Horse Trekking in Kyrgyzstan and Tackling the 3-Day Panorama Trek

When it comes to horse trekking in Kyrgyzstan most travellers tend to make a beeline for Song Kol. This is one of the best-known routes in the country and it’s the same route I took on my first trip to Kyrgyzstan.
Song Kol is as beautiful as can be and reaching the lakeside camp around sunset is about as postcard-perfect as it gets, but coming back to Kyrgyzstan for our second trip, Sam and I were looking to veer off the trodden trail and maybe try something new.

Luckily for us, in the past year, the tourism board has been developing a whole bunch of new trekking routes along Issyk-Kul's south shore so we got to be one of the first travellers testing out one of the trails!

We ended up doing a 3-day horse trek along the Panorama Trail, which starts and ends in Bokonbayevo doing a big loop through the valley. Physically, it was a challenging 3 days that involved a mix of horse trekking and hiking, but it was also a rewarding 3 days where we shared meals with our host families, picnicked by alpine lakes, befriended the sweetest Kyrgyz hunting dog, came face to face with ancient petroglyphs, and saw the hard work that goes into being a shepherd in the summer pastures.
Here's a recap of that adventure:

Kyrgyzstan Horse Trekking Guide: Adventure At Its Best!

Day 1:
Riding to the jailoo, a crazy hail storm, and a light hike.
Our tour started at 9 in the morning when we were met by our guide who came to pick us up from our guesthouse in Bokonbayevo. He already had the horses saddled up and ready to go, so after saying goodbye to our host for a few days, we hopped on the horses and started the journey out of town.

This was a very easy day of riding with most of the terrain being relatively flat. We briefly rode through a residential area as we manoeuvred our way out of town, but it wasn't long before the landscape gave way to pink fields in bloom and mountains off in the horizon.
We rode a total of 4 hours that morning reaching camp right around lunchtime, and let me tell you, we were ready for food!

Our host family had a large plot of land in the valley consisting of one modern two-story home and an older traditional stone house where they had the kitchen and ate their meals.
Feeling famished from a day of riding, we sat down at the table where we had a typical Kyrgyz food spread consisting of fried bread known as borsok, fresh-churned cream, raspberry jam, biscuits, fresh apricots, and non-stop cups of tea; the Kyrgyz are renowned for their hospitality and they'll ensure your cup of tea is never empty!
Shortly after lunch, a hail storm unleashed above us, so we retreated to the yurt for cover. From the intensity of the thundering and lightning, I was expecting rain for the rest of the day, but the storm passed as quickly as it arrived. Within a half-hour, the skies had cleared, the rain had stopped, and we just had a bit of hail left on the ground as evidence.

With the storm past us, our guide suggested an afternoon hike, so we walked up one of the hills for views of snow-capped mountains off in the distance. It was on this hike, that we also befriended the cutest Kyrgyz hunting dog who would become our companion for the rest of the trip! He was happy to tag along with us, take a detour or two when he spotted some prey, and then rejoin our trio for pets and ear scratches.

That evening we had dinner with the family. The wood-burning stove had warmed up the entire kitchen, so it was very toasty despite the low temperatures outside. We all sat down around the table, where we enjoyed heaping bowls of plov; a mixed-rice dish with carrots and beef.
Since it was already dark out but still too early to go to bed, we sat around in the kitchen watching a kok-boru match on their television. This is a popular game across Central Asia, often compared to polo, except instead of using a ball, players are trying to score with a sheep or goat’s carcass! This brought back some memories from the World Nomad Games where I first watched the game.
Day 2:
Steep inclines, an idyllic picnic, and the best views!
After a hearty breakfast of fried eggs, bread with cream and jam, and many cups of piping hot chai, it was time to say goodbye to our host family. We took lots of photos together on their smartphones (because rural living doesn’t mean you have to be disconnected!), and then it was back on the horses to continue the journey with our new dog friend in tow.

This was the hardest day of riding since it involved some steep inclines, but it was also the most beautiful day of riding bringing us ever closer to the snowy mountain peaks. The highest pass was 3,080 meters, but don’t let that scare you off; just be prepared to take it slow with lots of zig-zagging up the face of the mountain.

Also, lunch that day was about as scenic as it gets. We rode to a small alpine lake at the very top of one of the mountain passes where our guide laid out a picnic for us to share. Our meal consisted of loaves of bread, smoked cheese, sausage, juice, peanuts, dried apricots, bananas, chocolate bars, and more snacks than I can remember.
The whole experience was rather mystical because we had this thick fog rolling over us, so there were moments we were shrouded by a veil of grey, but then it would part and we'd get a glimpse of the scenery in front of us. It was one of the coolest picnic locations ever!

The afternoon trek was a bit challenging; now that we had gained all that altitude, we needed to come down the back face of the mountain. There were parts that I did on horseback, and other parts where I hopped off and hiked instead - if you’re not an experienced rider or your knees can’t handle going downhill, this is always an option.
It was a slow descent and I had to slide down on my rear on a couple of tricky sections, but in the end, we managed. I think we were all pretty thrilled to reach our camp - our guide included!

That night we stayed with a shepherding family in their summer home. It was a simple 2-room structure made of stone, mud and straw. The first room as soon as you entered the house was a dining area and kitchen; here they had a wood-burning stove, a low table, and a few mats for people to sit on. The other room was the family bedroom, which looked empty by day, but this is where they rolled the mats and blankets out at night.
I will admit that this was unlike any homestay I’ve ever done in the past and at first I felt a bit out of my comfort zone. In total, we slept 11 people to one room all lined up next to each other on the floor, but at the same time, everyone welcomed us so warmly and they were willing to share everything they had with us, that we couldn't help but feel humbled by their generosity.

Without distractions like Wi-Fi, television, or books to pass time, we spent the afternoon watching the family herd their 700+ sheep and get them back into their corral for the night. We then had a dinner of oromo; a steamed layered dough filled with carrots, cabbage and potato, and then it was time for bed.
That night I fell asleep to the sounds of the family's cooing baby, soft snoring, and the smell of fermented mare’s milk in the air.

Day 3:
Ancient petroglyphs, easy riding, and a farewell.
The following morning I woke up feeling refreshed by some of the best sleep of my life, but I guess fresh mountain air and some heavy blankets will do that to you.
For breakfast, we had white semolina porridge, bread with jam, and many cups of chai, and then again, it was time to say goodbye to our host family and hop on our horses.
This turned out to be a really easy day of riding, starting out with a slight downhill incline, before levelling out into flat terrain.

Halfway through the morning, we stopped off at a field that had giant boulders with petroglyphs. We were able to spot a camel, a mountain goat, and a man on horseback, who our guide claimed was Marco Polo himself. How cool is that? The petroglyphs were hiding in plain sight making history feel so palpable.

After visiting the petroglyphs, we had another picnic lunch. It was another generous spread consisting of flatbread, sausage, canned fish, biscuits, juice, nuts, raisins and more. Of course, we also fed our dear Kyrgyz hunting dog who was still with us on day 3. Our guide actually had to approach some locals to find out who owned the dog, and then leave him in someone's yard to be picked up by his owner because otherwise, the dog would have walked with us all the way back into Bokonbayevo. It was bittersweet parting with the pup, who had earned the name Dog Friend, but he had a home and we were moving on.
After 3 days up in the mountains, it felt a bit strange arriving back in town. Even though Bokonbayevo has a population of just over 10,ooo people, it still felt very busy!
Back in town, we returned to our guesthouse, picked up our luggage, and hopped in a taxi to Bel Tam, where we would spend the next 3 days doing a lakeside yurt stay, but that's another story for another blog post.
Planning your trek from Bokonbayevo
You can start planning your trip by visiting Feel Nomad. They offer numerous tours in Kyrgyzstan and you can either choose from their existing itineraries or customize your own if you're looking for something slightly different
Aside from that, you can also visit Destination South Shore or CBT Kyrgyzstan (Community Based Tourism Kyrgyzstan) which has offices across the country, including the town of Bokonbayevo.
They can offer help when it comes to arranging everything from drivers and homestays to horse treks and day hikes. They speak English in their offices and they can offer suggestions on lesser-known routes. You can have a look at some of the treks along the South Shore here.

A few tips for trekking in Kyrgyzstan

Pack for all kinds of weather. Over the course of our 3-day trek, we had sunshine and overcast skies, hail storms and light rains. You could experience all of the above in one single day, so go for light and breathable layers that you can easily add and take off. Also, always have a rain-jacket on hand.
Protect yourself from the sun. Needless to say, the sun is a scorcher at high altitudes, so you'll want to bring sunscreen and apply it more frequently than you normally would.
Drink lots of water. On that note, it's also important you stay hydrated. We brought two bottles each and always finished them by mid-afternoon. Your guide will usually also be carrying extra water, but re-confirm that before you set out on your trek.
Wear the right shoes. Go for something sturdy that provides arch and ankle support. I did not pack the right shoes on this trip and regretted it. Hiking boots are ideal but at the very least a good pair of running shoes with tread.
Bring your bathroom essentials. That means toilet paper, baby wipes (no chance of a shower), and hand sanitizer.
Keep a flashlight handy. You'll need it at night to find your way to the outhouse.
Choose what's right for you. There are all kinds of treks in Kyrgyzstan in varying lengths and levels of difficulty. Some treks involve homestays, some yurt stays, and others camping in tents. Some treks are 2 weeks in length and others are only a half-day. Ask for information at the CBT offices so you know what you're getting yourself into and then make an informed decision. You can find a few more tips for travel in Kyrgyzstan here.

Also, here's a video from our 3-day horse trek so you can get a better idea of that trip:

Plan Your Trail Adventure: Everything You Need to Know Before You Saddle Up

Panorama Trail at a Glance

Region: South shore of Issyk-Kul, loop starting/ending in Bokonbayevo

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights (expandable to 4–5 days with side valleys)

Highest pass: ~3,080 m (10,105 ft)

Daily saddle time: 3.5–6 hours (mix of riding + short hikes on steeper downhills)

Terrain: River valleys, alpine meadows (jailoo), rocky passes, occasional scree

Overnights: Family homestay (night 1), shepherd summer pasture stay (night 2)

Best months: Late June–September (see season notes below)

Booking: CBT Kyrgyzstan, Destination South Shore, or a local operator/guide

Who it suits: Active travelers comfortable with basic riding or willing to learn; families with older kids also do this with a private guide

Song-Kol vs. Panorama Trail (Which Trek Fits You?)

If you’re torn between the classic Song-Kol ride and this more off-the-radar Panorama Trail, here’s a friendly comparison from the saddle:

FeatureSong-KolPanorama Trail (Bokonbayevo loop)Crowd levelPopular; more riders & yurt camps in peak seasonQuieter; we met hardly anyone beyond localsScenery styleBig, mesmerizing lake plateau & wide open jailooDeep valleys, rocky passes, alpine lakes, desert-to-alpine contrastsOvernightsPrimarily yurt camps around the lakeFamily homestays & shepherd huts, occasional yurtRiding difficultyModerate; long days but gentler gradientsModerate–challenging; one steep pass with optional dismount/hikeCultural immersionCamp-to-camp social vibe with other travelersOne-on-one with host families; very local daily lifeLogisticsStreamlined & well-troddenNewly developed; best arranged with CBT/local guideAdd-onsNaryn, Tash RabatBel-Tam yurt stay, Skazka (Fairy-Tale Canyon), eagle-hunting demos

Bottom line: If you want iconic lake vistas and a social yurt scene, ride Song-Kol. If you crave solitude, varied terrain, and intimate homestays, pick the Panorama Trail.

When to Go (Season by Season)

Spring (May–mid-June)

Wildflowers and snow-capped drama. Lower valleys rideable; high passes can still hold snow and some streams run high. Expect four seasons in a day.

Summer (late June–August)

Prime trekking. Warm days, cool nights, high passes open, shepherd families up on the jailoo. Afternoon cloudbursts happen—pack rain gear.

Early Autumn (September)

Golden grass, crisp air, clear light for photos. Nights get cold at altitude; some families descend from the high pastures by late September.

Winter (Oct–April)

Not recommended for this loop unless you’re equipped/experienced for winter expedition travel with a specialist guide.

Difficulty, Altitude & Pacing

Max altitude hovers around 3,080 m. Most riders feel fine with a sensible pace.

Acclimatization: Spend a day or two around Bokonbayevo/Balykchy (1,600–1,700 m) before riding.

Typical day: 3–6 hours in the saddle with snack/drink stops + an unrushed lunch picnic.

Uphill vs. downhill: Uphills are slow zig-zags; for steeper, loose downhills, many riders dismount to hike 15–40 minutes to give knees and horse a break.

Trail etiquette: Space your horses on switchbacks, announce if you’re dismounting, and never overtake on a narrow ledge.

Listen to your body: Headache, nausea or unusual fatigue? Tell your guide early, hydrate, slow down, and consider dropping elevation.

What to Pack for a 3-Day Horse Trek (Checklists!)

Pack for layers and surprises—the mountains love a mood swing. Keep it light; your horse and knees will thank you.

Clothing & Footwear

Quick-dry base layers (1–2 tops, 1 set long johns for nights)

Fleece or light insulated jacket

Waterproof/windproof shell (hooded)

Trekking pants + warm leggings (for camp/night)

Riding-friendly footwear: stiff trail shoes or light hikers with grip (avoid bulky, wide soles)

Warm hat + sun hat (wide brim or cap)

Gloves (thin liner for riding; warm pair for chilly mornings)

3 pairs hiking socks + spare camp socks

Buff/neck gaiter (dust, wind, sun)

Riding & Camp Essentials

Headlamp (with spare batteries)

Water bottles (carry 2L total; collapsible bladder okay if you prefer)

Sunglasses (polarized if possible)

Trekking poles (useful for steep descents)

Compact daypack (15–20L) with rain cover

Dry sacks or zip bags (organize + dust protection)

Lightweight camp shoes/sandals (optional heaven)

Travel towel (quick-dry)

Toiletries & Health

High-SPF sunscreen + lip balm

Baby wipes (no showers), small biodegradable soap

Hand sanitizer + TP in a zip bag (for outhouse stops)

Personal meds + mini first-aid (blister care, pain relief, rehydration salts, antihistamine)

Water purification (tabs or filter) if you want independence

Electrolyte tabs (altitude + heat days)

Tech & Documents

Power bank (no outlets at shepherd stays)

Phone/camera + spare memory battery

Offline maps & translations downloaded

Passport copy + small cash (KGS) for tips/snacks on travel days

Travel insurance info (screenshot/paper backup)

Homestay & Yurt Etiquette (How to Be a Great Guest)

Tea is love: Accept the first cup; you can decline refills kindly (“Rakhmat” = thanks).

Shoes off at the door; step onto the felt shyrdak rugs with socks or bare feet.

Seating: Hosts often motion you to a place—take the hint and the hospitality.

Photos: Always ask before photographing people or indoor spaces.

Helping hands: Offer to clear dishes or pour tea; you’ll likely get waved off, but the gesture is appreciated.

Gifts: Small items for kids (stickers, pencils), fresh fruit, or printed photos of a previous stay (if returning) go a long way.

Modesty matters: Even in heat, bring a light layer for shoulders/legs inside homes.

What Our 3 Days Looked Like

Day 1 — Bokonbayevo → Valley Homestay (4 hrs riding)

Flat and friendly introduction to the horses and terrain. Lunch on arrival (borsok, jams, cream), storm-watch from the yurt if the sky performs, short hill hike for a first mountain panorama. Dog friends optional (but likely).

Day 2 — Valley → High Pass → Shepherd’s Hut (5–6 hrs riding + hikes)

The big pass day: steady switchbacks, alpine lake picnic in moody fog, then careful descent (we hiked parts). Evening with a shepherd family—oromo for dinner, starry skies, and a memorable “11-to-a-room” mountain sleep.

Day 3 — Shepherd’s Hut → Petroglyph Field → Bokonbayevo (3–4 hrs riding)

Gentle return with flat valley tracks, ancient petroglyphs hidden in plain sight, a final picnic (share with your four-legged companion) and a bittersweet trot back to town.

What Does It Cost? (Typical Booking Routes)

Prices vary with season, inclusions and group size; think in ranges and ask what’s included.

Booking StyleWhat You GetIndicative Cost (pp/day)Good ForCBT / Destination South ShoreLocal guide + horses, homestays, meals, route support$$ (mid-range)Culture-rich, flexible, supports communitySmall local operatorPackaged trek incl. transfers, English-speaking guide$$–$$$Hands-off planning, add-ons (eagle show, canyon)Private guide (independent)You + guide + horses; you arrange some meals/rooms$–$$Budget-savvy, experienced travelers

Ask clearly:

Are meals included (3/day)?

Who carries water/snacks?

Are homestay payments/tips included or extra?

What safety kit does the guide carry (radio/phone, first aid)?

Food on the Trail (What You’ll Eat & How to Adapt)

Breakfasts: Eggs, bread + cream/jam, porridge, endless chai

Lunches: Picnics—bread, cheese, sausage, fruit, nuts, chocolate, juice

Dinners: Plov, laghman, oromo, soups; hearty and simple

Dietary tweaks:

Vegetarian: Emphasize veg + carbs; ask for eggs, extra salad, beans (where available).

Lactose-sensitive: Lots of dairy present; carry lactase tablets and communicate “no milk/cream”.

Gluten-free: Harder in rural areas—pack backup snacks (nuts, jerky, dried fruit).

Safety, Animals & Weather Smarts

Storms: If thunder pops, descend ridges, avoid lone trees and metal fences; layer up fast after rain.

Dogs: Shepherd dogs guard; stay on your horse, keep calm and close to your guide—they’ll shoo dogs off.

Horses: Kyrgyz horses are mountain pros. Keep heels down, reins steady, and trust their pace on scree.

Hydration: Aim for 2–3L/day; supplement with electrolytes after hot or high days.

Sun: UV at 3,000 m is fierce—reapply SPF often, and wear sunglasses + brimmed hat.

Leave No Trace (Tiny Habits, Big Impact)

Pack out all trash (yes, even “biodegradable” fruit peels).

Use outhouses; if not possible, dig a small cat-hole 70+ m from water.

Keep to existing tracks to protect fragile alpine plants.

Don’t feed wildlife; be respectful with livestock and corral gates.

Buy local—homestays, crafts, and community tours directly benefit the families you’ll meet.

Add-On Ideas Around Bokonbayevo (Perfect Before/After the Trek)

Bel Tam Yurt Camp: Lakeside yurts, bonfires, Issyk-Kul sunrise right from your bed.

Skazka (Fairy-Tale) Canyon: Short hikes among red, wind-sculpted labyrinths—golden hour is magic.

Eagle-Hunting Demo: Meet a berkutchi (eagle hunter) and learn the tradition; opt for an educational, ethical show.

Salt Lake (Tuz-Kol): Float like the Dead Sea, rinse after with fresh water.

Barskoon Gorge & Waterfalls: Picnic among spruce and spray with Soviet-era space-themed monuments along the road.

Jety-Oguz (Seven Bulls): Day trip for striped red cliffs and a gentle valley walk.

FAQ: Horse Trekking the Panorama Trail (12 Questions Answered)

How much riding experience do I need for the Panorama Trail?

You don’t need to be a pro. If you’re comfortable on a horse at a walk (and can follow simple instructions), you’ll be fine. The steepest sections can be done on foot while leading your horse—your guide will advise where it’s safer to dismount.

Can I do the trek if I’m prone to altitude sickness?

Most riders do well since you sleep lower than the 3,080 m pass. Spend a day or two acclimatizing around Issyk-Kul, hydrate constantly, pace yourself on the pass, and descend if you feel unwell. If you’ve had serious AMS before, consult a doctor and mention it to your guide.

What’s the bathroom situation like on the trail?

Expect outhouses at homestays and basic long-drop toilets at shepherd huts. On the trail, nature is your restroom—carry TP in a zip bag and use a hand-sanitizer after. Pack-out systems aren’t common; minimize impact and follow your guide’s lead.

Are helmets and riding gear provided?

It varies. Some operators can provide helmets on request; others expect you to bring your own. Closed-toe shoes with tread are essential. Ask about gear availability when booking and pack accordingly.

What are the horses like?

Sure-footed, small-to-medium Kyrgyz horses—stoic, gentle, and born for mountains. They respond well to calm riders with steady hands. Treat them kindly, give them space on steep terrain, and let them pick their path on rocky ground.

Is there mobile signal or Wi-Fi during the trek?

Signal appears sporadically on ridgelines and near towns, and disappears in valleys. Assume no Wi-Fi, limited charging, and embrace the digital detox. Bring a power bank and switch to airplane mode to stretch battery life.

How do I handle dietary restrictions with homestays?

Let CBT or your operator know when you book. Vegetarian is usually possible (eggs, potatoes, noodles, salads), but strict vegan/gluten-free require extra planning and backup snacks. Be gracious—rural families cook with what’s available.

What happens if the weather turns bad?

Mountain weather flips quickly. Your guide will adjust pace, break during heavy rain or hail, and choose safer routes. Layers and a proper rain shell make all the difference; never push speed on slick rock or muddy descents.

Can I store my main luggage during the trek?

Yes. Your Bokonbayevo guesthouse or CBT office typically stores extra bags safely. Take only a small duffel/daypack for the trek; the lighter, the happier your horse.

Are tips expected for guides and host families?

Tips aren’t mandatory, but they’re appreciated. A guideline is 10–15% of the trek cost for your guide/horse handler, and a modest cash gift or small presents for host families, especially after exceptional hospitality.

Is the Panorama Trail suitable for children?

Active kids and teens who are comfortable following instructions and spending a few hours outdoors daily can thrive here. Book a private trek so the pace fits your family, and consider shortening Day 2’s distance.

How do I book the trek locally if I don’t plan ahead?

Pop into CBT Bokonbayevo or Destination South Shore in town. They can often arrange guides and horses within a day, especially in summer, and help match you with a route that suits your time, fitness and budget.

Have you been trekking in Kyrgyzstan?What were some of your favourite spots?

This trip was made possible in partnership with Discover Kyrgyzstan. As always, all opinions expressed here are my own.


How much does a 1-week road trip around Ireland cost a traveler?

I have already shared my 1-week itinerary for a road trip around Ireland, but now the big question:
How much did the trip actually cost?
I recently got a message from a reader asking if I could start doing more budget breakdowns for the destinations I visit so that people can have a better idea of what it'll cost them to go there. (Thanks for the prompt!)
So today I thought I would share what it cost me to spend a full week driving the Emerald Isle.
Spoiler alert: it was a lot more affordable than you might think!
I would also recommend reading this guide with tips for anyone planning a trip to Ireland. Lots of useful information regarding costs for accommodation, transport, food and leisure, so it's a good place to start.

Ireland Road Trip: How Much Does It Cost?

Car rental and insurance
$ 657 USD / € 577 for 5 people
For this trip, we rented a car that would be comfortable enough for 5 people, so we chose a vehicle that was in the VW Jetta / Renault Fluence / or a similar category. Each passenger was allowed to bring a carry-on suitcase and a backpack to ensure there would be enough room (thought I'll admit I managed to fit my giant 80L backpack because that's what I've been travelling with all along).
After accommodations, our car was the biggest expense, but there are ways to keep the price lower than what we paid. The first thing you can do to save costs on the rental is to rent a car with standard/manual transmission rather than automatic...if you know how to drive one. This cuts down the price of a rental car by as much as half!
The reason we went with the pricier automatic for our trip is that only one person in our group regularly drives a standard car back home and we didn't feel like putting everyone else's rusty skills to the test. Trust me, narrow winding lanes that weave up and down hills are not the best place for a refresher lesson.
You can also cut down costs by having less drivers on the rental agreement. Even though there were 5 of us, we chose to have 2 people driving on this trip and that was enough for the distances we were covering. Keep in mind that for every additional driver you have, the price of the rental car goes up.
After browsing through several car rental websites, we chose Sixt because it had some of the best rates out there.

Car fuel
$ 114 USD / € 100 for 5 people
I was pretty pleased with how little we spent on fuel, and this is because we went with a Diesel car instead of petrol. We only had to fuel up twice the whole week we were there - not bad considering we roughly drove the whole circumference of Ireland and Northern Ireland in one week's time.

Accommodations
When it comes to accommodations we were looking for comfort at a reasonable price. We knew that we would have long days of driving and sightseeing, so at the end of the day, we wanted a place where we could unwind and have our own space. Hostel dorms were out of the question; instead, we opted for a mix of AirBnB apartment rentals, Bed and Breakfasts, and cottage stays.
Here's how much we paid in each destination:
Dublin - $ 148 USD / € 130
What we got: A luxurious AirBnB apartment in the heart of Dublin, just a few steps away from Temple Bar. The apartment had 2 bedrooms and a huge living area where you could roll out 2 additional foldable beds.
Glen of Aherlow - $ 178 USD / € 156
What we got: A wooden A-frame cottage with beautiful views of the rolling hills below. The cottage had 3 bedrooms, a spacious kitchen where we could prepare our own meals, and it was very cozy.
Killarney - $ 171 USD / € 150
What we got: A family-sized room for 5 in a Bed and Breakfast which was just a short walk from Killarney's city centre. The room wasn't outstanding, but it was good enough for 1 night plus breakfast was included in the price.
Scarriff - $ 166 USD / € 146
What we got: We stayed at a Bed and Breakfast run in a woman's home. We got 2 private rooms with our own private bathrooms. Our host prepared us a snack when we arrived and she also prepared us an outstanding full breakfast the following morning.
Donegal - $ 97 USD / € 85
What we got: A cute cottage at the foot of an ever imposing manor home. The cottage had 4 bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a nice kitchen where we could cook.
Bushmills - $ 158 USD/ € 139
What we got: A 4-bedroom cottage, a spacious kitchen, and a living area that came stocked with puzzles and board games. However, what won me over was that this place was just a 10 minute walk from Giant's Causeway. Not a bad price considering the location.
Outside Belfast - $ 107 USD/ € 94
What we got: I wasn't around to see this place since I stayed back in Belfast while the girls drove back to catch their flight out of Dublin, but I know that they booked another cottage that was just outside of Belfast (much cheaper than staying in the city).
Our total for 1 week's worth of accommodations came to $1025 USD / € 900 for 5 people.

Groceries
$ 170 USD / € 150 for 5 people
When it came to meals, we only ate one meal out per day - usually lunch or dinner depending on where we were. The rest of the time we prepared our own meals.
I know this sounds like a pretty low sum to feed 5 people, so what were we eating?
Breakfast: eggs for omelettes, granola, yogourt, and fresh fruits
Lunch: Baguette sandwiches with cheese and deli meats, and raw veggies like carrots, peppers and sweet snaps
Dinner: Pasta with tomato sauce and veggies, or pesto pasta, or a meat and veggie stir-fry with noodles
We also purposely chose to stay in some Bed and Breakfasts where the cost of breakfast was already included in our accommodations.
Eating in restaurants
$120 USD / € 105 per person
The cost of eating out in restaurants is going to depend on what you order and whether or not you drink alcohol, but I'm going to put the price at an average of 15 Euros /$ 17 USD per meal. This will usually get you some good pub food like Fish and Chips, Irish Stew, Bangers and Mash, Shepherd's Pie, or something of the sort as well as a beverage.

Sightseeing and miscellaneous
$114 USD/ € 100 per person
I didn't keep my receipts for sightseeing and miscellaneous attractions, but I know I didn't spend very much in this regard.
A lot of places that we visited were free of charge, so we really only paid admission for a handful of castles and to visit the Cliffs of Moher. We found that most attractions ranged between €5 to €20 at most, and we probably only paid admission at 3 or 4 places the whole week we were there.
The rest of the money in the miscellaneous category I'm using to account for things like picking up postcards, and buying the odd snack at the gas station.

Total cost for a 1 week road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland?
$ 627 USD / € 550 per person!
I didn't include any flight costs because that will obviously depend on where you are flying from, and you may also need to factor in visa costs depending on the passport you hold. (I was fine as a Canadian.)
So just to refresh, here are a few ways to save money on a road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland, or really any road trip:

Travel with a group of friends so you can split costs evenly. This is key!
Rent a standard/manual car instead of an automatic (if you know how to drive one).
Keep the number of drivers to a minimum.
Choose a car that takes diesel instead of petrol.
Rent cottages or family rooms.
Stay in the outskirts of town rather than in the heart of the city.
Do groceries and cook some of your own meals.
Choose accommodations that offer breakfast.

The Ultimate Ireland Road-Trip Budget Planner (Routes, Real Costs, Splurges & Savings)

Quick Budget Snapshot (Per Person)

Use this as your fast baseline for a 7-day road trip. These ranges assume 2–5 travelers sharing a car and splitting costs.

Travel StyleCar (rental+fuel)Stays (7 nts)Food & DrinkSights & Misc.Total / personFrugal (manual car, self-catering B&Bs, 1 meal out/day, mostly free sights)$180–260$210–350$140–210$50–90$580–910Comfort (mix of cottages/B&Bs, 1–2 meals out/day, a few paid sites)$220–320$300–500$220–330$90–140$830–1,290Treat-Yourself (auto car, central stays, daily meals out, tours)$300–450$500–900$350–550$160–280$1,310–2,180

Car Rental Costs (Where Most Budgets Go Sideways)

Ireland is delightfully straightforward to drive—but car hire pricing can be…an adventure. Here’s how to win that game.

The Insurance Alphabet Soup (Decoded)

Most quotes you see online don’t include everything you’ll end up needing at the counter. Expect these terms:

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Lowers your liability but leaves a high excess (deductible).

SCDW/Excess Waiver: Reduces that excess closer to zero. Peace of mind, extra cost.

Third-party liability: Covers damage to others.

Windscreen/tyre/undercarriage: Often not included; ask if you’ll be on rural roads.

Credit card coverage: Many cards exclude Ireland (yes, really). If you plan to deny the rental’s CDW and use card coverage, bring printed proof and check the fine print.

Other price levers:

Additional drivers: Each named driver bumps the price. Keep it to 1–2 if you can.

Young driver fee: Under 25? Budget extra.

Crossing to Northern Ireland: Usually allowed at no charge, but inform the rental company.

Pick-up location: Airport pickups can add fees; sometimes a city-center pick-up is cheaper.

Manual vs. Automatic (and Diesel vs. Petrol)

ChoiceProsConsBudget impactManualHalf the price, more vehicle optionsOnly if you’re comfy shifting on the leftCheapestAutomaticEasier on narrow lanes + hillsScarcer + pricier+30–60%DieselBetter MPG on long loopsSometimes higher day rateFuel savings over the weekPetrol (gas)Cars often cheaper to rentCosts more at the pumpSlightly higher fuel spend

If you’re happy on a stick, manual + diesel is the sweet spot for both rental price and fuel economy.

Tolls, Parking & Fines (The Boring Money That Still Counts)

M50 (Dublin ring road) has barrier-free tolling. In a rental, tolls are often auto-billed (plus an admin fee). If not, you must pay online by the deadline listed on your rental docs to avoid penalties.

Other tolls: Bring small change or tap to pay at plazas.

Parking: Blue “P” signs = public parking; watch time limits and discs/meters. In cities, garages are worth the stress-reduction fee.

Speed cameras: They exist. Don’t let “scenic” become “speeding.”

Fuel Math (A Simple Estimator)

Average efficiency for a diesel compact: 5–6 L/100 km (≈ 40–47 mpg US).

A classic 7-day loop—Dublin → Kilkenny → Killarney/Dingle → Clare/Galway → Sligo/Donegal → Causeway Coast → Belfast → Dublin—is roughly 1,400–1,700 km depending on detours.

Fuel price varies. A ballpark: €1.70–€1.90/L. At 6 L/100 km over 1,500 km, expect ~€150–170 in diesel total (split across the car).

Accommodation Math (City vs. Countryside, and Why a Kitchen Pays for Itself)

Ireland shines for travelers who like character stays: B&Bs with full Irish breakfasts, cottages with peat fires, farmhouses with sheep for neighbors. Here’s how it pencils out.

Typical Nightly Ranges (Per Room, Not Per Person)

TypeLow SeasonShoulderSummer PeakNotesRural B&B (2–3 pax)€70–100€90–130€120–160Often includes breakfast (worth €10–15 pp)Self-catering cottage (4–6 pax)€110–160€140–220€180–300Kitchens = big food savingsCity hotel (Dublin/Belfast)€120–180€150–230€180–350Pay for location; consider outskirtsGuesthouse/family room (4–5 pax)€120–170€150–220€180–300Great for groupsHostel private€60–100€80–120€110–150Expect shared common spaces

Where it jumps: Dublin, coastal hotspots (Dingle, Kinsale, Galway), and the Causeway Coast in peak season. Book those first.

Two easy savings:

Stay just outside town centers (10–20 minutes) and drive in.

Blend B&Bs with cottages so you self-cater half your trip and enjoy big breakfasts the other half.

Food & Drink: What Meals Actually Cost (and How We Ate Well on Less)

You can eat wonderfully in Ireland without melting your wallet—especially if you lean on hearty pub lunches and self-catered dinners. Here’s a realistic sample:

Grocery Basket (Feeds 4–5 for 2–3 days)

Eggs, toast & jams, yogurt, fruit, granola/oats

Pasta + sauces, stir-fry veggies + noodles, deli meats & cheese, salad fixings

Tea/coffee, biscuits (cookies), Irish butter (always yes)Spend: €35–60 depending on choices.

Eating Out

Meal/DrinkTypical PricePub mains (fish & chips, stew, pie)€12–20Casual lunch (toastie + soup)€8–14Coffee/tea + scone€4–7Pint of beer/cider€5–7 (city pints skew higher)Set early-bird dinner€22–35 (2–3 courses)Seafood mains (coast)€18–30

Tipping? Not mandatory like North America. For table service, 10% is kind for a great meal; at the bar you typically don’t tip for each round.

Easy savings:

Aim for your main meal at lunch—many pubs do generous midday specials.

Mix one pub meal + one cottage meal per day; you’ll feel better and spend less.

Sights, Experiences & The Free Stuff (There’s a Lot)

Ireland is rich in free landscapes: coastal drives, cliff walks, beaches, abbey ruins, and village rambles. Build your paid experiences around your interests:

Castles & heritage sites: €5–€20 each.

Cliffs & headlands: Often free; sometimes parking fees apply.

Distillery/brewery tours: €15–€35 (tasting included).

Boat trips (Skelligs/Aran/bay cruises): €20–€80.

Live music: Free in pubs—buy a drink, enjoy the session.

Car vs. Bus/Rail (Should You Drive the Whole Time?)

Drive the loops, skip the cities. In Dublin and Belfast, park the car and use public transit or walk. City parking + anxiety ≠ fun.

No-car option: Intercity buses and trains connect major stops, and local tours cover day trips. It’s cheaper but much less flexible in rural areas.

Sample 7-Day Budgets You Can Copy

1) The Frugal Duo (2 people, manual car, B&Bs + cottage mix)

Car hire + fuel (split 2 ways): €280–360 per person

Stays (7 nts, average €100/room): €350 total → €175 pp

Food: 1 meal out/day (€14), groceries (€6/day) → ~€140–170 pp

Sights & misc.: €70–100 ppTotal: €665–805 per person (~$760–920)

2) Friends on Comfort (4–5 people, manual diesel, cottages/B&Bs, 1–2 meals out)

Car + fuel (split 4–5 ways): €140–220 pp

Stays (mix of cottages €180 + B&Bs €120): ~€1,000 total → €200–250 pp

Food: groceries + most lunches out → €200–280 pp

Sights & misc.: €90–140 ppTotal: €630–890 per person (~$720–1,020)

3) Treat-Yourself Couple (automatic, central hotels, daily meals out)

Car + fuel: €350–500 pp

Stays: €900–1,200 per room → €450–600 pp

Food: €350–500 pp

Sights/tours: €150–250 ppTotal: €1,300–1,850 per person (~$1,490–2,120)

Build-Your-Own Budget (Plug & Play)

A) Fuel Estimator

Sum expected km (Google Maps, add 10–15% for detours).

Multiply by 0.06 (6 L/100 km).

Multiply by fuel price per liter.

Split by # of people.

Example: 1,500 km × 0.06 = 90 L × €1.80 ≈ €162 total / 4 friends = €40.50 pp.

B) Meal Plan Calculator (per person)

Eating out: €14 lunch + €18 dinner (average) × days eating out.

Groceries: €6–9/day × trip length.

“Fun” (coffee, scones, ice cream, pints): €6–12/day.

C) Admissions

Make a wish-list, jot the entry price beside each, multiply by the number of travelers who’ll go inside (not everyone wants every castle), and total it.

Seasonal Switches (How Timing Changes Price)

SeasonStaysCar HireWeatherStrategyNov–MarLowestLowerCold, short days, cozy firesBase in towns, enjoy pubs & museumsApr–MayModerateModerateFresh greens, fewer crowdsBook popular spots, bring layersJun–AugHighestHighestLong days, festivalsBook early, stay outside hotspotsSep–OctModerateModerateCrisp + colorfulGreat balance of price and weather

Money-Saving Hacks (and Common Mistakes to Dodge)

Easy Wins

Manual + diesel when possible.

Two named drivers max.

Self-cater + B&B breakfasts—best of both.

Stay 10–20 minutes outside tourist centers.

Make lunch your big meal (early-bird dinners can also be a steal).

Free sights first, sprinkle in paid gems.

Oops, Don’t Do These

Forgetting the M50 toll (if your rental doesn’t auto-bill, pay by the deadline).

Assuming your credit card covers Irish car hire—many don’t.

Underestimating parking costs/fines in cities.

Overpacking (tiny boot + giant suitcases = Tetris pain).

Trying to “do it all.” You’ll spend your week rushing, not reveling.

Cards, Cash & Connectivity

Cards: Tap-to-pay widely accepted; have a PIN for chip transactions.

Cash: Useful in small villages/markets and for tipping a brilliant guide.

Currency: Republic = Euro; Northern Ireland = Pound Sterling. Your card will handle both, but ATM fees can vary—withdraw in larger chunks.

SIM/eSIM: Irish eSIMs and prepaid SIMs are easy; otherwise enable roaming for the UK as well if you’ll cross into Northern Ireland.

Maps: Download offline maps for rural bits and national parks.

A 7-Day Loop with Distances (Fuel Reality Check)

Day 1: Dublin → Kilkenny (130 km)Day 2: Kilkenny → Killarney (220 km)Day 3: Ring of Kerry or Dingle loop (160–200 km)Day 4: Killarney → Cliffs of Moher → Galway (250–300 km)Day 5: Galway → Sligo/Donegal (210–250 km)Day 6: Donegal → Causeway Coast → Belfast (250–300 km)Day 7: Belfast → Dublin (165 km)Total: ~1,385–1,565 km (without spontaneous “let’s chase that rainbow” detours)

At 6 L/100 km and €1.80/L, expect €150–170 in fuel for the car—then split it.

Printable Checklists

Car Rental & Pick-Up

☐ Booking confirmation + driver’s license(s)

☐ Printed proof if using credit card insurance

☐ Credit card for deposit (in driver’s name)

☐ Check for: scratches, tyres, spare, fuel level, toll policy

☐ Add a phone mount + USB cable for navigation

Self-Catering Starter Shop

☐ Breakfast basics (eggs, bread, yogurt, fruit, tea/coffee)

☐ Easy dinners (pasta + sauce, stir-fry veggies + noodles)

☐ Picnic kit (baguette, cheese, deli meats, crisps)

☐ Salt/pepper, oil/butter (smallest possible sizes)

☐ Reusable water bottles + snacks for the car

In-Car Day Kit

☐ Paper map (signal can fade)

☐ Layers + rain shell

☐ Sunglasses (glare off the sea is real)

☐ Coins/contactless for parking

☐ Small first-aid + motion sickness tabs

☐ Reusable tote (shops charge for bags)

1-Week Ireland Road Trip Costs — 12-Question FAQ

1) What’s a realistic per-person total for 7 days?

For a small group (2–5 people sharing car and stays), expect $630–$1,300 USD (€560–€1,150) per person excluding flights. Your choices on car type/insurance, city vs. countryside stays, and how often you eat out move the needle most.

2) How much should I budget for the car (rental + fuel)?

Plan $180–$450 USD (€160–€400) per person. Manual + diesel is cheapest; automatics and extra drivers raise costs. A classic 1,400–1,700 km loop typically burns €150–€170 of diesel total (then split across the group).

3) Is insurance really that big a deal?

Yes. Base quotes often exclude excess waivers. If your credit card doesn’t cover Ireland (many don’t), add SCDW/excess waiver for peace of mind. Also ask about windscreen/tyre coverage if you’ll hit rural lanes.

4) What’s the accommodation range for a week?

Shared cottages/B&Bs outside city centers keep it sane: €70–€160 per room most nights outside peak Dublin/Galway. A 7-night mix usually lands €300–€500 pp when split.

5) How much does food cost if I cook some meals?

Self-cater breakfast + one dinner most days, and eat out once daily: €20–€40 pp/day. Pub mains run €12–€20, coffee + scone €4–€7, pints €5–€7.

6) What about sightseeing and “little extras”?

Many landscapes are free. Paid sites (castles, cliffs, distilleries) are typically €5–€20. A practical buffer is €70–€140 pp for the week, including postcards, parking, and the odd gelato.

7) Is diesel really cheaper overall?

Usually, yes, on longer loops. Even if the day rate is similar, fuel efficiency (5–6 L/100 km) keeps the total lower than petrol for a week of touring.

8) How can I keep the rental cost down?

Book early, pick manual, limit to 1–2 named drivers, skip airport pickup if city pickup is cheaper, and verify if crossing to Northern Ireland adds fees (often it doesn’t, but declare it).

9) Will tolls and parking surprise me?

Plan a little. Dublin’s M50 is barrier-free (your rental may auto-bill with a small admin fee). Elsewhere, tolls are modest. In cities, garages cost more but save stress; villages tend to have cheaper public lots.

10) What’s a simple per-person budget I can copy?

Frugal: manual + diesel, self-catered, mostly free sights → $580–$910

Comfort: cottage/B&B mix, 1–2 meals out/day → $830–$1,290

Treat-yourself: automatic, central hotels, daily eating out → $1,310–$2,180

11) Does season change the math?

Yes. Jun–Aug = highest for cars and rooms. Apr–May/Sep–Oct are price-friendly with good weather. Nov–Mar slashes stay prices but shortens days (cozy pub season!).

12) Quick money-savers that don’t hurt the fun?

Share costs with friends, stay 10–20 minutes outside hotspots, make lunch your bigger meal (early-bird menus help), pick lodgings with breakfast included, and prioritize free coastal drives with a few paid gems.

Do you have any other tips for doing a road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland on a budget?Feel free to share them below.


How to Deal with Altitude Sickness in Cuzco, Peru (and Elsewhere)

The first time I visited Cuzco, I didn't feel any altitude sickness. I remember thinking it was a bit of a myth, until I saw one woman pass out cold while touring the ruins of Saksaywaman just outside of Cuzco; clearly this ailment was real.
How To Stay Healthy In Peru: Preventing & Dealing with Altitude Sickness

What is altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness, also known as soroche in Peru, is a condition that occurs when you climb to a high altitude too quickly. Because the air is "thinner" at higher altitudes, when you ascend too quickly, your body struggles to get the oxygen it needs. This can result in symptoms like: constant headache which may feel like a migraine, tiredness, nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, feeling unsteady, difficulty sleeping, upset stomach, shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and generally feeling unwell.

Altitude sickness in Cuzco is common, especially for travellers who have flown in from Lima without time to acclimatize to the change in altitude. Going from sea level to 3,400 meters is a lot for your body to handle. Some feel the effects mildly while others feel quite ill, but it's hard to predict how your body will react until you get there.
The thing about altitude sickness is that there's really no magical cure aside from descending to a lower altitude, however, there are a few ways to help lessen the effects of it. Here are a few tips to consider for anyone visiting Cuzco:

Head straight to bed and rest
The first things you should do once you arrive is get to your hotel and go straight to bed! Your body will need plenty of rest while it tries to acclimatize to the altitude, so take it easy. Have a nap, watch TV, or read a book, just don't run out and start sightseeing right away because the altitude could hit you like a sack of potatoes when you least expect it.

Avoid strenuous physical activity
While you'll obviously want to start your trip and begin visiting attractions around town, you should still avoid strenuous physical activity for the first few days. Of course you can still go out sightseeing, but just remember to take plenty of breaks, go easy on the steep hills, and take a taxi when necessary. On that note, you'll also want to keep your daypack as light as possible. Only bring what you need for a day out sightseeing: water, camera, map, etc. There's no need to wear yourself out.

Stay hydrated
Drink lots and lots of water! Because humidity is lower in higher altitudes, that means sweat evaporates quickly and you may not realize how much water you are losing. The lower oxygen levels also cause you to breathe faster, which means that you lose more water through respiration. You should be drinking plenty of water throughout the day, while also avoiding beverages with alcohol and caffeine which cause dehydration.

Try coca leaves
Coca leaves have been used for thousands of years by the people of the Andean region for their ability to help prevent altitude sickness. Mate de coca is a tea infusion made with coca leaves and it's a popular drink that you'll find available in hotel lobbies and restaurant menus. Alternatively, you can buy coca candy at the market or get a bag of loose coca leaves to chew on. If you decided to chew coca, you'll want to grab a wad of leaves, break the stems off, wrap them into a little ball, and place them on the inside of your cheek. You can then bite down on the leaves every once in a while to help release the juices.

Be mindful of your meal sizes
Digestion occurs at a much slower rate here so you don't want to go hog wild with your meals. You'll notice that larger meals are eaten at lunchtime, while lighter meals are served at dinnertime. Having a light dinner will also help you avoid sleepless nights as your body inevitably struggles to digest all the food. Carbohydrates allow you to use oxygen more efficiently and to maintain your energy levels, so pastas, breads, soups and potato-based dishes are recommended.
Take bottled oxygen
Most hotels in Cuzco that are 4-5 stars have oxygen tanks at hand for any guests who are feeling unwell. You'll also notice that pharmacies around Cuzco carry bottles of OxyShot, which are small oxygen canisters that you can carry with you.

Talk to your doctor about taking medication
I'm clearly not a doctor here, so if you want to get some medication to help fight altitude sickness and you have any pre-existing conditions you'll want to talk to your physician about that. That being said, acetazolamide is the most common pill used to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. You can either buy it at home with a doctor's prescription or pick it up at a pharmacy in Cuzco (much cheaper if you ask me). I took it as a precaution on my most recent trip to Cuzco, but it caused me tingling hands and feet which drove me crazy. That's not to say you'll experience the same side-effects, but I ended up ditching the medication after one pill and stuck to coca tea instead.
Get travel insurance before you go
This should go without saying as you should always be covered when you travel, but even more so when dealing with high altitude; this coming to you from someone who ended up in a hospital due to high altitude sickness - albeit in Argentina and not Peru. Lesson learned: always be prepared. You can get a quote from World Nomads travel insurance for your Peru trip here.

Building an “Altitude-Smart” Itinerary: 10 Practical Steps for Cuzco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

1 – Climb the Andes in Stages, Not in One Hop
Think of elevation like a staircase, not an elevator. The biggest mistake travellers make is flying directly from Lima (sea level) to Cuzco, sleeping one night and jumping on the 5 a.m. train to Machu Picchu. Your body hasn’t had time to build extra red-blood cells, so even mild exertion feels brutal. A gentler strategy:

Day 1: Fly to Arequipa (2 335 m) or Sacred Valley towns like Ollantaytambo (2 800 m). Spend 48 hours there.

Day 3-4: Bus or train up to Cuzco (3 400 m) for museums, cafés and short strolls.

Day 6+: Tackle high points such as Rainbow Mountain (5 200 m) or Salkantay Pass (4 650 m).

That 600-to-1 000 m gradual ascend gives your body time to acclimate safely.
2 – Book “Low-Sleep, High-Play” Excursions
If you plan to hike the classic Inca Trail or the higher-altitude Lares route, pick operators who camp below 3 800 m on night one, even if the trail crosses a loftier pass during the day. Sleeping high is what triggers severe AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness); day hikes with low camps mitigate the risk.
3 – Schedule a Buffer Day After Arrival
Your flight lands at 09:00? Resist the urge to bolt off on a city tour. Instead, pre-arrange an early hotel check-in, drink two mugs of coca or muña (Andean mint) tea, and nap. The adrenaline of travel often masks early symptoms; downtime lets you monitor your body before you commit money to non-refundable tours.
4 – Know the “Red-Flag” Symptoms
Mild headaches and light fatigue are common, but seek medical help immediately if you experience:

Symptom
Possible Condition
Why It’s Dangerous

Persistent vomiting
Moderate AMS
Dehydration → cerebral oedema

Confusion, trouble walking straight
HACE (brain swelling)
Can progress to coma

Breathlessness at rest or dry cough
HAPE (lung fluid)
Can cause respiratory failure

Blue lips/fingertips, chest tightness
HAPE
Needs oxygen + descent

Cuzco’s Clínica O2 and Hospital Regional have 24-hour emergency oxygen wards; don’t wait it out in your hostel.
5 – Make Friends With the Local Pharmacies (Boticas)
Peru’s boticas double as mini-clinics. Pharmacists can check your blood oxygen saturation with a fingertip oximeter (usually free with any purchase). A reading < 85 % at rest is a signal to descend or seek oxygen therapy. Buy a cheap oximeter on Amazon before your trip if you’re trekking remote routes.

6 – Fuel Wisely: “BEANS” Formula
An easy mnemonic nutritionists at Cuzco’s Andes Clinic teach:

Bananas – potassium combats altitude-induced diuresis.

Eggs – lean protein for muscle recovery.

Andean grains (quinoa, kiwicha) – complex carbs use less oxygen to metabolise.

Nuts – magnesium to relax blood vessels.

Soups – hydration + electrolytes. Peru’s caldo de gallina is a favourite.

Street-stall chicharrón might smell divine, but save heavy fried food for when you return to sea level.

7 – Rethink Alcohol and Nightlife
Yes, pisco sours flow freely in Cuzco’s Plaza de Armas bars, but alcohol dilates blood vessels and worsens headaches. Doctors recommend limiting intake to one drink the first 48 hours at altitude. If you must toast the Andes, alternate each cocktail with a litre of water.
8 – Try “Sorojchi Pills” (The Local Cocktail)
Peru’s over-the-counter sorojchi pill combines low-dose acetazolamide, aspirin and caffeine. Many travellers find it gentler than full-strength Diamox. Take one tablet 30 minutes before landing or bus ascent, then every 8 hours the first day. Important: check for sulfa allergies—acetazolamide is a sulfonamide drug.
9 – Embrace Slow Travel Sightseeing
Cuzco’s historical core sits in a bowl; use gravity to your advantage. Stroll downhill from San Blas artisans’ quarter to the cathedral, cheap taxi back up. Buy the 10-site Boleto Turístico but spread ruins over several days:Day 1 – Sacsayhuamán at sunrise (10-min taxi), rest, museum.Day 2 – Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay by colectivo, lunch picnic.Rushing all four sites in one morning—common on mass tours—spikes heart rate and AMS risk.
10 – Sample “Altitude-Friendly” One-Week Peru Plan

Day
Sleep Elevation
Activities
Why It Works

1
Lima (0 m)
Colonial centre, ceviche crawl
Start sea-level oxygen saturation 98-100 %

2-3
Arequipa (2 335 m)
Santa Catalina Monastery, alpaca steak
First acclimatization step

4
Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo 2 800 m)
Pisac market, salt terraces of Maras
Easy hikes, scenic train next day

5
Aguas Calientes (2 040 m)
Evening hot springs soak
Sleep lower before Machu Picchu

6
Machu Picchu (visit 2 430 m)
Sunrise citadel tour, Huayna Picchu option
Moderate altitude, descend same day

6-7
Cuzco (3 400 m)
Museums, San Pedro market, chocolate workshop
Body now primed for higher city

This stair-step model slashes AMS cases compared with flying direct to Cuzco and racing to MP.
FAQs: Dealing with Altitude Sickness in Cuzco (and Beyond)
What is altitude sickness and why does it happen?
It’s your body’s reaction to lower oxygen pressure at elevation (Acute Mountain Sickness/AMS). Typical symptoms: headache, nausea, poor sleep, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, rapid pulse. It usually appears 6–24 hours after ascent.
What altitude is Cuzco, and who is most at risk?
Cuzco sits around 3,400 m (11,150 ft). Risk rises if you fly directly from sea level, ascend quickly, over-exert, or have prior AMS. Anyone can be affected—fitness doesn’t guarantee immunity.
How can I prevent AMS when flying into Cuzco?
Use a stair-step itinerary: sleep lower (Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo ~2,800 m) your first 1–2 nights, keep day one light, hydrate, avoid alcohol, and consider acetazolamide (doctor-guided) starting the day before ascent.
What are the best first-48-hour habits?
Rest, walk slowly, skip heavy meals, drink water + electrolytes, and keep activities gentle. Take taxis uphill, limit luggage/daypack weight, and prioritize sleep.
Do coca tea/leaves actually help?
Many travelers find mate de coca or chewed coca leaves subjectively helpful. They’re legal in Peru, mildly stimulating, and often offered in hotels. Note: coca products can trigger positive drug screens outside the Andes—avoid carrying them across borders.
Which medications are used, and what about side effects?
Acetazolamide (Diamox) can prevent/lessen AMS when started before/at ascent; common side effects include tingling in hands/feet, altered taste of carbonated drinks, frequent urination. Ibuprofen can ease headache. Discuss options/contraindications with your doctor (e.g., sulfa allergy).
Should I use bottled oxygen or OxyShot cans?
Supplemental oxygen can relieve symptoms temporarily and is available at many hotels/clinics. It’s not a cure—you still need rest, fluids, and time (and descent if symptoms worsen).
What and how should I eat at altitude?
Go light and carb-forward (soups, potatoes, grains like quinoa/kiwicha). Heavy, greasy meals and alcohol can worsen symptoms and sleep. Small, frequent meals beat feasts.
What are the red-flag symptoms that mean “get help now”?
Severe headache, persistent vomiting, confusion/ataxia, breathlessness at rest, dry cough turning pink-frothy, chest tightness, blue lips/fingertips. These suggest HACE/HAPE—seek medical care + oxygen + immediate descent.
Can kids, older adults, or athletes acclimatize safely?
Yes—with the same rules: slow ascent, rest days, fluids, and light activity. Don’t assume athletic conditioning protects you; monitor everyone, especially children who may struggle to describe symptoms.
Is a pulse oximeter worth packing?
Handy but not essential. A fingertip SpO₂ reading helps track trends; feeling worse matters more than a single number. If saturation is very low at rest and symptoms are significant, seek care.
What if I still want to do Rainbow Mountain or a high pass?
Schedule after several acclimatized days, go with a guide, ascend gradually, and have a turn-around rule. If you feel ill, stop ascending; no photo is worth HAPE/HACE.
Buen viaje y buen soroche-free aventura!
Have you ever experienced altitude sickness?How did you deal with it?


How to Save $17,000 Teaching English in South Korea For 1 Year

Let's talk money. Sure, some may say talking about your salary is gauche, but if you're looking to move to Korea to work as an ESL teacher (like I did), then money is surely one of the first things on your mind.
Whether your motivation is paying back student loans, saving up for grad school, or funding an extended backpacking trip around the world, it's more than just 'culture' that draws young university graduates all the way out here! I'm talking won, and millions of won!
How To Save Money Teaching English in South Korea

Can you save money teaching in Korea for a year?

Before we figure out how much you can save in a year, I'm going to talk you through my salary and my monthly spending so that you too can figure out how much you'll be able to save depending on your lifestyle.
The salary of an English teacher can range from 1.9 million won to 2.4 million won for teaching at a public school or a private academy (hagwon). Pay varies on location, experience, education, and additional TESL certifications.

My salary as an English teacher = 2.1 million won
And this is a look at how I spent my money on a monthly basis:
Accommodation
Free! One of the best things about working as a teacher is that your Korean apartment is covered by your school!
Total = 0

Food
Eating out in Korea is very affordable if you eat at your local kimbap restaurant. These little restaurants serve traditional Korean meals, most of which revolve around rice, noodles, and kimchi. You can expect to get a tuna or tofu stew with rice for 5,000 won, kimchi fried rice for 4,000 won, or beef dumplings for 2,500 won. Because many of the meals in these restaurants are rice based, they are very filling. Also, every dish comes with at least 3 side dishes which means you're getting your money's worth. If you go out to a foreign food restaurant you can expect to pay 10,000 to 20,000 for a dish.
Groceries are a completely different story, especially when it comes to the fresh produce section - ie. fresh fruits and vegetables cost about the same as gold.
I usually ate out once a day and cooked a simple meal at home.
Total = 400,000 won
Booze
I went out for drinks a few times when I first moved here and soon realized it was putting a hole in my wallet as well as ruining my Saturday mornings, so that was that. No soju or makkoli for me aside from the occasional get together.
If you do drink, you can expect to pay 10,000 won for cocktails at a bar. (You can easily spend 50,000 to 100,000 won in one night depending on how heavy you're going.) A pitcher of local beer will be fairly cheap, and even cheaper than that is going to the local 7 Eleven or grocery store and picking up a bottle of soju.
Total = 0 won

Transportation
If I had stayed in my city there wouldn't have been a need for me to use transportation; my work was a 2 minute walk away, and I had a supermarket, movie theatre and restaurants within walking distance. However, staying within the confines of your neighbourhood when you're in a new country is highly unlikely - you'll want to explore!
I used to charge 10,000 won a week on my T-money card to go out on weekends, and I was using mine A LOT! You may be able to get by on less depending on how often you use it.
Total = 40,000 won
Telephone
I got the most basic plan I could find at 'The Arrival Store' which happened to be a used cell phone. I paid $40 USD to rent my phone for the year, and my monthly bill came to 30,000 won (roughly $30) a month. It was a very straight forward process; I ordered the phone online and it was promptly delivered to my desk the following day.
Total= 30,000 won
Electric bill
I've heard some teachers had ridiculously low bills around 50,000 won a month, but unfortunately, that wasn't the case for me. Even though I consumed very little electricity, my bill usually hovered around the 120,000 mark as did my coworkers' bills. I have a feeling that in my particular building each apartment paid a set fee based on its size and occupancy as opposed to consumption.
Total= 120,000 won
Gas bill
This was my favourite bill of them all - the one for the gas I used on my cooking stove. The highest bill I ever got was just under $3 USD, but it was often just over $1.50 USD. Best part about it was that this bill only came every 3 months! That goes to show you how often I cooked, or how cheap the gas is...
Total = 2,000 won
Internet bill
Again, there were cheaper internet providers out there, but I was stuck with the plan the previous teachers had. Not a complete rip-off, but you can get monthly plans for as little as 18,000 won.
Total = 30,000 won
Going out & shopping
A lot of the places I visited this year around the country and around my city were either free or extremely affordable: temples, food markets, palaces, museums, parks.
In terms of shopping, I am probably not the best example since I was absolutely frugal this year. I recall going shopping a total of 4-5 times and one of those times I stumbled upon a massive sale at Forever21 which means I walked out with a handful of cute summer dresses for a fraction of their original cost. When I wasn't shopping in the sales rack, I was browsing the underground shopping center at Jonggak Station, where there are bargains to be had.
I went out during the spring and summer months a lot more than I did during winter (which I spent hibernating indoors), but this is my rough estimate.
Total = 120,000 won

Trips around Korea
I travelled quite a bit during my year in Korea. There were a few overnight trips to places like Busan, Damyang, Gwangju and Boseong, and lots of day trips to places like Seoul, Cheonan, Boryeong, Daejeon and Samcheok.
The day trips were quite affordable, especially travelling on the Mugunghwa train. They usually came to no more than 35,000 won including transportation and food in the city.
Weekend trips including food, transportation, accommodations , and sightseeing usually came to 150,000 won. Of course these overnight weekend trips weren't a monthly occurrence, but I'll keep those in as a monthly cost in case you're planning to do quite a bit of travel.
Total = 150,000 won
Deductions
There were also monthly deductions made to my pay cheque in the form of a security deposit for my apartment, and tax contributions, but I have not included those as most of that money was returned to me at the end of the year.
The Bonuses!
If you last a full year in Korea, then your bank account is in for a real treat on month number 12! Aside from your final pay cheque, you'll get your severance pay (which is equal to one month's pay), your pension (to which you contribute half, and your employer contributes the other), your apartment's security deposit, and your airfare reimbursement for your flight back home.

What was left over at the end of the month?
1,208,000  won
That is roughly about $1,083 (USD) left over at the end of the month. So, times that by 11 months (because my first month's pay was measly) and you have $11,913 at the end of the year. Plus add all your bonuses which you get at the end which come to over $5,000.
You have yourself roughly $ 17,000 in one year.
I'll admit, I was careful with my spending, but I also had plenty of weekends away and outings in the city. I know people who have managed to save even more than I did, and others who managed to save less. It all depends on your lifestyle and just how motivated you are.

Level‑Up Your Korean ESL Savings: A Practical 12‑Month Playbook

Goal: Take the baseline ₩17 million (~US $17k) example and push it even further—without living like a hermit.Who it’s for: First‑time teachers, late‑career changers, and anyone who wants to stash serious won while still enjoying the kimchi, karaoke, and weekend getaways.

Choose Your Contract Wisely
Public school (EPIK, GEPIK, SMOE) vs. Hagwon

Factor
Public
Hagwon

Base salary
₩2.0–2.3 M
₩2.1–2.5 M

Hours
8 a.m.–4 p.m. (M–F)
Varies; often afternoons/evenings

Job security
Stable (Gov’t)
Depends on owner; research is vital

Vacation
18–26 days + national hols
7–14 days + national hols

OT pay
Rare
Common—but negotiate rate

Money move:If you’re a night owl who can handle the occasional schedule change, a reputable hagwon with guaranteed OT can add ₩300 k–₩500 k a month. Just vet the school through forums (Dave’s, Reddit r/TEFL, Facebook groups) and ask to email a current teacher.
Reduce Fixed Costs Before You Even Arrive

Category
Old‑School Plan
Upgrade for Extra Savings

Phone
₩30 k basic SIM
Pick up a used unlocked LTE phone (Hongdae electronics market) + MVNO SIM (U+ 알뜰폰) = ₩16 k/month, 5 GB data

Internet
₩30 k shared
Split the bill with neighbours using a dual‑band router; average drops to ₩12 k

Utilities
₩120 k flat
Install a ₩10 k plug‑in space heater + shut off ondol after 10 p.m. → winter bill ~₩70 k

Insurance
Employer provides
Top‑up travel/gear insurance via World Nomads for under ₩10 k/month

Annual delta: roughly ₩840 k saved.

Hack Your Food Budget Without Subsisting on Ramyeon

Master the “₩5 000 rule.”If a restaurant charges more than ₩5 000 for lunch, it better come with unlimited 반찬 (banchan) or takeaway leftovers.

Wholesale Wednesdays.

Visit your local 하나로 Mart or Costco (membership ₩38 k) mid‑week for bulk boneless chicken, rice, and frozen veg.

Meal‑prep “dak‑galbi bowls” for ₩2 200 a portion.

Seasonal produce cycles.

Strawberries (Jan–Mar), cherries (June), persimmons (Oct). Buy crates, freeze half.

School lunches = free macros.Public school teachers: never skip kimchi‑jjigae day—it’s your protein quota and saves ₩35 k/week.

Social dining swaps.Rotate jeonse dinners with your teacher squad: each host cooks one low‑cost dish, everyone BYOB. Cheaper (and quieter) than Hongdae bars.

Leverage Korea’s Banking Perks

Tactic
Why It Rocks
Steps

Installment savings account (적금)
2.5 %–3.3 % annual interest & forced saving discipline
Open at KEB Hana or Shinhan; auto‑draft ₩900 k/month; maturity bonus aligns with contract finish

Tax refund (연말정산)
Up to ₩200 k refund if you log debit/credit purchases
Link card to 국세청 app > export “소득공제” file come February

Telegraphic Transfer (TT) fee waiver
Normal TT = ₩18 k each time
Keep ≥ US$1 000 in foreign currency account; request waiver code from the branch

End‑of‑year interest + refunds can tack on another ₩500 k–₩700 k to your total.

Build “Monk‑Mode” Weekdays, Flexible Weekends
Monday–Thursday (no‑spend basics)

After‑work workout: Free outdoor calisthenics parks; if winter, jump rope in your apartment.

Language exchange: 1‑hr session = free coffee coupon + new 친구 (friend).

Skill stack: Take a free Coursera TESOL specialization—boosts future salary tiers.

Friday night rule: Subway home by last train (≈ ₩1 300) or crash at a jjimjilbang (₩11 k) instead of paying taxi fares.
Saturday splurge: One monthly “treat yo’ self” Seoul day—budget ₩60 k for brunch, COEX aquarium, and craft beers.
Sunday reset: Meal‑prep, bank transfer, WhatsApp family chat—zero spend.
Average variable spending: ₩90 k/week → ₩360 k/month.
Monetise Your Time (Without a Second Visa)

Important: Check your E‑2 or EPIK contract. Most secondary work is technically illegal without an “F” visa. Below are legal or grey‑but‑accepted methods many teachers use. Move at your own risk.

Proof‑reading & editing

University professors often pay ₩30 k per 1 000 words.

Build rapport by attending free campus language clubs.

Online tutoring (outside Korea‑based platforms)

Cambly or Preply (USD pay, outside Korean labour jurisdiction). Earn $15/hr, set weekend hours.

YouTube or blogging

AdSense payout after $100 threshold; document K‑beauty or hiking.

Estate “key money” arbitrage

If you inherit a friend’s apartment with ₩5 M deposit, upgrade to one offering ₩7 M deposit + lower monthly rent, pocket the spread (requires landlord approval).

Even a modest ₩250 k/month side income increases annual savings by ₩3 M.

Exit Strategy: Maximise the Big Payout

Lump‑Sum Item
Average ₩
Optimization Hack

Severance
2.1 M
Negotiate minor OT in final month—they calculate on average salary

Pension (for Canadians/US‑citizens)
2.3 M–2.6 M
Ensure HR submits last month premium; file airport refund early (Incheon “Hana Bank/ NH”)

Security deposit
0.5 M–1.0 M
Film apartment walk‑through; push for same‑day bank transfer

Flight reimbursement
1.2 M
Book early saver fare (₩700 k) → keep difference

Total “Golden Parachute” ≈ ₩6 M–₩7 M if you tick every box.
One‑Year Financial Snapshot

Category
Monthly ₩
Annual ₩

Net salary after tax
2 050 k
24 600 k

Living costs (after hacks)
–830 k
–9 960 k

Core savings
1 220 k
14 640 k

Side gigs (avg)
+250 k
+3 000 k

Interest & tax refund
—
+600 k

Subtotal at Month 11
—
18 240 k

“Golden Parachute”
—
+6 500 k

Grand Total
—
24 740 k ≈ US $21 k

That’s enough to: pay off a year of student‑loan interest, fund an 8‑month SE Asia backpacking loop, or cover most MPH/MA tuition at a UK university.

Mindset: Save Hard, Live Rich

Adopt the 80/20 souvenir rule: Photograph 80 %, ship only 20 % (art, tailored hanbok, celadon ware). Your wallet—and suitcase—will thank you.

Remember why you came: Print your financial goal, tape it to the fridge next to the convenience‑store kimchi. Micro‑reminders curb impulse buys.

Stay curious, not consumerist: Swap Lotte World for free fortress hikes, K‑style BBQ for ₩8 k galbi‑tang joints where ajusshis teach you soju etiquette. Experiences trump line‑items.

FAQs: Save $17,000 Teaching English in South Korea (1 Year)
How much do first-year ESL teachers typically earn in Korea?
Most public/hagwon contracts pay ₩1.9–2.4M/month base, depending on location, experience, and credentials (TEFL/TESOL, degree, etc.).
Is housing really free?
Yes—school-provided housing (or a stipend) is standard. You’ll still pay utilities & internet, but no monthly rent is a huge saver.
What monthly expenses should I expect?
Common ranges: food ₩300–450k, transport ₩20–60k, phone ₩15–35k, internet ₩18–35k, electric/gas ₩60–140k (seasonal). Weekends away add more.
Can I really save ₩17M (~US$17k) in a year?
Yes—if you keep costs moderate, travel smart within Korea, and avoid big bar/club spends, ₩17M+ is realistic from salary + end-of-contract payouts.
What bonuses/payouts arrive at the end of the contract?
Typically: severance ≈ one month’s salary, pension refund (if eligible), apartment deposit return, and return-flight reimbursement. Together this can top ₩5–7M.
How does the pension refund work for foreigners?
If your nationality is in a reciprocal pension agreement (e.g., U.S., Canada), you and the employer contribute monthly, and you can claim a lump-sum refund when leaving Korea.
What about taxes and health insurance?
Income tax is low for typical ESL salaries. You’ll also have National Health Insurance (NHI) and pension deductions. These are mandatory and partly employer-paid.
Public school vs. hagwon: which saves more?
Public: steadier hours/holidays. Hagwon: potential for higher base or paid OT but variable schedules. Either can hit the ₩17M goal with disciplined spending.
Biggest money drains to watch?
Frequent nights out, imported groceries, taxis vs. transit, winter heating bills, and impulse shopping. Set weekly caps for eating out & entertainment.
Can I do side gigs to save more?
Only if your visa/contract allows (many E-2 visas don’t). Legal options: employer-approved OT, content creation outside Korea’s job market, or permitted private lessons with written approval.
How do I move savings home with low fees?
Use a bank FX account or reputable remittance app, transfer in fewer, larger batches, and compare spreads/fees. Keep documents handy for compliance.
What’s a simple monthly savings target?
Aim to bank ₩1.1–1.3M/month from salary alone. Add the year-end lump sum (severance + pension + deposit + flight) to cross ₩17M+ total.
Were you able to save money teaching in Korea?


How to Spend 24 Hours in Hamburg, Germany Travel Guide (1-Day Travel Itinerary)

What can you do with 24 hours in Hamburg? Quite a lot, it turns out! Sam and I kicked off our recent trip to Germany in the northern port city of Hamburg, and while we only had one full day to explore, we hit the ground running ready to eat, see and do as much as possible.

After a solid night's rest, we seemed to have kicked the jet lag, and we spent our day exploring the red-brick warehouses of Speicherstadt, touring the port by boat, eating our fill of pickled herring, enjoying the city views from Elbphilharmonie Plaza, taking part in a chocolate-making workshop and a whole lot more.

So if an action-packed day sounds like your idea of a good time, read on for our 1-day itinerary to Hamburg!

Things to Do, See, Eat, Drink & Experience in Hamburg: A One Day Itinerary

Explore Speicherstadt on foot

We kicked off our morning in Hamburg with a walk through Speicherstadt. This is the largest warehouse district in the world, but I assure you it's far more magical than its name suggests; when I say warehouses, I'm talking about Neo-Gothic red-brick structures that stand on timber foundations along the canals.

Speicherstadt is located in Hamburg’s port area within the HafenCity quarter, and it’s probably the image that comes to mind when you hear the city’s name.

The buildings here date from 1883 to 1927 and they are works of art. These warehouses have towers, alcoves and cranes that were once used for loading goods on and off boats.

It's no surprise that Speicherstadt is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This Hamburg Walking Tour explores the Speicherstadt District, the Old Town and the Elbe River, so it's a nice introduction to the city.

We spent the morning crisscrossing the neighbourhood and wandering down back lanes with cameras in hand. It was a walk without a particular destination in mind, but that's how we enjoy experiencing a new city.

Our favourite find of the day was the Coffee Plaza, where I got Mr. Coffee Enthusiast to pose in front of the roasted coffee bean.

Try a pickled herring sandwich

Then we went in search of food! Being the foodies that we are, Sam and I were very excited to try the Fischbrötchen.

This is a traditional dish that’s very popular in Northern Germany due to its proximity to the North Sea and Baltic Sea.

The dish consists of fish on a bun (typically herring) with various toppings that can include onions, pickles and various sauces.

We tried the ones at Brücke 10 on St Pauli Landungsbrücken, which came highly recommended.

We ended up ordering two different interpretations of the dish: Sam got the classic pickled herring on a bun which is known as the Bismarck, and I chose the fried and marinated herring known as the Brathering.

Both herrings were served with white onions on a freshly baked bun. The sandwiches were delicious and made for an excellent meal on the go on a busy day of sightseeing.

Walk across the Old Elbe Tunnel

The Elbe Tunnel first opened in 1911 as both a pedestrian and vehicle tunnel that allowed people to get to the other side of the Elbe River.

The event was a big sensation as it essentially connected central Hamburg with the docks and shipyard area, making the commute to work in one of the world’s biggest harbours so much easier.

Here you had these two 6-meter diameter tubes buried 24 meters beneath the surface and running 426 meters in length. How convenient!

Today, the Old Elbe Tunnel is still in use by both locals and visitors.

In order to reach the tunnel, you can take the spiralling stairs or ride the old elevators with their rattling wooden doors.

It really is an experience, and while we technically didn’t need to get to the other side of the Elbe, we still enjoyed walking across.

Take a boat tour of the Port of Hamburg

Another activity that we did in Hamburg was to take a tour of the port. There are numerous tour operators to choose from, so you’ll have lots of options depending on your budget and how long you want to be out on the water.

We ended up doing the classic 1-hour tour with Barkassen-Meyer. They have one daily departure in English from April to October; otherwise, the commentary is in German, but they do give you a booklet that has information on all the landmarks along the route.

This tour allows you to see some major city landmarks from the water and also experience a working port.

It was amazing to see how the giant cargo ships were loaded with containers right in front of our eyes. I felt tiny as we cruised past.

An alternative to the boat tour is to ride ferry #72, which does a triangular circuit from Landungsbrücken Brücke 1 to Arningstraße to Elbphilharmonie.

You won’t get to hear any history or see the working port up close and personal, but if you just want a taste of being out on the water, then it’s really nice sitting on the top deck and doing a loop or two.

For something a little less traditional, this Hamburg sailing trip aboard a two-masted wooden sailboat is a unique way to take in the sights.

Join a chocolate-making workshop

One of the funnest activities we did in Hamburg was take a chocolate-making workshop at Chocoversum.

This is Hamburg’s very own chocolate museum, and over the course of 90 minutes, we got to hear a brief history of chocolate-making and make some chocolate of our own. We were particularly excited for the latter!

Once inside the chocolate laboratory, we were tasked with creating our dream chocolate bar. We could choose between milk chocolate or dark chocolate, and add a total of 3 special ingredients (any more and it would overwhelm the chocolate bar).

I made a milk chocolate bar with roasted coconut, cranberries and amarettini. Meanwhile, Sam made a milk chocolate bar featuring sugar-coated ginger bits, coconut and white chocolate chips.

We then left our chocolate bars to cool in the fridge while we continued with the rest of our guided tour through Chocoversum.

Along the way, we got to try the cacao bean once it’s been roasted, and we also got to sample chocolate at different stages of production. It was a really fun interactive experience and one that I think can work for both adults and children.

Getting to take the chocolates home as a souvenir was a really nice touch…even if we ate them before going back home to Canada.

Go up the Elbphilarmonie Plaza

Later that evening, we went to the Elbphilarmonie, which is a massive concert hall located in Hamburg's HafenCity quarter.

The building combines a glass structure that sits atop a former brick warehouse. Some say the structure is meant to resemble a hoisted sail, while others say it's a wave or even an iceberg.

I think the interpretation of a hoisted sail is very fitting given Hamburg's history as one of the world's leading ports.

