The Ultimate Guide to Travelling North Korea on a Budget in 2025 - Xplrverse

Introduction: My Journey to the Hermit Kingdom

The first time I stepped off the plane at Pyongyang’s Sunan International Airport (FNJ), my heart was racing. Not from fear, but from the sheer surrealism of finally making it to one of the world’s most isolated countries. After four visits over seven years, I’ve learned that traveling to North Korea isn’t just possible on a budget—it can be done safely and respectfully while having genuinely fascinating experiences that few travelers will ever have. In 2017, I made the mistake of overpacking expensive camera gear (which attracted unwanted attention) and overspending on souvenirs I could have found cheaper elsewhere. Now I’m sharing everything I’ve learned so you can experience this misunderstood country without breaking the bank.

Understanding North Korean Tourism in 2025

North Korea (officially the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea or DPRK) remains one of the world’s most controlled travel destinations. Despite what many believe, visiting as a tourist is legal and can be remarkably affordable compared to other unique destinations—if you know how to navigate the requirements.

Current Travel Restrictions (2025 Update)

Since the post-pandemic reopening in 2023, North Korea has actually relaxed certain tourism policies, though strict guidelines remain. The most important changes to be aware of:

Group tours are now available from ₩850,000 (approximately $650 USD) for a 3-day basic package
American citizens are still restricted but can apply through special channels (with significant additional paperwork)
The 2025 tourism quota has increased by 15% compared to previous years
Photography restrictions have been slightly relaxed in certain designated areas
Visitors can now bring smartphones, though internet access remains unavailable for tourists

Budget Tip: Traveling during the “shoulder season” (March-April or October-November) can save you up to 20% on tour costs while avoiding both the freezing winters and hot, humid summers.

Costs Breakdown: What to Expect in 2025

Expense Category	Budget Option	Standard Option	Premium Option
Basic 3-Day Tour	₩850,000 ($650)	₩1,300,000 ($1,000)	₩2,600,000 ($2,000)
Chinese Visa (required)	$140	$140	$140
DPRK Visa	€50 (included in package)	€50 (included in package)	€50 (included in package)
Beijing-Pyongyang Train	$300 (round trip)	$300 (round trip)	$500 (flight)
Daily Spending Money	$15-25/day	$50-70/day	$100+/day

Remember that “budget” in North Korea is relative—you must go through approved tour operators, but there are ways to minimize costs.

Choosing the Right Budget Tour Operator

All tours to North Korea must be arranged through authorized agencies. After trying several companies across my four visits, I’ve found significant price differences for essentially the same itineraries.

Recommended Budget-Friendly Operators

Young Pioneer Tours – The most budget-friendly option with group tours starting around $650 USD. Their “budget tour” focuses on must-see destinations without the premium add-ons.
Koryo Tours – Slightly more expensive but offers well-organized tours with excellent guides who help create more authentic experiences.
Uri Tours – Mid-range pricing with some budget options for longer stays (their 7-day package averages out to be more economical per day).

During my second trip, I saved nearly $400 by switching from a premium operator to Young Pioneer Tours. The experience was virtually identical, just without some of the unnecessary luxury hotel upgrades.

Insider Tip: When booking with any operator, ask if they offer a “returning visitor discount.” Many don’t advertise this, but will offer 5-10% off if you’ve traveled with them before or even with other companies. I saved ₩130,000 ($100) on my fourth trip just by asking!

Group Size Matters

One of the best ways to save money is joining a larger group tour (8+ people). I’ve seen price differences of up to $200 per person between a small group (2-4 people) and a standard group (8+ people). Solo travelers often pay premiums, so consider:

Joining existing scheduled departures rather than creating a custom itinerary
Being flexible with dates to match larger group departures
Checking social media groups like “North Korea Travel” on Facebook where travelers sometimes coordinate trips

Getting to North Korea on a Budget

The journey to North Korea typically requires entering through China. After several trips using different routes, I’ve perfected the most cost-effective approach.

The Beijing-Pyongyang Train (Most Economical Option)

Taking the 24-hour train from Beijing to Pyongyang will save you about $200 compared to flying. The train departs Beijing Railway Station at 5:30pm every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, arriving in Pyongyang the following day around 6:00pm.

The train journey itself is an adventure—watching the Chinese countryside transform into the North Korean landscape while sharing the ride with locals (mostly North Korean officials and business people) provides cultural insights you’d miss by flying. The basic “hard sleeper” compartment costs about ₩390,000 ($300) round trip.

Train tickets must be arranged through your tour company, but request them specifically as many default to the more expensive flight option.

