Travelers often overlook Geoje Island and its nearby Oedo Botania, yet this day tour offers a surprisingly rich dose of natural scenery, colorful gardens, and coastal charm. We’ve studied this experience closely, and it’s clear that it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of South Korea’s lesser-known coastal gems. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy well-organized trips that blend scenic views with cultural curiosity.
Two things really stand out: First, the stunning botanical gardens of Oedo Botania are a feast for the eyes, offering a unique mix of vibrant flowers and scenic coastal cliffs. Second, the panoramic cable car provides breathtaking views of Geoje Island’s rugged landscape. One possible downside is the weather—since much of the experience depends on clear skies, cloudy or rainy days might limit some of the vistas.
This tour fits best for active travelers who love scenic landscapes, small group settings, and immersive experiences. It’s suitable for those with a moderate level of mobility who want a full day of exploring South Korea’s beautiful southern coast.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery: The combination of botanical gardens, coastal views, and scenic ferry rides makes for memorable visuals.
- Well-organized itinerary: It packs many highlights into a 10-hour day, including ferry trips, guided tours, and scenic stops.
- Small group experience: Limited to 7 participants, the tour promotes personal interaction and flexible pacing.
- Excellent guides: Reviews praise the guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and extra efforts to enhance the day.
- Value for money: Price includes admission fees, transportation, and a guide, which adds to the overall value.
- Weather considerations: The experience’s success depends a lot on weather, especially for views from the cable car.
A Detailed Look at the Geoje & Oedo Botania Day Tour
This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the scenic corners of Geoje, South Korea’s second-largest island, with a special focus on Oedo Botania—an island botanical garden that’s often called a “hidden gem.” It’s a full day—around 10 hours—packed with diverse sights, but the pacing remains manageable thanks to well-timed stops and a small group size.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Geoje Si.
Starting Points and Transportation
The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup at either KTX Busan Station Exit 1 or a designated bus stop. This flexibility makes it easier for travelers staying in Busan to join. Once onboard, the journey involves a roughly 100-minute van ride through the scenic South Gyeongsang coast, giving travelers a chance to relax and enjoy the changing landscape.
The highlight of the transport segment is the ferry ride—a 30-minute voyage across the water to reach Oedo Botania. This boat trip is a memorable part of the experience, offering splendid views of the coastline, rocky outcroppings, and fishing villages that dot the coast. Several reviews remark on the ferry as a “nice memory,” with one traveler noting, “the ferry ride to Oedo island was a nice memory, too.”
First Stop: Geoje’s Windy Hill
Your first destination in Geoje is “The Hill of Wind,” a peaceful spot famous for its gentle breezes and panoramic views. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, snap photos, and take in the natural beauty of Geoje. Guides often provide insights into local landscapes, and you’ll have some time to explore on your own. Expect about 50 minutes here, enough to soak in the scenery or grab a snack.
Oedo Botania: The Garden of Dreams
The main event is Oedo Botania, a stunning botanical garden spread over an island near Geoje. Accessible via ferry, this lush paradise features an array of plants and flowers set against a backdrop of coastal cliffs and ocean views. You’ll have about 2 hours to explore, take photos, and enjoy a guided tour.
Many reviews highlight the beauty of Oedo, with one traveler calling it “absolutely beautiful,” especially noting the vibrant flowers and scenic setting. The guided aspect means you’ll learn about the various plants, adding educational value to the visit. Free time also allows for wandering at your own pace or browsing the gift shops.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Stops: Windy Hill and Beyond
After Oedo, the tour continues with stops like Windy Hill—another scenic spot—where you can appreciate more coastal vistas. Here, the guide offers insights during a 50-minute visit, often complemented with scenic views and photo ops.
Another destination (though not named specifically in the provided details) involves a 70-minute stop where you’ll have time to walk, take pictures, or simply relax. This flexibility allows travelers to choose how they want to enjoy each place.
Geoje Panorama Cable Car
The Geoje Panorama Cable Car caps off the day with a 15-minute ride up to 580 meters above sea level. This attraction provides sweeping vistas of Geoje Island’s rugged terrain and ocean.
Reviewers love this experience, noting that it’s a highlight of the tour. One reviewer mentioned that the cable car “takes about 15 minutes, about 1.5 km long,” and that the views are “spectacular.” Even with passenger capacity limitations, the ride delivers panoramic perspectives that are well worth the trip.
Final Drop-offs and Overall Timing
The tour concludes with drop-offs at the starting points, wrapping up a full 10-hour adventure. The carefully paced schedule ensures you get ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.
What We Loved About the Tour
We appreciated the thoughtfully curated itinerary that combines natural beauty, leisure, and cultural insights. The inclusion of multiple scenic ferry rides adds a sense of adventure, while the small group size fosters a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
The guides consistently receive praise—for their friendliness, knowledge, and effort to make the day special. One reviewer said, “a friendly and caring guide,” enhancing the experience by sharing local stories and tips.
The value here is notable: the price includes all admission fees (ferry, gardens, cable car), plus transportation and a guide. For $101, it’s a solid deal considering the diverse experiences packed into one day.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, especially around gardens and scenic stops.
- Bring a hat and sunblock, as much of the tour is outdoors.
- Check the weather forecast before booking—clear days will maximize the views from the cable car and scenic spots.
- Consider bringing a camera or smartphone with extra batteries—photography opportunities abound.
- Be prepared for some gentle walking, but note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers craving a blend of coastal beauty, botanical splendor, and scenic rides. It’s perfect for small groups who want a personalized touch, and those interested in nature and photography. It’s also a good pick if you enjoy guided tours that balance education with leisure.
However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more leisurely pace without a lot of walking, you might want to consider other options. Weather can influence some parts of this trip, so flexible plans are recommended in case of rain or fog.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to explore South Korea’s lesser-known coastal wonders, this tour offers a memorable and well-rounded day. The combination of botanical gardens, scenic ferry rides, and panoramic views makes for a rewarding experience. The well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and inclusive pricing add to its appeal.
If you’re after authentic scenery, picturesque landscapes, and a touch of adventure, this trip is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to see some of the most beautiful parts of Geoje Island and Oedo Botania without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at designated Busan subway stations, plus all transportation during the day, including ferry rides.
How long does the ferry ride last?
The ferry to Oedo Botania and back takes about 30 minutes each way, giving you a scenic boat trip as part of the experience.
Are all attractions included in the price?
Yes, admission fees for the ferry, Oedo Botania, and the Panorama Cable Car are covered.
Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s geared towards active travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor activities. It might not be ideal for those with mobility impairments.
Can I expect good weather views from the cable car?
The views are spectacular on clear days. Cloudy or rainy weather might limit visibility, but the overall experience remains enjoyable.
What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and a camera. Some free time allows for casual exploration or photos.
This comprehensive tour offers a splendid way to discover some of South Korea’s most charming coastal sights—an ideal outing for those wanting a mix of nature, culture, and scenic adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here: