An 11-Day Small Group Tour Exclusively for Solo Travellers | 13th –23rd October 2027
Discover Taiwan on an unforgettable small group tour designed exclusively for solo travellers. Journey through Taiwan’s most beautiful season, when autumn brings cooler skies, golden landscapes and the perfect conditions for exploring this captivating island of ancient traditions, breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities and unforgettable flavours.
This fully escorted Taiwan tour for solo travellers is limited to just 15 guests, plus your dedicated Tour Host, creating the perfect balance of companionship, connection and personal discovery. With your own private room throughout, you’ll enjoy the freedom of solo travel while sharing meaningful experiences with a small group of like-minded travellers.
From the moment you arrive in Taipei, you’ll discover a city where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. Wander through the atmospheric lanes of historic Dihua Street, admire the grandeur of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and explore the world-renowned National Palace Museum, home to one of the finest collections of Chinese art and cultural treasures.
Taiwan is a paradise for food lovers, and this journey takes you beyond the typical tourist trail to experience the island’s incredible culinary traditions firsthand. Sample sizzling street food at Taipei’s famous Shilin Night Market, harvest spring onions at a working farm and learn to prepare traditional pancakes, roll your own tea leaves at a scenic mountain plantation, and gather clams from the unique tidal flats of Fangyuan’s coastal wetlands.
Beyond the cities, discover a side of Taiwan where lush mountains, ancient forests and timeless traditions await. Spend a meaningful day with the Indigenous Atayal people, learning ancient forest skills, preparing bamboo rice and gaining insight into a culture deeply connected to the natural environment.
Experience the beauty of Sun Moon Lake as you cycle along peaceful lakeside trails surrounded by mountains, before boarding the historic Alishan Forest Railway as it winds through misty landscapes and some of the world’s oldest cypress forests — one of Taiwan’s most iconic rail journeys.
From bustling night markets and local food experiences to tranquil mountain landscapes and authentic cultural encounters, this escorted Taiwan small group tour reveals the many reasons this fascinating island remains one of Asia’s most rewarding and lesser-discovered destinations.
Tour Highlights
Taipei – Old Meets New Your Taiwan adventure begins in Taipei, a city where centuries-old trading streets sit blocks from glass towers. Wander the atmospheric lanes of historic Dihua Street, where Fujian-style Qing Dynasty shopfronts rub shoulders with contemporary cafés, then take in the grandeur of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Come evening, dive into Shilin Night Market, ranked among Asia’s best food markets and the place to sample everything from oyster omelettes to Taiwan’s famous stinky tofu.
Imperial Treasures & Mountain Flavours Discover the world’s largest collection of Chinese art at the renowned National Palace Museum, then trade city streets for farmland at a working spring onion farm — get your hands dirty harvesting your own produce before learning to whip up crispy spring onion pancakes, one of Taiwan’s best-loved street snacks.
A Full Day with the Indigenous Atayal People A rare and genuinely meaningful cultural encounter: spend a full day with Taiwan’s Indigenous Atayal people, one of 16 recognised Indigenous groups who together make up just 2.5% of Taiwan’s population. Learn traditional customs and the story behind the community’s distinctive facial tattoos, help prepare bamboo rice for a shared lunch, and head into the forest to learn ancestral hunting and trap-setting techniques passed down through generations — an experience of genuine cultural connection you won’t stumble onto travelling solo.
Sun Moon Lake — Taiwan’s Alpine Jewel Journey into Taiwan’s mountain heartland to Sun Moon Lake, the island’s only natural lake, where alpine scenery meets glassy, mirror-still water in the foothills of the Central Mountain Range. Walk forest trails to the 46-metre Ci’en Pagoda for sweeping panoramic views, then trade your walking shoes for a bike and cruise one of Taiwan’s most picturesque lakeside cycling routes.
Tea, Craft & Architecture Discover the art of Taiwanese black tea production at Hugosum Tea Farm, where you’ll roll your own leaves to dry and take home. Continue to the striking Chung Tai Chan Monastery, where Chinese and Western design combine to dramatic effect, exploring the gardens and grounds with a local guide.
