Hong Kong Islands Lantau Trail

Stretching 70 kilometres around the mountainous heart of Lantau Island, the Lantau Trail is Hong Kong's wildest long-distance hike. This looped route, established in the 1980s, takes you through dense woodlands, along dramatic coastlines, and up to the island's highest peak, Lantau Peak (934 m). Despite Hong Kong's reputation as a vertical city, this trail offers a profound escape into nature, with glimpses of the iconic Tian Tan Buddha and the remote fishing village of Tai O. It's a bucket-list trek for hikers seeking a multi-day adventure within easy reach of the metropolis.

Highlights & What to See

• Lantau Peak (Fung Wong Shan) – The second-highest peak in Hong Kong, offering sunrise views over a sea of clouds and the South China Sea. The climb from Pak Kung Au is steep but rewarding.
• Sunset Peak (Yi Tung Shan) – A classic camping spot with rolling grassy hills and panoramic vistas; the trail passes through its lower slopes.
• Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) – The 34-metre bronze statue at Ngong Ping is visible from sections of the trail; detour to Po Lin Monastery for vegetarian lunch.
• Tai O Fishing Village – The trail's western end meets this stilt-house community, where you can sample dried seafood and take a boat trip to see pink dolphins.
• Chi Ma Wan Peninsula – A wilder, less-trodden section with abandoned villages, sandy beaches like Cheung Sha, and a disused prison.
• Shek Pik Reservoir – The trail skirts this serene reservoir, surrounded by forested hills and home to the Shek Pik Prison (no access, but photogenic from afar).

Suggested Time to Spend

Most hikers allocate 2 to 3 days to complete the full loop, camping at designated sites (e.g., Nam Shan, Sunset Peak) or staying at village guesthouses in Ngong Ping or Tai O. A popular 2-day itinerary covers the first half (Section 1–6) on day one, camping at Sunset Peak, then finishing the remaining sections on day two. If you have less time, tackle the best day-hike: Section 2 (Pak Kung Au to Ngong Ping) or Section 5 (Ngong Ping to Tai O) for a taste of the trail's diversity. Note that the trail is well-marked but strenuous in parts; bring ample water and sun protection.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hong Kong Island – Combine with the Dragon's Back hike or a city stay in Central, just a ferry ride away.
• Lamma Island – A laid-back island with seafood restaurants and hiking trails, easily reached from Central or Aberdeen.
• Cheung Chau – A car-free island known for its bun-snatching festival, temples, and bike-friendly paths.
• Macau – A high-speed ferry from Hong Kong takes you to this former Portuguese colony with its own hiking trails and cultural sites.
• Shenzhen (China) – For a cross-border day trip, take the ferry to Shekou and explore the city's modern parks and markets.

Please check official sources for current details.