Hike Hallasan on Jeju Island, South Korea’s highest mountain

Hike Hallasan on Jeju Island, South Korea’s Highest Mountain

Imagine towering over the island at 1950 meters, with volcanic craters and lush forests stretching in every direction. That’s what awaits on this guided trek up Hallasan — South Korea’s tallest mountain and a designated World Natural Heritage Site. For just $108 per person, you get a roughly 5 to 6-hour adventure starting from the Eorimok trailhead, winding through scenic landscapes, and ending at the Yeongsil course.

What we love about this experience is how it combines expert guidance with a focus on nature and volcanic history. You’ll hear lively stories from your guide, likely Kim Chan, about the mountain’s unique geology and folklore, which makes the climb more meaningful. Plus, the included lunch, snacks, and tea help keep your energy up for this physically moderate challenge.

A key consideration? This isn’t a casual walk in the park. It’s a high-altitude hike of about 13 km, with some sections starting at 1100 meters and climbing to 1700 meters. It requires a moderate fitness level and some basic preparation—think sturdy hiking boots and water (not included). Still, the rewards of panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment make it worth considering if you’re comfortable with the altitude and length.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activity and want an authentic experience with knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for those looking to combine physical activity with cultural and natural stories about Jeju’s volcanic landscape. If you’re after a guided, well-organized way to see the mountain without the hassle of planning every detail, this should be high on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Expert-guided hike with licensed guides offering detailed explanations.
• Stunning views of Hallasan’s volcanic landscape, forests, and craters.
• Includes lunch (kimbap or cup noodles), snacks, and tea, providing good value.
• Moderate difficulty, suitable for travelers with some fitness and comfort at high altitudes.
• Culturally rich experience with stories and insights about the mountain.
• Group size typically small, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

In-Depth Review of the Hallasan Hiking Tour

Location and Introduction

Starting in Jeju Province, this guided tour takes you to the highest point in South Korea. The trek begins at the Eorimok trailhead, where you’ll gather at a rest area with amenities like toilets and seating, making it a convenient starting point. The journey is designed for those who enjoy moderate outdoor activities but want the support of a knowledgeable guide along the way.

Why This Tour Stands Out

One of the most praised aspects of this tour, as highlighted by a recent reviewer, Michael, is the guidance from Kim Chan, who was described as “amazing, very knowledgeable and friendly.” His expertise on the mountain’s volcanic activity and natural features adds a layer of depth to the experience that casual hikers might miss alone.

Plus, the scenery is a major draw. We loved the way the trail transitions from dense forests to more open, rocky landscapes with folding screen rocks and Yeongsil Giam, a beautiful natural formation. The views from the mountain’s higher elevations allow you to appreciate Jeju’s volcanic history firsthand, making it a truly immersive experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts at 1100 meters, gradually climbing to 1700 meters, offering manageable sections for most hikers. The route chosen — starting on the Eorimok Course and descending via the Yeongsil Course — provides variety and highlights different aspects of Hallasan’s ecology.

The Eorimok Course is about 7 km and takes roughly three hours. It’s a popular choice for beginners, thanks to its relatively gentle paths and abundant natural scenery. During winter, the Snowflake Festival at Eorimok Square is a special treat, turning the area into a winter wonderland.

The Yeongsil Course covers 6 km, taking 2-3 hours. It’s celebrated for dense forests, stunning rock formations, and the folding screen rocks. This descent offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the mountain’s volcanic features up close.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included in the tour are lunch (either kimbap or cup noodles), snacks, fruit, and tea—a thoughtful touch that keeps your energy up. However, you’ll need to bring your own water, as it’s not provided. Also, consider packing hiking boots, poles, and possibly crampons if you’re visiting in winter, to ensure safety on icy or snowy sections.

Practical Considerations

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with certain health concerns such as respiratory issues, vertigo, or recent surgeries. The duration of 5-6 hours and the elevation changes make it necessary to have at least a moderate fitness level.

Timing-wise, the hike starts at 11:00 am, allowing you to make the most of daylight hours. Keep in mind that you’ll be hiking at high altitude, so if you’re prone to altitude sickness or uncomfortable with elevation, this might not be the best fit.

Group Dynamics and Safety

With small groups, you get personal attention from guides and the chance to ask questions about the mountain’s geology, flora, and folklore. The guide will also coordinate transportation, including pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, which adds to the overall convenience and comfort, as praised by Michael.

Final Thoughts on Value

Considering the $108 price, the tour offers solid value. It includes expert guidance, transportation assistance, and a hearty meal, making it a hassle-free way to experience Hallasan without the need to plan logistics yourself. The combination of stunning scenery, informative storytelling, and physical activity makes it a worthwhile choice for active travelers wanting an authentic natural adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy moderate hikes, are curious about volcanic landscapes, and appreciate guided storytelling. It’s perfect if you want a structured, safe way to summit South Korea’s highest mountain with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re comfortable at high altitudes and seeking an active day out, this tour will likely excite you.

However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, serious health conditions, or limited fitness. If you prefer a more relaxed experience or have small children, this might be too demanding.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, especially since the Eorimok Course is considered accessible for beginners. However, since it involves 5-6 hours of hiking and some elevation, a basic level of fitness is recommended.

What should I bring on the hike?
Bring water (not included), appropriate hiking boots, possibly poles, and weather-appropriate clothing. In winter, crampons and a towel could be helpful for icy sections.

How long is the hike?
The total distance is about 13 km, with the main routes taking around 3 hours on Eorimok and 2-3 hours on Yeongsil, plus additional time for rest and photos.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers guidance, lunch (kimbap or cup noodles), snacks, fruit, and tea. It does not include water or transportation to the meeting point.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the guide will organize your pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, relieving you of logistics worries.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans change.

Can I do this tour in winter?
Yes, but prepare for cold weather and potential snow. The tour is still available, with appropriate gear (crampons, warm clothing), and the Snowflake Festival at Eorimok can be a beautiful winter highlight.

The Sum Up

Choosing to hike Hallasan with a guided tour offers a reliable, enriching way to experience Jeju’s crown jewel. The expert guidance ensures you’ll learn fascinating details about the mountain’s volcanic past while enjoying some of the most breathtaking views South Korea has to offer. The inclusion of lunch and snacks makes it not just an adventure, but also a well-rounded experience.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to explore South Korea’s natural landscapes without worrying about logistics. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate stories, geological insights, and a small-group atmosphere. For those with moderate fitness levels and a love of hiking, it promises a memorable day on Jeju’s volcanic slopes.

If you’re ready for a challenge and want to see Korea’s highest mountain from the inside out, this guided Hallasan hike will satisfy your craving for adventure and discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: