10-Day Private Tour from Guangzhou to Guilin and Nanning

Discover the Charm of Southern China in 10 Days

This private 10-day tour from Guangzhou to Guilin and Nanning offers an immersive look into some of China’s most captivating regions. From historical sites to breathtaking landscapes, it’s ideal for travelers eager to combine cultural insights with natural beauty. The inclusion of private guides, comfortable transportation, and thoughtful itineraries makes exploring these diverse destinations both enjoyable and efficient.

What we particularly love about this experience is the carefully curated stops – each one offers a genuine slice of local life, history, or scenery. Plus, the mix of scenic outdoor adventures and cultural visits ensures there’s always something new to see or do. One potential consideration: the journeys between destinations are quite long, which might be tiring for some. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive glimpse into southern China, this tour strikes a nice balance between travel and exploration. It’s perfect for those who enjoy structured trips but also appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments.

If you’re someone who loves discovering new places with a local guide, appreciates stunning views, and values well-organized tours that cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for travelers keen on cultural insights, scenic adventures, and trying authentic regional cuisine.

Key Points

• Incredible Cultural Highlights: From the ancient Chen Clan Ancestral Hall to the historic Yuexiu Park, you’ll get a deep dive into local history.
• Stunning Natural Landscapes: The Reed Flute Cave, Longji Rice Terraces, and Detian Waterfall showcase some of China’s most breathtaking scenery.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Visiting Qingping Market, Lychee Bay, and Dong Villages reveals genuine local life and traditions.
• Comfortable, Private Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles and private guides make travel smooth and personalized.
• Balanced Itinerary: A mix of sightseeing, outdoor activities, and cultural visits, with free time for personal exploration.
• Value for Money: The tour includes entrance tickets, private guides, and most transportation costs, making it a convenient package.

An In-Depth Look at the 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Guangzhou’s Historic Heritage to Local Flavors

Your journey begins with a pickup from your Guangzhou hotel around 9 am. The first stop, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, is a real highlight. Built in 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, this complex is a showcase of traditional Cantonese architecture—think intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and elaborate brickwork. It’s an educational experience layered with artistry, making it a must-see for fans of craftsmanship and history. Visitors note that the admission is free, and the guide’s stories add depth to the visit.

Next, you’ll stroll around Shamian Island, with its European-style architecture and tranquil ambiance. It’s a stark contrast to Guangzhou’s bustling streets and offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. The guide will lead you to a local restaurant to indulge in Cantonese Dim Sum, which is often praised as a highlight, with travelers remarking on the “yummy” flavors and authentic feel.

In the afternoon, a visit to Qingping Medicine Market offers a sensory overload. Covering over 11,000 square meters, this market sells everything from dried herbs and traditional medicines to fresh seafood and exotic flowers. It’s a practical look at Chinese medicinal culture that’s both fascinating and educational. The market’s sheer size and variety are what make it stand out, according to reviews.

Later, you’ll explore Hualin Temple, an ancient Buddhist site dating back over 1,400 years. The detailed statues of Arhats and the statue of Marco Polo highlight the blend of religious and historical narratives. The Five-Hundred-Arhat Hall is particularly praised for its lifelike sculptures.

Your day wraps up with a visit to Lychee Bay Scenic Area, a charming spot that captures the essence of Lingnan culture. Walking through the old neighborhoods here, you get a sense of local life and traditional architecture—perfect for photos and culture.

Day 2: Urban Green Spaces and Towering Landmarks

The second day kicks off with a visit to Yuexiu Park, the largest park in downtown Guangzhou. Here, the Five-Ram Sculpture and Zhenhai Tower are iconic sights. The park’s expansive grounds combined with lakes and hills make it a relaxing yet lively spot. Visitors say that the park’s size and the variety of sites mean you can spend a good 1.5 hours wandering without feeling rushed.

Next, you’ll go to the Museum of the Western Han Dynasty Mausoleum of the Nanyue King, which is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. The museum is praised for its well-curated exhibits, and reviewers mention that the 10 exhibition halls provide a comprehensive look at Han Dynasty funerary culture.

The Canton Tower (standing at 600 meters) is the day’s showstopper. As China’s tallest TV tower, it offers panoramic views of Guangzhou’s skyline. Visitors often mention that the experience of standing on the observation deck is “breathtaking,” and the lighting at night adds a magical touch. A great photo spot, though some note that the ticketing process can take a little time.

Finally, you’ll transfer to Guangzhou Railway Station for your train to Guilin, which takes about three hours on a first-class ticket. The seamless transfer from train to hotel (just a 20-minute drive) keeps things efficient.

Day 3: Exploring Guilin’s Natural Wonders

Your adventure in Guilin begins with a visit to Reed Flute Cave, renowned for its striking limestone formations. The guide’s stories about the different shapes—like the “stone lions” and “crystal chambers”—help bring the cave to life. The lighting enhances the formations, making it a visual delight.

Post-cave exploration, a two-hour drive takes you to the Longji Rice Terraces. The terraces, built over 650 years ago, are an incredible example of sustainable agriculture and craftsmanship. Travelers rave about the tiered fields’ beauty and the winding paths that offer excellent photo opportunities. You’ll have a chance to visit Ping’an Village, where wooden stilt houses and traditional Zhuang life add authenticity.

