Private Tour South and West Jeju Island with Experienced Driver

Exploring Jeju’s South and West Coasts: A Detailed Review of the Private Guided Tour

Jeju Island, South Korea’s volcanic jewel, offers a stunning mix of natural wonders and vibrant local culture. This private tour, priced at $62 and lasting about 8 to 9 hours, promises an immersive experience led by an experienced driver and tailored to individual groups. From mysterious optical illusions to breathtaking waterfalls and traditional markets, it covers many of Jeju’s most beloved spots.

What we love most about this tour? It’s the combination of diverse landscapes—mountains, waterfalls, seaside cliffs—and the personalized attention that comes with a private driver. You’ll get flexible timing and the comfort of a dedicated guide who can adapt the schedule, which is especially valuable in a place as sprawling and varied as Jeju.

However, a key consideration is that this is a full-day excursion—around 8 to 9 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Jeju’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore at your own leisure, this might be ideal.

This tour is perfect for adventurers eager to see natural phenomena, families with older travelers who appreciate comfort, or those who simply want an authentic, well-rounded experience of Jeju without the stress of planning every stop.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with an experienced driver
• Includes major highlights like waterfalls, scenic peaks, and markets
• Optical illusion at Mysterious Road provides a fun, photo-worthy stop
• Flexible timing allows for a customized visit
• Affordable value for a full day of sightseeing at $62
• Ideal for those seeking a hassle-free way to discover Jeju’s natural beauty

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

This tour covers a wide array of Jeju’s most iconic sights, combining natural beauty with cultural insights. We’ll walk through each stop, highlighting what makes each location special—and what you might want to watch out for.

Mysterious Road (Dokkaebi Road): The Optical Illusion

Your adventure begins with the famous Mysterious Road, also called Dokkaebi Road. This short stretch of road is known for its optical illusion where cars parked on a slight downhill appear to drive uphill. The illusion results from a gentle slope (around 3 degrees), tricking the eye into perceiving a different slope than what’s real.

What makes this stop particularly fun? It’s an unusual photo opportunity—imagine your car seemingly defying gravity. One review mentions a newlywed couple capturing this phenomenon in 1981, which shows how long this attraction has fascinated visitors. The site has safety measures in place, and a tourist park is on the horizon, making it safer and more accessible.

Expect about 30 minutes here, which is enough time to snap a few photos and enjoy the quirky experience. It’s a simple stop but one that adds a layer of wonder and humor to your day.

Eoseungsaengak Peak: A Light Hike with Unmatched Views

Next, we head to Eoseungsaengak, a gentle oreum (volcanic cone) perfect for a light hike. It’s a favorite for visitors who want a manageable walk with impressive scenery. The trail is about 1.3 km to the summit, and the walk takes roughly 30 minutes, one way.

At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Hallasan, Chujado Island, Biyangdo Island, and Seongsan Ilchulbong if the weather cooperates. The well-preserved ecology makes it a peaceful place to connect with Jeju’s volcanic landscape. Interestingly, the summit still hosts remnants of a Japanese military facility from 1945, connected to trenches and underground structures—adding a hint of history amid the natural setting.

One guide, Ms. Yang, was praised for her warmth and flexibility, even managing her limited English with a translation app, which shows how adaptable these guided tours can be. Expect roughly 2 hours at this stop, including the hike and sightseeing.

Jeongbang Waterfall: The Unique Sea-Falling Waterfall

No visit to Jeju is complete without seeing a waterfall that falls directly into the sea. Jeongbang Waterfall is one of Korea’s few waterfalls with this distinction, plunging 23 meters into the ocean. It’s an especially popular spot because of its dramatic setting and the sound of rushing water.

Accessible with a short walk from the entrance, the waterfall’s proximity to Hallasan makes it even more scenic. You’ll walk through pine-lined stairs, and the view of the waterfall turning milky under sunlight makes it a photographer’s dream. The columnar joints on the rocks surrounding the falls add to the unique atmosphere.

While the entrance fee is around 2,000 KRW (roughly $1.60), many travelers find the view worth the extra step. Expect about 15 minutes at this spot, though some may linger to soak in the scenery or take photos.

Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market: A Taste of Local Life

A visit to Jeju isn’t complete without experiencing its traditional markets. The Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market is the biggest and oldest in the area, buzzing with activity year-round. This is your chance to taste Jeju’s signature foods—think tangerines, black pork, jade fish, and hallabong oranges.

One review highlights the market’s role in local life and its wide variety of fresh, authentic products. It’s a lively, sensory-rich environment, perfect for sampling some local street food or picking up souvenirs. A quick 30-minute stop here allows you to browse, taste, and get a feel for Jeju’s everyday rhythm.