Alishan Forest Railway — Ancient Cypress Country Journey into the spectacular Alishan National Scenic Area, one of Taiwan’s most breathtaking mountain regions, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and mist-shrouded peaks. Board the historic Alishan Forest Railway for an iconic scenic journey through changing tropical, subtropical, and temperate forest, then walk the Sacred Forest Trail among towering cypress trees, some centuries old.
Fangyuan’s Tidal Flats — Life on the Coastal Wetlands Visit the historic Longshan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Taiwan, before continuing to the fishing village of Fangyuan for a hands-on experience you won’t find in any guidebook — traditional clam harvesting on the tidal flats, alongside mudskippers, fiddler crabs, and migratory birds, with the chance to sample fresh local seafood straight from the wetlands.
Farewell in Taipei Return to Taipei with time for last-minute shopping or a trip up the Taipei 101 observation deck, before a farewell dinner with your fellow solo travellers — now firm friends — marking the close of an unforgettable Taiwan journey.
Why Choose Two’s a Crowd for Solo Travel in Taiwan?
- 100% solo traveller groups — everyone arrives alone, nobody stays that way for long
- Maximum 15 guests — an intimate small group, never a coach tour
- Your own private room — always, no sharing
- Dedicated Two’s a Crowd Tour Host, plus a local English-speaking guide throughout
- A full day immersed in Indigenous Atayal culture — genuine, hands-on, not touristic
- Hands-on experiences throughout — farm harvesting, tea rolling, clam harvesting, bamboo rice making
- Scenic journey on the historic Alishan Forest Railway through ancient cypress forest
- October departure — Taiwan’s most beautiful season, cool skies and golden landscapes
- Private airport transfers on arrival and departure — no navigating logistics alone
Ready to Discover Taiwan?
Ancient forests, Indigenous culture, and some of Asia’s best street food — this is Taiwan at its most authentic, shared with a small group of like-minded solo travellers.
Departing 13th October 2027 | From A$7,990 per person
👉 Book Your Place Today
Will you join us?
Day 1 – Wednesday 13th October
TAIPEI (D)
Huān yíng — welcome to Taiwan! Your adventure begins in the bustling capital of Taipei, where you’ll be met by our airport transfer (shared with other guests arriving on the same flight) — no queuing or navigating solo, just a smooth start to your Taiwan adventure. Arrive early? Relax in the soothing hot springs of Yangmingshan National Park before your journey begins. This evening at approximately 6pm, you will meet your fellow travellers, Tour Host and guide to celebrate the start of your Taiwan adventure with a welcome dinner and your first taste of the island’s incredible cuisine.
Your own room at Amba Taipei Songshan or similar
Day 2 – Thursday 14th October
ANCIENT STREETS, IMPERIAL TREASURES & NIGHT MARKET FLAVOURS (B)
Spend the morning wandering Dihua Street, Taipei’s oldest and most atmospheric trading district — Fujian-style Qing Dynasty shopfronts and Baroque façades rub shoulders with contemporary cafés and art studios, each one a chapter in Taipei’s rich merchant history, brought to life by your local leader’s stories. From there, continue to the striking Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, an impressive dedication to Taiwan’s former president and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Come evening, dive into Shilin Night Market at your own pace — ranked among Asia’s best food markets, and the perfect place to sample fried fish meatballs, oyster omelettes, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, Taiwan’s famous stinky tofu.
Included Activity
- Guided walk through Dihua Street
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Shilin Night Market visit
Your own room at Amba Taipei Songshan or similar
Day 3 – Friday 15th October
YILAN – INTO THE MOUNTAINS: TEA, CULTURE & TRADITIONAL FLAVOURS (B,D)
This morning, journey to the National Palace Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Chinese art, before swapping city streets for farmland at a local spring onion farm — pull on your gumboots, get grubby harvesting your own produce, then learn to whip up crispy spring onion pancakes, one of Taiwan’s best-loved street snacks. Arrive at your hotel in Yilan by late afternoon, with free time to relax before an included group dinner. If your hotel’s hot spring facilities call your name, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and cap.
