2-Day Private Tour: Classic Li River Cruise and Longji Terrace Tour

Introduction

If you’re eyeing a trip to Guilin and want an experience that blends breathtaking landscapes with cultural insights, this 2-day private tour covering the Longji Rice Terraces and a Li River cruise could be just what you’re looking for. It promises the kind of stunning views that make you want to reach for your camera at every turn, all while being guided by knowledgeable locals who know these sights inside out.

What we love about this tour is its personalized touch—a private guide means more flexibility and tailored attention. Plus, with all entrance fees, transportation, and meals included, it offers a hassle-free experience. A potential consideration is that it doesn’t include overnight accommodations, so you’ll need to arrange your own hotel stay. This tour suits travelers who want an immersive, scenic escape without the fuss of group tours and who appreciate authentic local encounters.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with a guide dedicated to your group
• In-depth visits to Longji Rice Terraces and minority villages, with great photo opportunities
• Scenic Li River cruise showcasing Guilin’s iconic landscape
• Included transportation, entrance fees, and meals, adding value and convenience
• Flexible drop-off options in Guilin or Yangshuo to suit your travel plans
• Not including overnight accommodation gives you room to customize your stay

Exploring the Longji Rice Terraces

The journey begins early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel in downtown Guilin around 8:30-9:00 am. This is a smart move, especially if you’re staying in the city center, because it saves you the hassle of navigating public transport. The 2.5-hour drive to the Longji Rice Terraces provides a scenic preview of Guilin’s lush countryside, promising that you’ll arrive eager to explore.

The Longji Rice Terraces are often described as a photographer’s paradise, and we couldn’t agree more. These terraces are carved into the mountainsides, creating a patchwork of shimmering steps that catch the sunlight beautifully. Visiting the famous Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces allows you to walk among these terraces, soaking in the spectacular views and capturing breathtaking photos. It’s a chance to see how local farmers transform rugged hills into lush green fields, especially during planting or harvest season when the landscape is especially vibrant.

One highlight is visiting Ping An Zhuang Village, a traditional minority village surrounded by these terraces. Guests often mention how fascinating it is to meet the Zhuang and Yao communities, who have been living here for hundreds of years. The authenticity of the village, combined with the scenic backdrop, makes it a memorable stop.

According to reviews, the tour guides are particularly praised for their local knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer appreciated how their guide, Lily, went “beyond the call of duty,” ensuring everything went smoothly and adding interesting cultural facts along the way. The visit to the village is not just about photo ops; it’s about understanding the rich cultural tapestry of this region.

Lunch is arranged at a local Chinese restaurant, offering a chance to enjoy regional flavors—something many travelers find a welcome break after walking around the terraces. The return to Guilin by mid-afternoon wraps up the day’s sightseeing, leaving your evening free to relax or explore more on your own.

The Li River and Its Enchanting Scenery

Day two begins with a pick-up from your hotel at 8:30 am, followed by a short transfer to the Li River cruise terminal. The cruise departs at 9:30 am, setting sail through some of China’s most iconic scenery. The Li River is famous for its karst formations—towering limestone peaks that seem to rise straight out of the water, creating a landscape that looks like it’s been painted into a scroll.

As you cruise towards Yangshuo, you’ll be able to soak in views that reviewers describe as “breathtaking” and “dreamlike.” One traveler even called the scenery “like walking through a painting,” which sums up the experience well. The cruise lasts around four hours, and a take-away lunch is provided, so you don’t miss a moment of the visual feast.

Arriving in Yangshuo, the tour offers some free time to explore the bustling West Street, a lively hub filled with shops, cafes, bars, and street performers. It’s an excellent place to soak in local life, pick up souvenirs, or just people-watch while sipping tea or trying local snacks.

For those wanting a more active experience, a bicycle ride through the countryside is included, allowing you to enjoy the lush scenery at your own pace. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated this flexibility—riding past rice paddies, groves, and rural villages, it’s a wonderfully peaceful way to connect with the landscape.

The tour wraps up with a choice of drop-off in Guilin or Yangshuo, giving you the flexibility to continue your adventure in either city. The overall experience on the river, combined with the charm of Yangshuo’s countryside, makes this day both relaxing and visually captivating.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour offers solid value for its price of approximately $417 per person. The key benefits include hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Guilin, all entrance fees, transportation in private vehicles, lunch on both days, and the guidance of a professional English-speaking guide.

The private guide aspect is a major plus, ensuring a tailored and engaging experience. Based on reviews, guides like Lily are attentive and knowledgeable, sharing insights into local culture and history. This personal touch makes a significant difference, especially in minority villages and scenic spots.

