its vast stretches of protected forested areas and coastline make it a popular destination for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts. 

Check into your hotel and take some time to get settled. Depending on your arrival, walk to Hyeopjae Beach, known for its clear waters and white sands, and take in views of Biyangdo Island in the distance. Have dinner in a local restaurant and enjoy a free evening before guided sightseeing tomorrow.

Day 2: See Seongsan Ilchulbong & Dongmun Traditional Market

Begin your day exploring the ancient lava tube of Manjanggul Cave with its dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and lava shelves. Next, head to Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) for spectacular ocean and sky views. Stop by the picturesque Seopjikoji coastline for more photo ops. Finish the day's adventure with a trip back in time at Seongeup Folk Village and souvenir hunting at Dongmun Traditional Market.  

Day 3: Hike Hallasan, Optional Seogwang Tea Plantation, Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls

Today begins with a scenic hike up the Eoseungsaengak Trail to the Eoseungtaeng Summit on Hallasan, taking in breathtaking views of the lush surroundings. You'll have the option to continue hiking or make a stop at the peaceful Seogwang Tea Plantation, where you'll learn how tea leaves are harvested. Participate in a tea demonstration and savor a freshly brewed cup before a lunch break.

In the afternoon, explore the summit trails of Gwaneumsa or Seongpanak for incredible views of Baengnokdam Crater Lake. Or head to the Spirited Garden with its bonsai, volcanic cones, and water features. Then visit the Jusangjeoli Cliff to see unique rock formations. End your afternoon with a stroll through a tranquil forest to the awe-inspiring Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls. The name translates to "sky connected with land."

Day 4: Fly to Busan, Horseback Ride & Kayak, Haedong Yonggungsa, Haeundae Beach

Catch a one-hour flight to Busan this morning. After dropping off your belongings at your hotel, you'll head off on a guided three-hour horseback riding and kayaking adventure along the island's shoreline. Next, you'll transfer to the serene Haedong Younggusa Temple, nestled along the rugged coastline, overlooking the ocean, before venturing to Haeundae Blueline Park for a ride on the Sky Capsule. Each brightly colored capsule is a retro-style car that seats four, traveling on an elevated railway over the coastline, providing spectacular views of the ocean, hills, and city.

Later in the day, stroll along scenic Haeundae Beach and explore Dongbaek Island, a wooded island with beautiful nature trails. Immerse yourself in local culture and pick up a few souvenirs at the Haeundae Traditional Market. You'll have the evening free to enjoy Busan.

Day 5: Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, Songdo Skywalk & Jagalchi Market

Continue your explorations of Busan today, starting with the vibrant Gamcheon Cultural Village, where you'll admire street art and indulge in delicious pastries. Then go for a stroll on the Songdo Skywalk and relax on Songdo Beach. Board the Songdo Marine Cable Car to Amnam Park, enjoying views of the Yonggung Suspension Bridge during the journey. Finally, sample street food at BIFF Square or savor fresh seafood at the sprawling Jagalchi Fish Market.

Day 6: Explore Hallyeo Marine National Park & Oedo, Cycle Geoje Island

This morning, you'll embark on a scenic ferry journey to Haegeumgang and Hallyeo Marine National Park, famous for its dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations. Continue to Oedo island, where you'll have time to walk through the enchanting Oedo Botania, a vast landscape garden filled with colorful flora. Stroll through the picturesque grounds of this island paradise, then take a break for lunch.

Change the pace of the day, and hop on a bike for a cycling adventure through the national park this afternoon. You'll start on Geoje, pedaling along the island's winding coastline as you take in beautiful ocean views, verdant mountains, and sandy beaches. Explore the southern and western parts of the island with their rolling green hills, dense forests, and quaint fishing boats.

Day 7: Transfer to Gyeongju, Bulguksa & Seokguram Grotto Tour, Golgulsa Templestay

Drive for an hour to Gyeongju this morning, where you'll begin a half-day tour of the area. Begin with the beautiful Bulguksa temple, an eighth-century architectural wonder housing six national treasures, including the Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas. Before taking a lunch break, continue to the Seokguram Grotto on Mount Toham, home to a monumental Buddha statue. 