Included Activity
- National Palace Museum
- Spring onion farm experience
- Taiwanese cooking demonstration
Your own room at Wellspring by Silks Jiaoxi or similar
Day 4 – Saturday 16th October
CONNECTING WITH TAIWAN’S INDIGENOUS HERITAGE (B,L)
Today belongs entirely to Taiwan’s Indigenous Atayal people — one of 16 recognised Indigenous groups who together make up just 2.5% of Taiwan’s population, making this a genuinely rare opportunity for cultural connection you simply won’t stumble onto travelling solo. Learn about traditional customs, tribal dress, and the story behind the community’s distinctive facial tattoos, then roll up your sleeves to help prepare bamboo rice before sharing a hearty, flavour-packed lunch with your hosts. In the afternoon, head into the forest to learn ancestral hunting and trap-setting techniques, passed down through generations, before saying goodbye to your hospitable hosts and returning to Yilan for a free evening to explore.
Included Activity
- Indigenous Atayal village visit
- Cultural presentation
- Traditional bamboo rice experience
- Authentic Indigenous lunch
Your own room at Wellspring by Silks Jiaoxi or similar
Day 5 – Sunday 17th October
MISTY MOUNTAINS & THE MAGIC OF SUN MOON LAKE (B,D)
Start the morning at a local market, learning the fragrant ingredients that define Taiwanese cuisine, before hand-rolling your own peanut roll ice cream — a beloved local treat with a story behind every bite. From there, journey through Taiwan’s mountain heartland to Sun Moon Lake — Taiwan’s only natural lake, named for the sun-shaped east and moon-shaped west of its shoreline — where alpine scenery meets glassy, mirror-still water in the foothills of the Central Mountain Range. Settle into your lakeside hotel for an included group dinner, then enjoy a free evening to stroll the shore or watch the sunset over the surrounding peaks.
Included Activity
- Local market visit
- Peanut roll ice cream making
- Scenic drive to Sun Moon Lake
Your own room at Wyndham Sun Moon Lake or similar
Day 6 – Monday 18th October
SCENIC TRAILS & LAKESIDE SERENITY (B,L)
After breakfast, lace up for a scenic walk along forest trails to the 46-metre-tall Ci’en Pagoda, where sweeping panoramic views stretch across Sun Moon Lake and its surrounding mountains — climb to the top for the best vantage point of the trip so far. Return to town for an included lunch, then trade your walking shoes for a bike and cruise one of Taiwan’s most picturesque lakeside cycling routes. However you choose to spend the rest of the afternoon and evening, the water is right there, waiting, whenever you want to slow down.
Included Activity
- Ci’en Pagoda Trail walk
- Lakeside cycling experience
Your own room at Wyndham Sun Moon Lake or similar
Day 7 – Tuesday 19th October
CHIAYI . COASTAL TRADITIONS & LIFE ON THE TIDAL FLATS (B,L)
Discover the art of Taiwanese black tea production at Hugosum Tea Farm, where you’ll roll your own leaves — dried and packaged to take a taste of Taiwan home with you. After an included lunch, visit the architecturally striking Chung Tai Chan Monastery, where Chinese and Western design combine to dramatic effect. Meet one of the resident nuns or a local guide for a tour through the gardens and a glimpse into the monastery’s history, before settling into Chiayi for a free evening.
Included Activity
- Tea plantation visit
- Tea rolling demonstration
- Chung Tai Chan Monastery
Your own room at Maison de Chine or similar
Day 8 – Wednesday 20th October
FROM LOCAL VILLAGES TO HIDDEN LANDSCAPES (B,L,D)
This morning, journey into the spectacular Alishan National Scenic Area, one of Taiwan’s most breathtaking mountain regions. Alongside Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge, Alishan is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, ancient forests, and mist-shrouded peaks. Board the historic Alishan Forest Railway for a very short iconic scenic trip through a changing landscape of tropical, subtropical, and temperate forests. Continue on foot along the Sacred Forest Trail, where towering cypress trees — some centuries old — create a magical atmosphere and offer a glimpse into Taiwan’s incredible natural heritage. Later, return to Chiayi and relax over an included group dinner, sharing the day’s memorable experiences with your fellow travellers.