On the flip side, the tour does not include overnight accommodations, so you’ll need to arrange your own hotel in Guilin or Yangshuo. For travelers planning an extended trip, this flexibility allows you to choose accommodations that suit your style and budget.

It’s worth noting that this is a private tour, meaning only your group participates. This tends to foster a more relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of room for questions or spontaneous stops. The tour’s timing is also well-structured, beginning early in the day to maximize sightseeing while allowing you to finish comfortably in the afternoon.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: Longji Rice Terraces and Minority Villages

The journey starting around 8:30 am feels just right—early enough to beat some crowds but not so early as to sacrifice comfort. The scenic drive itself prepares you for the awe-inspiring views awaiting at the terraces. Once there, walking around the terraces allows you to see the intricate craftsmanship involved in creating these step fields that seem to cascade down the mountainsides.

Visiting Ping An Zhuang Village offers a chance to step into local life. Guests mention how the village is surrounded by “beautiful rice fields” and has been home to Zhuang and Yao peoples for centuries. This is where the tour’s cultural element shines—meeting local people and learning how their traditional lifestyles intertwine with the landscape.

Day 2: Touring the Li River

The cruise along the Li River is often highlighted as the main event. The painted hills of Nine Horses are a standout, seemingly alive with shapes and stories. Travelers say this landscape “feels like a painting,” which captures how surreal and beautiful the scenery really is.

The lunch box on board keeps you fueled while admiring the views. Upon reaching Yangshuo, exploring West Street is a lively contrast to the peaceful countryside—filled with shops and street performers, it’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in local vibes.

The bicycle ride through the countryside is highly recommended and appreciated by reviewers. It’s a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty at your own pace, and many mention how peaceful and scenic the ride is.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Lily and Cristobal, who are commended for their friendliness and fluency in Spanish and English. Their insights and attentiveness elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

One reviewer mentioned how their guide “made our trip so worry-free and carefree,” highlighting how personal guiding can truly enhance your trip. Another called the scenery “heaven on earth,” emphasizing how awe-inspiring the landscapes are.

Locals living in the villages are often described as warm and welcoming, providing a genuine sense of connection. Guests mention how difficult it is to tear themselves away from the spectacular views or the charming local people.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the terraces and villages.
• Bring your camera or smartphone — these landscapes are too stunning to miss snapping.
• Be prepared for some physical activity if you opt for the bicycle ride; comfortable clothing is best.
• Since the tour doesn’t include overnight stays, plan your accommodations accordingly—whether in Guilin or Yangshuo.
• The timing is quite tight, so if you want to linger longer at certain spots, communicate this with your guide beforehand.
• Consider bringing a small amount of cash for souvenirs or drinks, as some shops may not accept cards.
• Check the weather forecast, as misty or rainy days can impact visibility and photo opportunities.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private tour offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, culture, and convenient logistics. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want an intimate experience with expert guides, without the inconvenience of large group tours. The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and meals means you can focus on enjoying the views and engaging with local culture.

The meticulous planning and attention to detail—highlighted by glowing reviews—make it stand out. Whether you’re a first-timer in Guilin or a seasoned traveler seeking authentic sights, this tour delivers a comprehensive taste of what makes this region so special.

If you love picturesque landscapes, cultural encounters, and relaxing river cruises, this tour is undoubtedly worth considering. It’s best suited for those who value guided experiences but prefer a private, tailored approach over large group excursions. The only real caveat is the lack of overnight accommodations, which allows you the freedom to explore Guilin or Yangshuo further at your leisure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in downtown Guilin at the start and hotel drop-off in Guilin or Yangshuo at the end, depending on your choice.

What’s the duration of each day?
Day 1 lasts until around 3:30 pm, with about 21 hours from pickup to return, while Day 2’s Li River cruise lasts approximately four hours.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the Longji Rice Terraces, villages, and the Li River cruise are included in the price.

Can I customize my drop-off location?
The standard options are in Guilin or Yangshuo, but the tour generally offers flexibility based on your preference.

Does the tour include meals?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and a take-away lunch on the cruise are included, allowing you to focus on the scenery and experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; children sharing with two paying adults qualify for a child rate.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for terraces and villages. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring a camera!

How experienced are the guides?
Reviews mention guides like Lily and Cristobal as very friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the trip enjoyable and informative.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 3 days before the start are non-refundable.

This detailed, well-structured tour combines natural beauty with cultural richness, making it a standout choice for those wanting a memorable Guilin experience.