Why October
October is peak season on Gurupdo. The slopes around Gaemeoribeok Hill turn gold with silver grass, and on clear days the hill and sea unfold together in a panorama that is hard to match in any other season. Daytime sun is still strong, but nights are windy enough to rattle tent zippers — so checking the weather forecast before you go is essential.
Ferry Bookings: The Real Challenge
Reaching Gurupdo requires two legs in each direction: first from Incheon Yeonanjudu Ferry Terminal to Deokjeokdo Island, then a connecting boat from Deokjeokdo to Gurupdo. The return journey follows the same route in reverse. That means four separate ferry segments, each booked individually.
Weekend sailings in September and October sell out within five minutes of reservations opening, so find out the exact opening time in advance and log on right at that moment.
Your departure date also affects travel time. Leaving on an even-numbered date takes roughly three hours, while leaving on an odd-numbered date takes roughly four. The most time-efficient combination for a one-night trip is therefore an even-numbered departure day and an odd-numbered return day. Note that a same-day trip is not possible — at least one overnight stay is required.
If you miss the initial release, watch for cancellations. They tend to appear in the greatest numbers three days before departure, and the **Gabogo Sipun Seom** (가보고 싶은 섬) app makes tracking them considerably easier.
Parking at Incheon Yeonanjudu Ferry Terminal is paid, at roughly 10,000 KRW per day, and advance registration is recommended. Factor this into your budget if driving.
Trekking: Gaemeoribeok Hill
The centerpiece of any Gurupdo visit is the trek to Gaemeoribeok Hill, widely known as a backpacking destination where grassland, sea, and sunset views converge. Come fully prepared: Gaemeoribeok has no toilets, drinking water, or electricity. Bring enough food and water from the mainland. Camping gear can be rented from rental services, but many of them do not refund due to weather, so check the three-day forecast before committing.
Multiple visitor accounts mention encountering deer on the trail. The island has earned the nickname "Korea's Galápagos" for good reason — its ecosystem remains largely untouched.
Practical Tips
- **Ferry reservations**: Use the Gabogo Sipun Seom app or the ferry operator's website; confirm the exact opening time and connect right at that moment. Book all four segments separately.
- **Date combination**: Even-numbered departure day + odd-numbered return day saves the most travel time.
- **Cancellation tickets**: Monitor closely three days before departure; the Gabogo Sipun Seom app is useful for this.
- **Parking**: Paid lot at Incheon Yeonanjudu Ferry Terminal, roughly 10,000 KRW per day; advance registration recommended.
- **Packing**: Carry sufficient drinking water and food; hiking shoes are essential. Camping gear rental is available if you don't own equipment.
- **Accommodation**: If using a guesthouse (minbak) on the island, confirm your reservation by phone in advance.
