Best DMZ Tour Korea from Seoul (Red Suspension Bridge Optional)
4.9
BEST SELLER
Best DMZ Tour Korea from Seoul (Red Suspension Bridge Optional)
By VIP TRAVEL
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 200 per group
Duration: 7h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: Chinese, English
More
Highlights
- Gain an in-depth understanding of the DMZ
- Travel comfortably in round-trip transportation
- Save time and skip the shopping centers
- See the top landmarks of the demilitarized zone
- Professional guide(English or Chinese)
- Hotel pickup (Main Subway Station near the Hotel or in downtown area)
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Optional : Red Suspension Bridge (Only DMZ Tour is not included the Red Suspension Bridge)
- Entry/Admission - DMZ
- Entry/Admission - The Third Tunnel
- Entry/Admission - Dora Observatory
- Entry/Admission - Gamaksan Chulleong Bridge
- Entry/Admission - Majang Lake
What's not included- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Hotel Drop Off
- Only DMZ Tour is not included the Red Suspension Bridge
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
- Option 1Myeongdong, Seoul, South KoreaMyeongdong Subway Station Exit 9. (명동역 9번 출구)
- Option 2Hongik Univ. Station, Seoul, South KoreaHongik Univ Subway Station Exit 3. (홍대입구역 3번 출구)
- Option 3City Hall Station, Seoul, South KoreaCity Hall Subway Station Exit 6. (시청역 6번 출구)
Pickup details- Pick up point will be main Subway Station or hotel in downtown area. Meeting time can be changed depends on each locations.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.Additional pickup optionsDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included pickup points.- Myeongdong, Seoul, South Korea
- Seoul City Hall, 110 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
- Hongik Univ. Station, Seoul, South Korea
End:- Option 1Myeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
- Option 2Seoul City Hall, 110 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
- Option 3Hongik Univ. Station, Seoul, South Korea
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 6364P28- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travelers can participate
- Passport is needed on the tour day. (It is okay to bring the Military ID Card, ARC Card instead of passport.)
- Tour Time can be changed depends on Military issue in DMZ.
- Pick up point will be main Subway Station or hotel in downtown area. Meeting time can be changed depends on each locations.
- ONLY DMZ Tour Option is not included the Red Suspensioin Bridge
- Please contact us if you book via Agoda, Booking.com, and Expedia with your contact details (either e-mail or whatsapp number) we appreciate your time and hope to give you the best tour possible.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 200 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 6364P28
From
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per adult
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- yonib4050 contributionsTeam YUNA!!!Everything perfect, Yuna gave beyond what the trip offered, always smiling and patient with each of us on the tour, a lot of free time, to buy and eat. Thank you Yuna for creating memories that will last forever, and you will be in them. Team Yuna, team Yuna!!!Written March 23, 2025
- Dln910 contributionsWe had a great time!Gabby is super friendly, knows a lot, and speaks excellent English. She answered every question we asked in detail and explained everything clearly. Jerry made us feel safe the whole time and the rides were really comfortable. If you’re looking for a good tour, definitely go with this one. Thanks again, Gabby and Jerry!Written March 22, 2025
- T2902MAjoyk0 contributionsWonderful experience and great storiesOlly was a wonderful guide as she provided us with details regarding what to expect. She also provided stories about sites and explained so much history. She kept us on time and moving.Written March 22, 2025
- shuichia20200 contributionsSuper TourIt was very Nice. We were only 2 People and Juno and the driver really Cared about us. Juno was really friendly. The Tour was really good.Written March 22, 2025
- Webpilot3200 contributionsThe DMZ Tour is worth your time!The DMZ is a fascinating place to visit. It’s one of only a few places in the world that are still separated based on a military conflict. Lily did an excellent job of explaining the history and culture of South Korea on the drive up from Seoul. Once in the DMZ area she was great about explaining the facts and history surrounding the DMZ. She seemed to truly love sharing about the her country and the struggles which have plagued the peninsula. The 4 stops along the tour, each gave the you a sense of the ongoing tension.Written March 22, 2025
