Korean Demilitarized Zone Day Trip + Boat Ride
Description
Explore South Korea's recent history on this day trip to the Demilitarised Zone, a powerful journey along the border between the two Koreas. You'll also begin the tour with a boat trip along the Imjin River.
Day Trip Details
At the indicated time, we'll meet at the meeting point in Seoul and head north to explore one of the most symbolic sections of the Korean Demilitarised Zone.
After a journey of 1 hour, we'll arrive at the boarding point for a traditional boat trip on the Imjin River, which crosses the demilitarised zone from North Korea to the south. We'll sail for 50 minutes through this natural environment, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the landscape as you enter a region steeped in historical significance.
After disembarking, we'll board a bus authorised by the South Korean army to enter the demilitarised zone. We'll visit Imjingak Park, where we'll see the Mangbaedan Altar, where millions of Koreans remember their relatives in the North on holidays such as Chuseok.
Then, we'll experience a very special moment. We'll meet a North Korean deserter, and you'll have the opportunity to talk to her to understand what life was like on the other side of the border. She'll even tell you how she escaped!
Our tour will continue at the Third Tunnel of Aggression, an underground gallery excavated by North Korea for military purposes. We'll descend into the tunnel to explore part of its 1,635 m (5,364 ft) length. A breathtaking experience!
The next stop will be at the Dora Observatory, from where you can see the Kaesong Industrial Complex in North Korea and Mount Songhaksan. On clear days, the view is breathtaking.
During the trip, you'll have approximately 1 hour to have lunch on your own at a local restaurant, with a vegetarian menu option available. There will also be shops and stalls where you can buy snacks.
Finally, we'll begin our journey back to Seoul and say our goodbyes at the meeting point after between 8 and 9 hours in total.
Itinerary Changes
In the event of adverse weather conditions, the boat trip will be replaced by a visit to the suspension bridge on Mount Gamaksan or Lake Majang.
Meeting Points
When booking, you'll have to choose one of the following pickup points to start the tour from:
- Myeongdong Subway Station at 7 am
- Hongik University Station at 7:30 am
Children Under 3
Although children under 3 may participate free of charge, they must remain seated on an adult's lap on both the bus and the boat, as they will not have their own seat.
How It Works?
You'll embark on an insightful journey through North and South Korea's complex history. Expect to explore the Korean Demilitarised Zone, engage with a North Korean defector, and experience the realities of life near the border.
Details
The tour includes a boat trip on the Imjin River, visits to significant historical sites like Imjingak Park and the Third Tunnel of Aggression, a meal break, and opportunities to interact with locals.
Included
- Boat trip along the Imjin River
- Visit to Imjingak Park
- Meeting with a North Korean deserter
- Access to the Third Tunnel of Aggression
- Use of authorised transportation within the demilitarised zone
- 1 hour for lunch at a local restaurant
Not Included
- Lunch expenses
- Additional personal expenses
Meeting Point
Participants will meet at either Myeongdong Subway Station at 7 am or Hongik University Station at 7:30 am, depending on their preference at the time of booking.
Important Information
Children under 3 can join for free but must sit on an adult's lap throughout the tour, as they will not have their own seat.
What's included
- Transport by minibus or bus
- English–speaking guide
- 50–minute boat ride
- Admission fees
- Meeting with North Korean deserter
What's not included
- Food and drinks
Cancellation policy
Cancellazione gratuita fino a 24 ore prima (local time)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Important information
On the day of the activity, the guide wil be waiting for you at the point you selected when booking:
- Outside of the Myeongdong Subway Station (exit 5) at 7 am (https://maps.app.goo.gl/pWLFU5bpAva4tffG8)
- Outside of the Hongik University Station (exit 3) at 7:30 am (https://maps.app.goo.gl/ddrSpWXZHoe22WQb6)
Please arrive at least 10 minutes beforehand.
Important Info
You must carry a valid passport to enter the Korean Demilitarised Zone.
Please note that, as this is a border area, the itinerary may be subject to change without prior notice.
Furthermore, in the event of adverse weather conditions or maintenance, the boat trip will be replaced by a visit to the suspension bridge at Mount Gamaksan or Lake Majang.
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