2-Day Great Wall Hiking Tour from Beijing: Jiankou, Mutianyu, Jinshanling and Simatai West

Exploring the 2-Day Great Wall Hiking Tour from Beijing: Jiankou, Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Simatai West

Thinking about a trip to China and eager to see the Great Wall beyond the crowded tourist spots? This 2-day hiking tour promises an adventure through lesser-visited, authentic sections of the Wall, accompanied by knowledgeable guides and a chance to experience local rural life. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a quick photo op and are prepared for some serious walking.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines hiking through untouched, dramatic sections of the Wall with authentic, home-cooked meals in a local farmhouse. It’s a step away from the typical tourist route, offering a more genuine and scenic encounter with this world wonder. One possible consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some, especially if sightseeing extras like cable cars aren’t included.

This tour is best suited for active travelers, those who appreciate history and scenery, and anyone looking to escape the crowds for a more personal, immersive experience. If you’re prepared for some physical activity and value authentic cultural interactions, this could be a highlight of your Beijing visit.

Key Points

Authentic Sections: Explore Jiankou, Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Simatai West—some of the most scenic and less commercialized parts of the Wall.
Expert Guides: Travel with knowledgeable guides who share insights and keep the experience lively and engaging.
Local Experience: Enjoy meals at a farmhouse with local farmers, sampling home-cooked dishes like dumplings.
Active & Scenic: Expect around 6-7 miles of moderate hiking each day amid breathtaking views and historic structures.
Small Group: The tour is private, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Cost & Value: At around $517, the tour offers a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, though extras like drinks or cable cars are not included.

In-Depth Review of the 2-Day Great Wall Hiking Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour is designed for those who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots and experience more remote, wild parts of the Great Wall. The itinerary is carefully crafted to include some of the most photogenic and less crowded sections, like Jiankou and Simatai West, which are renowned for their rugged beauty and steep gradients.

What truly elevates this experience is the guides’ knowledge—they are well-versed in the Wall’s history and local stories, often adding personal anecdotes, which make the journey more than just a hike. The guide we read about, Frank, was praised for his helpfulness and sense of humor, making the long walks more enjoyable.

Day 1: Discovering Jiankou and Mutianyu

Your adventure begins in central Beijing, where you’ll be picked up early and driven around 2.5 hours to Jiankou. The drive alone is scenic, passing through rustic countryside. The hike here is about 6 miles (roughly 10 km), with a moderate level of difficulty. The terrain is varied—uphill climbs, dense greenery, and ancient, crumbling sections of the Wall perfect for those who like a bit of adventure.

The first hour is particularly striking as you ascend steeply, revealing sweeping views and intricate stonework—some of the most dramatic scenery on the Wall. The section is largely untouched, with rugged, wild landscapes that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Reviewers mention that the scenery is “postcard-worthy” during this part, especially at sunrise or early morning when fewer people are around.

Midday, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch, with snacks and water supplied by your guide. Afterward, you’ll visit the restored Mutianyu section, which is known for its well-preserved towers and easier pathways. Many visitors prefer Mutianyu for its balance of historical charm and accessibility, and you’ll get to explore at your own pace.

In the evening, you’ll stay overnight at a local farmers’ guesthouse near Gubeikou, a small village with authentic rural charm. Here, you’ll mingle with farmers and enjoy a home-cooked Chinese dinner, including dumplings—a highlight praised by travelers for its genuineness and flavor.

Day 2: Jinshanling and Simatai West — The Wild Side

The next morning kicks off with breakfast at the farmhouse, then a short 20-minute drive to Jinshanling. This part of the Wall is famous for its well-preserved watchtowers and slightly more original condition. You’ll hike around 3 miles (5 km), with fewer travelers, which makes for fantastic photo opportunities. Travelers describe the scenery as “spectacular” and note that it offers a nice mix of steep ascents and flat stretches.

Later, you’ll proceed to Simatai West, one of the most untamed and steep sections. Here, the trail has numerous towers, steep gradients, and a rugged, adventurous feel. The detour at Kylin Tower adds a special touch, offering sweeping views and a sense of achievement. Reviewers emphasize that this part of the Wall feels truly authentic, with “challenging terrain and stunning vistas”.