- TamFlies440 contributionsHalf-day tour was the perfect amount of time.We had a great time exploring Seoul for the first time. Diane was super friendly, knowledgeable, and she answered all of our questions. The ride was comfortable and Mr. Chris avoided traffic and got us around safely. We are glad we did a half-day.Written March 22, 2025
- aleksanderk9060 contributionsSeoulGabby was an amazing guide and caretaker during our time in Seoul. She showed us beautiful places, shared fascinating historical facts, and provided interesting anecdotes about the sites we visited. What made the experience even better was her excellent organization—everything was perfectly planned, so we were always on time and didn’t have to wait in certain lines because she took care of it while we enjoyed our free time. She also helped us take great photos, suggesting the best spots and angles, which made our memories even more special. Gabby was incredibly attentive, ensuring that everyone in the group felt comfortable and well taken care of. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, friendly, and highly professional guide in Seoul, I highly recommend choosing Gabby!Written March 22, 2025
- Extraordinary7019170 contributionsBetter than imagined, and the best tour guide!This tour was absolutely worth the time. We saw so many wonderful places and our guide Gabby made it even better. She was so helpful with information and questions, and a very pleasant person to spend the day with while seeing the best of Seoul.Written March 21, 2025
- Y606IVrobertw0 contributionsGreat tour to kick off visit to SeoulK was a fantastic guide who provided a lot of historical context as well as insight about modern culture. We got to see many sights without feeling rushed.Written March 21, 2025
- 824peppera0 contributionsSeoul All Day City TourK was very knowledgeable, informative and helpful with our tour. A memorable All day city tour. She’s amazing & recommendable.Written March 21, 2025
- 609rja0 contributionsK tour March 21, 2025Did a city tour with "K" our tour guide. She did an outstanding job for us today. Very pleasant and knowledgeable and always smiling. She made sure our needs were met by asking us. Keep up the excellent work "K".Written March 21, 2025
- Climber483169184690 contributionsA memorable trip to SeoulWe went for a Seoul city trip with Diane and she was a wonderful guide and friend. The tour was made more memorable because of her care and knowledge about the Seoul and its culturalWritten March 20, 2025
- Britadon0 contributionsLovely tourThis was a lovely way to spend a few hours in Seoul. We arrived in Seoul much later than planned due to fog delaying our ship landing and the company graciously rescheduled our visit with very short notice. Our guide, Gabby, was very knowledgeable and gave us very good information and thoughtfully accommodated our needs. We saw a beautiful palace and temple but were unable to complete viewing another site due to our limited time schedule.Written March 20, 2025
- Teresa C0 contributionsExcellent and knowledgeable tour guide.Judy took her time and explained in detail about Koreas history. Would definitely recommeJudy is an excellent,friendly and professional tour guide. She is very knowledgeable about the culture and history. Would definitely recommend her and give her 5 plus.Written March 19, 2025
- jetlegger0 contributionsGreat day trip!Lily was a great tour guide! Fun day trip and wonderful fellow travelers made the experience memorable. Would recommend.Written March 19, 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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26,226 reviews
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These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
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TK B
3 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
We LOVED our trip to the DMZ and being part of Team Nancy!
I honestly could not recommend her enough (be sure to ask for Nancy as your tour guide!).
From the very start, she was thorough in managing our expectations of the day. My favourite line: This is not a tourist tour. “This is an EXERCISE tour!”
And she wasn’t wrong! For those who are taller than the average Korean, know that during the tunnel you are having the bend over for up to 15minutes as you walk. But having Nancy prepare us beforehand (she shares stories with lots of humour and we were constantly smiling or laughing!), this wasn’t a huge issue or shock.
She gave us incredible insights into the best place to get souvenirs from the DMZ, and the most ethical, best value and most unique memorabilia/ gift suggestions.
In the village, she became a full-scale skincare consultant, and the whole group was sampling elite Korean skincare that was a fraction of the price in the DMZ compared to back in Seoul, because of the tax-free status.
