North Korea holds some of the most stunning and untouched hiking trails that are rare to experience in North-East Asia without encountering lines & queues from tourists.
There are 4 incredibly
scenic and unique mountain ranges to explore in North Korea. Mt Kumgang, Mt
Myohyang, Mt Chilbo and Mt Paektu. We have created this sample itinerary to
give you an idea on what’s possible but feel free to contact us for a more
detailed itinerary regarding any of the above mountain ranges to explore.
It’s even
possible for us to arrange multiple day hikes for you with camping overnights
on request.
Within this sample itinerary
we’ve included visits to the large bronze statues of the leaders, visit Korean
War Museum & USS Pueblo , ride the deepest metro system in the world, explore
Kim Il Sung Square, shop at a local department store, visit the very top of the
Juche tower and much more.
This classic sample itinerary
also includes a day trip down to the DMZ to visit the iconic area where both
North & South Korea meet for talks. You’ll also have the chance to explore
the ancient city of Kaesong and a quick visit to Sariwon city.
This sample itinerary starts from €1740 per person for 2-5 people (twin room share) or €2048 for a solo traveller. DPRK visas are €60 extra per person. These costs include Mt. Kumgang entrance fee. Flights can be arranged for an additional cost, please confirm with us for flight schedules.
Meet with a YPT staff member to receive your visa, tickets and a briefing before the tour.
Depart Beijing Central station at 5:25pm for the 24 hour sleeper ride to Pyongyang.
Day 2
Arrive at Dandong at 7:00am for Chinese border control then depart for Sinuiju at 10:30am for the extensive border control from the DPRK side.
Train group arrive at 6:45pm to an equally warm welcome.
Dinner at a local Korean restaurant on Ryomyong Street.
Check in and overnight at the Sosan Hotel
Day 3
Morning
Check out of hotel and drive to Mt Kumgang (6 hours)
On the way we’ll stop at Sinphyong Lagoon for refreshments and photos.
Afternoon
Lunch at the seafood restaurant in Wonsan city
Stop at Lake Sijung for a break and an optional swim
Carry on into Kumgang and check into the Kumgangsan Hotel
Have dinner at the Sujonbong restaurant and explore the Kuryong Village area
Overnight at the Kumgangsan Hotel
Day 4
Morning
Hike to Kuryong Falls then on to Unsa Falls and onto Kuryong Rock/Sangpaldam
Continue on to Sejon Peak with a picnic lunch along the way, this will usually be a full days hike and can be strenuous in parts, so good fitness and footwear are strongly recommended.
Afternoon
If you prefer to only hike Sangpaldam we can arrange your lunch at Mokran Restaurant located within the valley and have an optional hike to Manmulsang
Dinner at Pyolkumgang Restaurant and overnight at the Kumgangsan hotel.
Day 5
Morning
Head to Sea Kumgang visiting the famous Samil Lagoon along the way
Carry on to Sea Kumgang to see the beautiful views where the mountains reach the sea.
Drive to Wonsan (1.5 hours)
Afternoon
Lunch at the Tongmyong Hotel
Continue on to Pyongyang for Korean BBQ Dinner
Drinks and overnight at the Sosan Hotel
Day 6
Morning
Walk through Mansudae fountain park and see the mosaic pictures of President Kim Il Sung and the leader Kim Jong Il.
Visit Mansudae Grand Monument – the two large bronze statues of President Kim Il Sung and Leader Kim Jong Il overlooking the city. (Optional extra- you can present flowers if you wish: small bunches are 2 euro, larger ones 4).
Grand People’s Study House – library and academic centre for adult learners. This grand building is built in the Korean style and affords a great view over the central square.
Pyongyang Metro! Ride from Stop 1 to Stop 2 then on to stop 6! Exiting to:
The Arch of Triumph- The largest Victory Arch on the planet- it celebrates the victory over the Japanese and the return of the general Kim Il Sung to his home city.
Afternoon
Lunch at the KITC restaurant in Mangyongdae District – here you can have the chance to sample Pyongyang’s famous Cold Noodle dish or the Korean traditional Bibimbap amongst other dishes.
Visit the recently renovated Korean War Museum – let the expert local guide show you around the enormous museum featuring dioramas, locally used weapons, tanks etc, and captured American equipment!
USS Pueblo – The only US Naval Ship still held captive by another nation.
Foreign Language Bookshop- Shopping central for books, pins, DVD’s, CD’s and periodicals in English and other foreign Languages, followed by a brisk walk to:
Kim Il Sung Square – the grand central square of Pyongyang where the military parades are held
Juche Tower- The tallest stone tower in the world, it represents the eternally burning Korean Juche Ideology.
Monument to the Party Foundation – built in 1995 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the worker’s party
Visit Kwangbok department store – here we can buy locally made items and exchange our foreign currency into local DPRK Won!
Drinks at the Taedongang #3 brewery with seven different beers on tap! (Beers 1.5 euro each).
Dinner at the Korean Hot Pot restaurant
Overnight in the Sosan hotel
Day 7
Morning
Depart bright and early for Mt Myohyang (2 hours drive)
Hike the mountain ranges – there are various routes available and the local guides will be able to choose routes that best suit your ability and attire.
Sangwon Valley is the most famous for the Sangwon Hermitage site at the end of the trail.
Manpok Valley holds many scenic waterfalls.
Piro Peak is much harder going and in a state of disrepair it is best to be attempted only be experienced hikers and a safety rope is essential.
Afternoon
Lunch will be a picnic during your hike.
Depending on the length of your hike if there is enough time on your way back to Pyongyang we can arrange your visit to Ryongmun ‘Dragon’ Cavern
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight at the Sosan Hotel
Day 8
Morning
Koryo Museum- Korea’s first university and now a museum of history and culture. Also home of the best stamp and propaganda poster shop in the DPRK, so don’t forget your wallet!
The DMZ – See one of the tensest places on earth complete with a friendly KPA officer who will not only give you a guided tour but also keep you safe. Also the only place you can take photographs of and even with a soldier!
Afternoon
Lunch at the Thongil Restaurant in Kaesong City- try your hand at traditional Korean Pansangi- a series of dishes served in bronze bowls. (Optional extras- Dog soup 5 euro, Ginseng Stuffed Whole Chicken 30 euro- can be split between several).
Head back to Pyongyang city stopping along the way at :
Sariwon City, try local makkoli (5rmb) dress in a traditional Korean costume (10 rmb) or just hike up the hill to the Kyongam Hill to the Songun Pavilion for a stunning view over the city
Duck BBQ Dinner
Drinks and overnight at the Sosan Hotel
Day 9
Morning
Depart at 10:25am for the overnight train to Beijing and enjoy the peaceful countryside of both the DPRK and China.
Day 10
Morning
Train members arrive 9:00am in Beijing Railway Station.
• All meals unless detailed as an option on itinerary
• Hotel Accommodation
• Two Korean Guides and a Driver
• All transportation within the DPRK
• Entry Fee’s for most attractions unless specified on the itinerary