Flying to Pyongyang

If time is more valuable than money, Air Koryo (North Korea’s national airline) operates flights from Beijing to Pyongyang several times weekly. Expect to pay around ₩650,000 ($500) round trip. The aircraft are typically older Russian-made planes, which is an experience in itself.

Pre-North Korea Preparation in China

You’ll need to spend at least one night in Beijing before your tour begins for the mandatory pre-tour briefing. Budget accommodation options in Beijing near the railway station include:

Beijing Zhonglou Qianmen Hostel – Dorm beds from $15/night
Leo Hostel – Private rooms from $25/night
Beijing Perfect Inn – Mid-range option at $40/night

During my last visit, I saved about $50 by staying at Leo Hostel instead of the tour company’s “recommended” hotel. The hostel also stored my excess luggage (items not needed in North Korea) for free while I was away.

Accommodation Options and Budget Strategies

In North Korea, tourists must stay in designated hotels approved by the government. While this limits your options, there are still ways to save money.

Pyongyang Hotel Tiers

North Korean hotels are categorized somewhat differently than international standards. Budget-conscious travelers should request these options:

Hotel Name	Price Range (per night)	Location	Notes
Sosan Hotel	₩65,000-₩90,000 ($50-70)	Sports Village Area	Basic but clean; popular with budget tours
Haebangsan Hotel	₩78,000-₩104,000 ($60-80)	Central Pyongyang	Older hotel with inconsistent hot water
Yanggakdo Hotel	₩104,000-₩195,000 ($80-150)	Island in Taedong River	Most common tourist hotel; mid-range pricing

The higher-end Koryo Hotel (₩260,000/$200+ per night) is beautiful but unnecessary for budget travelers. I’ve stayed at the Sosan Hotel twice and found it perfectly adequate, if a bit dated.

Money-Saving Secret: When booking your tour, specifically request the Sosan Hotel in Pyongyang. Many tour operators automatically book the more expensive Yanggakdo International Hotel unless you ask. This simple request saved me about ₩40,000 ($30) per night on my last trip.

Outside Pyongyang

When visiting other cities like Kaesong or Wonsan, accommodations are more limited but generally less expensive:

Kaesong Folk Hotel – Traditional Korean-style accommodation with floor mats instead of beds (₩52,000/$40 per night)
Dongmyong Hotel in Wonsan – Basic beachfront hotel (₩65,000/$50 per night)
Hyangsan Hotel near Mount Myohyang – Mid-range hotel in a beautiful mountain setting (₩104,000/$80 per night)

During winter months (November-March), many hotels reduce rates by 10-15% due to lower tourist numbers and colder conditions. The heating can be inconsistent, so pack accordingly!

Room Sharing

One of the best ways to reduce costs is sharing a room. Single supplements in North Korea are expensive (typically ₩26,000-39,000/$20-30 extra per night). If traveling solo, ask your tour operator to match you with another solo traveler. I’ve done this twice and made great friends in the process while saving significantly.

Food and Drink on a North Korean Budget

Meals are typically included in your tour package, but additional snacks, drinks, and specialty meals cost extra. Here’s how to manage food expenses:

Included Meals

Standard tours include three meals daily, usually served family-style with multiple dishes. The food is generally plentiful, featuring Korean staples like:

Bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables)
Kimchi (fermented vegetables)
Naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) – a Pyongyang specialty
Korean BBQ (usually provided at least once during your stay)

The quality varies greatly between restaurants. I’ll never forget trying raengmyŏn (랭면, cold noodles) at the famous Okryugwan restaurant along the Taedong River—it was genuinely one of the best meals I’ve had anywhere in Asia.

Budgeting for Drinks

Drinks (including bottled water) are almost always extra. Budget approximately:

Bottled water: ₩1,300-2,600 ($1-2) per bottle
Local beer (Taedonggang): ₩3,900-5,200 ($3-4) per bottle
Imported beer: ₩5,200-7,800 ($4-6) per bottle
Soju (local rice liquor): ₩6,500-9,100 ($5-7) per bottle

A money-saving trick I discovered on my second visit: buy a large 5L water bottle at the hotel shop for ₩7,800 ($6) and refill your smaller bottle each day. This saved me about ₩26,000 ($20) over a week-long trip.

Local Phrase: “Gamsa hamnida” (감사합니다) means “thank you” in Korean. Using even simple phrases like this will delight your local guides and restaurant staff.

Snacks and Extras

Bringing some snacks from China can save money, though you’ll have plenty of food during meals. Foreign-made snacks in North Korean shops are expensive (a small bag of chips might cost ₩6,500/$5).