Included Activity
- Alishan Forest Railway
- Sacred Forest Trail walk
- National Park sightseeing
Your own room at Maison de Chine or similar
Day 9 – Thursday 21st October
TAICHUNG. FLAVOURS & EVERYDAY TAIWAN (B,D)
Today, head to the flat, fertile land of Changhua County, sometimes known as Taiwan’s ‘breadbasket’. Visit the historic Longshan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Taiwan, before continuing to the fishing village of Fangyuan for a hands-on experience you won’t find in any guidebook — traditional clam harvesting on the tidal flats, alongside mudskippers, fiddler crabs and migratory birds in this unique wetland ecosystem, with the chance to sample fresh local seafood like crabs and oysters. Arrive in Taichung by afternoon for a group dinner, with a free evening to explore at your own pace.
Included Activity
- Longshan Temple
- Traditional clam harvesting experience
- Coastal wetland visit
Your own room at La Vida Hotel or similar
Day 10 – Friday 22nd October
TAIPEI (B,D)
Head back to Taipei, with plenty of afternoon left for last-minute shopping or a trip up to the Taipei 101 observation deck. Tonight, gather with your fellow solo travellers — now firm friends — for a farewell dinner marking the close of an unforgettable Taiwan adventure.
Your own room at Amba Taipei Songshan or similar
Day 11 – Saturday 23rd October
TAIPEI. FAREWELL TO AN ISLAND OF MEMORIES (B)
After one final Taiwanese breakfast, your solo adventure through Taiwan comes to a close. Sit back for your included private airport transfer to your onward journey — no rushing, no logistics to navigate alone, just happy memories to carry home.your onward journey — no rushing, no logistics to navigate alone, just happy memories to take home.
WANT TO EXTEND YOUR ADVENTURE?
Make the most of your time in Asia by combining your Taiwan journey with our 13-day Highlights of Japan tour, which operates immediately before this tour. We can book pre and post tour accommodation in Taipei for $365 per person, including breakfast and your transfer.
TOUR PRICING: A$7,990
TOUR DATES: 13TH – 23RD OCTOBER 2027
Taiwan
Although Taiwan shares historical and cultural ties with mainland China, it operates with its own government, currency, immigration system and laws. For travellers, Taiwan is a separate destination with its own entry requirements.
Weather in October
October is one of the best times to visit Taiwan, with warm temperatures, lower humidity and generally settled weather. It marks the beginning of autumn, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring both cities and natural landscapes.
- Average daytime temperature: 24°C – 29°C
- Evening temperatures: 20°C – 23°C
- Rainfall: Occasional showers are possible, particularly in the north, but October is significantly drier than the summer months.
- What to pack: Lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings and air-conditioned buildings, plus a small umbrella or lightweight rain jacket.
Currency
The official currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$).
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shopping centres and larger restaurants.
- Cash is still preferred at many local markets, smaller restaurants and family-run businesses.
- ATMs are widely available throughout Taiwan and generally accept international cards.
- It is a good idea to carry some local currency for small purchases and street food.
Electricity
Taiwan uses 110 volts with a frequency of 60Hz.
- Power outlets are Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat pins with a round grounding pin), similar to those used in the United States and Japan.
- Australian travellers will require a travel adaptor, and appliances that are not dual voltage may also require a voltage converter.
Language
The official language is Mandarin Chinese. English is commonly spoken in hotels, airports and many tourist attractions, although it is less widely spoken in smaller towns and local markets.
Time Zone
Taiwan operates on Taiwan Standard Time (UTC +8) and does not observe daylight saving time.
Tipping
Tipping is generally not expected in Taiwan. Most hotels and higher-end restaurants include a 10% service charge in the bill. Tipping guides or drivers is appreciated but not obligatory.
Wi-Fi & Mobile Coverage
Taiwan has excellent internet infrastructure, with free Wi-Fi available in many hotels, cafés, shopping centres and public transport hubs. International roaming is available, or travellers can purchase an affordable local SIM card or eSIM on arrival.
Food & Drinking Water
Taiwan is renowned for its delicious cuisine, from bustling night markets to modern restaurants. Bottled water is readily available and recommended for drinking. Tap water is generally safe once boiled, but visitors are advised to drink bottled or filtered water during their stay.
