Hong Kong's highest mountain, Tai Mo Shan, is surrounded by forest, streams and waterfalls that most visitors never see. This guided hike takes you to the best known of them: the Ng Tung Chai waterfalls, a series of cascades in a wooded valley on the slopes of the mountain in the New Territories. The tour lasts about five hours and meets at Tai Wo MTR station, exit A, near Tai Wo Estate, in the north of the territory, and returns to the same place. The booking page includes air-conditioned minivan transport, a local guide and food and drinks. Groups go up to sixty travellers. The route climbs through forest on steep sections, particularly early on, so a moderate fitness level is needed, and reviewers describe the ascent as demanding but rewarding. The reward is a cool, green landscape with running water, bird calls and the sound of the falls, a world away from the glass towers of Central. It is a good choice in hot weather, since the shade and the spray give relief, and for visitors who want a genuine nature day without planning a complex route by public transport.
The Ng Tung Chai waterfalls are among the most beautiful in Hong Kong, with several drops, including the main fall that tumbles down a high rock face. The best time to see them is after rain, when the water is strong, but the trail can be slippery in wet conditions, so wear shoes with good grip and take care on the steps and rocks. In the dry winter months the falls are quieter but the weather is cooler for hiking.
The tour operates in all weather, but if it is cancelled because of a black rainstorm warning or a Typhoon Signal 8 to 10, the operator offers an alternative date or a full refund. Start times are chosen at booking and the booking page is not clear on the time, so check the schedule when you book.
Practical points
The ticket is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason, so confirm your date before you pay. The tour is not recommended for travellers with back problems, heart conditions, other serious medical conditions or pregnancy, and it is not wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. Confirmation is given at booking, or within forty-eight hours if you book within three days of travel.
Bring plenty of water, insect repellent, a hat and a small daypack, and wear light, quick-drying clothes. Food and drinks are provided, but if you have dietary requirements, contact the operator in advance. The transfer by minivan saves a great deal of time compared with public transport, which makes the day efficient.
Compare this with the Lion Rock and Dragon's Back walks. Those are ridge walks with sea and city views; this one is a forest and waterfall hike, cooler and greener, and it appeals to people who like running water and shade more than panoramas. It suits fit couples, friends and adventurous families with older children. It is a poor fit if you dislike steep climbs or have only a day or two in Hong Kong and want to see the major sights.
Combine it with an evening in the city, for instance a night market or a Star Ferry ride, so you contrast quiet nature with neon. Allow a relaxed schedule the following morning, since steep descents can leave your legs sore.
What to expect
The experience
A guided hike of about five hours to the Ng Tung Chai waterfalls on Tai Mo Shan, starting and ending at Tai Wo MTR exit A, with minivan transport, guide, food and drinks.
Best time
After rain for the strongest falls, or in the cooler months for comfortable hiking. Avoid black rainstorm and typhoon warnings.
How long
About five hours including transfers.
Tips
The ticket is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Wear shoes with grip, bring water and insect repellent, and check the start time when you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fit travellers who want a cool, green waterfall hike without arranging public transport.
- Families
- Suitable for fit older children; the early climb is steep and the trail can be slippery.
- Couples
- A refreshing nature day with forest, water and views.
- Pair with
- An evening in the city, such as a night market or the Star Ferry.
- Time needed
- About five hours.
Good questions
Where does the hike meet?+
At Tai Wo MTR station exit A, near Tai Wo Estate in the New Territories. It returns to the same point.
What waterfall do I see?+
The Ng Tung Chai waterfalls on the slopes of Tai Mo Shan, a series of cascades in a wooded valley.
How hard is it?+
A moderate fitness level is needed. Reviewers describe steep, strenuous sections, especially in the early ascent.
What if the weather is bad?+
If the tour is cancelled for a black rainstorm warning or a Typhoon Signal 8 to 10, the operator offers an alternative date or a full refund.
What is included?+
Air-conditioned minivan transport, a local guide and food and drinks.
