Tour Overview
Embark on the "South Korea Explorer" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of South Korea's rich culture and stunning landscapes. Begin your adventure in Seoul, where you'll enjoy an orientation walk and a taste of the vibrant city life. Travel to Jeonju to experience traditional Korean architecture in a hanok village and savor a Hanjeongsik dinner. Discover the serene beauty of Damyang Bamboo Forest and the lush Boseong Green Tea fields. In Yeosu, enjoy a cable car ride with breathtaking coastal views. Fly to Jeju Island to explore its volcanic wonders, including Seongsan Sunrise Peak and the dramatic Yongmeori Coast. Conclude your journey back in Seoul, with ample free time to explore the city's dynamic culture and cuisine. This small group tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, with private vehicle, train, and plane transport, and accommodations ranging from hotels to a hanok village stay. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation: Hotel Prince (Seoul)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prince
Welcome to South Korea! Today is your day to explore the city as you wish before you meet your group and CEO in the evening for a Welcome Meeting. After the meeting, head out for a group dinner, followed by an orientation walk around Seoul. Tomorrow we leave Seoul but don't fret, we'll return for some more time to see the city at the end of your trip. ...more ...less
Additional Information: The most convenient way to get around South Korea is by public transportation and on foot. The country's train system is world renowned so the majority of our trips utilize this efficient train network. In this tour, you will need to be able to spend the majority of the day on your feet and carry your luggage through busy train stations and streets. Please ensure you are fit enough to carry your own luggage and spend most of the day on your feet.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO who will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. You'll be taken through Cheonggyecheon Stream which is an 8.4 kilometre (5.2 mile) waterway and public space that runs through the heart of downtown Seoul. Myeongdong is another popular spot you'll hit on your orientation walk. This exciting district features street food carts, major shopping malls, and entertainment.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Seoul/Jeonju-si
Location: Seoul, Jeonju-si
Accommodation: Jeonju Goeul Hanok Accommodation
Accommodation Name: Jeonju Goeul Hanok Accommodation
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today take a glimpse into traditional Korean life. After a free morning in Seoul, we head to the hanok village of Jeonju by train. Enjoy a tour of this picturesque hanok town, followed by a Hanjeongsik Dinner, a traditional Korean multiple course meal.
FREE TIME: Enjoy a free morning Seoul.
TRANSPORT: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
ACTIVITY: Take a tour of this small but amazing village. Visit some of the iconic landmarks, like the Gyeonggijeon Shrine, Jeondong Catholic Church, Korean Liquor museum, Jeonju handicraft exhibition hall. Feel immersed in this historic town.
ACTIVITY: After a day of exploring the historic town of Jeonju, enjoy a Hanjeongsik traditional dinner, a Korean full course meal. Through multiple small banchan plates, you'll taste many aspects of Korean cuisine. This is the prefect, and delicious, way to end the day.
Day 3: Jeonju-si/Yeosu
Location: Damyang, Boseong, Yeosu
Accommodation: The Hotel Soo
Accommodation Name: The Hotel Soo
From big city, to traditional towns, today we move to the greener side of South Korea. We'll venture to Damyang to take a tour of the mighty Juknokwon Bamboo forest, the greatest in South Korea. After some time under the bamboo blades, we travel to even greener pastures in the Boseong Green tea field. In the evening, arrive to Yeosu, where the city meets the sea.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Juknokwon is the most famous bamboo forest in South Korea, sprawling approximately 150,000 squared meters with a variety of walking trails. Join your CEO for a stroll along the healing walking paths or take some time for a rest in the fresh air underneath the towering bamboo.
ACTIVITY: Deep green hills for as far as the eye can see make this beautiful tea field a year-round attraction. At Daehan Dawon, you can see the cultivation process, visit the tea museum and taste various green teas and even ice cream while walking along the field.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 4: Yeosu
Location: Yeosu
Accommodation: The Hotel Soo
Accommodation Name: The Hotel Soo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breathe in the sea air and join your CEO to visit some of the more iconic spots in Yeosu. Ride the cable car for a perfect seaside view of Odongdo Island. Then immerse yourself in larger than life sculptures and interactive art exhibits at Yeosu Art Land. Experience the art and walk out onto the Hand of Midas for an equally impressive view of the sea. In the afternoon, enjoy free time during your last night on the South Korean main land.
