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Taroko Gorge, Taiwan
By Mark Edwards | July 30, 2010
Taroko Gorge National Park is the main reason to visit Hualien, a city on Taiwan’s eastern side. Spanish prospectors knew of its golden bounty before it became one of Taiwan’s top tourism spots, but you certainly don’t go there for a history lesson. The town, only 150 years old, is the gateway for stunning Taroko Gorge where you’ll find 19km of river lying below forested slopes.
From Taipei catch the easy, two hour train to Hualien. If you can, sit on the left side of the train to get clear views of the stunning coastline. Taiwan is not called the beautiful island for nothing! In Taroko Gorge itself, you’ll see waterfalls, vegetation coming down the cliffs and the blue river running throughout. Hiking trails abound, meaning you can easily find your own secluded spot. There are also plenty of chances to see animals throughout the park, and maybe even encounter one of several species of boar.
Accommodation options in Hualien are rather varied, but there are no Taroko Gorge hotels! Hualien seldom fills up and there are good prices to be found within walking distance of the train station. Hostels are also available for people on a major budget.
To get to Taroko Gorge National Park from Hualien, you can:
1. Use a tour company. Dozens of tour companies offer bus or coach tours from Hualien. They’re not hard to find.
2. Use a scooter. It will take around 1/3 of an hour to make the journey. Have an international, or preferably a Taiwan driving licence.
3. Hire a taxi. Every taxi driver in Hualien will be willing to take you to Taroko Gorge. You can also find English-speaking drivers who will act as a private Taroko Gorge Tour for as little as US$20 a day. With a local expert you will not have the same feeling of exploration, but you will be able to find areas tour buses won’t go and cover much more ground than hiking.
Learn more about Taroko Gorge. Stop byIndie Travel Podcast where you can find out all about Taroko and independent travel.
Topics: Travel |
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