Jeju Olle Trails & Hallasan, 6 days

The perfect guided itinerary for hikers who wish to experience the hiking trails of Jeju Island. This actively-pack itinerary will take you walking along beautiful coastal routes, hiking lesser-visited forested parks, sampling 2 Olle Network trails and ascending the summit of the highest mountain in Korea – Mount Halla.

Jeju island, the largest island in South Korea, was formed approximately 2 million years ago by the eruption of an underwater volcano. It is known for its volcanic landscape of craters and picturesque coastal sceneries and houses the tallest mountain in South Korea, Mount Hallasan, standing at 1,950 M asl.

This hiking trip involves walking and hiking up to 6 to 10 hours a day, or less depending on your pace. The walks and hikes should not be underestimated as it can be challenging if you have not been hiking regularly despite having the required hiking experience. A good level of fitness and good health is required. You need to carry a daypack of around 3 – 5 KG and should be prepared for potential variable weather conditions.

Trip Duration: 6 days

Interested in this trip? Itinerary can be customised according to your needs. < MAKE AN ENQUIRY > and our Active Travel Specialists will get in touch with you.

Activity	Hiking
Country	Korea
Hiking Grade	Grade 2+ – Beginner Plus, Grade 3 – Intermediate
Season	03 – March, 04 – April, 05 – May, 06 – June, 07 – July, 08 – August, 09 – September, 10 – October, 11 – November

Itinerary

Highlights
~ Opportunity to admire the spectacular sunset view atop Geumak Oreum;

~ Walk the first Olle Trail network – Olle Trail 1;

~ Opportunity to watch magnificent sunrise atop Seongsan Sunrise Peak;

~ Visit Seongneup Folk Village, preserved the village life of Old Jeju with living residents up to today;

~ Visit UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, Manjanggul Lava Tube;

~ Attempt Olle Trail 6 – considered the trail that showcase sampling bits of the Olle Trail network;

~ Scale the highest mountain of Korea – Mount Halla, with a certificate of completion;

~ FREE Olle Passport.

Day 1 Arrive Jeju Island

Welcome to Jeju Island! Upon arrival, meet and greet with our Guide and transfer for lunch.

See Yongduam Rock, an estimated 10-metre tall stone situated on the northern coast in downtown Jeju. It has been weathered over time by strong winds and waves into a shape resembling a dragon’s head. From Yongduam Rock, you may be lucky to see the haenyeo (female divers) at work catching seafood.

The Dodu-dong Rainbow Coastal Road is where the sea and sky stretch out seemingly forever. Considered one of the hottest spots on Jeju Island for some picture moments, there are many cafes, and restaurants nearby.

Spectacular scenery awaits you from the summit of Geumak Oreum. Also known as Wangmae, this volcanic cone’s height, shape and crater lake makes an unusual natural landscape. See breathtaking sunset view of the surrounding plains and ocean of Jeju island’s western and southern coast. Bask in Jeju’s romantic atmosphere here.

Visit Dongmun traditional market for the local night street food experience. From there, make your own way back to the hotel for the night.

Meal: Lunch

Stay: hotel, Jeju City

Day 2 Olle Trail 1 Hike

Jeju’s first Olle trail connects Oreums to the ocean. The walk begin shortly over 2 oreums* (Malmi Oreum and AI Oreum) and overlooks an evergreen field with a panoramic view of Seongsan Ilchulbong (peak) and U-do Island from afar. The green fields with Jeju’s signature black stone wall resembles a patchwork of colourful cloth.

Then pass Jongdal-ri old salt flat and Siheung-ri coastal road and you will arrive at Sumapo Beach with an impressive view of Seongsan Ilchulbong (peak) close up. Finally, the colour of the ocean and algae covered rocks at Gwangchigi Beach is simply stunning. The last attraction on the walks – Sumapo Port is where horses grown in Jeju were sent to the mainland back in Joseon Dynasty.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay: hotel, Seongsan

Hiking Distance: 15.1 KM approx. Hiking Duration: 6 – 7 hours approx.

Accumulated Elevation Gain: est. 233 M

Note: walk on a mixture of undulating terrains consisting of (not limited to) paved footpaths/roads, nature trails, rock paths, etc. There are 2 oreum climbs averaging an elevation gain of 80 – 100 M ascent each.

*oreum = extinct volcano

Day 3 Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Saryeoni Forest Park & Sightseeing

Seongsan Ilchulbong has long been considered one of the top scenic destinations in Korea, designated a Natural Monument in Korea as well as an UNESCO World Natural Heritage List. It attracts millions of visitors a year, many of whom climb to the top for the breathtaking panoramic view of the ocean, Udo Island, Hallasan Mountain, and the volcanic landscape of the east and of course, its famous sunrise view.

Complimentary optional climb up to Seongsan Ilchulbong at 4.30 AM this morning to see spectacular sunrise at the top of Ilchulbong. The walk to the peak takes around 30 minutes. Thereafter, return back to the hotel for breakfast.

Visit Seongneup Folk Village, which preserves the living site of the people of old Jeju, has been designated as an Important Folklore Cultural Heritage. Up to today, there are still villagers living in the folk village and the village residents act as volunteer guides to show visitors the village. The Saw-leaf Zelkova and Japanese hackberry in the centre of the village are worth taking time to see.

Manjanggul Lava Tube, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, is one of the largest lava tubes in the world. Formed thousands of years ago, and it is very well preserved with various cave formations, including the highest lava column in the world.

A 10 KM stroll through Saryeoni Forest walking trail this afternoon passes by Mulchat Oreum Volcanic Cone and Saryeoni Oreum Volcanic Cone. Its ending point is thick with neat rows of Japanese cedar trees. A variety of species of trees grow in the forest and is a favourite among local hikers due to its untampered landscape.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay: hotel, Seogwipo City

Hiking Distance: 10 – 11.5 KM approx. Hiking Duration: 3 – 4 hours approx.

Accumulated Elevation Gain: est. 104 – 221 M

Day 4 Olle Trail 6 Hike

Embark on Olle Trail 6 today. The route goes along the coast and through forested paths before we see urban sights again as we approach Seogwipo City. Pass through the seaside walk while enjoying the exquisite scenery of Soesokkak. Immerse into the panoramic view of the deep blue ocean at the two lighthouse landmarks. At Bomok-pogu (port), you may enjoy a view of Seop-seom (island) just off the coastline. Walk the garden trail at Seogwipo KAL Hotel and the Honeymoon House Observatory forested trail.

Another complimentary optional visit to Jeongbang Waterfall before we reach Lee Jung Seop Street – named after Korean genius painter Lee Jung Seop who sought refuge on Jeju Island during the Korean War. Then we continue to the largest traditional market in Seogwipo City, the Maeil Olle Market. You can find many local produces of Jeju Island in this market.

Finally, we will arrive at the Jeju Olle Foundation Headquarter which is also the ending point of our walk today. Do visit the tourist centre to grab some souvenirs to commemorate your olle walks. For those who do not wish to shop, we recommend to visit the Jeju Olle Pub and try ‘JESPI,’ Jeju’s craft beer (own expense) made with volcanic water and clean barley.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay: hotel, Seogwipo City

Hiking Distance: 11.6 KM approx. Hiking Duration: 5 – 7 hours approx.

Accumulated Elevation Gain: est. 265 – 315 M

Note: walk on a mixture of undulating terrains consisting of (not limited to) paved footpaths/roads, nature trails, rock paths, etc. There are a oreum climb averaging an elevation gain of 69 M ascent. For those who do not wish to climb, there is option to skip it.

Day 5 Mount Halla (Hallasan), the tallest mountain in Republic of Korea

An early start of the day at 7.00 AM to hike the tallest mountain in Korea! Standing at 1,950 metres tall, Hallasan stands proudly in the middle of Jeju Island. The Hallasan national park is also famous for its ecosystem of plants that results from the varying temperatures along the mountainside. Over 1,800 kinds of plants and 4,000 species of animals have been identified. To explore the mountain’s treasures, simply follow one of the well-developed hiking trails.