(Just come prepared with extra luggage space, as we bought quite a few things, from the special barbed wire fence, stamps, organic DMZ alcohol and super discounted skincare!)
The buffet lunch at the village was delicious, and only 12,000won.
She was clear on when we could take photos, and when we could not - as well as recommended photo spots and things to do at the different locations. She took photos for us at popular photo spots which saved us asking other people.
When there were lines, like for the gondola, she helped us jump queues and get tour discounts.
At checkouts to shops, she helped the server pack our goodies into bags so we had more time to spend seeing the different attractions.
On the bus, she shared fascinating facts like the best Korean Ginseng is 6 years old, and is only available in Korea as it’s a national treasure. (They import 4years or less overseas.)
Overall, as adored how funny, caring and efficient Nancy was, and would go on any of her tours in the future in a heartbeat!
Loved our day at DMZ 😁
Ps. Opt in for the Gondola ride at the DMZ (you get the choice when you’re there! Extra fun if you go for the “Crystal Cabin” which has a glass floor!)
I honestly could not recommend her enough (be sure to ask for Nancy as your tour guide!).
From the very start, she was thorough in managing our expectations of the day. My favourite line: This is not a tourist tour. “This is an EXERCISE tour!”
And she wasn’t wrong! For those who are taller than the average Korean, know that during the tunnel you are having the bend over for up to 15minutes as you walk. But having Nancy prepare us beforehand (she shares stories with lots of humour and we were constantly smiling or laughing!), this wasn’t a huge issue or shock.
She gave us incredible insights into the best place to get souvenirs from the DMZ, and the most ethical, best value and most unique memorabilia/ gift suggestions.
In the village, she became a full-scale skincare consultant, and the whole group was sampling elite Korean skincare that was a fraction of the price in the DMZ compared to back in Seoul, because of the tax-free status.
(Just come prepared with extra luggage space, as we bought quite a few things, from the special barbed wire fence, stamps, organic DMZ alcohol and super discounted skincare!)
The buffet lunch at the village was delicious, and only 12,000won.
She was clear on when we could take photos, and when we could not - as well as recommended photo spots and things to do at the different locations. She took photos for us at popular photo spots which saved us asking other people.
When there were lines, like for the gondola, she helped us jump queues and get tour discounts.
At checkouts to shops, she helped the server pack our goodies into bags so we had more time to spend seeing the different attractions.
On the bus, she shared fascinating facts like the best Korean Ginseng is 6 years old, and is only available in Korea as it’s a national treasure. (They import 4years or less overseas.)
Overall, as adored how funny, caring and efficient Nancy was, and would go on any of her tours in the future in a heartbeat!
Loved our day at DMZ 😁
Ps. Opt in for the Gondola ride at the DMZ (you get the choice when you’re there! Extra fun if you go for the “Crystal Cabin” which has a glass floor!)
Written October 27, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Simon F
Walsall, UK5 contributions
The tour has an early start, between 7 and 7:30, but this is important as your guide has to get the party to the DMZ and tickets for entry are on a first come, first served basis so it ensures a smooth start to the day.
Our guide was Henry, who was a kind, gently humorous, thoughtful, and knowledgeable guide. He did a great job in shepherding the group as well as providing insightful commentary.
We kept to time and the tour ran smoothly. DMZ is built beside the city of Paju and farms run right up to the border, meaning it is a surprisingly slick tourist destination. There are sights, toilet facilities and gift shops at every stop. Some parts of the tour can be hard going for older or less able people, there are some big journeys up and down especially the tunnels, but Henry kept us well advised in advance about this.
Overall a strong recommend for a good.day out.
Our guide was Henry, who was a kind, gently humorous, thoughtful, and knowledgeable guide. He did a great job in shepherding the group as well as providing insightful commentary.
We kept to time and the tour ran smoothly. DMZ is built beside the city of Paju and farms run right up to the border, meaning it is a surprisingly slick tourist destination. There are sights, toilet facilities and gift shops at every stop. Some parts of the tour can be hard going for older or less able people, there are some big journeys up and down especially the tunnels, but Henry kept us well advised in advance about this.
Overall a strong recommend for a good.day out.
Written April 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Customer. Hello, this is Choi from VIP Travel. Thank you for your time to leave us such a good review. And we are glad to hear that you had a great time with our tour guide on your tour. It was our pleasure to guide you and your comments will be very helpful to other customers and to us. Thank you for your Review🧡
Written April 18, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Enric E
11 contributions
Emily was the best guide we could have had, she explained the history and places we were seeing perfectly, she solved all the doubts we had and gave us advice (all this with perfect English).
The visit also went very well, first the suspended bridge (it is not necessary nor does it influence the history, but it is nice to see and cross it), then Imjingak Park (with trains destroyed by war and monuments to those who suffered the war) and the freedom bridge, then the DORA observatory in which to observe North Korea (where we could not take photos because of the tension between the two Koreas - November 2024), then the museum and the third tunnel and finally you can eat an open buffet in the village in the DMZ (I recommend eating there, it is cheap and it is free buffet that is not bad in which to taste Korean food).
The only pegs is that this tour does not reach the JSA (anyway in the rest of the tours you can not access because of the tension there is) and that the visit seems like a race against time, with just enough time and necessary to see everything and be able to take some photos since there is a certain time within the area and many things to see (it still gives time to see everything, but you can not be down at any time).
The visit also went very well, first the suspended bridge (it is not necessary nor does it influence the history, but it is nice to see and cross it), then Imjingak Park (with trains destroyed by war and monuments to those who suffered the war) and the freedom bridge, then the DORA observatory in which to observe North Korea (where we could not take photos because of the tension between the two Koreas - November 2024), then the museum and the third tunnel and finally you can eat an open buffet in the village in the DMZ (I recommend eating there, it is cheap and it is free buffet that is not bad in which to taste Korean food).
The only pegs is that this tour does not reach the JSA (anyway in the rest of the tours you can not access because of the tension there is) and that the visit seems like a race against time, with just enough time and necessary to see everything and be able to take some photos since there is a certain time within the area and many things to see (it still gives time to see everything, but you can not be down at any time).
Automatically translated
Written November 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Customer.
Hello, this is Jane from VIP Travel.
Thank you for your time to leave a grateful review. 😊
We are so glad to hear that you had a memorable time with one of our professional guide.
It was our pleasure to have you on our tour and your comments will be very welcome to other customers and to us.
Thank you for your Review🧡
We are looking forward to seeing you again with us in Korea.
Written November 26, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DonnaK
2 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
We just finished our DMZ tour with Jenny. All parts of our tour exceeded our expectations. Firstly, it is extremely cold and Jenny recognized that many tourists might not be acclimated to the weather so she planned as much as possible to talk about the tour while we were inside heating. She prepared us for all parts, including where we were permitted to take pictures, and what to do when we had our passports checked by military security. Secondly, Jenny is very very knowledgeable and taught each member of my family so much about Korean history. She prepared us for what to expect when navigating the tunnel so my children (9 and 11) and I knew what to expect (it’s not a super easy exertion). Jenny made us laugh, helped us learn the perspectives of Koreans, and kept us on time to ensure we could experience everything. The whole tour was a highlight of our visit to Korea and we would recommend it to anyone visiting Korea.
Written December 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Customer. Hello, this is Sophie from VIP Travel. We are delighted that you had a fantastic tour with one of our knowledgeable guide. We appreciate a lot for your recommendation and your time to give us a 5-star review. Your comments will be very helpful to other customers and to us. Thank you for your Review🧡
Written January 8, 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
WC
San Francisco, CA6 contributions
Nov 2024 • Solo
After a year of relentless dedication and effort at work, I found myself yearning for a well-deserved reprieve. I sought an experience profoundly different from my usual pursuits, something that would jolt my senses and invigorate my perspective. South Korea and the DMZ proved to be exactly that.
