North Korea is one of the most secretive and least visited countries in the world.
Imagine stepping into a world completely different from your ownâone without modern distractions, where you can truly be present, connect with people, and see life from a new perspective. North Korea is one of the least-visited places on earth, making it an incredibly rare and fascinating destination.
Travelling here isnât just about ticking off a bucket-list location; itâs about personal growth, broadening your understanding of the world, and experiencing something few others have. From sharing laughs with locals over a meal to exploring grand monuments and witnessing breathtaking landscapes, this is a journey that will stay with you forever.
If you’ve ever been curious about what life is really like beyond the headlines, our North Korea tour offers a chance to see, learn, and experience firsthand. Leave your preconceptions at the door, embrace the unexpected, and get ready for an adventure that will challenge and inspire you!

GENERAL INFORMATION
Why choose North Korea as a travel destination?
North Korea offers a truly unique experience. Travelling here lets you step away from the everyday and immerse yourself in a culture thatâs refreshingly different. Youâll discover inspiring landscapes, fascinating history, and local traditions that spark new perspectives.
Arenât tourists even allowed there?
Itâs a common myth that tourists canât visit North Korea. In reality, well-organised tours make it possible to experience the country in a safe and welcoming way. Our September tour is fully approved, ensuring a smooth and enriching journey.
So, can I actually visit North Korea?
Absolutely! As long as youâre not a North America or South Korean citizen, you can explore North Korea on an authorised tour. Itâs a wonderful opportunity to break free from your routine and experience something truly extraordinary.

PRACTICAL DETAILS AND SAFETY
Do I need a visa to go?
Yes, youâll need a visa, but donât worryâour team handles the paperwork in partnership with North Korean authorities. Once youâre booked, weâll take care of the details so you can focus on your adventure.
Is it really safe to travel there?
Travelling with an organised tour is a positive and secure experience. By following the simple guidelines from our friendly guides, you can enjoy a worry-free journey that leaves plenty of room for personal discovery.
What about those stories of tourists getting detainedâcould that happen to me?
Stories like that are very rare. When you respect local customs and follow our guidesâ advice, youâre in for an enjoyable, hassle-free experience that opens up a world of new insights.

TRAVEL LOGISTICS AND RULES
Can I explore on my own?
While you wonât be roaming completely free, being with our knowledgeable guides means youâll have access to the best spotsâeverything from cosy craft beer bars and lively karaoke spots to local restaurants and markets. Every step is part of an exciting, guided adventure.
Can I use my smartphone in North Korea?
Yes, you can bring your smartphone into North Korea and use it to take photos and notes. While you wonât have mobile data or domestic serviceâas there are no international roaming agreementsâthe hotels usually offer options for making international phone calls. Wi-Fi is not available for tourists, but local SIM cards can be purchased for limited domestic use. Satellite phones are strictly prohibited. This setup gives you a chance to disconnect a bit and fully enjoy the experience while still staying in touch when needed.
Can I film and take photos?
Yes! Photography is allowed in North Korea, but there are some restrictions. You can take photos of monuments, landscapes, and daily life, but avoid photographing military personnel, construction sites, or anything that may be considered sensitive. Your guides will let you know what is acceptable, and as long as you follow their advice, you’ll be able to capture fantastic memories from your trip.
What are the must-follow dos and donâts?
We simply ask that you follow a few easy guidelines to make sure everyone has a positive experience:
Enjoy the guided tours and embrace new experiences.
Respect local customs by being mindful of where you take photos.
Dress comfortably while honouring the local culture.
Leave behind the extra distractions so you can fully connect with the moment.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Whatâs the deal with the Mass Games?
The Mass Games are a spectacular celebration of unity and creativity. Imagine thousands of people coming together in synchronised performances full of music, dance, and energyâitâs truly a moving experience that shows the spirit of the community.
Will I have chances to chat with locals?
Yes, you will! Our tours include opportunities to meet locals in relaxed, friendly settings like home-cooked lunches, craft beer bars, and even local shopping spots. Itâs a chance to share stories, learn from each other, and build genuine connections.
How much of what we will see is actually real and not enacted?
This is a fair question and one that comes up often. Itâs important to recognise that every country presents itself in a certain way to visitors, highlighting aspects of its culture, traditions, and achievements.
Think about destinations like Mongolia, where eagle hunters dress in their traditional attire and participate in festivals to celebrate their heritage. Or even Portugal, where folk dance groups perform in costumes that are not part of everyday modern life but serve to preserve and share cultural identity. These experiences are not âfakeââthey are curated moments that reflect history, pride, and tradition.
In North Korea, there is a clear effort to showcase the country in a particular light. This is part of their cultural and ideological framework, just as other nations carefully manage their public image. However, that doesnât mean everything is staged. Throughout the trip, you will see people going about their daily livesâchildren playing, commuters using the metro, musicians performing in parks, and locals engaging in conversations.
Itâs natural to view North Korea through a Western lens, but keeping an open mind allows you to see the country for what it is: a place with its own traditions, aspirations, and ways of life. This journey is an opportunity to observe and learn, rather than to judge through external assumptions.
Whatâs the real story behind North Korea?
North Korea is often misunderstood, but a visit here lets you see a different side of life. Away from the media hype, youâll experience a culture that values community, music, and heartfelt interactions. Itâs a journey that can leave you feeling grateful for your own life and inspired by new ways of living.

CONCERNS AND CONTROVERSIES
Will I be watched or influenced by guides?
Youâll be with experienced guides who ensure that you get the best insights while keeping the journey smooth and respectful. Their role is to help you experience North Korea in a positive light, not to restrict your curiosity. Think of them as friendly companions on your adventure.
Is travelling there just supporting the regime?
Our tours focus on cultural exchange and genuine human connection. While tourism does contribute to the local economy, it also opens up channels for understanding and personal growth. The experience encourages reflection on what matters most, and how our connections with others shape our lives.
And for American citizens: can we go?
Currently, U.S. citizens face travel restrictions to North Korea. If youâre from the US, it might be best to keep an eye on updates, as policies can change over time.
đ°đ” NORTH KOREA: Victory Day Tour
đ 7 to 20 September 2025
đđŒ unusualvoyages.com/tour/dprk-09-2025