After completing the hike, you’ll be driven back to Beijing for a traditional Chinese lunch in Wangfujing, a bustling shopping district. The day’s total hiking distance is manageable for those with moderate fitness, but be prepared for some steep climbs and uneven surfaces.

Practical Details & What to Expect

• Transportation: All travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickups arranged from central Beijing.
• Guides: Your local guide provides historical context, safety tips, and helps you navigate the terrain.
• Meals: All meals are included—picnic lunch on Day 1, breakfast at the farmhouse, and a Chinese lunch on Day 2. The food is described as authentic and hearty, with the farmhouse meal being a true highlight.
• Accommodation: Overnight stays are in twin-share rooms at a local farmers’ guesthouse near Gubeikou, offering a genuine rural experience.
• Tour Size: As a private tour, you have the advantage of personalized attention, making it easier to customize or clarify during hikes.

The Not-So-Great Bits

One review highlighted that not everything on the voucher was included in the actual tour. Drinks, cable car rides, and hotel drop-offs were not covered, and the overall value was questioned given the cost of over $800 for two people. It’s important to clarify what’s included before booking and to be aware that extras might add up if you wish to indulge.

Another point to consider is the price relative to the accommodation and meals—some travelers felt it was a bit steep, especially since the accommodation is basic, and some services like food massages aren’t part of the package.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy hiking and want to explore less touristy, more authentic sections of the Wall. It’s ideal if you’re seeking scenic views, culture, and physical activity all rolled into one. If you’re a history buff eager to see the original, rugged parts of the Wall, this tour will satisfy your curiosity.

However, if you’re looking for a relaxed sightseeing day or prefer luxury accommodations, this might feel a little rugged. Also, those who prefer a more all-inclusive experience where everything is paid for upfront should clarify what’s included and what isn’t, especially considering the previous critiques.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For active travelers craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure, this tour offers a memorable way to walk along some of the most scenic, wild sections of the Great Wall. The combination of hiking, cultural interactions, and home-cooked meals makes it a well-rounded experience.

The knowledgeable guides, especially those like Frank, enhance the journey with stories and humor, making the long walks more engaging. The quiet mornings at Jinshanling and Simatai West are perfect for photographers or anyone wanting to enjoy the Wall without crowds.

That said, it’s important to weigh the cost against what’s included—some travelers have felt it’s a bit pricey given the basic accommodations and extra expenses not covered. If you’re budget-conscious, you might want to compare this with other options or be prepared for additional costs.

To sum it up, this tour is best for active, curious travelers who want a genuine, scenic, and immersive Great Wall experience. If you’re after a more relaxed or luxury-focused trip, there may be better alternatives. But for those seeking adventure, authenticity, and stunning views, this journey can be a highlight of your Beijing visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
It lasts approximately 2 days, covering both hiking and cultural experiences.

Are meals included?
Yes, you will enjoy breakfast, two lunches, and dinner, with the option of home-cooked dishes at a local farmhouse.

What is the difficulty level?
The tour requires a moderate level of fitness, involving around 6-7 miles of hiking each day on varied terrain.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Staying at a local farmers’ guesthouse, the rooms are basic but authentic, on a twin-share basis.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years, making it accessible for families with active children.

How much walking is involved?
Expect approximately 6 miles on Day 1 and 3 miles on Day 2, with some steep sections and uneven surfaces.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, all travel between Beijing and the Wall sections is in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there is room for some flexibility, but it’s best to confirm with your guide beforehand.

Are extras like cable cars included?
No, extras such as cable cars are not included and might incur additional costs if you choose to add them.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a backpack for essentials, water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Final Words

This 2-day Great Wall hiking tour offers a rare glimpse of China’s most untouched, scenic sections with the added bonus of culture and home-cooked meals. While it might be on the pricier side and not luxurious, it’s a genuine adventure that will leave you with lasting memories of the Wall’s wild beauty.

Perfect for energetic travelers who value authenticity and stunning vistas, this experience promises a more personal and scenic alternative to the crowded tourist spots. Just be prepared for some physical activity and clarify what’s included to make the most of your journey.