Discover Korea’s natural treasures, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and vibrant metropolises. You will hike through Jeju’s volcanic landscapes, experience the tranquility of a temple stay, and dive into Korea’s spiritual food culture during an exclusive cookery course with renowned monk featured on Netflix Chef’s Table and celebrated worldwide for her philosophy-driven temple cuisine. Accompanied by Swiss nationals living in Korea, you’ll experience the country from a mindful, authentic, and deeply personal perspective.
DATE
29.OCT.2025 – 10.NOV.2025
DAYS/NIGHTS
13 Days/12 nights
GROUP/SIZE
6 – 10
PRICE
From CHF 5’820.00 | USD 7’150.00 per person
Highlights
Hiking Korea’s Diverse Landscapes
From city walls to remote national parks, experience Korea step by scenic step.
Walk Korea’s Volcanic Wonder – Jeju Island
Hike through the dramatic coastal trails and lush forests of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Follow the Swiss-Korean Trail Connection
Explore the Jeju Olle Trail – Korea’s answer to Switzerland’s scenic walking culture.
Temple Cuisine with Monk Jeong Kwan
Join an intimate cookery session with the world-renowned monk from Chef’s Table.
At the Border: DMZ with Swiss Insight
Gain rare perspective from a former Swiss officer stationed at Korea’s tense frontier.
Shared Paths with Locals
Hike alongside a Korean walking group – connect through movement and warm conversation.
Itinerary
Day 1
Seoul Beginnings: A Warm Welcome Through Flavors
Welcome to Korea! After your arrival, you will have time to settle into your hotel in the centre of Seoul. A first highlight awaits you in the evening: a traditional meal together with your Swiss hosts – the perfect opportunity to get to know your travel group and get into the culinary mood for the days ahead.
Day 2
Seoul’s Timeless Tapestry: Where History and Future Converge
Today you will experience the diversity of Seoul. In the alleyways of Tongin and Bukchon, we feel the charm of times gone by, while the Blue House offers an insight into Korea’s political history. At the Gwangjang market, authentic street food specialities invite you to try them. The ‘Secret Garden’ of the Changdeok Palace glows in autumnal colours before a walk along the historic city wall leads to the futuristic architecture of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza – where past and future meet.
Day 3
Seoul from Above: Mountain Trails, City Views, and Herbal Serenity
The first hike takes us up Inwangsan, a quiet city mountain with impressive views over Seoul. We continue, crossing over the Muakjae Sky Bridge to neighbouring Ansan – a route that harmoniously combines nature and the city. The Gyeongdong market is the largest ginseng and herbal medicine market in Korea, alongside the vegetable and fruit market. A soothing herbal foot bath provides relaxation and rounds off the experience.
Day 4
From High-Speed Comfort to Temple Serenity and Flavor
Travel in comfort on Korea’s first-class KTX train as you journey south to Gwangju and onward to the tranquil Baegyangsa Temple. Here, you’ll experience something truly special: an intimate cooking course with Buddhist nun and Chef’s Table star Jeong Kwan. Her temple cuisine is more than food—it’s a meditative, cultural experience that nourishes both body and soul in a peaceful mountain setting.
Day 5
Golden ginkgo, red maple, autumn magic
A sea of colours awaits you! Naejangsan National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Korea to experience the splendour of autumn. Bright yellow ginkgo trees and red maple forests form a backdrop straight out of a painting. A hike through this landscape not only offers spectacular views, but also moments of contemplation. Expect peaceful forest paths, and the quiet joy of walking among nature’s fleeting brilliance. With every step, the vibrant scenery invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and simply be present.
Day 6
Volcanoes, lava cliffs and the sound of the sea
After eventful days on the mainland, the journey continues to the UNESCO biosphere island of Jeju. Jeju’s landscape is characterized by volcanic rock, unique nature and spectacular coastal paths. One of these is the Olle Trail, a long-distance hiking trail that connects hidden natural treasures and picturesque villages along the coastal shores.
Day 7
Shared Paths: Jeju’s Trails with a Swiss Soul
Jeju’s west coast impresses with rugged cliffs, sweeping views and gentle landscapes. On sections of Olle Trails 8 and 10, the route leads along volcanic formations, through tea fields and to a temple with panoramic views. The Joosang Jeolli cliffs bear witness to Jeju’s geological history. Trail 10 has been recognised as the sister trail of a trail in the Lavaux wine-growing region in Switzerland and connects two special hiking regions.
