Excursion Jeju's natural wonders tour at Jeju Island
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Explore the spectacular natural wonders of South Korea during this scenic and invigorating, half-day hiking excursion.
Jeju, Manjanggul Cave & Lava Tube, Guided Hiking Trek
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute morning drive to the Manjanggul Cave, one of the longest and finest lava tunnels in South Korea and the world, a Natural Monument, and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. A lava tunnel is formed when the lava that was deep in the ground spouts from the peak and flows to the surface. Formed about 300,000 to 200,000 years ago, the lava tunnel at the Manjanggul Cave measures approximately 75 feet (about 23 metres) wide and approximately 98 feet (about 30 metres) in height, and stretches for approximately 29,291 feet (about 8,928 metres). Upon arrival, proceed on-foot to the second of the cave's three entrances for a guided walking tour.
Stalactites, Stalagmites, Lava Formations, World's Largest Lava Column, Bat Species
Whilst walking through this captivating cave and a portion of a lava tunnel, see extremely well-preserved stalactites and stalagmites, along with lava columns, flowstones, helictites, blisters, rafts, bridges, shelves, and striations. Other highlights of your visit include the largest-known lava column in the world, a stunning lava column measuring approximately 25 feet (about 7.6 metres) in height, and the largest colony of common, bent-wing bats in South Korea. The tunnel's interior sustains a temperature of approximately 52 degrees Fahrenheit-70 degrees Fahrenheit (about 11 degrees Celsius-21 degrees Celsius), creating a comfortable climate for your walking tour.
Sunrise Peak, Volcanic Crater, Sharp Rocks, Cliffs, Crater Visit, Magnificent Sea & Coastal Views
Next, take a guided hike to the Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), an UNESCO World Heritage Site. At its top is a huge volcanic crater measuring approximately 1,968 feet (about 600 metres) in diameter, and approximately 295 feet (about 90 metres) in height. With 99 sharp rocks surrounding the crater, it looks like a gigantic crown. The southeast and north sides are cliffs, northwest side is a verdant grassy hill connected to the Sunrise Village, and yellow fields of canola flowers surround the peak in spring. A hike up to the crater offers magnificent island and sea views. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Jeju, Manjanggul Cave & Lava Tunnels, Stalactites, Stalagmites, Lava Formations, Bats, Sunrise Peak, Cliffs, Crater Visit, Magnificent Sea & Coastal Views
Note
Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.86 miles (about three kilometres), at times over uneven, rocky, slippery, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, and 900 steps to enter the Mangjanggul Lava Tube and ascend the Sunrise Peak. This tour is recommended for active guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests with a fear of heights, guests with claustrophobia, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing or sportswear with flat, non-slip, and closed-toe walking or hiking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. It is very slippery and dark inside the Manjanggul Lava Tube. The Manjanggul Lava Tube is closed on the first Wednesday of every month. The tour sequence may vary.