● Currency HKD, pegged to the US dollar ● Visa-free stay up to 90 days for many nationalities ● Getting around Octopus card on MTR, tram & ferry ● Airport Express Central in 24 min ● Tap water boil before drinking ● Emergency number 999

Hiking trails

Around 40% of Hong Kong's land is designated country park — a fact that surprises most first-time visitors expecting only skyscrapers.

Dragon's Back

The most popular short hike, a ridge walk on the Island's south side with sweeping views over Shek O and the coastline, often finished with a swim.

The MacLehose Trail

Hong Kong's longest trail, 100km across the New Territories in ten sections — Section 1 through Sai Kung's high peninsula is consistently rated among the most scenic.

Practical notes

  • Summer heat and humidity are serious — start early and carry more water than feels necessary.
  • Trails are generally well marked with distance posts, but download an offline map before setting out.
  • Check for typhoon or "black rain" warnings before any hike — trails close and can be genuinely dangerous in a signal.