With only two full days to explore South Korea, having a knowledgeable guide and a private pickup/dropoff at the hotel, complete with a driver and personal transport to the DMZ pickup area and back to the Hotel, this proved to be the ideal way to make the most of the experience.
Emily proved to be an exceptional tour guide( /w native English speaking proficiency), showcasing profound knowledge and insight about the DMZ! I am already eagerly planning my second trip to South Korea next year and will undoubtedly seek out VIP travel services once again. The experience provided by Emily was nothing short of exceptional—it felt as though I had a trusted friend guiding me through a foreign land.
Historically significant sites itinerary I went to:
1) Imjingak Park
2) Drove through Unification Bridge
3) Dora Observatory
4) The Third Tunnel
The suspension bridge is not related to the DMZ, but its breathtaking scenery, framed by the backdrop of Korea’s historic 100-year record snowfall, made it an unforgettable sight. Well worth adding to a full one day’s tour.
Note: The DMZ is a historically significant region and remains in a state of armistice, meaning access to certain sites is not always guaranteed. For those who are particular about their travel experiences, I recommend reaching out to VIP Travels in advance to gain clarity on what to expect.
With only two full days to explore South Korea, having a knowledgeable guide and a private pickup/dropoff at the hotel, complete with a driver and personal transport to the DMZ pickup area and back to the Hotel, this proved to be the ideal way to make the most of the experience.
Emily proved to be an exceptional tour guide( /w native English speaking proficiency), showcasing profound knowledge and insight about the DMZ! I am already eagerly planning my second trip to South Korea next year and will undoubtedly seek out VIP travel services once again. The experience provided by Emily was nothing short of exceptional—it felt as though I had a trusted friend guiding me through a foreign land.
Historically significant sites itinerary I went to:
1) Imjingak Park
2) Drove through Unification Bridge
3) Dora Observatory
4) The Third Tunnel
The suspension bridge is not related to the DMZ, but its breathtaking scenery, framed by the backdrop of Korea’s historic 100-year record snowfall, made it an unforgettable sight. Well worth adding to a full one day’s tour.
Note: The DMZ is a historically significant region and remains in a state of armistice, meaning access to certain sites is not always guaranteed. For those who are particular about their travel experiences, I recommend reaching out to VIP Travels in advance to gain clarity on what to expect.
Written December 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Customer.
Hello, this is Ruby from VIP Travel.
We are so happy that you had a wonderful tour with one of our professional guide.
We appreciate a lot for your recommendation and your time to give us a 5-star review. 😊
Your comments will be very welcome to other customers and to us.
Thank you for your valuable review and recommendation.🧡
Hope to see you again with VIP Travel in Korea.
Written December 5, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sid Z
Reno, NV63 contributions
Very educational, informative, and enjoyable. Our tour guide was a female Korean named Moon and she was very good. The tour, was conducted in English and was booked through Discover Seoul via the US recreational hotel Dragon Hill Lodge, and was less expensive than the ones we saw via flyer at our Four Points Hotel by Sheraton near Seoul station. It took a few minutes to develop an ear for Moon’s accent but thereafter I understood about 95% or more of what she said, unlike many non-native English speaking tour guides with which I often only understand 25% to 75% of what they say. Moon had a contagious enthusiasm and motivation for her country and a passion for sharing her knowledge of her country’s history with us. She handled everyone very well and we met every timeline. She prepared us very well for what we were going to see. Her stories were interesting, entertaining , and informative. I would actively choose Moon to be my tour guide for other tours offered by the company.
The tunnel tour did have a lot of walking involved and much of it quite steep or involved steps. If you are challenged from a mobility perspective this might not be the best tour for you but inquire with the company to make sure.
The tunnel tour did have a lot of walking involved and much of it quite steep or involved steps. If you are challenged from a mobility perspective this might not be the best tour for you but inquire with the company to make sure.