Our route to the summit will be on Seongpanak trail (9.7 KM). It is considered the best route to go up even though it is the longest trail. It starts gradually and ascent continuously until the steepest part which is very close to the summit. After a short rest at the summit, start your descend down the same trail.

Be awarded a Certificate of Completion when you arrive at the base of Seongpanak trail.

Meal: (packed) Breakfast, (packed) Lunch, Dinner

Stay: hotel, Jeju City

Hiking Distance: 18.4 KM approx. Hiking Duration: 8 – 10 hours approx.

Accumulated Elevation Gain: est. 1,200 M

Note: walk on a mixture of terrains consisting of (not limited to) rock paths, rock steps, boardwalk style of stairs, etc in continuous ascent when going up the summit and continuous descent when going down the mountain. There are certain parts with steep descent but do not require technical hiking skills.

PS: Those who are not able to reach the summit within the cut-off time, or who do not wish to summit, make take their time to hike up Seongpanak trail. When the group starts their descend, everyone has to descend together.

Day 6 Depart Jeju Island or extension

Rise early for the group transfer to the airport. The tour concludes when the transfer arrives at Jeju International Airport.

If you are extending on your own, hotel check-out time is 12.00 PM.

Meal: nil

Inclusions

~ 5 nights accommodation;

~ return airport group transfers at designated timings;

~ 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners;

~ necessary hiking/sightseeing entrance fees;

~ FREE Olle Passport;

~ Certificate of Completion (Hallasan);

~ service of an English Speaking Hiking Guide and Korean Speaking Driver.

Exclusions

~ air travel to Jeju Island, South Korea;

~ meals not specified in the itinerary;

~ visa arrangement, if required;

~ K-ETA application, if required;

~ comprehensive personal travel insurance;

~ expenditure of personal effects;

~ tipping for Korean working team;

~ anything not specified in the itinerary and trip inclusion.

Important Notes

~ Non – refundable deposit, 30% of the total tour value is required at the time of booking.

~ Full or balance payment is 60 days prior to departure.

~ Should you require a visa to enter Republic of Korea, it is your responsibility to obtain such document before departure. Check your entry requirement and apply your visa HERE if you require.

~ All visitors are now required to sign up for Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation before your departure. An application fee will be levied at the time of application. Apply HERE.

~ Please only book your air ticket to South Korea when you have been informed to do so.

~ Our utmost priority is always the safety of the hikers. Therefore inclusion of the itinerary may be altered due (not limited) to bad weather, local conditions, accommodation book out, the skill levels of the hikers and/or other unexpected circumstances beyond our control. We reserve the right to make changes necessary and there will be no refund should you decide to discontinue with the trip.

~ Provision of meals during the trip showcases local authenticity, cuisine and food culture of the places we are visiting. All food allergies and dietary restrictions must be disclosed to Travel Wander at the time of booking. We will use reasonable efforts to accommodate special requirements or requests but this is not always possible given the nature of the destinations visited and availability of options. We cannot guarantee that dietary needs or restrictions can be accommodated. Travel Wander is not liable for failure to accommodate or fulfil such requests. Meal supplementary charges may be imposed to meet your dietary needs.

~ Because hiking requires a certain level of cardio and stamina exertion, it is not suitable for participants with chronic and/or acute disease. Please consider your physical condition before booking. Hikers must ensure they are medically and physically able to hike/walk.

~ Trip grading is an indication of the difficulty of the activities included. Preparation and engaging in regular exercise to maintain good physical condition and active lifestyle prior to the trip will be most beneficial in ensuring you have full enjoyment of the trip. We are glad to discuss your concerns and answer your queries.

~ All hikers are strongly encouraged to be appropriately dressed in the right footwear (covered hiking shoes) and attire suitable for hiking.

~ There is no refund for uncompleted hiking distances or missed inclusions.

~ Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. See HERE for details.

~ By making a payment to Travel Wander LLP, you (and on behalf of the rest of travelling companions) acknowledge that you have read, understood and agree to Travel Wander’s Booking Conditions and Other Important Information: Cancellation and Amendment, Modes of Payment, Privacy Policy, Indemnity Policy, and Terms & Conditions.

Jeju Olle Trails & Hallasan, 6 days