How Do You Travel to North Korea?
Travelling to North Korea is very different from visiting most other countries. Tourism in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) is tightly controlled, and visitors must follow specific rules and procedures when planning a trip.
While the country has historically welcomed organised tour groups, travel to North Korea is only possible under certain conditions and through approved operators.
You can find our North Korea tours below:
Travelling on Organised Tours
The most important rule for visiting North Korea is that tourists cannot travel independently. All visitors must join an organised tour arranged through an authorised travel company.
These tours are coordinated with North Korean authorities and include approved itineraries, accommodation and transportation within the country.
Throughout the trip, visitors are accompanied by local guides who assist with logistics and help ensure that travel regulations are followed.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit North Korea?
All travellers visiting North Korea must obtain a visa before entering the country. Unlike many destinations, this is arranged through your tour operator as part of the travel booking process rather than through an embassy application.
Travellers do not receive a visa sticker in their passport. Instead, the visa is issued on a separate document that is presented when entering and leaving the country. Your tour company manages the paperwork and submits the required information to the authorities in advance of your trip.
If you want a full explanation of the process, including eligibility and how visas are issued, read our guide on Do You Need a Visa for North Korea?.
Entering North Korea
Most international visitors have traditionally entered North Korea through China.
The two most common routes have been:
Flights between Beijing and Pyongyang
International trains travelling from Beijing through the Chinese border city of Dandong and into North Korea
Both options have historically been used by tour groups travelling to the DPRK.
What Travel in North Korea Is Like
Once inside North Korea, travel is structured around a planned itinerary organised in advance. Visitors typically stay in designated hotels and travel between locations using private vehicles arranged by their tour operator.
Tour programmes often include visits to major sites such as Pyongyang, the Demilitarised Zone and historical or cultural landmarks across the country.
Local guides accompany travellers throughout the journey and provide insight into the country’s history, culture and daily life.
Visiting North Korea
Travelling to North Korea remains a unique experience and requires careful planning. Because tourism is regulated and organised through authorised operators, visitors must follow specific procedures when arranging a trip.
For travellers interested in visiting the DPRK, the best way to stay informed is to follow updates from experienced tour operators who work with trusted local partners and understand the country’s travel regulations.
At Beyond the Borders Tours, we specialise in organised travel to destinations rarely visited by international travellers, including North Korea. Our team works closely with trusted local partners to arrange carefully planned journeys across the DPRK.
