
Swallow Grotto Yanzikou Taroko
Explore the dramatic marble cliffs and river-carved gorge of Swallow Grotto, a natural wonder in Taroko National Park.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Swallow Grotto Yanzikou Taroko
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the dramatic marble cliffs and river-carved gorge of Swallow Grotto, a natural wonder in Taroko National Park.
"It's an indescribably beautiful nature that you will never regret visiting. "

🪖 Wear Your Helmet!
Free helmets are provided for your safety due to potential falling rocks.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trails can be steep and uneven; comfortable shoes are a must.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 611 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) Trail
Taroko National Park
Walk through a narrow gorge with towering marble cliffs and witness swallows nesting in the crags.

Natural Formations
Along the Yanzikou Trail
Marvel at unique rock formations carved by the Liwu River over millennia.

Liwu River Views
Swallow Grotto
Experience breathtaking vistas of the powerful Liwu River cutting through the gorge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Helmet Up for Safety
Trail Conditions & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪖 Wear Your Helmet!
Free helmets are provided for your safety due to potential falling rocks.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trails can be steep and uneven; comfortable shoes are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking longer trails in Taroko.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Don't forget your camera for the dramatic gorge and cliff views!
Tips
from all over the internet
🪖 Wear Your Helmet!
Free helmets are provided for your safety due to potential falling rocks.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trails can be steep and uneven; comfortable shoes are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking longer trails in Taroko.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Don't forget your camera for the dramatic gorge and cliff views!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular and indescribably beautiful nature of Swallow Grotto, highlighting its unique rock formations and the impressive Liwu River gorge. While the natural scenery is a major draw, some reviewers mention that certain trail sections require maintenance, and the steep stairs can be challenging. Overall, it's considered a highly rewarding natural experience.
"It's a great place to spend a day exploring nature. After visiting the many nearby waterfalls, you can walk along the 2.5 km hiking trail, see many interesting natural formations, many small insects, and listen to the sounds of nature. Hikers along the Youth ridge trail should be aware that the hiking trail is damaged. It is an indescribably beautiful nature that you will never regret visiting"
Davaasuren Nyamtseren
"It's great experience and beautiful nature.
Just some parts on the way need to fix, hopefully government take care of that,"
vafa ighani
"Good place for hiking"
鄭傑森
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) is accessible by car or tour bus within Taroko National Park. Many visitors combine it with other popular spots like the Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jingqudong) and Shakadang Trail.
Limited parking is available near the trailheads. Arriving early or using park shuttles is recommended to avoid congestion.
Yes, Swallow Grotto is a popular day trip or part of an overnight stay from Taipei. It's a long day, often involving a 13-hour itinerary.
Many visitors opt for guided tours or rent a car to navigate the park efficiently. Public transport options are also available.
Yes, park buses frequently stop at major attractions including Swallow Grotto, making it accessible without a private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Taroko National Park and Swallow Grotto is generally free. However, some specific attractions within the park might have associated fees or require reservations.
Taroko National Park is typically open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, specific trail access might be limited during certain hours or due to maintenance.
No, there is no entrance fee to Taroko National Park itself. You can explore most of its natural wonders without paying an admission charge.
As there's no general entrance fee, advance booking isn't required for Swallow Grotto. However, it's wise to check for any temporary closures or advisories.
There are no age restrictions for visiting Swallow Grotto, but the terrain can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Yanzikou Trail is a relatively easy, paved path that winds through the gorge, offering stunning views of marble cliffs and the Liwu River. It's known for its natural caves and niches.
The Yanzikou Trail is about 1 km long and can be completed in 30-60 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.
Yes, falling rocks are a hazard. Helmets are mandatory and provided free of charge at the 179.3 km mark. Be aware of your surroundings.
You might spot swallows nesting in the cliffs, and various insects. The sound of nature and the river is also a prominent feature.
The trail is paved but can be narrow and uneven in places, with some steep sections. It may not be fully accessible for strollers or wheelchairs.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints along the trail that capture the dramatic scale of the gorge, the river, and the unique rock formations. The entrance to the tunnels also offers great perspectives.
Morning light can be beautiful for illuminating the gorge walls, while late afternoon offers a softer glow. Consider the weather for dramatic cloud formations.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check park regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the gorge. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife or details on the cliffs.
Yes, you can take photos inside the tunnels, but be mindful of other visitors and ensure you have adequate lighting or a camera with good low-light performance.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit