If you’re looking for some of the best independent hiking in the Far East, Taiwan’s the place to go.

We weren’t wowed by Taiwan’s cities but the countryside and hiking trails were pretty spectacular.

It’s not the easiest of places to visit and certainly not the cheapest but if you’re looking for some off the beaten track experiences (at least as far as Western tourism goes) then you are heading to the right place.

Bucket List Taiwan

Quick Summary

  • Top Tip: Organise accommodation or anything you do in advance. Hotels in even the most rural areas can sell out weeks ahead.

  • Currency: Taiwanese Dollar (About $30 TWD = $1 USD)

  • Visa: For a lot of countries, Taiwan offers a free 90 day visa on arrival

  • Safety: Taiwan is generally very safe.

  • When to go: Taiwan can get incredibly hot and humid during the Northern Hemisphere Summer (which is also peak season). We visited in November when it was cooler and “off peak”. Weekends are always manic everywhere in Taiwan, so book ahead.

    • Peak Season: July - August

    • Low Season: November - February

  • Walk My World Cost Index: $$$$ - put Taiwan in the bracket of Hong Kong and the Far East. It certainly isn’t cheap, but not quite in the realms of Japan.

Blogs on Taiwan