Korea (North)-4-day-itinerary

Important Note: Traveling to North Korea is heavily restricted and requires special permits. The itinerary provided below assumes you have obtained the necessary permissions from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) government.

Day 1: Arrival in Pyongyang

  • Arrival: Arrive at Pyongyang Sunan International Airport
  • Transportation: Transfer to your hotel by private car or bus
  • Places to go:
    • Visit the Mansudae Grand Monument, a large bronze statue of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, the founding leaders of North Korea.
    • Explore the nearby Kim Il-sung Square, a major public square in Pyongyang.
  • Things to know: Be prepared for strict security and surveillance. Avoid taking photos or videos that could be considered sensitive or provocative.
  • Food: Try traditional Korean cuisine such as naengmyeon (cold noodles) or bibimbap at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Pyongyang and the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

  • Transportation: Take a bus to the DMZ, a buffer zone between North and South Korea
  • Places to go:
    • Visit the Joint Security Area, a heavily guarded area where negotiations between North and South Korea take place.
    • Explore the nearby Third Tunnel, a secret tunnel dug by North Korean soldiers to infiltrate South Korea.
  • Things to know: Be aware of the strict rules and regulations at the DMZ. Avoid any behavior that could be perceived as provocative or threatening.
  • Food: Enjoy a traditional Korean picnic lunch in the DMZ area.

Day 3: Mount Myohyang and the International Friendship Museum

  • Transportation: Take a bus to Mount Myohyang, a scenic mountainous region
  • Places to go:
    • Visit the International Friendship Museum, which showcases gifts from foreign leaders and dignitaries.
    • Explore the nearby Manwoldo Ski Resort, one of the few ski resorts in North Korea.
  • Things to know: Be prepared for a high-altitude hike or drive. Avoid taking photos or videos that could be considered sensitive or provocative.
  • Food: Try traditional Korean mountain food such as doenjang (fermented soybean paste) or makchang (raw beef intestine).

Day 4: Kaesong and the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

  • Transportation: Take a bus to Kaesong, an ancient city located just inside North Korea
  • Places to go:
    • Visit the Kaesong Industrial Complex, a special economic zone that allows for joint ventures between North and South Korean companies.
    • Explore the nearby DMZ, where you can see the remains of the old city and the heavily guarded border.
  • Things to know: Be aware of the strict rules and regulations at the DMZ. Avoid any behavior that could be perceived as provocative or threatening.
  • Food: Enjoy a traditional Korean lunch at a local restaurant in Kaesong.

Important Note:

  • Traveling to North Korea requires special permission from the DPRK government.
  • Tourists must be accompanied by a licensed guide at all times.
  • Photography and videography are strictly regulated, and tourists may face penalties for taking prohibited photos or videos.
  • The itinerary above is subject to change based on weather conditions, road closures, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Visa Requirements:

  • Travelers from certain countries (including the United States) require a special permit to enter North Korea. Check with your local embassy or consulate for more information.
  • Tourists must provide proof of travel insurance that covers medical evacuation to South Korea or China in case of emergency.

Health and Safety:

  • Make sure you have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to North Korea.
  • Avoid consuming tap water or eating at unsanitary food stalls.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Money and Currency:

  • The official currency of North Korea is the North Korean won (KPW). However, US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Credit cards and ATMs may not be available in all areas.