ACTIVITY: Catch a ride on the Yeosu cable car from South Korea mainland to Dolsan Island with a perfect view of the coast and sea. Make sure you do look down and take in the view from your glass bottom car.
ACTIVITY: Walk through a garden of sculptures. Wander through the illusion of a 3D art museum. Stand in the giant palm of Midas' hand. You can also opt to catch an adrenaline rush on the Extreme Swing Swing and the Ocean Skywalk. A beautiful, artistic experience unlike anything else in South Korea.
FREE TIME: Spend the afternoon enjoying Yeosu how you'd like.
Day 5: Yeosu/Jeju-si
Location: Jeju-si
Accommodation: Hotel Jeju Skypark
Accommodation Name: Hotel Jeju Skypark
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, board a flight to the volcanic island of Jeju. With waterfalls, lava caves and miles of beaches, the next three days will not disappoint. After lunch on the island, head to Seongsan Sunrise Peak for an easy hike up the volcanic formation to reach an incredible views of the ocean. This afternoon, you'll have the unique opportunity to witness the women divers on Jeju. Watch as they dive for seafood, using their incredible breath-hold abilities. Then, join your group at the Seongeup Folk Village to learn about the history and people of Old Jeju.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
ACTIVITY: Take a short hike to see one of the most beautiful views in all of Jeju Island. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Seongsan Ilchilbong was formed around 5000 years ago by an underwater volcanic eruption that created this unforgettable scenery. This beginner hike has a well maintained trail and is suitable for all fitness levels.
ACTIVITY: Watch the amazing Haenyeo Performance and learn about the lives and traditions of Jeju's female divers. Watch as the haenyeo harvest seafood from the sea in live shows. Witness their incredible breath-holding techniques as they surface with abalone, conch, sea cucumbers and more. Afterwards, have a chance to interact with these amazing women, seeing their catch and maybe even purchasing their fresh seafood.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a guided tour of the traditional Jeju culture through this living museum. Here you can see traditional homes, harubang (stone statutes), lava walls and the way the people of Old Jeju lived.
Day 6: Jeju-si
Location: Jeju-si
Accommodation: Hotel Jeju Skypark
Accommodation Name: Hotel Jeju Skypark
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, immerse yourself in Jeju's natural side. In the morning, see the colorful side of Jeju at Hallim Park, the island's botanical garden. Stroll through the various themed gardens, caves and folk village all within this huge park. Then head Yongmeori Coast to witness the dramatic cliffs and to Mt. Sanbang for a short coastal hike to a temple atop the mountain.
After lunch, we'll take the scenic route to Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls, perfect for a photo op. Last stop of the day is to Soesokkak Estuary where you'll hop aboard a boat for a tour of the sea and the incredible coastline.
ACTIVITY: Where pine forests meet volcanic rock and where fresh water meets the sea. Explore this beautiful place by boat on a short guided tour and enjoy an amazing view of the canyon.
ACTIVITY: Wonder through the themed gardens of Hallim Park, under palm trees, through bonsai gardens, and a subtropical botanical garden. After a short tour within the park, opt to stroll through your favorite gardens or explore the caves, and visit a folk village.
ACTIVITY: Take a short hike to reach Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls. On this scenic walk to the falls, enjoy the lush, subtropical forest along the way. While swimming is generally not permitted, the site is perfect for photography and relaxation in such a beautiful place.
ACTIVITY: Walk along Yongmeori's rugged coastline known for its dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations. Then take a short hike up Mt. Sanbang to a temple situated on the mountain.
Day 7: Jeju-si/Seoul
Location: Jeju-si, Seoul
Accommodation: Hotel Prince (Seoul)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prince
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the late morning, head to the airport to fly back to Seoul. After arrival to Seoul, take a short orientation walk with your CEO and enjoy free time in the city. In the evening, join your group and CEO for an optional group dinner.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO who will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. You'll be taken through Cheonggyecheon Stream which is an 8.4 kilometre (5.2 mile) waterway and public space that runs through the heart of downtown Seoul. Myeongdong is another popular spot you'll hit on your orientation walk. This exciting district features street food carts, major shopping malls, and entertainment.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 8: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation: Hotel Prince (Seoul)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prince
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is your day to explore Seoul however you'd like. Tick off all the bucket list items to see in Seoul, try some incredible food or choose to go on a tour of the city or maybe the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone).
