Lantau Trail Complete Hiking Guide
The Lantau Trail is Hong Kong's most spectacular multi-day hiking adventure, offering 70 kilometers of diverse terrain across the territory's largest island. This comprehensive circular trail, opened in 1984, ranks as the third longest in Hong Kong and provides an unforgettable journey through mountain peaks, traditional villages, coastal scenery, and cultural heritage sites.
Trail Overview
The Lantau Trail forms a complete loop starting and ending at Mui Wo Ferry Pier, taking hikers through 12 distinct sections that showcase the incredible diversity of Lantau Island. From conquering Hong Kong's second and third highest peaks to exploring the famous Tai O fishing village, this trail offers experiences that range from challenging mountain ascents to peaceful coastal walks.
Key Statistics:
- Total Distance: 70 kilometers (43 miles)
- Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 3,500 meters
- Number of Sections: 12 clearly marked sections
- Completion Time: 2-5 days depending on pace and stops
- Difficulty Range: Easy to Very Difficult
- Trail Markers: L000 to L140 every 500 meters
The Complete 12-Section Breakdown
Section 1: Mui Wo → Nam Shan (2.5km, 45 minutes)
Your Lantau Trail adventure begins with an easy warm-up section from the ferry pier through gentle terrain. This introductory segment helps hikers acclimate while enjoying views of the surrounding countryside. Perfect for getting your trail legs before the challenges ahead.
Section 2: Nam Shan → Pak Kung Au (6.5km, 2.75 hours)
The trail's first major challenge features the ascent to Sunset Peak (869m), Hong Kong's third-highest mountain. This very difficult section rewards climbers with panoramic views and, during autumn months (October-December), spectacular silvergrass displays that create golden waves across the mountainside.
Section 3: Pak Kung Au → Ngong Ping 360 (4.5km, 2.75 hours)
Continuing the mountain challenge, this section takes you to Lantau Peak (934m), the second-highest point in Hong Kong. The steep ascent and exposed ridges require careful navigation, but the summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the territory and beyond to mainland China.
Section 4: Ngong Ping 360 → Sham Wat Road (4.0km, 1.25 hours)
A transitional section that connects the high peaks to the island's western regions. Recent trail rerouting has made this section more accessible, following Ngong Ping Road for much of the route. Take advantage of refreshment opportunities at the cable car station and Big Buddha area.
Section 5: Sham Wat Road → Man Cheung Po (7.5km, 2.75 hours)
One of the more challenging sections, featuring climbs over Keung Shan (459m) and Ling Wui Shan (490m). The terrain is exposed and can be particularly demanding in hot weather. Water scarcity makes this section crucial for preparation, with the reward being arrival at Man Cheung Po, considered one of Hong Kong's finest campsites.
Section 6: Man Cheung Po → Tai O (2.5km, 1 hour)
A relatively short and easier section that brings you down to sea level and the famous Tai O fishing village. This traditional stilt house settlement offers cultural immersion, local seafood, and a chance to experience Hong Kong's maritime heritage. Perfect for resupplying and experiencing authentic local life.
Section 7: Tai O → Kau Ling Chung (10.5km, 3 hours)
The trail's longest single section takes you through Yi O farmlands and to the remote Fan Lau peninsula. Note that parts of this section were closed from 2013-2024 due to private land disputes but have recently reopened. The route showcases traditional agriculture and leads to one of Hong Kong's most isolated coastal areas.
Section 8: Kau Ling Chung → Shek Pik (5.5km, 1.5 hours)
A scenic coastal walk with dramatic views of Lantau Peak in the distance. The section concludes at Shek Pik Reservoir, Hong Kong's third-largest, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to reflect on the distance covered while enjoying relatively easy terrain.
Section 9: Shek Pik → Shui Hau (6.5km, 2 hours)
One of the easier sections, featuring gentle coastal paths and access to Lo Kei Wan beach. This segment offers a welcome respite from more challenging terrain while maintaining beautiful scenery. The peaceful coastal environment provides excellent opportunities for rest and photography.
Section 10: Shui Hau → Tung Chung Road (6.5km, 2 hours)
Another relatively easy section that passes several unofficial camping areas near BBQ sites. Popular with hikers looking to break up their journey, this section offers multiple stopping points while maintaining gentle terrain and good access to water sources.
Section 11: Tung Chung Road → Pui O (4.5km, 1.25 hours)
A short and easy section leading to Pui O Beach, famous for its black and yellow sand and excellent camping facilities. The beach setting provides a perfect opportunity for swimming, relaxation, and enjoying the island's coastal beauty before the final push to complete the trail.
Section 12: Pui O → Mui Wo (9.0km, 3 hours)
The final section includes the trail's last major challenge: the ascent of Tai Ngau Wu Peak (275m). Despite its relatively modest height, this climb comes at the end of a long journey and tests tired legs. The descent to Mui Wo completes the circular journey with a sense of accomplishment and beautiful harbor views.
Multi-Day Hiking Itineraries
4-Day Classic Route
Day 1: Mui Wo to Ngong Ping (Sections 1,2,3) - 13.5km
The most challenging day covering both major peaks. Start early to tackle Sunset Peak and Lantau Peak while energy levels are highest.
