Hiking in Korea is becoming a hot trend among international tourists. Americans and Europeans, in particular, are flocking to iconic peaks like Bukhansan and Seoraksan. But it’s not just about the climb – these adventure-seekers are also keen on local gear rental services, making their mountain escapades hassle-free.
On Friday, Klook, a global travel platform, revealed some eye-opening stats. Their analysis of hiking-related tour traffic from July 1 to October 10 this year showed a 22% increase compared to the same period last year.
Breaking it down by region, U.S. users led the pack with a 38% surge, while European enthusiasts weren’t far behind at 34% – both outpacing the overall growth. Following these trailblazers, Taiwan, Singapore, and the Philippines rounded out the top five in searches for hiking adventures.
From Seoul’s Urban Trails to Seoraksan’s Peaks: A 87% Spike in Interest
Foreign tourists are mixing it up, choosing different hiking experiences based on their itineraries and how far they’re willing to trek.
In Seoul, the half-day Bukhansan tour is all the rage, offering the perfect blend of city sightseeing and nature hiking.
These compact Bukhansan tours saw a 39% uptick from U.S. visitors and a 83% increase from Europeans compared to last year. It’s the ideal way to squeeze in some mountain air without sacrificing precious Seoul exploration time.
Beyond the capital, Seoraksan is stealing the spotlight. This mountain marvel recorded an impressive 87% traffic boost – the highest among all hiking hotspots.
For those willing to venture further from Seoul, day trips to Seoraksan and Naejangsan are gaining traction.
These full-day adventures to Seoraksan or Naejangsan saw a massive 122% increase from U.S. travelers and 85% from Europeans. Even Seoraksan-only day trips climbed by 24% for Americans and 39% for Europeans.
Gear Up in Korea: European Tourists’ Interest Skyrockets by 145%
For international hikers who can’t lug their gear across the globe, local rental services are becoming a game-changer.
Klook’s rental offerings for Bukhansan, Bugaksan, and Gwanaksan hikes saw a 45% jump in U.S. interest and a 145% surge from European adventurers compared to last year.
Bukhansan gear rentals, in particular, are hitting it big – with a 29% increase from U.S. visitors and a 97% from Europeans.
This means foreign tourists can now travel light and still conquer Korea’s peaks, renting all they need on arrival. It’s clear that the appeal is expanding beyond just guided tours to include these convenient rental services.
Lee Jun-ho, head of Klook’s Korea branch, enthused that Korea is a hiker’s paradise, from urban trails to breathtaking national parks. It’s committed to making these mountain experiences more accessible to foreign visitors through the diverse tour options and convenient services. Plus, it’s excited to showcase the natural wonders each region has to offer.