While we didn't get to attend a concert, we did make it up to the observation deck, known as the Elbphilarmonie Plaza, which is located on the 8th floor.

You can walk the full perimeter of the deck for 360-degree views of the city; you can look out over the port, watch as the cranes continue to expand HafenCity, peep the steeples in the city centre, and get an idea of how spread out Hamburg really is.

We went at sunset and while it was a little bit overcast, we still enjoyed the experience.

Visit Miniatur Wunderland

Though our visit to Hamburg may have been brief, we knew we couldn’t miss visiting one of the city’s most famed attractions, Miniatur Wunderland!

It's kind of hard to describe this place, but imagine a scale model of the world with a focus on transportation. In fact, Miniatur Wunderland is home to the largest model railway in the world!

Inside you'll find 15,715 meters of train tracks that recreate epic train journeys across Europe, there is a miniature airport complete with LED lights that simulate take-offs and landings, and then you have these incredible scenes of holiday destinations across Europe - all in miniature scale!

My favourite part was watching the trains travel through the Alps - it made me want to hop on a train and see these places in real life and life-sized!

Before visiting, I kind of thought this place was just for families with kids, but I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it.

Have dinner at NENI Hamburg

We ended our 24 hours in Hamburg with dinner at NENI Hamburg, an Israeli restaurant located in the Altes Hafenamt Hotel.

I ordered their Jerusalem platter which had a bed of hummus with dollops of tahini, drizzled olive oil, chunks of roast chicken, red and green peppers, and pita bread. It was a feast of a meal and I enjoyed every last bite.

Meanwhile, Sam couldn’t leave Hamburg without trying a hamburger, so he got a burger with a twist! He ordered the pulled beef burger braised in maple syrup and served on a brioche bun with cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, pickled chilli and a side of spicy sweet potato fries with mango aioli.

A very memorable dinner!

Spend the night at Hotel Altes Hafenamt

During our stay in Hamburg, we stayed at the 25hours Hotel Altes Hafenamt.

The hotel is located in a historic Neo-Gothic, red-brick building that was formerly the Port Authority Building, and it also happens to be the oldest building in HafenCity.

The best part of the stay was being situated within walking distance of Speicherstadt.

This, in my opinion, is the best neighbourhood for anyone visiting the city because you are surrounded by Hamburg’s historic red-brick buildings and you really get a sense of this being a port city with the many bridges, canals, and all the boat activity in the harbour.

And that concludes our 24 hours in Hamburg! As you can see there is quite a bit to do in the city, and while we only scratched the surface, we were quite happy with everything we managed to experience with one full day in the city.

This was a great introduction to Hamburg and we still have plenty left to see on a future visit to Germany.

Next up is our day trip to Lüneburg, which is a super easy destination to visit from Hamburg.

This trip was made possible in partnership with the German National Tourist Board and Hamburg Ahoi.

Making the Most of Your 24 Hours in Hamburg

Plan Like a Pro: Hamburg in 24 Hours

1. Prioritize Your Must-SeesLet’s be honest, even the most ambitious traveler can’t see it all in a day. Make a short “must-do” list to avoid FOMO:

Speicherstadt walk (UNESCO World Heritage magic)

Port tour (by boat or ferry #72)

Elbphilharmonie views (preferably at sunset)

Miniatur Wunderland (for the kid in all of us)

Sample a Fischbrötchen

Wander HafenCity after dark

2. Beat the QueuesSome of Hamburg’s top attractions (especially Miniatur Wunderland and the Elbphilharmonie Plaza) can have lines, especially on weekends or holidays. Book tickets online in advance if possible, or plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.

Getting Around: Fast, Fun & Fuss-Free

Hamburg is walkable—especially the city centre, Speicherstadt, and HafenCity—but distances can add up if you try to do everything on foot. Mix up your modes of transport:

U-Bahn & S-Bahn: Fast, clean, and reliable. The HVV day pass can be good value for tourists.

Ferries: Regular ferries on the Elbe are included in public transport tickets and give you a mini–port cruise for the price of a bus ride.

City bikes & e-scooters: For quick hops between attractions or if your feet are sore from all those cobbles.

Old Elbe Tunnel: Free for pedestrians and cyclists, and an iconic local shortcut!

Beyond the Guidebook: Local Experiences

1. St. Michael’s Church (Der Michel)

Climb the tower for panoramic city and harbour views (if your legs are up for the challenge—453 steps, but worth it!).Address: Englische Planke 1a

2. Planten un Blomen

If you’re in town on a warm day, don’t miss this sprawling urban park. It’s free to visit and home to rose gardens, a Japanese tea house (with real tea ceremonies!), and summer water-light shows.

3. Sternschanze & Karolinenviertel

For coffee breaks, people-watching, and indie shops, explore these two bohemian neighbourhoods. Grab a seat at a cafe terrace, browse vintage boutiques, or hunt for murals and street art.Local snack tip: Try Franzbrötchen, a sweet cinnamon pastry native to Hamburg.

4. Beatlesplatz & Reeperbahn

Music lover? Head to the St. Pauli district to discover Beatles history (they played here before they were famous!), then stroll down the notorious Reeperbahn for neon lights, quirky bars, and late-night eats.

5. Isemarkt

If your 24 hours in Hamburg happens to fall on a Tuesday or Friday, start your day at Isemarkt—one of Europe’s longest open-air markets. Stock up on picnic supplies, fresh flowers, and the best German pretzels you’ll ever taste.

Dining & Drinking: What to Eat (And Where to Eat It!)

Don’t leave without trying:

Fischbrötchen: The iconic pickled herring sandwich (look for “Bismarck” or “Brathering” at stands near Landungsbrücken).

Labskaus: A sailor’s stew with corned beef, potatoes, beetroot, pickled herring, and a fried egg. Sounds odd, but it’s beloved here!

Franzbrötchen: Cinnamon-swirled pastry perfection

Craft beer: Hamburg’s breweries are booming—try Ratsherrn or ÜberQuell for a pint with a view.

Hamburg at Night: Evening Strolls & Entertainment

Evening walk: Start at Speicherstadt, cross the bridges, and loop through HafenCity for magical photo ops.

Rooftop bars: For cocktails with a view, check out “Clouds” near St. Pauli or the “20up” bar at the Empire Riverside Hotel.

Live music: The city has a rich jazz and indie scene—look for shows at Mojo Club, Gängeviertel, or Pony Bar.

Elbphilharmonie concerts: If you’re a classical music fan, check the schedule in advance and book a ticket for an unforgettable night.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHwPN1o7VrM

Day Tripper? Ideas for a Second Visit

Blankenese: A picturesque hillside neighbourhood west of the city, known for its stairways, white villas, and Elbe beach.

Lüneburg: A medieval town full of red-brick Gothic architecture and cozy cafes.

Heligoland: Germany’s only deep-sea island, with dramatic cliffs, unique wildlife, and duty-free shopping.

The Altes Land: Europe’s largest fruit-growing region—apple and cherry blossoms in spring are magical!

Packing & Planning Essentials: What to Know Before You Go

Weather: Hamburg weather is famously unpredictable—layer up, and pack a rain jacket, even in summer.

Shoes: You’ll be walking a LOT, so comfortable footwear is a must.

Language: Most people speak excellent English, but a few words of German always win smiles.

Payment: Cards are accepted widely, but small change is handy for bakeries, market stalls, and U-Bahn tickets.

Timing: Start early to maximize daylight—Hamburg mornings are beautiful, especially along the canals.

Quick Logistics & Money Smarts

HVV Day Pass – €8.50 covers all U-/S-Bahn, buses and harbour ferries until 06:00 next day.

Bike-share – StadtRAD: first 30 min free each ride; download app, link credit card.

Card culture – Hamburg is card-friendly (even Apple Pay at kiosks), but Fischmarkt and small kebab kiosks remain cash only.

Sunday closures – Shops closed; flea markets & museums thrive. Plan souvenir shopping for Saturday.

Hamburg in 24 Hours — Essential Trip FAQ (Speicherstadt, Elbphilharmonie, Port & More)

What’s the best 1-day route to see Hamburg’s highlights?

Start in Speicherstadt for red-brick canals, cross to HafenCity, snack on a Fischbrötchen at Landungsbrücken, walk the Old Elbe Tunnel, take a port boat tour, catch sunset views from the Elbphilharmonie Plaza, then cap it with Miniatur Wunderland or dinner in the area.

Do I need to prebook anything for a single day?

If possible, reserve Miniatur Wunderland time slots and Elbphilharmonie Plaza access (free tickets but timed). For the classic 1-hour port cruise, you can usually buy on the spot—leave a little buffer.

Where should I try a Fischbrötchen (herring sandwich)?

Head to Brücke 10 at St. Pauli Landungsbrücken. Classic choices: Bismarck (pickled herring) or Brathering (fried, marinated). Expect onions on a fresh roll—perfect dockside fuel.

Is the Old Elbe Tunnel worth it if I’m short on time?

Yes—it's a quick, atmospheric walk under the river (vintage lifts, tiled tubes) and drops you at great waterfront viewpoints. It doubles as a fun shortcut back to Landungsbrücken.

Boat tour vs. public ferry—what’s better in one day?

Tours (e.g., Barkassen) get you working-port close-ups and live commentary. Ferry #72 is a budget “mini-cruise” triangle to the Elbphilharmonie; nice if time is tight or you already rode a full tour.

When should I go up to the Elbphilharmonie Plaza?

Golden hour to sunset for city-and-harbour glow. You can loop the 360° terrace for Speicherstadt steeples, HafenCity cranes, and the Elbe—all in one go.

Is Miniatur Wunderland fun for adults too?

Absolutely. It’s the world’s largest model railway, with an airport that “operates,” day-night light cycles, and meticulous cityscapes. Book a timed entry to dodge queues.

Any unique, hands-on activity for a short visit?

Chocoversum’s 90-minute chocolate workshop lets you create a custom bar (milk or dark + three toppings) and taste cacao through production stages—great for couples or families.

How do I get around fastest in a day?

Walk Speicherstadt/HafenCity, then mix in U/S-Bahn and Elbe ferries (HVV day ticket). Bikes/e-scooters help with medium hops. Hamburg is compact but you’ll log steps—wear comfy shoes.

What’s a good central area to stay for this itinerary?

HafenCity/Speicherstadt keeps you steps from canals, bridges, and evening walks; Altstadt/Neustadt are also excellent for transit and dining. If you like nightlife, St. Pauli is lively.

What local bites (beyond herring) should I try?

Morning Franzbrötchen (cinnamon pastry), Labskaus (hearty sailor’s plate), and craft beer at Ratsherrn or ÜberQuell. For dinner, Middle-Eastern-leaning NENI Hamburg is a tasty twist.

Any quick weather or timing tips for one day?

Hamburg weather flips fast—layer up and carry a light rain shell. Start early in Speicherstadt for calm canals, save Elbphilharmonie for sunset, and book one anchor attraction (Wunderland) ahead.