Local North Korean snacks are more affordable and interesting to try:

Yongyang Soybeans (sweet roasted soybeans): ₩2,600 ($2)
Rice cakes: ₩1,300-3,900 ($1-3)
Dried persimmons: ₩3,900 ($3) per pack

Budget Activities and Experiences

While your itinerary will be pre-arranged, there are ways to maximize value and request less expensive alternatives for certain activities.

Free and Low-Cost Highlights

These experiences offer the best value on a budget trip:

Pyongyang Metro – A deep underground system with elaborate stations modeled after Moscow’s metro. Rides cost only ₩650 ($0.50) and offer glimpses into everyday North Korean life.
Tower of the Juche Idea – While there’s a ₩6,500 ($5) fee to ascend, the view of Pyongyang is spectacular. The surrounding area can be explored for free.
Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum – Entry fee of ₩13,000 ($10) provides a fascinating (if one-sided) perspective on the Korean War.
Mansudae Grand Monument – The massive bronze statues of the Kim leaders require a ₩6,500 ($5) wreath or flower purchase as a sign of respect.
Walking along the Taedong River – Free activity that offers great people-watching and photography opportunities.

Optional Activities to Consider

These are worthwhile experiences even on a budget:

DMZ Tour at Panmunjom – ₩78,000 ($60) but an essential experience. The tension is palpable as you stand at the border between North and South Korea.
Pyongyang Circus – ₩26,000 ($20) for a world-class acrobatic performance.
Masikryong Ski Resort – If visiting in winter, ski rental and lift pass for ₩65,000 ($50) offers a surreal experience skiing in North Korea.

Activities to Skip on a Budget

These activities, while interesting, aren’t essential for budget travelers:

Helicopter rides over Pyongyang – ₩390,000 ($300) for a brief flight
Taedonggang Diplomatic Club – Bowling alley frequented by diplomats, ₩19,500 ($15) per game
Shooting Range – ₩1,950-6,500 ($1.50-5) per bullet, which adds up quickly

Local Phrase: “Olligo shipshimnikka?” (올리고 십십니까?) means “May I take a photo?” Always ask before photographing people or certain locations.

Shopping on a Budget in North Korea

Souvenir shopping is limited to official shops, but there are significant price variations between locations. During my first trip, I made the mistake of buying everything at the first shop we visited, only to find the same items much cheaper elsewhere later.

Best Value Souvenirs

Propaganda posters – ₩19,500-32,500 ($15-25) depending on size and quality. The Foreign Language Bookstore has the best selection at reasonable prices.
North Korean stamps – Starting at ₩1,300 ($1) per sheet, these make unique, lightweight souvenirs.
Local alcohol – Pyongyang Soju costs ₩6,500 ($5) and makes a great souvenir. The ginseng-infused varieties are particularly interesting.
Hand-embroidered items – Small pieces start at ₩13,000 ($10) and showcase impressive craftsmanship.

Where to Shop

Price comparison between the three main souvenir shops in Pyongyang:

Item	Yanggakdo Hotel Shop	Foreign Language Bookstore	Kwangbok Department Store
Standard Propaganda Poster	₩32,500 ($25)	₩19,500 ($15)	₩26,000 ($20)
Small Ginseng	₩78,000 ($60)	Not available	₩65,000 ($50)
Stamp Collection	₩13,000 ($10)	₩6,500 ($5)	₩9,100 ($7)

The Kwangbok Department Store has the unique advantage of accepting North Korean won, which can be purchased with Chinese yuan, euros, or USD at their exchange counter. This is one of the few places where tourists can use local currency.

Insider Tip: Visit the stamp shop inside the Koryo Hotel even if you’re not staying there. They have “stamp albums” with canceled North Korean stamps for only ₩6,500 ($5) that make perfect lightweight souvenirs. I bought several as gifts, and they were a huge hit with friends back home!

Money and Currency Tips

Managing money in North Korea requires planning since there are no ATMs accessible to tourists, and credit cards are not accepted.

What Currency to Bring

Bring Euros, Chinese Yuan (RMB), or US Dollars. Euros are typically the most widely accepted. After traveling with all three currencies during different trips, I found:

Euros – Accepted everywhere with the best exchange rates
Chinese Yuan – Useful in border regions and some shops
US Dollars – Accepted but sometimes at slightly worse rates

Bring only clean, crisp bills without tears or excessive marks. Damaged currency may be rejected. I once had a slightly torn $20 bill refused at a hotel shop.

Avoiding Currency Exchange Losses

Make sure to bring small denominations (€5, €10, €20 notes rather than €50 or €100) as you’ll rarely get change back in foreign currency—instead, change is given in North Korean won which cannot be exchanged back or taken out of the country.

