South Korea Highlights
Innovative and Traditional
March 29 - April 6, 2027South Korea Highlights
March 29 - April 6, 2027Highlights
- Explore historic palaces in Seoul
- Tour the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
- Experience nature on Jeju Island
- Enjoy a tea experience
- Learn to make classic Korean dishes
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More... See itinerary for details
Itinerary
Monday, 29 March 2027: Arrive Seoul, South Korea; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival into Seoul, South Korea no later than 3:00pm. Group transfers based on flight arrival times, are included from the airport to the hotel. The tour begins at 5:30pm in the lobby of the hotel with our Welcome Meeting. We'll then enjoy dinner together and get better acquainted. Overnight Seoul - 3 nights.
Tuesday, 30 March 2027: Seoul City Tour; Namsangol Hanok Village; Namsan Park (B,L)
Seoul is known for it's ancient tradition and cutting edge technology. Our day begins at Gwanghwamun Plaza, the heart of Seoul. The plaza has been the nation's political and cultural hub for more than half a century. We visit Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1405 and known for the Secret Garden. Before entering, we stop at a local hanbok rental shop so we can dress in traditional outfits for our visit. A hanbok is a traditional outfit consisting of a jacket (jeogori) and a skirt (chima) for women with vibrant colors and simple lines, with roots dating back more than 1,000 years. We return our attire and the journey continues to Namsangol Hanok Village to explore restored traditional homes and gain insight into the daily life of earlier eras. At Namsan Park, we visit the observation deck of the Namsan Seoul Tower. After soaking in panoramic views of the sprawling city below, we will take the cable car down and return to the hotel.
Wednesday, 31 March 2027: Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Excursion (B)
This morning we visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This heavily guarded border stands as a powerful symbol of Korea’s divided history. Throughout the morning, we explore significant sights including the Freedom Bridge. Built in 1952, this served as a passage for over 12,700 Korean War prisoners returning to the south. We return to Seoul this afternoon to explore the charming Insadong neighborhood. Known as the vibrant cultural district, Insadong is a maze of narrow alleyways filled with antique shops, art galleries and calligraphy studios - the perfect place for finding unique treasures. The remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish.
Thursday, 01 April 2027: Cooking Class; Fly to Jeju Island (Island of the Gods) (B,L)
Today begins with a hands-on introduction to Korean cuisine. Participate in a cooking class while a local chef shares the history and techniques behind classic Korean dishes such as bibimbap. We enjoy our creations together over lunch. We bid farewell to Seoul and fly to Jeju Island known for it's dramatic volcanic landscapes and striking basalt coastlines. Upon arrival we get settled and relax for the evening. The next day is a full day so be sure to rest up. Overnight Jeju - 3 nights
Friday, 02 April 2027: Jaeam Folk Village; Gotjawal Forest; Seaside Cliff, Jeongbang Falls (B,D)
Experience the raw beauty of Jeju. Be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes today. We visit Hallim Park and a nearby village where traditional thatched roof homes reflect rural heritage. We then continue to explore a Gotjawal Forest, a unique ecosystem of lush vegetation formed on top of ancient lava flows. This is one of the only places in the world where northern and southern plant species coexist in such a high concentration. Travel along the coast to Jusangjeolli Cliffs and onto Jeongbang Falls. This is one of the few waterfalls in Asia that flows directly into the sea. We then stroll down Jeonnong-ro. This iconic street transforms into a floral tunnel of blooming cherry trees (depending on weather and the bloom schedule). Tonight, we share dinner together.
Saturday, 03 April 2027: Hike to Sunrise Peak; Haenyo Performance; Micheon Lava Cave (B)
Today is a busy day beginning with a hike to Seongsan Ilchulbong, or "Sunrise Peak". This volcanic crater is a UNESCO World Heritage site that rose from the ocean in a series of volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. This uphill hike is just over a mile long on a well maintained trail with steps. There are some steep sections but we'll be rewarded with breathtaking views. There are benches along the way for a short rest if needed. Legendary "sea women" often harvest seafood in local waters without oxygen tanks. We visit the Jeju Haenyeo Museum for a fascinating look at their traditions. View a demonstration of these divers in action (weather permitting). The afternoon continues with a visit to Micheon Lava Cave and the Jeju Stone Park, both reflecting the island's natural formations and spiritual heart. We return to the hotel late this evening.
Sunday, 04 April 2027: Fly to Busan; Jagalchi Market w/ Lunch; Gamcheon Cultural Village (B,L,O)
We bid farewell to Jeju Island and fly to Busan, a coastal city known for its maritime culture. On arrival, we make our way to the bustling Jagalchi Market. Experience a true sensory feast as we walk past rows of exotic catches and meet the famous "Jagalchi Ajumma" (women vendors), who are the heart of the market. With our guide, we select fish and seafood that will be prepared for our lunch together. This afternoon, we visit Gamcheon Culture Village, often called the "Santorini of Korea". This hillside community of brightly painted homes reflects an artistic renewal from the area's history as refuge during the Korean War. We are in for a treat with a tea tasting where we blend our own creations from various floral and herbal teas. Overnight Busan - 2 nights
Monday, 05 April 2027: Seokguram Grotto & Bulguska Temple; Gyeongju National Museum; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
Busan is the second largest city in Korea and rich in Buddhist history. Our exploration of the city begins at Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple. These UNESCO World Heritages sites together represent Silla Dynasty Buddhist art and culture. We then travel to Gyeongju, which is known as the "museum without walls" because the entire city is filled with ancient Silla Dynasty ruins, tombs, and temples. At the Gyeongju National Museum, view an extraordinary collection of royal treasures. We conclude the day at the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, also known as Tumuli Park. This surreal landscape is home to over 20 ancient royal burial mounds. We'll have the rare opportunity to step inside the Cheonmachong (Heavenly Horse) Tomb, to view the unique Silla construction of a wooden chamber encased in high-piled boulders and earth, preserving the treasures of a forgotten era. Tonight, we gather for our Farewell Dinner to reminisce about our adventure.
Tuesday, 06 April 2027: Return Home from Busan (B)
Sadly, our time in South Korea has come to an end. Schedule your return flight home at your convenience, remembering that you will need to depart the hotel 3 hours before your flight departs. Your Tour Director can assist with ride-sharing to the airport (departure transfer cost not included). The travel time to the airport is 20 minutes.
South Korea Highlights
March 29 - April 6, 2027Pricing
Room Share
$5,097.00Single Room
$6,555.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Space Available
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- Arrival Airport Transfers
- Intracountry Flights described in itinerary
- WTT Tour Director to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Departure transfers
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water, unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Visa and/or passport fees
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Director
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
- Mandatory Emergency Medical / Evacuation Insurance
NOTE: Mandatory Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance is required to take this trip. See "Insurance Reminder" section for suggested companies who sell this insurance.
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Wednesday, 30 Sep 2026: Last day $750 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Saturday, 19 Dec 2026: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Thursday, 28 Jan 2027 results in a cancellation penalty of 75% of your Total Tour Cost.
Thursday, 28 Jan 2027: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Mandatory Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance is required to take this trip and is not included in the cost of the tour.
Standard health insurance plans often do not cover medical emergencies in other countries. As a solo traveler, insurance is essential to provide support and care coordination in the event of a medical emergency. It must cover air-evacuation from the destination as a result of a medical emergency during the trip.
Suggested companies for Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance are: Allianz Travel Insurance and World Nomads.
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
South Korea Highlights
March 29 - April 6, 2027Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
Passport: Travelers are required to have a valid passport. Most countries require your passport to be valid up to six months after your RETURN date, and have at least two consecutive blank pages.
VISA: US Citizens do not need a Visa to enter South Korea. All other passport holders should check with the Country's Embassy website to determine if they need a VISA. VISA requirements are based on your country of residence.
As of January1, 2027 US citizens entering Korea, will need to register electronically for a (k-ETA) Korean Electronic Authorization prior to travel. The cost is approx. $8.
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" or "Multiple Destinations." For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: ICN - Seoul, South Korea (Incheon International Airport)
Arrival Date: Monday, March 29. Arrive no later than 3:00pm.
Arrival Transfer: Group transfers based on arrival flight time. Details will be provided in your Final Travel Instructions
Departure Airport: PUS - Busan, South Korea (Gimhae International Airport)
Departure Date: Tuesday, April 6th. Depart at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Not included. WTT Tour Director can assist in coordinating ride-sharing to airport.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are included: The Final Travel Instructions will list the transfer arrangements including who is in your transfer group, where to meet the driver, and who to contact in the unlikely event you cannot locate the driver.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Seoul: Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun Hotel
Jeju Island: Regent Marine Jeju Hotel
Busan: Grab the Ocean Songdo Hotel
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
International Tours: Please be aware that hotels outside the US may have smaller room sizes, may involve steps to enter the hotel and may not have air conditioning. While WTT strives to find hotels that are similar to US standards, we cannot guarantee it.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
Worried about possible flight delays? Consider arriving one day before the official tour start date. Many of our travelers choose this optional service. Your pre-tour package includes:
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Transfer from airport to hotel
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$242.00 Roomshare pp $400.00 Single Occupancy
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
South Korea Highlights
March 29 - April 6, 2027Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 30% Easy
- 60% Moderate (distance travelled, time change, long days)
- 10% Strenuous (uphill hiking)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O=Other). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Director.
Dietary Restrictions on International Tours: WTT has limited to no control over food selections or variety from meal-to-meal, especially at hotels. While we do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and ensure variety of options, we cannot guarantee either.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps leading up to the time you depart for the most current information.
For This Trip You May Want—
- Shoes that are comfortable for walking
- Long-sleeve shirts, pants, and clothes that can be layered
- Refillable water bottle
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or the unusually brisk day
- Inexpensive rain poncho or travel umbrella, just in case
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use, the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance and the restrictions imposed by other forms of transportation such as [trains and small planes].
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- Due to limited coach storage, you may bring one suitcase plus a carry-on bag wuch as a handbag or backpack. Small wheeled cases are not permitted onboard the coach.
- We recommend your suitcase be no larger than 26 inches high as measured from the FLOOR to the top of the retracted handle to make it easy for you to handle yourself.
- Weight restriction for regional flights is 44lbs. Please make sure your luggage meets this requirement.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient.
- Steps exist at most hotel entrances. On occasion, the coach must unload passengers and luggage some distance from the hotel entrance.
- Keep in mind that you will be traversing airports as part of this itinerary and will need to handle your own luggage through customs. You will need to pay any charges you may incur by the airlines from overweight luggage.
What are the health recommendations for this tour?
South Korea has one of the world's highest standards of healthcare. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
- You should understand what your current cell phone plan includes in terms of data and minutes. Some, like certain T-Mobile plans, include an international package.
- Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country.
- Managing data while traveling internationally is important. Using WiFi when available and communicating through apps like What's App help you manage data usage while traveling.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the website www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
What are the electricity requirements for this tour?
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: whether the country you are visiting is a cash-based society, the number of meals you are responsible for, your individual shopping interests and habits, and tipping expectations.
- The official currency of South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW).
- ATMs are typically the best way of obtaining local currency; they are found in most airports and tourist destinations. ATMs of major banks often give much better exchange rates than currency-exchange kiosks.
- If using a debit card, it is good practice to limit the amount of cash available in the account and simply transfer money from another account if you need more at any point on tour. Always use caution when withdrawing money.
- Many travelers feel more comfortable having local currency before they depart for the tour. You may be able to order currency from your bank.
- Notify your credit card issuer that you will be traveling and provide dates of travel.
- Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, although many cards charge a foreign transaction fee. Be sure to investigate your card of choice as there are many that do not impose these fees and are better suited for international travel.
- If a merchant gives you the choice between making your transaction in USD or the local currency, always choose the local currency, to avoid dynamic currency conversion which includes a conversion fee.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
- We suggest you read up on tipping culture in the various places you will be visiting so you can show your appreciation for any personal service provided with an appropriate gratuity.
- Tipping is not customary or expected in South Korean restaurants. It is sometimes considered rude as excellent service is standard. However guides do appreciate tips.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Director for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
South Korea Highlights
March 29 - April 6, 2027SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.

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