An 11-Day Small Group Tour Exclusively for Solo Travellers | 13th –23rd October 2027
Discover Taiwan on an unforgettable small group tour designed exclusively for solo travellers. Journey through Taiwan’s most beautiful season, when autumn brings cooler skies, golden landscapes and the perfect conditions for exploring this captivating island of ancient traditions, breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities and unforgettable flavours.
This fully escorted Taiwan tour for solo travellers is limited to just 15 guests, plus your dedicated Tour Host, creating the perfect balance of companionship, connection and personal discovery. With your own private room throughout, you’ll enjoy the freedom of solo travel while sharing meaningful experiences with a small group of like-minded travellers.
From the moment you arrive in Taipei, you’ll discover a city where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. Wander through the atmospheric lanes of historic Dihua Street, admire the grandeur of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and explore the world-renowned National Palace Museum, home to one of the finest collections of Chinese art and cultural treasures.
Taiwan is a paradise for food lovers, and this journey takes you beyond the typical tourist trail to experience the island’s incredible culinary traditions firsthand. Sample sizzling street food at Taipei’s famous Shilin Night Market, harvest spring onions at a working farm and learn to prepare traditional pancakes, roll your own tea leaves at a scenic mountain plantation, and gather clams from the unique tidal flats of Fangyuan’s coastal wetlands.
Beyond the cities, discover a side of Taiwan where lush mountains, ancient forests and timeless traditions await. Spend a meaningful day with the Indigenous Atayal people, learning ancient forest skills, preparing bamboo rice and gaining insight into a culture deeply connected to the natural environment.
Experience the beauty of Sun Moon Lake as you cycle along peaceful lakeside trails surrounded by mountains, before boarding the historic Alishan Forest Railway as it winds through misty landscapes and some of the world’s oldest cypress forests — one of Taiwan’s most iconic rail journeys.
From bustling night markets and local food experiences to tranquil mountain landscapes and authentic cultural encounters, this escorted Taiwan small group tour reveals the many reasons this fascinating island remains one of Asia’s most rewarding and lesser-discovered destinations.
Tour Highlights
Taipei – Old Meets New Your Taiwan adventure begins in Taipei, a city where centuries-old trading streets sit blocks from glass towers. Wander the atmospheric lanes of historic Dihua Street, where Fujian-style Qing Dynasty shopfronts rub shoulders with contemporary cafés, then take in the grandeur of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Come evening, dive into Shilin Night Market, ranked among Asia’s best food markets and the place to sample everything from oyster omelettes to Taiwan’s famous stinky tofu.
Imperial Treasures & Mountain Flavours Discover the world’s largest collection of Chinese art at the renowned National Palace Museum, then trade city streets for farmland at a working spring onion farm — get your hands dirty harvesting your own produce before learning to whip up crispy spring onion pancakes, one of Taiwan’s best-loved street snacks.
A Full Day with the Indigenous Atayal People A rare and genuinely meaningful cultural encounter: spend a full day with Taiwan’s Indigenous Atayal people, one of 16 recognised Indigenous groups who together make up just 2.5% of Taiwan’s population. Learn traditional customs and the story behind the community’s distinctive facial tattoos, help prepare bamboo rice for a shared lunch, and head into the forest to learn ancestral hunting and trap-setting techniques passed down through generations — an experience of genuine cultural connection you won’t stumble onto travelling solo.
Sun Moon Lake — Taiwan’s Alpine Jewel Journey into Taiwan’s mountain heartland to Sun Moon Lake, the island’s only natural lake, where alpine scenery meets glassy, mirror-still water in the foothills of the Central Mountain Range. Walk forest trails to the 46-metre Ci’en Pagoda for sweeping panoramic views, then trade your walking shoes for a bike and cruise one of Taiwan’s most picturesque lakeside cycling routes.
Tea, Craft & Architecture Discover the art of Taiwanese black tea production at Hugosum Tea Farm, where you’ll roll your own leaves to dry and take home. Continue to the striking Chung Tai Chan Monastery, where Chinese and Western design combine to dramatic effect, exploring the gardens and grounds with a local guide.