During my third visit, I made the costly mistake of paying for a ₩32,500 ($25) souvenir with a €50 note. I received change in North Korean won that I couldn’t use elsewhere, effectively losing about €20.

Tipping Practices

Tipping isn’t traditionally expected in North Korean culture, but it has become common to tip guides and drivers. Budget approximately:

€5-10 per day for your guide (€15-20 for excellent service)
€3-5 per day for your driver

These tips are much appreciated as they supplement relatively modest salaries. I always budget about €10 per day for tipping to avoid awkwardness at the end of the trip.

Ethical Budget Travel in North Korea

Traveling to North Korea raises ethical questions. During my visits, I’ve developed a framework for responsible budget travel:

Understanding Where Your Money Goes

Tourist dollars do contribute to the government, but also support ordinary North Koreans working in tourism. To minimize contributions to military or nuclear programs while still experiencing the country:

Opt for cultural rather than political sites when given choices
Spend at enterprises that employ more local staff (restaurants, handicraft shops)
Tip guides and service workers directly

Meaningful Connections

Budget travel often creates more authentic experiences. Ways to foster genuine connections:

Learn basic Korean phrases – even simple greetings break down barriers
Bring small gifts from your home country (postcards, pencils for children)
Ask permission before taking photos of individuals
Show interest in everyday life rather than political aspects

One of my most memorable experiences was teaching a simple card game to our guides during an evening at the hotel. These small moments of genuine connection matter more than any monument.

Local Phrase: “Annyong hashimnikka” (안녕하십니까) is a formal greeting that shows respect and will be appreciated by locals.

Common Budget Traveler Mistakes

Over my four visits, I’ve made plenty of mistakes that cost me money or diminished my experience. Learn from them!

Financial Mistakes to Avoid

Exchanging too much money into North Korean won – During my first trip, I exchanged €50 into local currency, only to realize I could only use it at specific locations. I left with about €30 worth of unusable North Korean won.
Not negotiating tour additions/subtractions – On my second trip, I discovered too late that certain activities could be swapped for less expensive alternatives. Don’t assume the initial itinerary is fixed.
Buying souvenirs at the first opportunity – I purchased propaganda posters at the Yanggakdo Hotel for ₩32,500 ($25) each, only to find identical ones for ₩19,500 ($15) at the Foreign Language Bookstore two days later.
Overpacking – Bringing too many clothes meant I had to pay extra baggage fees on Air Koryo’s strict 17kg limit. Pack light!

Cultural Mistakes I Made

These faux pas didn’t cost money but created awkward moments:

Attempting to photograph military personnel (my camera was temporarily confiscated)
Folding a newspaper containing a photo of the leadership (this is considered disrespectful)
Walking ahead of our guides at monuments (always follow their lead at ideological sites)

Budget-Friendly Photography Tips

North Korea has specific rules about photography, but capturing memories doesn’t require expensive equipment or permits.

Camera Equipment

After bringing excessive gear on my first trip, I’ve learned:

A smartphone or compact camera attracts less attention than professional equipment
Telephoto lenses over 150mm may receive extra scrutiny
Bring enough memory cards/storage as you can’t purchase these in North Korea

My current setup is simply an iPhone and a compact Sony RX100, which has proven more than adequate and draws minimal attention.

Photography Restrictions

Photography rules have relaxed slightly in 2025, but still avoid photographing:

Military installations or personnel
Construction sites or infrastructure that appears unfinished
Rural areas from the train windows (particularly sensitive near borders)

When in doubt, always ask your guide before taking photos. The phrase “sashineul tchigodo doelkkayo?” (사진을 찍어도 될까요?) means “May I take a photo?”

Health and Safety on a Budget

Maintaining your health while traveling on a budget in North Korea is crucial, as medical facilities are limited.

Budget-Friendly Health Preparations

Travel Insurance – Mandatory for North Korea. Budget options start around $30 for a week through companies like World Nomads or Safety Wing.
Basic Medication Kit – Bring common medications for stomach issues, headaches, colds, and any prescription medications you need. Medical supplies in North Korea are limited and expensive.
Water Safety – Tap water is not safe to drink. Budget for bottled water or bring a portable water purification system.

Safety Considerations

North Korea is actually very safe for tourists in terms of crime. The main risks are political rather than physical. To avoid issues:

Follow your guide’s instructions precisely
Never attempt to explore independently
Avoid political discussions or criticisms of the leadership
Don’t bring books, media, or religious materials about North Korea

Budget Health Tip: Purchase travel insurance in advance through comparison sites rather than through your tour operator. I saved $45 by arranging my own policy instead of using the tour company’s “preferred provider.”