Written March 21, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
R4067HYanonymous
22 contributions
Mar 2025 • Solo
For me, visiting the DMZ was a must do and Ray was the perfect guide to do it with. He filled the day with interesting information, seemingly able to answer any question, and boundless enthusiasm. He even was able to make alternative arrangements for a couple who had to leave early. Our first stop was the peace park and it was one of the most moving places I've been too. Too often, I didn't even realise I'd started to cry until I felt my cheeks getting wet. Then we went to the 3rd tunnel. It is a difficult walk if you have health issues, but there are lots of other things to see. Next we went to the observation tower to see into North Korea. To be honest, North Korea isn't really that exciting to look at, but how many people can say they've seen it? One warning is that there are lots of places where you aren't allowed to take photos, so if that's your thing, this trip mightn't be for you. The last stop was the red suspension bridge. Again, there's a bit of an uphill walk and the suspension bridge isn't super stable (you know, it's a suspension bridge) so if you have health issues, maybe give it a miss. I think it would be spectacular in the full bloom of spring, but when I went it was cold early spring and I found it bit underwhelming. Ray kept us informed throughout the tour and there were plenty of stops to use the facility and get snacks (although, like much of Korea, the snacks are pretty unhealthy). The restaurant we stopped at first lunch was pretty basic with limited optio , but good value and tasty and I certainly can't complain. Overall, I would say it was a great way the see the DMZ and I think it'd be a shame for anyone to come to Seoul and not see the DMZ.
Written March 16, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeff K
Pittsburgh, PA2,480 contributions
My wife and I did the Best DMZ Tour (No Shopping) with VIP travel. The tour was well done and represented a great value,
Our English speaking bus tour had about 35 people of various nationalities. We departed Seoul @ 6:40 am and returned @ 2:30 pm. (The departure time was moved up due to a change by the military.) We paid about $55 USD each which was extremely reasonable.
We made 4 stops - Imjingak Park, the Third Infiltration Tunnel, Dorasan Observation and a DMZ “department store.” The first stop had an optional gondola ride (around $10 each, I think) that we were glad we did. We didn’t do the tunnel trip because it’s a tight space and we’re claustrophobic. The department store trip was a bit of a surprise since our tour had No Shoppong in the title. It was ok though.
Our tour guide was named Nancy and she was very good. Lots of energy and very informative. She kept the trip well organized and we always knew what to expect at the various stops. The pace of the trip and the time allocated to the stops were also very good.
Note that the trip is primarily in the Demilitarized Zone Area, not the DMZ. You are in a restricted area but the only time that you’re in the DMZ is when you’re in the Infiltration Tunnel. The full-day JSA tours to the DMZ are currently suspended
VIP Travel appears to be the leading tour company to the DMA/DMZ area. They were the only company doing the JSA tours and have exclusive access to some other areas. They’re really pushy about Trip Advisor reviews, though. That’s why you see a lot of reviews from people with 1 contribution. They basically want you to write them on the bus ride back which I refused to do.
Overall, though, we got a lot out of this tour and were glad we went.
Our English speaking bus tour had about 35 people of various nationalities. We departed Seoul @ 6:40 am and returned @ 2:30 pm. (The departure time was moved up due to a change by the military.) We paid about $55 USD each which was extremely reasonable.
We made 4 stops - Imjingak Park, the Third Infiltration Tunnel, Dorasan Observation and a DMZ “department store.” The first stop had an optional gondola ride (around $10 each, I think) that we were glad we did. We didn’t do the tunnel trip because it’s a tight space and we’re claustrophobic. The department store trip was a bit of a surprise since our tour had No Shoppong in the title. It was ok though.
Our tour guide was named Nancy and she was very good. Lots of energy and very informative. She kept the trip well organized and we always knew what to expect at the various stops. The pace of the trip and the time allocated to the stops were also very good.
Note that the trip is primarily in the Demilitarized Zone Area, not the DMZ. You are in a restricted area but the only time that you’re in the DMZ is when you’re in the Infiltration Tunnel. The full-day JSA tours to the DMZ are currently suspended
VIP Travel appears to be the leading tour company to the DMA/DMZ area. They were the only company doing the JSA tours and have exclusive access to some other areas. They’re really pushy about Trip Advisor reviews, though. That’s why you see a lot of reviews from people with 1 contribution. They basically want you to write them on the bus ride back which I refused to do.
