6D Jeju Olle Trails & Hallasan

HIGHLIGHTS

~ Admire 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.

~ 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 certificate of completion.

~ FREE Olle Passport.

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.

Include:

~ 5 nights accommodation on twin sharing basis;

~ return airport group transfers at designated timings;

~ 5 breakfast, 5 lunches, 5 dinners;

~ necessary hiking/sightseeing entrance fees;

~ FREE Olle Passport;

~ Certificate of Completion (Hallasan);

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

~ service of a Travel Wander Trip facilitator.

Exclude:

~ air travel to Jeju Island, South Korea;

~ meals not specified in the itinerary;

~ visa arrangement, if required;

~ K-ETA application;

~ personal travel insurance;

~ expenditure of personal effects;

~ tipping KRW 48,000 per person (entire trip) for Korean working team and SGD 10 per person for Travel Wander Trip Facilitator;

~ anything not specified in the itinerary and trip inclusion.

Recommended Flights by Scoot
19-Mar  Singapore – Jeju  TR812  0115 – 0825 hours
24-Mar  Jeju – Singapore  TR813  0855 – 1430 hours

ITINERARY

Day 01                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. We are going to visit one and try the Bingsu – Korean shaved ice dessert while enjoying the beautiful view.

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.

Meal: Lunch, Dinner

Stay: Jeju City, Whistle Lark Hotel or similar

Day 02                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, (packed) Lunch, Dinner

Stay: Seongsan, Jeju Cordelia S Hotel / Blue Mountain or similar

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

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 03                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.

Take a walk in Hueree Natural Park, one of the most local and beautiful parks on Jeju Island. Commonly known as “an island within the island,” the park is a fun place and offer photo location surprises when visited during different season of the year.

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: Seogwipo City, Mstay Hotel / Ocean Palace Hotel or similar

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

Elevation Gain: est. 104 – 221 M

Day 04                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, (packed) Lunch, Dinner

Stay: Seogwipo City, Mstay Hotel / Ocean Palace Hotel or similar

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

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 05                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. Our descent will be via another route, the Gwaneumsa Trail (8.7 KM). This trail is known as the most scenic. As you make the constant descent, admire the panoramic view of the national park, the ocean, and landscapes of Jeju Island.

Be awarded a Certificate of Completion when you arrive at the base of Gwaneumsa Trail.

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

Stay: Jeju City, Whistle Lark Hotel or similar

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

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.

Day 06                Depart Jeju Island or extension

Rise early for the group transfer to the airport. You may take a leisure walk along the coast just across the hotel to stretch your (sore) muscles in the morning. 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: Breakfast

REMARKS

~ Non – refundable deposit, SGD 100 is required at the time of booking. Full or balance payment is 60 days prior to departure.

~ Minimum group size: 8 hikers to go. Maximum group size: 16 hikers.

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

~ 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 Jeju Island, 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 to (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.

~ Every effort is made to ensure the trip and included experiences take place during the ideal time or period of the year, however certain sights are subject to weather conditions that are not within the control of Travel Wander. Although you may get to see sunset and sunrise, we cannot guarantee the sightings.

~ Because hiking requires 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.

~ If hiker presents difficulty in completing Olle Trail 1 and/or Olle Trail 6, we reserve the right to disallow the hiker from attempting Hallasan with the top priority on the safety of the hiker and the team in mind. There is no refund on this portion of the trip. Should the hiker wish to partake in other activities or sightseeing on the free day, it will be at the hiker’s own expense.

~ We recommend one hour of strenuous exercise 4 times per week (this can be hiking, running or walking). At least once a week, you should walk with a weighted day pack (3 – 5 KG) for several hours for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. Attempt the forested trails in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve in loops of 1, 2, 3 and more to intensify your training regime as the trip draws near. Walk the trail from MacRitchie Reservoir to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve a few times, incorporating Tree Top Walk to get used to long distance walking.

~ Trip grading is an indication on 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 high cut shoes) and attire suitable for hiking.

~ Option to extend your stay in Jeju Island or other parts in South Korea.

~ Pre and post accommodation on Jeju Island can be organised. The extension room rate is SGD 87 per person per night basing on twin sharing and SGD 155 per person per night basing on single occupancy.

~ For hikers who are travelling alone and has opted for twin sharing basis, Travel Wander will do our utmost to pair you with another hiker of the same gender to share the room. If this is not possible, hiker is required to top up the difference for a single room. Should you choose not to go on this trip, there is no refund to the deposit paid.

~ Travel Wander recommends that all travellers booked on this trip purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Click HERE to purchase.

~ Travel Wander’s booking terms & conditions apply. By making a payment to Travel Wander LLP, you (and on behalf of the rest of your travelling companions) acknowledge that you have read, understood and agree to the booking terms & conditions, privacy policy and acceptance of risk as set out on our website. For more details, click HERE to access.

~ In the event of cancellation, the following will apply unless otherwise stated:

• cancellation received 60 days or more before departure of trip and/or experience: loss of deposit.
• cancellation received 59 – 30 days before departure of trip and/or experience: 50% of the cost of the trip and/or experience.
• cancellation received 29 – 14 days before departure of trip and/or experience: 75% of the cost of the trip and/or experience.
• cancellation less than 14 days before departure of trip and/or experience: 100% cancellation.

~ In the event of amendment, the following will apply unless otherwise stated:

• after trip booking/travel arrangement is confirmed, SGD50 amendment fee per person per change.
• less than 30 days prior to departure, it will be considered as cancellation and cancellation fees will apply.

~ Cancellation/Amendment pertaining to flight booking arranged through Travel Wander:

• any amendment or cancellation to flight booking after ticket issuance, subject strictly to Airlines’ conditions and cancellation fee, in addition to the service fee levied by Travel Wander.

~ Payment modes are electronic bank transfer, PayNow, cheque, cash or cash deposit through automated machine only. Deposit is to be made via bank transfer or PayNow. Balance payment can be made via credit card. Click HERE for more details.