Day 8
Climb volcanic paths and feel the sea air
Just like Olle Trail 10, section 6 has a special connection to Switzerland – it’s a proud sister trail to Zermatt’s iconic 5 Lakes Trail! This scenic route leads you along hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and untouched nature that feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. With a bit of luck, you’ll spot the legendary Haenyeo divers in action. The day ends on a high note – literally – with a climb up Seongsan Ilchulbong, offering breathtaking views over Jeju’s wild beauty.
Day 9
From Jeju’s volcanoes to Busan’s coasts
Jeju’s landscape tells the story of past volcanic eruptions – cooled lava formations and lush nature characterize the picture. In Hallasan National Park, around South Korea’s highest mountain, the untamed side of the island is revealed once again before the flight to Busan heralds a new stage of the journey.
Day 10
Sunrise on the Coast, Seafood Flavors in Busan
Waking early is truly rewarding – Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, dramatically set on the rocky coast, offers a sunrise that’s nothing short of magical. Afterwards, explore the vibrant Jagalchi Fish Market on a privately guided tour led by a local chef, offering unique insights into Busan’s rich seafood culture. In the evening, unwind as the KTX high-speed train returns you comfortably to Seoul.
Day 11
A look across the border, a step into history
The demilitarised zone (DMZ) marks the border between North and South Korea. Together with Daniel Thomas Faller, a former officer of the Neutral Nation Supervisory Commission in Panmunjeom, we gain a unique insight into this region. A particular highlight is the visit to Infiltration Tunnel 2, one of the secret tunnels dug by North Korea. The atmosphere of this area tells stories of division, conflict and hope for reunification.
Day 12
Urban Inspiration and a Flavorful Farewell
Start your final day with a cozy Sunday brunch in Seongsu – Seoul’s trendiest neighborhood, known for its stylish cafés, creative vibe, and laid-back charm. Later, head to Gangnam, where sleek architecture and vibrant energy offer a striking contrast. The afternoon is yours to enjoy; wander, unwind, or soak in your last glimpses of Korea. In the evening, a special farewell dinner brings everyone together for one last memorable taste of the journey.
Day 13
Departure Day: Memories Packed – Until Next Time Korea – 다시 만나요
You leave with beautiful images, fresh inspiration, and a backpack full of unforgettable memories. Individual onward or homeward journey.
Information
Cost included
- Private German- and English-speaking Swiss tour guide (from/to Seoul)
- 11 nights in a middle-class hotel (basis double room) incl. breakfast
- 1 night temple stay as per programme (based on double room) incl. breakfast
- All transport partly by hire car or minibus
- Subway and bus ticket for Seoul and Busan
- Domestic flights Gwangju – Jeju / Jeju – Busan in economy class
- KTX train Seoul – Gwangju / Busan – Seoul in 1st class
- 8 lunches and 9 dinners
- Sightseeing and entrance fees as per programme
- Local experts as per programme
- incl. taxes and fees;
Single room supplement: CHF 970.00 | USD 1’190.00 per Person
Fitness level
Moderate – Ideal for enjoyable hikers who like to be active without pushing themselves to their limits. The hikes take between 2 and 4 hours on well-maintained paths with some minor ascents and descents. We don’t hike every day, but we are often on foot even when sightseeing. If you want to skip a hike, you can take a break at any time.
Additional Information
- We are happy to help with flight bookings to and from Seoul
- Citizens of EU and Schengen states can enter the Republic of Korea (South Korea) without a visa; short-term stays (less than 90 days and no gainful employment) are possible without a visa.
- Time difference: summer +7 hours, winter +8 hours.
- Prices and programme are expressly subject to change
- Due to high demand, the cookery course with monk Jeong Kwan cannot be guaranteed. If she is not available, a cookery course with Chef HeeYoung Jang in Busan will take place instead.
- The DMZ tour is subject to official approvals and may be subject to change at short notice.
- We expressly reserve the right to make changes to the program.
- All prices are from-prices and based on double occupancy, single supplement applies
Not included in the package: International flights from/to Korea; all insurance (Personal, Travel, and luggage); all meals and beverages (not mentioned in the itinerary).
WEBINAR | 12.JULY.2025
At the webinar you will learn interesting facts about South Korea as a travel destination and useful information about the “Hiking in Korea” trip from Korea experts live from Korea. You will have the opportunity to ask questions via the chat, which we will answer directly for you during the webinar.
We look forward to welcoming you live to the webinar and immersing you in the fascinating world of South Korea together! The webinar will be held in German.
