6-Day Private Tour to Chongqing,Yangtze River Cruise and Zhangjiajie

Exploring China’s Natural Wonders in 6 Days: Chongqing, Yangtze River, and Zhangjiajie

This 6-day private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of China’s most captivating landscapes, from the bustling city of Chongqing to the breathtaking scenery of Zhangjiajie. With a mix of river cruises, scenic hikes, and mountain adventures, it’s tailored for travelers who want to experience China’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The highlight for many is the Yangtze River cruise aboard the five-star Victoria Cruise, known for its comfort and style, along with the jaw-dropping sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie, the inspiration for Avatar’s Pandora.

What I really like about this experience is its balance between relaxation and adventure. You start with a comfortable cruise through the famous Three Gorges, then switch gears to explore towering mountains and lush forests. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be stuck with a large group, and flexibility is built into the schedule. However, a note of caution: travel time between Yichang and Zhangjiajie is about 4.5 hours, so be prepared for a fair bit of time on the road, which might not suit everyone looking for a more leisurely pace.

This tour works best for those who want a comprehensive China experience that covers iconic sights without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights, as well as seasoned travelers wanting a well-organized, authentic journey with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Key Points

• Luxury Yangtze River Experience: Stay on a 5-star cruise with stunning views and plenty of activities on deck.
• Diverse Landscapes: From the misty gorges to the towering sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie, nature is the star.
• Private Tour Benefits: Personalized transfers and flexible scheduling make for a smoother trip.
• Value for Money: Although the price is over $1,400, it includes entrance tickets and some activities, providing good value.
• Long Travel Days: Expect several hours of driving, especially on Day 4 and 5, which could tire some travelers.
• Authentic Experiences: You’ll get to see iconic spots like Fengdu Ghost City, Shennong Stream, and Tianzi Mountain, with fewer tourist crowds.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Chaotianmen and the Yangtze Departure
Arriving in Chongqing, you’ll be greeted by your guide and driver around 5:30 pm. They’ll transfer you to the Chaotianmen pier, where you check in to the cruise ship. The cruise departs around 9:30 pm, giving you a chance to settle into your floating hotel. The process is straightforward, and most reviewers mention how helpful the staff are during boarding, ensuring a smooth start.

Day 2: Fengdu County and the Yangtze
The first full day on the water begins with a relaxing cruise orientation after breakfast. The highlight is the onshore visit to Fengdu’s Jade Emperor Scenic Spot, built along the mountains and river, showcasing traditional architecture and mythic imagery. Reviewers appreciated the scenic beauty here and the peaceful atmosphere. You can choose to rest or engage in activities on deck, which are often included in the cruise schedule. The evening features a Captain’s Welcome Party, ideal for mingling and enjoying the cruise’s onboard amenities.

Day 3: The Three Gorges and Shennong Stream
This day is packed with breathtaking scenery. The cruise navigates through the Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic part of the Three Gorges, followed by Wu Gorge, with its lofty peaks and misty allure. The real gem is the Shennong Stream excursion, where you’ll drift in a pea boat along mossy rocks and lush greenery, experiencing the Tujia people’s songs and local stories. Multiple reviews mentioned how the boat ride was a highlight – peaceful, scenic, and a chance to witness untouched nature.

Day 4: The Three Gorges Dam and Transfer to Zhangjiajie
After disembarking, you’ll visit the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project. The tour is well-organized, and the dam’s impressive scale leaves a lasting impression. Following this, you’ll be driven to Yichang for a 4.5-hour transfer to Zhangjiajie. This long drive might be a time to catch up on rest or enjoy the changing scenery outside.

Day 5: Zhangjiajie’s Iconic Peaks and Scenic Wonders
This day is a feast for lovers of natural landscapes. Starting early, you’ll visit Tianzi Mountain, where the cable car offers sweeping views of jagged peaks. The Yuanjiajie area, famous as Pandora’s landscape, features towering sandstone formations. The Bailong Elevator—a glass lift that ascends 335 meters—provides a thrilling way to see the scenery. Multiple reviews highlight the stunning vistas and the unique rock formations as the day’s highlights. You’ll also hike along Golden Whip Stream, often praised for its serenity and lush scenery.

The trip to Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge offers the chance to walk over one of the world’s highest and longest glass bridges, adding an adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers. The day ends with a drive back to your hotel, ready for the next day’s adventures.

Day 6: Tianmen Mountain and Departure
Your last day involves a visit to Tianmen Mountain, famous for its sky-high glass walkway, the “Heaven’s Gate,” and incredible panoramic views. The cable car ride and walking tours are well-received, with many noting how surreal the landscape is from the top. After lunch, you’ll be transferred to the airport or train station, ending your adventure.

Deep Dive into Highlights and Practicalities

Yangtze River Cruise
The Victoria Cruise’s 5-star rating means comfort is a priority. Guests praise the well-maintained cabins, delicious meals, and attentive staff. The cruise offers a blend of relaxation, with deck activities and onboard entertainment. The Captain’s Welcome Party adds a social element, making it more than just a scenic ride. With the cruise ticket included, along with the boat ride at Shennong Stream, this element offers a good mix of luxury and cultural insight.

Fengdu Ghost City
Built around mythic themes, Fengdu is often called the “Ghost City.” Its architecture along the mountainside is striking, with traditional temples and sculptures based on Chinese folklore. Visitors mention how the site’s design, resembling the Jade Emperor, creates a mystical atmosphere that’s both beautiful and slightly eerie.

Zhangjiajie’s Natural Marvels
The landscape here is hard to match globally. The sandstone pillars, ranging in height and shape, look almost surreal, especially when shrouded in clouds or mist. The Yuanjiajie area, with its floating mountain feel, is the star attraction—portrayed in movies and photos worldwide. The Bailong Elevator’s towering glass structure is a feat of engineering, offering a vertiginous view of the peaks below.

Hiking and Scenic Walks
Golden Whip Stream and Tianzi Mountain trails provide gentle hikes with incredible views. Travelers often love these moments for their serenity away from crowds. The short walks and cable car rides make it accessible for most fitness levels, but some reviewers suggest starting early to beat the crowds.

Transport and Logistics
The private transfers are a major plus, ensuring smooth transitions between cities and attractions. The 4.5-hour drive from Yichang to Zhangjiajie is manageable, but not ideal for those seeking a slower pace. The itinerary carefully balances travel time with sightseeing, though long days are inevitable.

Value for Money
For $1,464, the tour includes cruise tickets, entrance fees, private transportation, and some meals. When considering the quality of the cruise, the included scenic spots, and the hassle-free organization, the price delivers solid value. Additional costs like the cruise service fee of CNY150 per person are transparent and manageable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to China wanting to see key highlights without the stress of planning. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning landscapes, especially those iconic sandstone pillars and mountain vistas. It’s also suited for travelers who value comfort and convenience—the private transfers and guided excursions remove a lot of organizational headaches.

Those interested in cultural sites, natural scenery, and luxury will find this package tick all the boxes. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a slow pace or independent exploration, as the schedule is quite packed and structured.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day adventure offers an impressive introduction to China’s scenic diversity, combining luxury river cruises, awe-inspiring mountain views, and cultural stops like Fengdu Ghost City. The balance between guided tours and free time means you can soak in the sights without feeling rushed, while the private arrangements make logistics straightforward.

The stunning vistas along the Yangtze River and in Zhangjiajie are the real stars, making this a memorable experience for nature lovers and first-time travelers alike. While the long travel days might be tiring for some, the overall value—considering transportation, entrance fees, and comfort—makes it a worthwhile investment for those eager to see China’s natural marvels in style.

Overall, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching trip that feels both luxurious and authentic, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, most parts of this tour involve short walks or cable car rides, making it accessible for a range of fitness levels. However, be prepared for some uphill walking and a few stairs, especially at Tianzi Mountain.

Are meals included?
Meals are optional, and the tour mentions options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but they are not included in the base price. You can choose to have them, which adds to the convenience.

How long is the drive from Yichang to Zhangjiajie?
The drive takes approximately 4.5 hours (378 km), making it a significant part of Day 4. Private transport keeps this comfortable, but expect to be on the road for a while.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private, so you can discuss adding more days or adjusting activities with the provider, happychinatours.

What should I bring for the scenic areas?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are a must. Some areas involve short hikes or steps, so be prepared for uneven terrain.

Is the cruise boat accessible for those with mobility issues?
While the cruise offers luxury amenities, specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to contact the provider directly for special needs.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Avoid the peak holiday periods like October 1-7 or Chinese New Year, as the tour might be less available due to high demand and closures.