Yongmeori Beach: Dragon’s Head Seaside Cliffs

Yongmeori, meaning “Dragon’s Head,” lives up to its name with dramatic sandstone formations that resemble a dragon dipping into the sea. The layers of rock, shaped over millions of years by relentless waves, create a fantastical landscape that feels like stepping into a fantasy movie.

Walking along the Yongmeori Coast takes about 30 minutes, giving you ample time to explore the caves and cliffs. Its rugged beauty has made it a favorite film and commercial backdrop, and visiting here offers a real sense of Jeju’s geological history.

Oedolgae: A Lone Stone Pillar with Legends

Oedolgae, translating roughly to “Lonely Rock,” is a striking sea pillar about 20 meters high, formed by erosion from volcanic lava flows. Sitting isolated in the sea, it’s a scenic spot with stories attached—each with its own legend—adding a touch of cultural mystique.

A walk along the promenade offers views of Saeseom and Saeyeongyo Islands, and many visitors mention how peaceful and inspiring the setting is. The site is designated as Scenic Beauty No. 79, which underscores its importance.

Osulloc Tea Museum: Sip and Relax

Finally, the tour wraps up at the Osulloc Tea Museum, a haven for green tea lovers. Here, you can enjoy fresh green tea, ice cream, and roll cakes at the tea house. The scent of green tea fields through the glass windows and the tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect spot to unwind after a busy day.

The museum is known for its delicious, not-too-sweet green tea roll cakes and a peaceful ambiance. Visitors often praise the experience for its calming effect and the chance to learn about Korea’s tea culture.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights from Past Participants

Many reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable guides—notably Mr. Kim, who was commended for his patience and understanding, especially with older travelers. One said, “Great guide, very understanding and informative,” emphasizing the personalized service. Another appreciated the flexibility and accommodating attitude during rainy weather, showing how adaptable guides can make a difference.

The scenic stops like Yongmeori and Oedolgae received praise for their extraordinary natural beauty, with comments about how the landscapes felt both “grand” and “peaceful.” The market stop was noted for its authentic local vibe, giving visitors a glimpse of real Jeju life beyond the tourist spots.

A recurring theme was the value for money—the $62 price included a full day of sightseeing, a private driver, and WiFi, making it a practical, stress-free experience. Many also appreciated the short walking distances and manageable hikes, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

Transportation-wise, you’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, with the driver also serving as your guide. This setup ensures quick transitions between sights and the flexibility to spend more time where you want.

The total duration of about 8 to 9 hours strikes a balanced pace—enough time to visit each site thoroughly without feeling rushed. The tour includes fuel and parking fees, so no hidden costs here. The only extras are personal expenses, optional lunch (~$15), and entrance fees (like Jeongbang Waterfall’s 1.60 USD).

While lunch isn’t included, the market stop offers excellent options for sampling Jeju’s famous foods at reasonable prices. Budgeting around 6 to 16 USD for entrance and lunch expenses is advisable.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This private tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free day around Jeju’s south and west coasts. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, cultural sights, and local flavors all in one package.

If you’re someone who prefers flexibility and personal attention over large bus groups, this tour offers a perfect balance. It’s especially recommended for those with moderate physical fitness—most stops involve walking but nothing overly strenuous.

Since the tour is private, it’s adaptable—your driver can make small adjustments based on your interests, whether that’s spending more time at the waterfalls or exploring markets more thoroughly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, this private South and West Jeju tour offers incredible value for those wanting a well-rounded, authentic experience. The combination of scenic natural wonders like Eoseungsaengak Peak, Jeongbang Waterfall, and Yongmeori, along with cultural highlights like Olle Market and the Osulloc Tea Museum, makes this tour a fantastic introduction to Jeju.

For just $62, travelers enjoy the convenience of private transportation, local insights from guides praised for their patience and knowledge, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. It’s a stress-free way to see Jeju’s highlights without the fuss of planning or navigating complicated routes.

This tour is especially suitable for visitors who wish to focus on nature and local culture rather than crowded tourist spots. Families with older members, couples, or friends looking for a memorable, full-day adventure will find it matches their needs perfectly.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Does the tour include pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered from your specified location, providing added convenience.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes (Jeongbang Waterfall) to 2 hours (Eoseungsaengak Peak), allowing enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees like Jeongbang Waterfall (around $1.60) and Yongmeori Coast (roughly $1.60) are paid separately. However, these are minimal and add great value.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased at the Olle Market or nearby restaurants for about 15,000 KRW (~$15). The market offers a variety of local foods.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most stops involve light walking or short hikes, making it suitable for travelers with moderate fitness. However, those with mobility issues should consider their comfort level.

To sum it up, this private Jeju tour offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s natural beauty and local culture with ease and comfort. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the combination of scenic spots, engaging guides, and flexible scheduling makes it a worthwhile choice. If you want a well-organized, enriching day exploring Jeju’s south and west coasts, this tour ticks all the boxes.