Overall, though, we got a lot out of this tour and were glad we went.
Written April 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Customer. Hello, this is Choi from VIP Travel. Thank you for your time to leave us such a good review. And we are glad to hear that you had a great time with our tour guide on your tour. It was our pleasure to guide you and your comments will be very helpful to other customers and to us. Thank you for your Review🧡
Written April 16, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MariaJohanna
1 contribution
Jul 2024 • Family
Because of the weather we had an “alternative” tour, meaning we didn’t go in the DMZ or do anything that was mentioned on the original tour (like the tunnel, suspension bridge etc). Eventhough I can understand some things (like the bridge) are dependent on the weather, we now did not even enter the DMZ at all and weren’t given notice + she did not even apologise for the inconvenience. We went to an observation deck that you can drive to and visit for free, eat at a lokal restaurant and visit multiple souvenirshops, that was it. Furthermore the driver of the bus and our tour guide Nancy were having an argument which is why we needed to wait for a new bus and change bus drivers, since she did not want to continu the tour. I think it’s crazy that we’ve paid 170,000 for 2 (113€) for basically a lunch and some sites you can see for free. Very unpleasant experience.
Written July 17, 2024
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Written December 9, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Karim E
10 contributions
Sep 2024 • Couples
The DMZ was a bit of a tourist trap but definitely worth a visit due to its uniqueness and the fact that you cannot travel to this area without a tour guide.
The highlight of the tour was the Dora Observatory - this is where you can view North and South Korea and the surrounding mountains.
The Red Suspension bridge was worth the additional cost/detour. Although we were only given one hour to explore this area, we hiked up the mountain to the pavilion view point that you can see on your left as your crossing the suspension bridge. This offered brilliant views of the suspension bridge below.
Also recommend the soy bean ice cream at the Unification Village - it was nothing to write home about but still pretty unique as the soybeans are locally sourced.
Henry was an excellent tour guide and would highly recommend him for any tours to the DMZ.
The highlight of the tour was the Dora Observatory - this is where you can view North and South Korea and the surrounding mountains.
The Red Suspension bridge was worth the additional cost/detour. Although we were only given one hour to explore this area, we hiked up the mountain to the pavilion view point that you can see on your left as your crossing the suspension bridge. This offered brilliant views of the suspension bridge below.
Also recommend the soy bean ice cream at the Unification Village - it was nothing to write home about but still pretty unique as the soybeans are locally sourced.
Henry was an excellent tour guide and would highly recommend him for any tours to the DMZ.
Written September 18, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
At what hotels do they pick up and drop off? Is there a list? I don’t want to be running around Seoul looking for a pick up spot.
Written December 17, 2024
They have a list of pick up points. We were picked up from myeongdong subway station exit 9. If you get in touch with them, they can let you know the closest pick up point from your hotel
Written December 18, 2024
I’m going in December, which time is better? 7:30 or 10:00?
Written October 15, 2024
The earlier the better. DMZ recently imposed a stricter number of daily visitors, on a first come first serve basis. You wouldn't want to go there only to be declined tickets.
Written November 4, 2024
Does this tour have a "forced" shopping segment? If so, how long? We're not very interested in wasting time inside souvenir shops.
Written October 11, 2024
No forced shopping but time to use the bathroom and get a snack or drink if wanted--
Written October 12, 2024
You can buy lunch in the village there will be a stop, mostly cash but some places card too (with cash it is faster)
North is shocking even with telescope, I mean,it is the other side of the river!
Tunnel is claustro, yes :)) but you dont have to make it, you can have freetime there
Written August 26, 2024
I am pregnant but can walk and have no issue being active. Can I join the DMZ tour? Is there any concern for safety for pregnant woman?
Written August 25, 2024
I’ll be checking out of my hotel the morning of the tour. Will I be allowed to take all my luggage on the coach?
Written June 1, 2024
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.