TOUR INCLUSIONS
Airport Arrival & In-Country Transport All transport throughout South Korea, including buses, trains, ferries and a domestic flight. 11 Nights Accommodation 10 nights in shared, mixed-gender hostels plus 1 unforgettable night at a traditional Buddhist temple. Local Adventure Leader An epic local leader to guide you, share culture, and keep the adventure running smoothly. Domestic Flight to Jeju Island Included flight from Busan to Jeju to maximise your time exploring. | Seoul Highlights & Culture Welcome dinner in Myeongdong, Taekwondo training, K-Pop dance class, palace entry and the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. DMZ Half-Day Tour Visit one of the most fascinating and historic border zones in the world. Temple Stay at Geumsunsa Experience traditional temple life, including meditation and peaceful mountain surroundings. Seoraksan National Park Hikes, nature walks and wildlife spotting in one of Korea’s most stunning national parks. | Gyeongju Heritage Experiences Cycling tour of the old town and visits to Daereungwon Tumuli Park and ancient royal tombs. Busan Exploration Gamcheon Culture Village, BIFF Square street food scene and the coastal Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Jeju Island Adventures Sunrise hike at Seongsan Ilchulbong, Jeongbang Waterfall visit, yacht sailing and a farewell black pork BBQ. |
We recommend a travel budget of approx USD $35–$50 per day for meals and expenses not included in the itinerary.
ABOUT THE TOUR
ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE
The 12-Day South Korea Adventure is a fast-moving, culture-meets-nightlife journey through one of Asia’s most exciting countries - from neon city streets and ancient palaces to mountain landscapes, coastal views and island life on Jeju. Expect a trip packed with iconic Korea moments: street food missions, buzzing local neighbourhoods, scenic national parks, traditional culture, and plenty of nights out with your new travel crew.
Note: This is a partner tour. It’s not operated directly by ULTIMATE Travel, but delivered by our trusted local partners in South Korea who specialise in running outstanding small-group adventures. They handle the on-ground logistics, transport and guiding, so you can focus on the experience. You’ll travel alongside ULTIMATE travellers as well as other adventure travellers from around the world, creating a fun, social group vibe from day one. Once you book, our local partners will contact you directly before your trip begins with everything you need to know - including arrival details, trip notes and final pre-departure information.
ABOUT YOU
This trip is designed for travellers of all ages who want to experience South Korea properly - not just the main attractions, but the real vibe of each destination. You’ll love this tour if you’re curious, social, and keen for a mix of culture, nature and city energy. Whether you’re travelling solo, obsessed with K-culture, or just want an adventure that’s easy to join and packed with variety, you’ll fit right in.
TRAVEL STYLE
This is a social, small-group South Korea tour with a well-structured itinerary that covers a lot without feeling chaotic. You’ll have a mix of guided inclusions and free time, with key transport and timings organised for you throughout. Expect a comfortable backpacking style: great locations, simple logistics, and plenty of chances to explore, eat, shop and relax in each stop.
GROUP VIBE
Groups are made up of travellers from all over the world, and plenty of people join solo. The vibe is friendly, social and flexible - some nights are chilled, others turn into big shared dinners and late-night laughs. You’ll bond quickly through the shared experiences: city adventures, scenic travel days, local meals, optional activities and the constant “how is this place real?” moments.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP DIFFERENT
This isn’t a rushed highlights loop or a tour where you’re stuck watching from the sidelines. The South Korea Adventure balances the must-sees with hands-on cultural moments and time to enjoy each destination properly — backed by a trusted local partner team who know the country inside out. From big cities to mountains to Jeju Island, you’ll get a Korea experience that feels immersive, social and genuinely unforgettable.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Standard accommodation on this 12-day South Korea adventure includes 10 nights in clean, comfortable hostels across the country, plus one unforgettable night at a traditional Buddhist temple in Seoul. Accommodation is shared, mixed-gender, and well located to keep you close to the action.
Unmissable stay: You’ll spend a night at Geumsunsa Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple set in the mountains of Seoul. Expect floor mats, temple traditions, and a truly unique insight into Korean culture.
ROOM UPGRADES
If you’d like extra comfort and privacy, room upgrades are available for most nights on tour (not available for the temple stay). Upgrade prices are per room, not per person.
- Single room upgrade: approx AUD $1,100
- Twin/Double room upgrade: approx AUD $570
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Alongside the main itinerary, there are plenty of optional experiences to level up your trip. Some must be pre-booked before departure to guarantee availability, while others can be booked on the ground with your Adventure Leader.
Most optional activities can be organised and paid for during the trip. Prices below are approximate AUD equivalents and subject to change. Final prices will be confirmed locally.
- Namsan Observatory Tower – approx AUD $27
- Hanbok Rental – from approx AUD $21
- Seoraksan Cable Car – approx AUD $17
- Traditional hanok set meal – approx AUD $17
- Anapji Pond – approx AUD $4
- Songdo Cable Car glass floor upgrade – approx AUD $6
- Jjimjilbang (Korean bathhouse) – approx AUD $27
- Busan Yacht Cruise – approx AUD $27
- Haenyeo (female diver) show – FREE (weather dependent)
PRE & POST-TOUR NIGHTS
Want to arrive early or stay longer? Extra nights can be added before or after your tour.
- Pre/Post-night dorm in Seoul: approx AUD $65
- Pre/Post-night private room in Seoul: approx AUD $200
- Post-night private room in Jeju: approx AUD $75
VISA INFORMATION
Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory on all trips. Make sure your policy is valid for the full duration of your tour and includes bad weather and natural disaster cover.
Please bring your insurance details to the pre-departure briefing. In the event of an incident, we may need to contact your insurer on your behalf, so ensure you have the insurance provider’s name, emergency contact number, and your policy number easily accessible.
You’ll also need to complete our online emergency contact and insurance form before departure, this will be emailed to you before the tour.
Passport Details
Have you sent us your passport information yet? Keep an eye on your emails for a link to the form where you’ll submit your details.
We require this information in advance to secure accommodation and transport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date and have enough blank pages for entry stamps. If you renew or replace your passport, please send us the updated details as soon as possible to avoid any issues during the tour.
Visa Requirements
Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry to South Korea for a limited period, subject to certain conditions. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it’s important to check the latest information before you travel.
For the most accurate and up-to-date advice, contact your nearest Korean embassy or consular office, or visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website at www.mofa.go.kr.
HOW TO BOOK
The tour starts in Seoul and finishes in Jeju.
All in-country transport during the tour is included, excluding airport transfers.
We recommend booking your international flights after your tour is confirmed to avoid any issues if dates change.
To book your 12-day South Korea adventure, simply select your preferred departure date from the calendar at the top of the page. During booking, you can also choose any room upgrades, pre/post-tour nights, or optional add-ons you’d like.
Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll send you a confirmation email along with everything you need to know before you travel.
A deposit of $500AUD is required to secure your place
The final balance is due 70 days prior to departure.
If you book within 70 days of departure, the full balance is due within 3 days of booking.