Jeju Island 2025

Jeju Island Adventure – AGT 2025

In 2025, Auckland Global Trekkers headed to South Korea’s famous Jeju Island — a place of volcanic landscapes, coastal trails, tiny islands, waterfalls, forests, and some of the most unique walking routes in Asia. Over eight days, we explored the island through its legendary Olle Trail network, visited offshore islands, climbed volcanic cones, wandered forests, and soaked up the rhythm of Jeju’s coastal villages.

Arrival – Seongsan & Settling In

Most flights to Jeju depart from Seoul’s Gimpo Airport, and after landing we made our way to Seongsan on the island’s eastern side. The local bus system is excellent, and Bus 111 took us directly from the airport to Seongsan in about 90 minutes — far quicker than the tourist‑packed 101.

Seongsan became our base for the first part of the trip, giving us easy access to ferries, coastal trails, and the famous volcanic tuff cone.

Udo Island – Olle Trail 1‑1

On our first full day, we walked to the ferry terminal and crossed to Udo Island, a tiny offshore gem known for beaches, cliffs, and quiet rural scenery. The Olle 1‑1 Trail took around four hours, looping around the island with constant sea views. It was an easy, beautiful introduction to Jeju’s walking culture.

A reminder for future travellers: bring your passport for the ferry and fill out the form twice — you’ll need it for the return trip.

Seongsan Ilchulbong & Olle Trail 2

The next morning we climbed Seongsan Ilchulbong, the iconic sunrise crater. Starting at 7am meant we avoided the crowds and enjoyed a peaceful walk up the volcanic cone.

From there, we continued onto Olle Trail 2, adding a variation that took us along the peninsula, past the coastline near Starbucks, and up to a mountaintop viewpoint. We followed the trail all the way to Onpyeong Port before looping back. This was one of the standout walks of the trip — coastal, scenic, and full of variety.

In the afternoon, we watched the famous Haenyeo (women divers) perform their daily demonstration near the base of Seongsan Ilchulbong — a cultural highlight.

Seogwipo – Waterfalls, Museums & Coastal Life

Next, we travelled by bus to Seogwipo, Jeju’s southern city. Staying near the World Cup Stadium made transport easy, with buses running frequently in all directions.

Nearby waterfalls offered short scenic walks, and the area is packed with quirky museums. We visited the O’Sulloc Tea Museum, which was lively with school groups but still worth the stop.

Olle Trail 10 & Marado Island

One of the most memorable days was walking Olle Trail 10, starting from Moseulpo Port and heading toward Hwasun Golden Beach. The trail passes the ferry terminal to Marado, the southernmost point in South Korea — a place Koreans are genuinely impressed you’ve visited.

Marado itself takes about 90 minutes to walk around, with dramatic cliffs and plenty of local eateries. Returning to the mainland, you can continue Olle 10, but the best scenery is before the ferry crossing.

Gapado Island – Olle Trail 10‑1

Another offshore adventure took us to Gapado, a small island known for its wind‑swept fields and peaceful walking paths. The ferry ride is only 15 minutes, and the island loop takes about 90 minutes at a relaxed pace. With cafés near the port, it’s a perfect half‑day trip.

In the afternoon, we visited the Citrus Museum, reached by a pleasant walk through mandarin orchards — a surprisingly charming stop.

Saryeoni Forest & Seogwipo Market

On our final full day, we walked the Saryeoni Forest Trail in Hallasan National Park. Instead of climbing Hallasan itself (which can be crowded), we chose the quieter 5 km forest loop — peaceful, shaded, and ideal for a slower day.

Later, we explored the Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market, a lively spot full of local snacks, produce, and handmade goods.

Departure

After a week of island walks, ferries, forests, and coastal scenery, we returned to Jeju Airport for the short flight back to Seoul. Jeju City itself is busy and tourist‑heavy, but the island’s trails, villages, and offshore islands made this a truly memorable AGT adventure.

A Week of Trails, Islands & Culture

Jeju Island offered us a perfect blend of walking, culture, and coastal scenery. From volcanic cones to tiny offshore islands, from forest paths to seaside villages, every day brought something new. It was a trip full of discovery, fresh air, and the joy of exploring another corner of the world together — exactly what AGT adventures are all about.

For more upcoming adventures check out Auckland Global Trekkers