Taiwan

Taiwan offers dramatic Pacific coastlines, lush tropical mountains and vibrant cultural cities, with the best regions to explore including Taipei, Hualien and Taroko Gorge, the East Rift Valley, the South Coast and the Hengchun Peninsula.

Taipei: Taiwan’s lively capital blends historic temples, vibrant markets and modern city life, serving as the gateway to the island’s scenic east coast and its cycling and expedition cruising adventures.

Hualien & Taroko National Park: Hualien on Taiwan’s mountainous east coast provides access to Taroko National Park where the spectacular marble walls of Taroko Gorge rise more than 300 feet (90m) above the Liwu River amid bamboo forests and remarkable biodiversity.

East Rift Valley: The fertile East Rift Valley offers superb cycling through rice fields, tea plantations and rivers beneath dramatic mountain ranges, with highlights including Butterfly Valley and the Tropic of Cancer marker.

Taiwan South Coast & Nanwan Beach: Taiwan’s southern coastline features quiet coastal roads where cyclists ride beside the Pacific Ocean before reaching the warm waters and sandy beaches of Nanwan.

Hengchun Peninsula & Kenting: The Hengchun Peninsula combines forested hills, bays and sandy beaches where cycling routes explore Kenting National Park and reach Taiwan’s southernmost point.

The best time to travel to Taiwan for hiking, trekking and adventure touring is generally Oct–Apr, when temperatures are comfortable and conditions are favourable for exploring landscapes, national parks and cultural highlights.

Taiwan has a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Temperatures typically range between 15°C and 32°C (59°F–90°F).

Travelling outside the main season can still be rewarding, with quieter trails, seasonal landscapes and unique experiences depending on rainfall, wildlife activity or snow conditions.

Taiwan is +8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (UTC/GMT)

Mandarin Chinese (official)

New Taiwan Dollar

+886

Electricity in Taiwan is 110 Volts, at 60 hertz. The most common pin type is A. (2 flat prong).

A tourist visa on arrival is available to UK, NZ, AU, CAN and US Citizens for a maximum duration of up to 90 days. You must have at least 6 months validity on your passport at the time of arrival. It is your responsibility to check the current requirements with the Taiwanese Embassy or Consulate from your country of origin prior to departure.