Alishan Forest Railway — Ancient Cypress Country Journey into the spectacular Alishan National Scenic Area, one of Taiwan’s most breathtaking mountain regions, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and mist-shrouded peaks. Board the historic Alishan Forest Railway for an iconic scenic journey through changing tropical, subtropical, and temperate forest, then walk the Sacred Forest Trail among towering cypress trees, some centuries old.
Fangyuan’s Tidal Flats — Life on the Coastal Wetlands Visit the historic Longshan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Taiwan, before continuing to the fishing village of Fangyuan for a hands-on experience you won’t find in any guidebook — traditional clam harvesting on the tidal flats, alongside mudskippers, fiddler crabs, and migratory birds, with the chance to sample fresh local seafood straight from the wetlands.
Farewell in Taipei Return to Taipei with time for last-minute shopping or a trip up the Taipei 101 observation deck, before a farewell dinner with your fellow solo travellers — now firm friends — marking the close of an unforgettable Taiwan journey.
Why Choose Two’s a Crowd for Solo Travel in Taiwan?
- 100% solo traveller groups — everyone arrives alone, nobody stays that way for long
- Maximum 15 guests — an intimate small group, never a coach tour
- Your own private room — always, no sharing
- Dedicated Two’s a Crowd Tour Host, plus a local English-speaking guide throughout
- A full day immersed in Indigenous Atayal culture — genuine, hands-on, not touristic
- Hands-on experiences throughout — farm harvesting, tea rolling, clam harvesting, bamboo rice making
- Scenic journey on the historic Alishan Forest Railway through ancient cypress forest
- October departure — Taiwan’s most beautiful season, cool skies and golden landscapes
- Private airport transfers on arrival and departure — no navigating logistics alone
Ready to Discover Taiwan?
Ancient forests, Indigenous culture, and some of Asia’s best street food — this is Taiwan at its most authentic, shared with a small group of like-minded solo travellers.
Departing 13th October 2027 | From A$7,990 per person
👉 Book Your Place Today
Will you join us?
Day 1 – Wednesday 13th October
TAIPEI (D)
Huān yíng — welcome to Taiwan! Your adventure begins in the bustling capital of Taipei, where you’ll be met by our airport transfer (shared with other guests arriving on the same flight) — no queuing or navigating solo, just a smooth start to your Taiwan adventure. Arrive early? Relax in the soothing hot springs of Yangmingshan National Park before your journey begins. This evening at approximately 6pm, you will meet your fellow travellers, Tour Host and guide to celebrate the start of your Taiwan adventure with a welcome dinner and your first taste of the island’s incredible cuisine.
Your own room at Amba Taipei Songshan or similar
Day 2 – Thursday 14th October
ANCIENT STREETS, IMPERIAL TREASURES & NIGHT MARKET FLAVOURS (B)
Spend the morning wandering Dihua Street, Taipei’s oldest and most atmospheric trading district — Fujian-style Qing Dynasty shopfronts and Baroque façades rub shoulders with contemporary cafés and art studios, each one a chapter in Taipei’s rich merchant history, brought to life by your local leader’s stories. From there, continue to the striking Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, an impressive dedication to Taiwan’s former president and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Come evening, dive into Shilin Night Market at your own pace — ranked among Asia’s best food markets, and the perfect place to sample fried fish meatballs, oyster omelettes, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, Taiwan’s famous stinky tofu.
Included Activity
- Guided walk through Dihua Street
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Shilin Night Market visit
Your own room at Amba Taipei Songshan or similar
Day 3 – Friday 15th October
YILAN – INTO THE MOUNTAINS: TEA, CULTURE & TRADITIONAL FLAVOURS (B,D)
This morning, journey to the National Palace Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Chinese art, before swapping city streets for farmland at a local spring onion farm — pull on your gumboots, get grubby harvesting your own produce, then learn to whip up crispy spring onion pancakes, one of Taiwan’s best-loved street snacks. Arrive at your hotel in Yilan by late afternoon, with free time to relax before an included group dinner. If your hotel’s hot spring facilities call your name, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and cap.
