Taiwan
Price: TBA
duration: 9 Days
Recommended months:
October – May
Added value:
- A breathtaking ride in small vehicles through the central mountain range
- A visit to the Church of the Lovers of Israel
- A visit to an agricultural farm and authentic villages
- A unique visit to a school, a meeting with the principals and students
- Luxury hotels, gourmet meals
Recommended months
Recommended group size
tour type
Notes
Intro
Ilia Formosa, “the beautiful island”, the Portuguese called it. True to its name, Taiwan is one of the more hidden and beautiful destinations of Southeast Asia. Roads hanging on the sides of the mountains above dramatic landscapes on which sea waves crash, basalt caves carving towering mountains, magical lakes in the heart of the green landscape, turquoise beaches, and towering mountains are just some of the varieties that Taiwan offers to the traveler.
Traditional Chinese culture, saved from the horrors of the “Cultural Revolution” that almost wiped out the culture of the Chinese people in their country, is flourishing in full force in Taiwan. Confucian, Daoist, and Buddhist temples, as well as churches for the most part, dot the cities and towns in a bustling and vital cultural mosaic. The Taiwanese’s intense affection for their culture is behind the museums, theaters, and architectural delights that make Taiwan a paradise for the cultural traveler.
But above all, Taiwan is a land of cheerful and generous people, kind-hearted and exemplary hosts. In a series of specially organized encounters by our staff, we can visit an elementary school visit off the beaten path villages, and scale-up mountain roads that carve through the unknown majestic landscapes of central Taiwan, all this with the most charming, cheerful, and generous people in this part of the world.
Join us on a unique journey in Taiwan, a journey that takes you to places far from tourist centers, combining the best of what this country has to offer.
Days 1| Taipei
the capital and largest city of Taiwan. Upon arrival in Taipei, the capital and largest city of Taiwan, we will head to the hotel and then embark on a short city tour before returning to the hotel.
Accommodation in Taipei at Palais de Chine Hotel (5-star) or similar
Day 2 | Taipei
We will start the day with a city tour in Taipei. After breakfast, we’ll take a half-hour drive to Yehliu Geological Park, known for its unique rock formations sculpted by salt and wind from the sea. We’ll return to the city to visit the Chiang Kai-Shek’s Mausoleum, a memorial hall dedicated to Chiang Kai-Shek, and then proceed to the Martyrs’ Shrine to witness the changing of the guards’ ceremony. Next, we’ll visit the National Palace Museum, the world’s largest museum of Chinese art. We’ll continue to Taipei 101, followed by a visit to the Lungshan Temple, the oldest temple in Taipei, and explore the Huaxi Night Market.
Accommodation in Taipei
Day 3 | Taipei to Taitung and Kaohsiung
In the morning, we’ll explore Dihua Street, the oldest street in Taipei. Then, we’ll head to the airport for a flight to Taitung. In Taitung, we’ll visit the Cultural Center of Indigenous Peoples, an archaeological site, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. We’ll then embark on a scenic drive to Kaohsiung, a city that has grown from a small trading village to the political and economic center of southern Taiwan. Upon arrival, we’ll visit Pier 2 Art Center, known as the largest art center in the world, and the Formosa Boulevard Metro station with the impressive “Dome of Light.”
Accommodation in Kaohsiung at Grand Hi-Lai Hotel (5-star) or similar
Day 4 | Kaohsiung to Tainan
After breakfast, we’ll travel for about an hour and a half to Tainan, considered the oldest city in Taiwan and one of its cultural capitals. We’ll explore the picturesque streets of Anping, where the Dutch settled in the 17th century, visit the Chihkan Tower, the oldest structure in Tainan, and experience local life in traditional houses. We’ll then visit the vibrant night market in Tainan.
Accommodation in Tainan at Silks Hotel (5-star) or similar
Day 5 | Tainan to Sun Moon Lake
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Sun Moon Lake, the largest natural lake in Taiwan. We’ll visit cultural sites, temples, and viewpoints around the lake, including Wenwu Temple and Tse-En Pagoda. In the afternoon, we’ll take a private boat ride on the lake, enjoying the enchanting scenery.
Accommodation at Sun Moon Lake at Einhan Resort (4-star) or similar
Day 6 | Sun Moon Lake to Taroko
Today is dedicated to exploring Taroko National Park. We’ll start with a short trail with breathtaking views of Liwu River. We’ll visit the Taroko Geopark Exhibition Center to learn about the natural forces that shaped Taroko Gorge. The tour will include stops at Swallow Grotto, 9 Curve Grotto, and other notable sites. In the evening, we’ll return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation in Taroko
Day 7 | Taroko
The day is devoted to further exploration of Taroko National Park. We’ll take a short trail to marvel at the impressive waterfalls from the Shihshan Waterfall. We’ll continue walking along scenic paths, enjoying views of forests, cliffs, and traces of Japanese occupation. The tour includes a visit to the Geological Exhibition Hall, Swallow Grotto, and 9 Curve Grotto. In the evening, we’ll return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation in Taroko
Day 8 | Taroko to Yilan and Jiaoxi
After breakfast, we’ll travel along the breathtaking eastern coast to Yilan. Yilan overlooks the eastern sea of Taiwan, surrounded by mountains on three sides, and is a significant cultural and educational center. Along the way, we’ll enjoy the stunning views and stop for lunch. In Yilan, we’ll visit key cultural and historical sites, and possibly have a special meeting with the local community. We’ll then continue to Jiaoxi, known for its hot springs.
Accommodation in Jiaoxi at Wellsprings by Silks (boutique hotel) or similar
Day 9 | Yilan to Taipei and back home
and Departure In the morning, we may visit an elementary school to learn about Taiwan’s education system. We’ll then head to Jiufen, an ancient gold mining town built by the Japanese in 1893. After exploring Jiufen, we’ll return to Taipei and catch our flight back home.
The Price Include:
- Accommodation in hotels as indicated in the itinerary on a bed-and-breakfast basis
- Half board based on dinners and light lunches
- All the sites and shows that are written in the program, including entrance fees
- Cruise/sailing as specified in the program
- Travel in an air-conditioned bus
- English/French-speaking local guides accompany the trip
- Mineral water on the bus
The Price does not Include:
- International Flight
- Tips for service providers
- Meals that are not included in the itinerary
- Drinks during meals
- Personal expenses (shopping, etc.)
- personal insurance
- Everything that is not under the section “The Price Include”
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