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Today is yours to enjoy Seoul how you'd like.
Day 9: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel (8nts), Hanok Village Stay (1nt) -
Meals
7 breakfasts, 1 dinner -
Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group for a welcome moment.
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Local Living Moment
Experience a Hanok Village Tour in Jeonju-si.
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Foodie Moment
Enjoy a Hanjeongsik Traditional Dinner in Jeonju.
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Orientation Walk in Seoul
Participate in an orientation walk in Seoul.
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Damyang Bamboo Forest
Visit the tranquil Damyang Bamboo Forest.
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Boseong Green Tea Field
Explore the Boseong Green Tea Field.
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Yeosu Cable Car Ride
Enjoy a ride on the Yeosu Cable Car.
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Odongdo Maritime National Park Tour
Discover the scenic beauty of Odongdo Maritime National Park.
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Visit to ARTE Museum
Explore the ARTE Museum.
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Seongsan Sunrise Peak
Hike up Seongsan Sunrise Peak for stunning views.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and tips are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International Flights
International flights to and from South Korea are not included.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of modern comfort and traditional charm with 8 nights in hotels and a unique 1-night stay in a Hanok Village, offering an authentic Korean cultural experience.
Transport
Private vehicle, train, plane, walking
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel through South Korea with ease using a combination of private vehicles, trains, planes, and walking, ensuring a seamless and immersive journey across diverse landscapes.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Local Dress
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or other holy sites. ...more ...less
Important Notes
The most convenient way to get around South Korea is by public transportation and on foot. The country's train system is world renowned so the majority of our trips utilize this efficient train network. In this tour, you will need to be able to spend the majority of the day on your feet and carry your luggage through busy train stations and streets. Please ensure you are fit enough to carry your own luggage and spend most of the day on your feet. ...more ...less
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
What to Take
We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as you are expected to carry your own luggage. Our trips in South Korea use some public transport and most will have limited luggage storage space.
You will also be walking with your luggage in busy public train stations to catch connecting trains, so it is highly recommended that you travel light and have easy to handle luggage and capable of walking up and down the stairs with your luggage without any assistance. A large bag will be an inconvenience to you and will slow you down.
We recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips. Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. You will also need a day-pack
ucksack to carry daily essentials like water, cameras, passport, i-pods etc.
...more ...less
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the South Korea Explorer tour?
The tour uses a combination of private vehicles, trains, planes, and walking to get around.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will stay in hotels for 8 nights and have a unique experience staying in a traditional Hanok Village for 1 night.
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What is a Hanjeongsik Dinner?
A Hanjeongsik Dinner is a traditional Korean multiple course meal featuring a variety of small banchan plates, allowing you to taste many aspects of Korean cuisine.
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What activities are included in the visit to Jeju Island?
On Jeju Island, you will hike up Seongsan Sunrise Peak, witness the women divers of Jeju, visit Seongeup Folk Village, explore Hallim Park, walk along Yongmeori Coast, hike Mt. Sanbang, visit Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls, and take a boat tour at Soesokkak Estuary.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The CEO accompanies the group to take the hassle out of travel, provide information on destinations, offer suggestions for activities, recommend local dining venues, and introduce you to local friends. They are not traditional guides but have broad knowledge of the countries visited. ...more ...less
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Are there any specific packing recommendations for this tour?
It is recommended to pack lightly, with luggage weighing between 10-15kg/22-30lb, as you will need to carry your own luggage through busy train stations. A backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size is suggested, along with a day-pack for daily essentials.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, you must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above can travel if accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
South Korea Explorer
9 Days Starting and ending in Seoul, South Korea
Visiting: Seoul, Jeonju-si, Damyang, Boseong, Yeosu, Jeju-si
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26111
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
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