Explore two remote aboriginal villages in a hidden part of Taroko National Park. This overnight tour offers a rare glimpse of local aboriginal life that few visitors see. Stay in a aboriginals’ home, enjoy local produce, and experience the life of living in a world cut away from civilisation in addition to seeing the beautiful scenery of Taroko National Park.
Location: Taroko National Park, Hualien City
Duration: 2 Days
From NTD$18,000
The first day involves a 15km hike to a remote Truku village that is almost completely disconnected from the outside world. The Truku are one of Taiwan’s 16 aboriginal tribes and reside in Taroko National Park.
There are no roads to the village and all of the supplies must be transported in via a pulley (only cargo), or hiked in by the villagers. Solar power provides electricity for the village, and locally grown fruits and vegetables are a big part of their diet.
Less than ten families still live in Dali and Datong villages, but sustainable tourism has strengthened the community. The increase in travelers to the village has allowed villagers to earn a minimal income by running homestays to maintain the community. The children live outside of the village near schools, but return frequently on weekends and holidays to keep their local traditions alive.
The village has several homes, a bamboo house, a historic church and an old Japanese era police station. The 86 year old village chief Dadao speaks very little Chinese, and instead speaks the local Truku dialect and Japanese as Japanese was Taiwan’s official language during his schooling.
At the end of Day 1, you will be staying at Yako’s House or Chen’s Rainbow House. Both homestays offer a commanding view of the valley, and nighttime stargazing away from the noise and light pollution of Taiwan’s big cities.
Day 2 starts with a morning hike to a cliff on Liwu Mountain (1,240 meters) overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The return hike then takes a different route, where you get to enjoy sights of crystal clear waters of Shakadang river.
Pick up from your hotel/b&b in Hualien City.
Hike start
Yako’s Home. Hike End.
Dinner time & Star gazing self-guide.
Hike start. To a cliff in Liwu mountain overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Hike end.
Drop off at your hotel/b&b/TRA Station in Hualien City.