3-Day Private Tour to Zhangjiajie National Park and Glass Bridge from Beijing

Experience the Natural Wonder of Zhangjiajie in Just Three Days

This 3-day private tour from Beijing offers an incredible chance to explore some of China’s most stunning natural sights in Zhangjiajie. From the towering sandstone pillars of the national park to the daring glass bridge suspended hundreds of meters above the ground, this itinerary is packed with unforgettable moments. What we love most is how the tour balances awe-inspiring scenery with convenient logistics—everything from flights to guided hikes is organized to maximize your experience.

One thing to consider is that this tour is quite intensive, with a packed schedule that includes early mornings and lots of walking, so it’s best suited for travelers with a good level of fitness and a curiosity for outdoor adventures. It’s ideal for those who want a seamless, all-inclusive way to see Zhangjiajie’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, a thrill on the world’s longest cable car, or a walk on the famous glass bridge, this tour tends to suit adventurous travelers, photography enthusiasts, and nature lovers looking to cover a lot in a short amount of time.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour includes flights, entrance fees, private transfers, and lunches, making it a stress-free experience.
• Iconic Attractions: Highlights include the Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Mountain, Tianmen Mountain, and the world’s longest glass bridge.
• Expert Guides: The English-speaking guides are knowledgeable, providing context and interesting stories about the sites.
• Time-Efficient: Designed for travelers with limited time, allowing you to see major sights in just three days.
• Private Experience: Exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
• Value for Money: While at $838 per person, the tour packs a lot of logistics and premium experiences into a single package.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Travel from Beijing to Zhangjiajie
Your adventure begins with a pickup from your Beijing hotel, followed by a transfer to the airport for a 3-hour flight to Zhangjiajie. The flight is included, which is a real time-saver, and once you arrive, your driver will whisk you to your hotel (which you book separately). The quick transfer means you’re not wasting time—good news for those eager to start exploring.

Some travelers mentioned the convenience of having a dedicated driver waiting upon arrival, which minimizes waiting and keeps the pace lively. Although the hotel isn’t included, most guests seem to choose accommodation near the Wulingyuan area for easy access to the park.

Day 2: Exploring Zhangjiajie’s Natural Marvels
This day is packed with highlights. Starting at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, you’ll be picked up at 8:00 am. The 20-minute drive gets you straight into the heart of the park, where the towering sandstone pillars inspired the floating mountains from Avatar. Many visitors noted that the Bailong Elevator offers breathtaking views and a thrill—it’s an incredible feat of engineering, climbing up to Yuanjiajie, where the famous Southern Sky Pillar stands tall.

From Yuanjiajie, you’ll walk across the “First Bridge Under Heaven”, a striking suspension bridge that gives you a different perspective on the landscape. The guide shared stories of the area’s legends and geology, adding depth to the experience. The views from the summit are described as “amazing,” with some reviewers calling Yuanjiajie “the most popular spot.”

Next, after a local lunch, the group heads to Tianzi Mountain, renowned for its sea of peaks and foggy vistas. The shuttle bus and cable car make the ascent smooth, and visitors often comment on how the scenery here is like stepping into a fantasy world. The panoramic views from Tianzi are generally considered a highlight, with many noting the full forest of peaks and the legend of the emperor that inspired the mountain’s name.

The day ends with a descent via cable car, offering a final taste of the landscape’s grandeur.

Day 3: Tianmen Mountain & the Glass Bridge
The final day starts with a cable car ride up Tianmen Mountain, known for its Heaven-linking Avenue—a winding road with 99 turns that is both hazardous and mesmerizing. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to see this famous stretch from the air, providing a unique perspective.

Tianmen Mountain is often described as a “sky garden,” with lush greenery and old trees, making it a peaceful yet stunning location. After lunch, the adventure reaches a climax at the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge—the world’s longest and highest glass bridge. Standing 300 meters above the ground and stretching 375 meters across a valley, this bridge is a daring experience for those not faint of heart. Reviewers mention the thrill of crossing it and the spectacular views below.

Finally, you get to visit the Tianmen Cave, a natural hole in the mountain resembling a gateway to heaven. The story goes that from afar, the cave looks like a path up to the sky, making it a favorite photo spot.

Once the day’s adventures conclude, you can opt to stay in Zhangjiajie or be dropped off at the airport for your flight to your next destination.

The Value of This Tour

At $838 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes flights, entrance fees, private transportation, and lunches. For travelers who value convenience, the ability to leave logistics to someone else can be priceless—especially when you’re navigating rapidly changing schedules and busy attractions.

The guided element is a major plus: a knowledgeable English-speaking guide who can tell you stories, give context, and help you navigate the sometimes tricky terrain. The flexibility of a private tour means you can focus on what interests you most—whether that’s taking photos, enjoying a quiet moment, or getting up close to the scenery.

While the price might seem steep for some, it’s important to see it as an all-in-one solution for a short, action-packed trip. The included flights, especially, take a lot of headache out of planning, and the various iconic sites are well worth the investment for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights efficiently.

What We Think Works Well

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more than just sightseeing. Their insights into local legends, geological features, and the history behind each site enrich the visit.
The scenery is genuinely stunning, with many reviewers noting that the views from Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain are “breathtaking” and “like walking into a painting.” The glass bridge, in particular, offers a literal thrill—a chance to look straight down 300 meters and feel that rush of adrenaline.

The schedule is quite tight, but that’s part of the appeal for travelers who want to maximize their time. The transportation, including flights and private cars, is smooth and reliable, which is a significant benefit when dealing with busy tourist spots.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

The main point to keep in mind is the intensity of the itinerary. It’s packed with early starts, lots of walking, and some steep ascents via cable car and elevator. If you prefer slow-paced sightseeing or are less mobile, this might feel rushed.
Some travelers mentioned that accommodation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your hotel separately, preferably close to Wulingyuan for convenience.
Weather can also affect your experience—bad visibility or rain could dim some views, though the scenery is stunning even in mist.

The Sum Up

This 3-day private tour to Zhangjiajie offers an efficient and comprehensive way to experience some of China’s most iconic natural sights. It’s perfect for travelers who want an organized, all-inclusive package that covers major highlights like the Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Mountain, and the world’s longest glass bridge. The inclusion of flights and private transport makes it a convenient choice, especially for those short on time or unfamiliar with local logistics.

The knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery make this a memorable trip, especially for first-time visitors eager to tick off must-see landmarks with ease. However, expect a busy schedule—it’s suited for those who enjoy active days and are comfortable with a little adventure.

If you’re after a hassle-free, well-curated experience designed to deliver the best of Zhangjiajie in just three days, this tour could be your perfect escape into one of China’s most surreal landscapes.

FAQ

Is hotel accommodation included in this tour?
No, hotel stays are not included. Travelers book their own hotels separately, usually near Wulingyuan for easy access to the park.

Can I finish my tour in places other than Zhangjiajie?
Yes, after completing the tour, your guide can drop you off at the Zhangjiajie airport for your next flight, or you can choose to finish in Zhangjiajie itself.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides two lunches, giving you time to refuel before more sightseeing. You’ll enjoy local cuisine, often with options to suit different tastes.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Many say the highlights are crossing the Glass Bridge and riding the Bailong Elevator, both offering dramatic views and a sense of adventure.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
While generally accessible, the busy schedule and some steep climbs mean it’s better suited for active travelers with no mobility issues.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 5 days in advance, but it’s wise to secure your spot earlier if you want guaranteed availability, especially during peak seasons.

This detailed look at the Zhangjiajie private tour aims to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your travel style—whether you’re after a seamless adventure, breathtaking views, or both.