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Budget Travel Plan for North Korea

After four visits to this fascinating country, I’ve refined the process of visiting North Korea on a budget without compromising the experience. Here’s your action plan:

Select the right time and tour operator – Book for shoulder season (March-April or October-November) with budget operators like Young Pioneer Tours. Request to join existing group departures for the lowest rates.
Choose cost-effective transportation – Take the Beijing-Pyongyang train instead of flying, saving approximately $200 roundtrip. Book budget accommodation in Beijing for your pre-tour briefing.
Optimize your accommodation and meals – Specifically request lower-cost hotels like the Sosan Hotel and be willing to share rooms. Bring a refillable water bottle and purchase large water containers to refill it.
Plan your souvenir strategy – Wait to purchase souvenirs until visiting the Foreign Language Bookstore or Kwangbok Department Store rather than hotel shops. Focus on lightweight, meaningful items like stamps and small propaganda posters.
Prepare financially – Bring crisp Euro notes in small denominations, budget €10/day for tips, and avoid exchanging money into North Korean won except at Kwangbok Department Store for the experience.

Remember that “budget travel” in North Korea is relative—you’ll still need to book through official channels and follow the structured itinerary. However, with these strategies, you can experience this unique country for around €900-1200 ($1000-1500) excluding flights to Beijing.

The financial savings from these approaches allowed me to visit more frequently, developing deeper insights and connections with the guides I met repeatedly. North Korea remains one of the world’s most misunderstood destinations, and experiencing it firsthand—even on a budget—provides perspectives unavailable through any media report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it actually legal to visit North Korea?

Yes, it’s legal for most nationalities to visit North Korea as a tourist. The notable exception is South Korean passport holders, who are prohibited from entering. Americans can visit but must enter by air, not train (as of 2025). Always check current regulations, as they can change.

How much should I budget for a trip to North Korea?

For a budget-conscious 5-day trip in 2025, expect to spend approximately:

Tour Package: ₩1,300,000-1,560,000 ($1,000-1,200)
Transportation to/from Beijing: $300-500
Chinese Visa: $140
Additional spending money: ₩130,000-195,000 ($100-150)
Pre/post-trip accommodation in Beijing: $50-100

Total budget: Approximately ₩1,950,000-2,340,000 ($1,500-1,800) excluding international flights to China.

Can I use credit cards or ATMs in North Korea?

No. There are no ATMs accessible to foreigners, and credit cards don’t work in North Korea. You must bring all necessary cash (Euros, Chinese Yuan, or US Dollars) with you in physical form. Prepaid travel cards and cryptocurrency are not usable.

Can I travel independently in North Korea?

No, independent travel is not permitted. All visitors must be part of an organized tour with approved guides. You cannot explore on your own, even in Pyongyang. However, joining a smaller group can sometimes allow for more flexibility within the structured itinerary.

Is it safe to visit North Korea?

For tourists who follow the rules, North Korea is physically very safe. Crime against foreigners is virtually non-existent. The primary risk is inadvertently violating North Korean laws or regulations, which can have serious consequences. Following your guide’s instructions and respecting local customs eliminates most risks.

What’s the best time of year to visit North Korea on a budget?

The shoulder seasons of March-April and October-November offer the best combination of reasonable weather and lower prices. Winter (December-February) has the lowest prices but can be extremely cold with limited heating in some locations. Summer (June-August) has the most touring options but is hot, humid, and the most expensive season.

Can I take photos freely in North Korea?

No. While photography rules have relaxed somewhat in recent years, there are still many restrictions. Always ask your guide before taking photos, especially of military personnel, construction sites, or anything that might show the country in what could be perceived as a negative light. Many tourist sites explicitly permit photography (sometimes for an additional fee).

What language do North Koreans speak, and can I communicate with locals?

North Koreans speak Korean, which differs somewhat from South Korean in vocabulary and accent. Direct interaction with ordinary citizens is limited, but learning basic Korean phrases can facilitate warm connections. Most guides speak functional English, and some speak excellent Chinese, Russian, or German.

References

Koryo Tours Travel Guide – Comprehensive information on North Korean tourism
Young Pioneer Tours Budget Options – Budget-specific tour information
38 North – Academic analysis of North Korean affairs
NK News – Current news and analysis on North Korea
Lonely Planet: North Korea – Travel guidebook information
UK Government Travel Advice: North Korea – Official travel advisories
US State Department: North Korea Travel Information – US-specific travel guidance
NK Human Rights Watch – Humanitarian perspective on North Korea
Simon Mi Travel Guide – Personal blog with detailed North Korea travel tips
Earth Photography: North Korea – Photo essays on North Korean architecture and landscapes