Included Activity
- National Palace Museum
- Spring onion farm experience
- Taiwanese cooking demonstration
Your own room at Wellspring by Silks Jiaoxi or similar
Day 4 – Saturday 16th October
CONNECTING WITH TAIWAN’S INDIGENOUS HERITAGE (B,L)
Today belongs entirely to Taiwan’s Indigenous Atayal people — one of 16 recognised Indigenous groups who together make up just 2.5% of Taiwan’s population, making this a genuinely rare opportunity for cultural connection you simply won’t stumble onto travelling solo. Learn about traditional customs, tribal dress, and the story behind the community’s distinctive facial tattoos, then roll up your sleeves to help prepare bamboo rice before sharing a hearty, flavour-packed lunch with your hosts. In the afternoon, head into the forest to learn ancestral hunting and trap-setting techniques, passed down through generations, before saying goodbye to your hospitable hosts and returning to Yilan for a free evening to explore.
Included Activity
- Indigenous Atayal village visit
- Cultural presentation
- Traditional bamboo rice experience
- Authentic Indigenous lunch
Your own room at Wellspring by Silks Jiaoxi or similar
Day 5 – Sunday 17th October
MISTY MOUNTAINS & THE MAGIC OF SUN MOON LAKE (B,D)
Start the morning at a local market, learning the fragrant ingredients that define Taiwanese cuisine, before hand-rolling your own peanut roll ice cream — a beloved local treat with a story behind every bite. From there, journey through Taiwan’s mountain heartland to Sun Moon Lake — Taiwan’s only natural lake, named for the sun-shaped east and moon-shaped west of its shoreline — where alpine scenery meets glassy, mirror-still water in the foothills of the Central Mountain Range. Settle into your lakeside hotel for an included group dinner, then enjoy a free evening to stroll the shore or watch the sunset over the surrounding peaks.
Included Activity
- Local market visit
- Peanut roll ice cream making
- Scenic drive to Sun Moon Lake
Your own room at Wyndham Sun Moon Lake or similar
Day 6 – Monday 18th October
SCENIC TRAILS & LAKESIDE SERENITY (B,L)
After breakfast, lace up for a scenic walk along forest trails to the 46-metre-tall Ci’en Pagoda, where sweeping panoramic views stretch across Sun Moon Lake and its surrounding mountains — climb to the top for the best vantage point of the trip so far. Return to town for an included lunch, then trade your walking shoes for a bike and cruise one of Taiwan’s most picturesque lakeside cycling routes. However you choose to spend the rest of the afternoon and evening, the water is right there, waiting, whenever you want to slow down.
Included Activity
- Ci’en Pagoda Trail walk
- Lakeside cycling experience
Your own room at Wyndham Sun Moon Lake or similar
Day 7 – Tuesday 19th October
CHIAYI . COASTAL TRADITIONS & LIFE ON THE TIDAL FLATS (B,L)
Discover the art of Taiwanese black tea production at Hugosum Tea Farm, where you’ll roll your own leaves — dried and packaged to take a taste of Taiwan home with you. After an included lunch, visit the architecturally striking Chung Tai Chan Monastery, where Chinese and Western design combine to dramatic effect. Meet one of the resident nuns or a local guide for a tour through the gardens and a glimpse into the monastery’s history, before settling into Chiayi for a free evening.
Included Activity
- Tea plantation visit
- Tea rolling demonstration
- Chung Tai Chan Monastery
Your own room at Maison de Chine or similar
Day 8 – Wednesday 20th October
FROM LOCAL VILLAGES TO HIDDEN LANDSCAPES (B,L,D)
This morning, journey into the spectacular Alishan National Scenic Area, one of Taiwan’s most breathtaking mountain regions. Alongside Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge, Alishan is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, ancient forests, and mist-shrouded peaks. Board the historic Alishan Forest Railway for a very short iconic scenic trip through a changing landscape of tropical, subtropical, and temperate forests. Continue on foot along the Sacred Forest Trail, where towering cypress trees — some centuries old — create a magical atmosphere and offer a glimpse into Taiwan’s incredible natural heritage. Later, return to Chiayi and relax over an included group dinner, sharing the day’s memorable experiences with your fellow travellers.
Included Activity
- Alishan Forest Railway
- Sacred Forest Trail walk
- National Park sightseeing
Your own room at Maison de Chine or similar
Day 9 – Thursday 21st October
TAICHUNG. FLAVOURS & EVERYDAY TAIWAN (B,D)
Today, head to the flat, fertile land of Changhua County, sometimes known as Taiwan’s ‘breadbasket’. Visit the historic Longshan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Taiwan, before continuing to the fishing village of Fangyuan for a hands-on experience you won’t find in any guidebook — traditional clam harvesting on the tidal flats, alongside mudskippers, fiddler crabs and migratory birds in this unique wetland ecosystem, with the chance to sample fresh local seafood like crabs and oysters. Arrive in Taichung by afternoon for a group dinner, with a free evening to explore at your own pace.
Included Activity
- Longshan Temple
- Traditional clam harvesting experience
- Coastal wetland visit
Your own room at La Vida Hotel or similar
Day 10 – Friday 22nd October
TAIPEI (B,D)
Head back to Taipei, with plenty of afternoon left for last-minute shopping or a trip up to the Taipei 101 observation deck. Tonight, gather with your fellow solo travellers — now firm friends — for a farewell dinner marking the close of an unforgettable Taiwan adventure.
Your own room at Amba Taipei Songshan or similar
Day 11 – Saturday 23rd October
TAIPEI. FAREWELL TO AN ISLAND OF MEMORIES (B)
After one final Taiwanese breakfast, your solo adventure through Taiwan comes to a close. Sit back for your included private airport transfer to your onward journey — no rushing, no logistics to navigate alone, just happy memories to carry home.your onward journey — no rushing, no logistics to navigate alone, just happy memories to take home.
WANT TO EXTEND YOUR ADVENTURE?
Make the most of your time in Asia by combining your Taiwan journey with our 13-day Highlights of Japan tour, which operates immediately before this tour. We can book pre and post tour accommodation in Taipei for $365 per person, including breakfast and your transfer.
TOUR PRICING: A$7,990
TOUR DATES: 13TH – 23RD OCTOBER 2027
Taiwan
Although Taiwan shares historical and cultural ties with mainland China, it operates with its own government, currency, immigration system and laws. For travellers, Taiwan is a separate destination with its own entry requirements.
Weather in October
October is one of the best times to visit Taiwan, with warm temperatures, lower humidity and generally settled weather. It marks the beginning of autumn, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring both cities and natural landscapes.
- Average daytime temperature: 24°C – 29°C
- Evening temperatures: 20°C – 23°C
- Rainfall: Occasional showers are possible, particularly in the north, but October is significantly drier than the summer months.
- What to pack: Lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings and air-conditioned buildings, plus a small umbrella or lightweight rain jacket.
Currency
The official currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$).
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shopping centres and larger restaurants.
- Cash is still preferred at many local markets, smaller restaurants and family-run businesses.
- ATMs are widely available throughout Taiwan and generally accept international cards.
- It is a good idea to carry some local currency for small purchases and street food.
Electricity
Taiwan uses 110 volts with a frequency of 60Hz.
- Power outlets are Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat pins with a round grounding pin), similar to those used in the United States and Japan.
- Australian travellers will require a travel adaptor, and appliances that are not dual voltage may also require a voltage converter.
Language
The official language is Mandarin Chinese. English is commonly spoken in hotels, airports and many tourist attractions, although it is less widely spoken in smaller towns and local markets.
Time Zone
Taiwan operates on Taiwan Standard Time (UTC +8) and does not observe daylight saving time.
Tipping
Tipping is generally not expected in Taiwan. Most hotels and higher-end restaurants include a 10% service charge in the bill. Tipping guides or drivers is appreciated but not obligatory.
Wi-Fi & Mobile Coverage
Taiwan has excellent internet infrastructure, with free Wi-Fi available in many hotels, cafés, shopping centres and public transport hubs. International roaming is available, or travellers can purchase an affordable local SIM card or eSIM on arrival.
Food & Drinking Water
Taiwan is renowned for its delicious cuisine, from bustling night markets to modern restaurants. Bottled water is readily available and recommended for drinking. Tap water is generally safe once boiled, but visitors are advised to drink bottled or filtered water during their stay.