Day 2: Ngong Ping to Fan Lau (Sections 4,5,6,7) - 22km
The longest day featuring cultural immersion at Tai O and journey to the remote Fan Lau peninsula.
Day 3: Fan Lau to Section 10 BBQ site (Sections 8,9,part 10) - 16km
Beautiful coastal scenery with moderate difficulty and multiple camping options.
Day 4: BBQ site to Mui Wo (Sections 10,11,12) - 18.5km
Final push including Pui O Beach rest and the last climb over Tai Ngau Wu.
Alternative Itineraries
2-Day Challenge: Split the trail at Fan Lau for experienced hikers seeking intense adventure.
3-Day Comfort: Divide at Ngong Ping and Shek Pik for more manageable daily distances.
5-Day Leisure: Allows time for cultural exploration and photography with camping at multiple locations.
Accommodation and Camping
Official Campsites
Man Cheung Po Campsite: Widely considered Hong Kong's finest campsite, featuring reliable water sources, excellent facilities, and stunning mountain monastery views.
Pui O Beach Campsite: Popular beach camping with showers, kiosks, and restaurants nearby. Can become crowded on weekends and holidays.
Alternative Camping: Nga Ying Kok, Tsin Yue Wan, and various BBQ sites along Section 10 offer unofficial camping opportunities.
Water Sources and Resupply
Critical water sources include the stream at Man Cheung Po, facilities at Ngong Ping 360, and public toilets at Shek Pik. Water scarcity between Sunset Peak and Ngong Ping requires careful planning and adequate carrying capacity.
Cultural and Natural Highlights
Mountain Peaks
Lantau Peak (934m): Hong Kong's second-highest mountain offering spectacular sunrise views and challenging ascent.
Sunset Peak (869m): Famous for autumn silvergrass displays and golden-hour photography opportunities.
Keung Shan and Ling Wui Shan: Exposed ridge walks testing endurance and navigation skills.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Po Lin Monastery: Home to the famous Big Buddha statue and traditional vegetarian cuisine.
Tai O Fishing Village: Traditional stilt houses, local seafood, and authentic Hong Kong maritime culture.
Fan Lau Village: Remote peninsula settlement offering glimpses into traditional island life.
Natural Wonders
Silvergrass Fields: Sunset Peak's autumn displays create photographer's paradise.
Coastal Beaches: Multiple scenic beaches including Pui O and Lo Kei Wan.
Shek Pik Reservoir: Engineering marvel providing water supply and scenic beauty.
Best Times to Hike
Optimal Seasons
Autumn (October-December): Peak season featuring silvergrass displays, cooler temperatures, and excellent visibility. This is considered the absolute best time for the full trail experience.
Winter (December-February): Clear skies and comfortable hiking temperatures, though some morning frost possible at higher elevations.
Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather with fewer crowds, though some sections may experience afternoon showers.
Summer Avoidance: Extreme heat, high humidity, and typhoon season make summer hiking dangerous and uncomfortable.
Transportation and Access
Getting to the Trailhead
Primary Access: Central Pier 6 to Mui Wo Ferry (check Hong Kong Ferry schedules)
Bus Connections: Routes 3, 3M, 11, and 23 provide access to various trail sections
Cable Car Option: Ngong Ping 360 from Tung Chung for mid-trail access
Airport Proximity: Easy access from Hong Kong International Airport via bus connections
Safety and Preparation
Essential Gear
Proper hiking boots with ankle support, weather protection, navigation equipment, first aid kit, and emergency communication device. Multi-day hikers need camping equipment rated for Hong Kong's variable weather conditions.
Safety Considerations
Weather changes rapidly at altitude, water scarcity requires careful planning, exposed sections demand sun protection, and emergency evacuation options should be planned. Download offline maps and inform others of your hiking plans.
Emergency Information
Emergency contact: 999
Multiple exit points available via bus routes
Cell phone coverage generally good except in remote valleys
Helicopter landing areas at major peaks for serious emergencies
Photography and Special Interests
Prime Photography Locations
Sunrise/Sunset: Lantau Peak for sunrise, Sunset Peak for evening golden hour
Cultural Shots: Tai O stilt houses, traditional fishing boats, monastery architecture
Landscape Photography: Silvergrass fields, coastal vistas, mountain ridges
Wildlife: Various bird species, occasional wild boar sightings, and diverse plant life
Seasonal Photography
Autumn silvergrass season provides the most dramatic landscape photography opportunities, while clear winter days offer excellent long-distance visibility for panoramic shots.
Planning Your Adventure
The Lantau Trail represents one of Hong Kong's premier hiking experiences, combining physical challenge with cultural immersion and natural beauty. Whether tackled as an intensive 2-day challenge or savored over 5 leisurely days, this trail showcases the incredible diversity of Hong Kong's largest island.
Successful completion requires adequate preparation, respect for the natural environment, and appreciation for the cultural heritage encountered along the way. The circular nature of the trail means you'll finish where you started, but with a completely transformed perspective of Lantau Island and its treasures.
From the spiritual atmosphere of Po Lin Monastery to the maritime traditions of Tai O, from the challenging ascents of Hong Kong's highest peaks to the peaceful coastal sections, the Lantau Trail offers an unparalleled adventure that captures the essence of Hong Kong's natural and cultural heritage.