In the afternoon, your temple stay experience begins when you arrive at the temple of Golgulsa. After an informative orientation to familiarize yourself with temple etiquette, you'll observe the monks as they perform martial arts and participate in their afternoon prayers. Enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal for dinner, then head to bed early for a peaceful night's rest on the serene temple grounds.

Begin your day with the memorable experience of watching the monks' morning prayer. Then you'll join the monks for a peaceful stroll around the temple before sitting down for a vegetarian breakfast. Practice martial arts during a training session, followed by meditation before checking out in the early afternoon. A driver will transport you to Pyeongchang by private car. The trip usually takes three hours. You'll have free time in the evening to relax.

Day 9: Donggang River Rafting & Byeongbangchi Skywalk

Today's itinerary is full of exciting adventures in South Korea's Gangwon province, known for its pristine mountains and rivers. Choose from four Donggang River rafting courses, each with varying rapids and difficulty, depending on your experience level. Then get ready for heart-pumping thrills as you navigate the whitewater! Cap off the day with a visit to Byeongbangchi Skywalk, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Donggang River's U-turn amid the majestic mountains.

Day 10: Transfer to Sokcho via Samyang Ranch, Sokcho Beach & Jungang Market

After breakfast, transfer to Sokcho via Daegwallyeong, taking around two hours. You'll arrive at Samyang Ranch, a massive sheep and cattle farm established in 1972. Witness a unique shepherding demonstration, then head to the Dong Hae Observatory for stunning views of the East Sea.

Discover the picturesque city of Sokcho on the northeast coastline of Gangwon-do in the afternoon. Begin with a stroll on the white sandy Sokcho Beach, snapping photos as you're inspired. Then, immerse yourself in the local culture at Sokcho Jungang Traditional Market. Sample local dishes like dakgangjeong, a sweet and sour fried chicken dish topped with crushed peanuts.

Day 11: Explore Seoraksan National Park & Visit Sinheungsa Temple

Explore the beauty of Seoraksan National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Preservation District, with a private guide today. Start by riding a cable car up to Gwongeumseong Fortress Peak to take in views of the park's diverse landscapes. Next, visit the historic seventh-century Seoraksan Sinheungsa Temple and marvel at the Tongil Daebul (Great Unification Buddha) statue, which symbolizes the Korean people's wish for reunification. Take photos of picturesque valleys, waterfalls, and rare flora and fauna throughout this park that's stunning in every season.

Day 12: Transfer to Seoul via Zipline Adventure on Nami Island 

Make the two-hour journey to Nami Island today. Your activities are dependent on the season, you can stroll or cycle through cherry blossoms in spring, enjoy picnics and bike rides under towering pines in summer, marvel at the vibrant foliage in fall, and revel in a beautiful snow-covered landscape in winter. Thrill-seekers won't want to miss the excitement of ziplining across the river with Nami Island Skyline ZipWire, taking in beautiful 180-degree views of the surrounding mountains and rivers during the excursion.

Drive one hour to Seoul in the evening and check in to your hotel in the city. Have dinner on your own before a guided tour tomorrow.

Day 13:  Guided City Tour of Seoul

A full-day guided tour of Seoul's highlights awaits today. Begin at the 14th-century Gyeongbokgung palace, where you'll learn about the ancient Joseon Dynasty. Witness the guard-changing ceremony, then continue to the National Palace Museum of Korea outside Heungnyemun gate. Walk through the National Folk Museum nearby for an overview of the Korean Empire's culture and history before making your way to enjoy a perfect blend of nature and city life at Namsan Park, Seoul's largest park. Following the stairs to summit Mount Namsan, marvel at the iconic N Seoul Tower and take in the unobstructed views of the city.

The tour takes you next for a stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, located on a hilltop between Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and the Jongmyo royal shrine. This wonderfully preserved traditional village allows you to imagine life in this urban environment more than 600 years ago. Wrap up your day with a final tasty Korean dinner at Gwangjang Market before returning to your hotel.

Day 14: Depart Seoul

The trip comes to an end today. You'll transfer to the airport to catch your flight out. Safe travels!

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