The trek up to Ping’an Village takes about 40 minutes, and the landscapes from the Seven-Star with the Moon viewing platform are often described as “breathtaking,” with many noting the terraced fields resemble a giant art piece. The entire afternoon is spent exploring, walking, and soaking in views that are quintessential Guilin.

Day 4: The Charm of Dong Villages and Yangshuo’s Countryside

In the morning, the journey continues to explore Dong Village in Sanjiang. The well-preserved architecture and natural setting here are a step back in time. The Wind and Rain Bridge, a marvel of Dong craftsmanship, is an engineering feat you won’t forget. It also functions as a social and cultural hub, with villagers still using it daily.

In the afternoon, a roughly three-hour drive brings you to Yangshuo—a place that’s famous for its stunning limestone karst landscapes. After settling into your hotel, you can relax or explore the bustling streets of Yangshuo town.

Day 5 & 6: Scenic Adventures in Yangshuo

The next two days are dedicated to exploring Yangshuo’s natural beauty. The Yulong River offers the chance to cycle or ride an E-bike through idyllic farmland and past ancient villages. Reviewers highlight this as a peaceful, authentic experience, with “vast farmlands and log cabins” creating perfect photo ops.

You’ll also enjoy a motorized raft ride on the Li River from Xingping Dock, which is often described as “the best way to appreciate the landscape.” Spotting Yellow Cloth Shoal and Murals Hill—both painted on currency—adds a fun local twist. Visitors note the one-hour boat ride is highlight-worthy, especially for its panoramic views.

In the evening, optional attendances at Impression Sanjie Liu, a spectacular outdoor show, are recommended. The performance, set against the backdrop of the Li River and hills, is a memorable cultural experience, praised for its artistry and originality.

Day 7-9: From Nanning’s Cultural Sites to Natural Reserves

Traveling from Yangshuo to Nanning is a long drive but offers scenic views along the way. Once in Nanning, you’ll explore Yangmei Ancient Town, with its well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture. The masonry buildings and stone roads give a real sense of stepping into history.

The Mingshi Scenic Area is a highlight, often called “Small Guilin” for its surreal landscape of karst hills and tranquil rivers. Reviewers find it a perfect escape from crowded tourist spots, praising its peaceful atmosphere and photo-worthy vistas.

On Day 8, you’ll visit Tongling Grand Canyon, a striking enclosed canyon with waterfalls and lush vegetation. The Asia’s highest waterfall adds to the allure, and the geological features are quite fascinating.

The Detian Waterfall is another breathtaking stop, crossing into Vietnam and billed as Asia’s largest transnational waterfall. It’s easy to see why visitors mention the impressive width and depth, making it a photographic must.

Day 10: Cultural Reflection in Nanning

Your final day in Nanning includes visits to the Guangxi Museum of Nationalities, showcasing local ethnic cultures, and Qingxiu Mountain, where pagodas and scenic views provide a peaceful ending to your trip. The park’s flowers and peach blossoms in spring are often highlighted as charming.

The tour concludes with transfers to the airport or train station, leaving you with a rich collection of memories from your Southern China adventure.

Why This Tour Represents Great Value

While the price tag of approximately $2,523 per person might seem hefty, it covers a lot—entrance fees, private guides, transportation, and most meals. The convenience of private transfers and the focus on authentic experiences mean you’re not just ticking boxes but truly engaging with local culture and scenery.

Multiple travelers remark that the guides are knowledgeable, with stories that add depth to each site. The included entrance tickets mean no surprise costs, and the flexible timings allow for a comfortable pace. However, travelers should note that hotel stays and dinners are not included, so budgeting for those separately is essential.

The train from Guangzhou to Guilin in first class is an efficient way to cover the distance, and the private car transfers between sites keep the trip smooth. The itinerary is balanced, packing in major sights without overwhelming, and offers enough free time for personal exploration or rest.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy comprehensive cultural and scenic explorations with expert guides, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a structured experience that covers iconic sites and hidden gems alike.

Travelers keen on authentic local cuisine, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights will find plenty to love. It’s also suitable for those who don’t mind longer travel days and want to maximize their time exploring southern China’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, the tour includes a private guide who will accompany you throughout most of the trip, making sure you get detailed insights and assistance.

Are entrance tickets included?
Absolutely, all the major site entrance fees are covered, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs at these attractions.

What transportation is used?
You’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned private vehicle, with the train from Guangzhou to Guilin also included in first class.

How long are the travel days?
Some days involve significant driving, especially between Guilin, Yangshuo, and Nanning, but the itinerary is designed for comfort and scenic enjoyment.

Is dinner included?
No, dinner and hotel accommodations are not part of the package, so you’ll arrange those separately.

Can I add more days?
Yes, the tour is flexible and can be extended based on your interests and schedule.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, scenic spots like rice terraces and waterfalls tend to be spectacular in spring and autumn, avoiding peak heat or rain.

Are children or seniors suitable?
Most travelers can participate, but specific restrictions like no boat rides for those over 70 and certain age limits on boat trips are noted.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing personalized attention and flexibility.

How do I book?
You can confirm through the provider, happychinatours, and they offer a full refund if canceled at least 3 days in advance.

In short, this 10-day tour offers a balanced, authentic journey through some of Southern China’s most picturesque and culturally significant sites. With knowledgeable guides, scenic adventures, and seamless transportation, it’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting an in-depth, hassle-free exploration. Whether you’re into history, nature, or local culture, this trip has plenty to offer.