8-Day Private Tour to Guilin,Yangtze River Cruise and Zhangjiajie

Planning a trip through China’s most iconic landscapes can seem daunting, but this 8-day private experience offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and comfortable logistics. Covering Guilin’s breathtaking karst formations, a serene Yangtze River cruise, and the dramatic peaks of Zhangjiajie, this tour packs plenty into a relatively short time.

One thing we particularly appreciate is the combination of private transportation and curated sightseeing—meaning you get flexibility and insider insights without the hassle of navigating on your own. However, it’s worth noting that the schedule is quite packed, especially for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace. This tour suits those eager to see China’s top attractions with expert guides and good value for the price.

If you’re after authentic scenery, well-organized logistics, and memorable experiences from well-reviewed locals, this might just be your ideal trip. Let’s explore what makes this adventure worth considering—and what to watch out for.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines Guilin’s famous caves and rice terraces, Yangtze River cruise, and Zhangjiajie’s iconic mountains.
• Private transport & guides: Ensures flexibility and personalized attention, enhancing the overall experience.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking landscapes, from karst peaks to sandstone pillars inspired by Avatar.
• Cultural insights: Visit local villages and learn about traditional Chinese architecture and lifestyle.
• Value for money: Includes most entrance fees, some meals, and first-class train tickets.
• Packed schedule: Suitable for active travelers who want to maximize sightseeing in limited days.

Exploring the Highlights of This 8-Day China Journey

This tour offers a deep dive into some of China’s most recognizable sights, delivered in a well-structured, private format. It’s not a leisurely lounge holiday but rather an active exploration designed for those eager to pack in the sights while enjoying the comfort of dedicated transport and guides.

Day 1: Guilin and Reed Flute Cave

The adventure kicks off early with a pickup from your Guilin hotel. We loved the convenience of being driven directly to the Reed Flute Cave, famous for its stunning stalagmites and stalactites, which have been lit to produce a mysterious, almost fairy-tale glow. The guide’s explanations add depth, sharing stories behind formations like miniature forests and stone lions—each with its own legend.

Next, there’s a scenic drive to Longji Rice Terraces, a highlight for many. Here, the terraces reveal a 650-year-old engineering marvel, carved into the hillsides. You can expect vast, winding fields that sparkle in the sunlight—perfect for photography or just soaking in the calm beauty. The visit to Ping’an Village offers a chance to peek at traditional wooden Zhuang houses and enjoy local cuisine in a village setting, which adds an authentic touch.

The day wraps up with a return to Guilin, leaving you with a sense of having experienced both nature and culture in one go. The overall value here is high: entrance fees, a scenic drive, and a local lunch are included, reducing surprises.

Day 2: Li River Cruise and Yangshuo

Boarding the 4-star Li River cruise, you’ll witness some of China’s most iconic scenery—towering limestone peaks, lush greenery, and tranquil villages. The buffet lunch on board is a good perk, especially since the scenery is so captivating that you’ll want to spend ample time gazing out.

After docking in Yangshuo, you climb Xianggong Mountain for panoramic views that are often called the best vantage point of the river bend. The light hike is manageable and provides photo opportunities that will make your social media jealous. The evening offers optional cultural entertainment like the Impression Sanjie Liu show, a spectacular performance set along the river that features singing, dancing, and a fairy-tale setting.

This day’s combination of landscape, local culture, and optional entertainment offers good value, especially with a guide who knows the best photo spots and local tips.

Day 3: Guilin to Chongqing by Train

The train journey from Guilin to Chongqing is a smart choice for saving time and experiencing China’s high-speed rail system. The first-class ticket upgrade feels worth it, offering a more comfortable ride of about 4.5 hours. The transition from Guilin’s lush scenery to Chongqing’s urban vibe is smooth, and the private transfer to the cruise port makes the changeover seamless.

Day 4: Fengdu Ghost City and Yangtze River

Relaxation is the theme today, with a morning shore excursion to Fengdu, known as the “Ghost City,” famous for its temples and sculptures depicting Chinese mythology. It’s a fascinating cultural stop that adds a different layer of history and myth to your journey. The Captain’s Welcome Party on the Yangtze offers a fun way to meet fellow travelers and soak in river views.

Days 5 & 6: The Grand Gorges and the Three Gorges Dam

Cruising through the Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—your experience is shaped by the impressive natural formations and towering cliffs. The Shennv Stream boat ride provides a close-up look at moss-covered rocks, hanging coffins, and traditional Tujia villages, accompanied by the haunting songs of local musicians.

The visit to the Three Gorges Dam is a highlight for many, as it’s the world’s largest hydropower project. It offers insight into modern China’s engineering achievements and provides a stark contrast to the natural landscape. The cruise’s included features, like the Gorge exploration and cultural stops, add value and variety.

Days 7 & 8: Zhangjiajie’s Surreal Peaks and Tianmen Mountain

Zhangjiajie is the star of the final stretch, with its fantastical sandstone pillars inspiring James Cameron’s Pandora. The National Forest Park tour takes you through different mountain areas, including Yuanjiajie, famed for its Avatar-like scenery, and Tianzi Mountain, with clouds swirling among jagged peaks.

The Bailong Elevator, a record-breaking glass lift, offers jaw-dropping views as you ascend the cliffs. The Golden Whip Stream offers a peaceful hike amid pristine nature, while the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge provides an adrenaline rush with its transparent walkway over the canyon.

The last day involves visiting Tianmen Mountain, which boasts the famous Skywalk and scenic vistas that round out this adventure with a mix of thrills and breathtaking views.

Practical Insights and Considerations

This tour offers a solid balance of guided convenience and independent exploration, but keep in mind that most days are quite full. If you’re someone who prefers a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed, especially with long drives and packed sightseeing schedules.

The inclusion of first-class train tickets, entrance fees, and some meals makes this a good value for those who want a hassle-free experience, though the cost is still around $2,157 per person. Comparing this to booking all elements separately, you’re likely to find it quite competitive, especially considering the private guides and transportation.

The tour is suitable for active travelers who enjoy natural landscapes and don’t mind a busy schedule. Families with older kids, couples, or solo explorers who appreciate guided insights will find this itinerary rewarding.

Transportation is mostly private, and pickup/drop-off services are convenient. The guides are noted for their knowledge, and the scenery—especially in Guilin and Zhangjiajie—is second to none. Just remember to carry comfortable shoes, a camera with extra batteries, and be ready for some walking and short hikes.

The Sum Up

This 8-day private tour is an excellent choice for travelers wanting to tick off China’s most stunning sights with ease and comfort. It balances natural wonders with cultural stops, all wrapped in a well-organized package that minimizes planning stress. The inclusion of private guides, transportation, and most entrance fees makes it a strong value, especially for those short on time but eager to see the highlights.

It’s particularly ideal for adventure seekers who love landscapes reminiscent of movie scenes and who don’t mind a packed schedule. If you’re looking for a comprehensive trip that hits all the major landmarks without sacrificing comfort or insight, this tour checks many boxes.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time to linger at each site, you might want to consider spreading out the trip or opting for fewer destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, guides, most entrance fees, some meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and first-class train tickets from Guilin to Chongqing.

Are hotels or other meals included?
No, accommodations and dinners are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly or arrange their own hotels. The tour does include breakfast and some lunches.

How much free time do I get?
You’ll have some free time daily, such as after Day 1 in Guilin, after Day 2 in Yangshuo, and at the end of Zhangjiajie excursions. Most days are quite full, but there are opportunities to relax or explore on your own.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
While the itinerary is active and involves walking and some hikes, it could suit older travelers who are comfortable with a busy schedule. Kids with good stamina and interest in scenery would also enjoy it.

What are the main highlights?
Expect stunning karst landscapes, the Li River cruise, the Avatar-inspired Zhangjiajie mountains, and the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam.

How flexible is the itinerary?
It’s a private tour, so guides can adapt slightly if requested, but the schedule is quite tight to maximize the experience.

Are meals and entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are included, along with some meals. Additional expenses like optional shows or extra meals are not covered.

When is the best time to book this tour?
Avoid peak holiday periods like October 1-7 and Chinese New Year, due to high demand and limited availability for trains and cruises.

This 8-day adventure is a great way to dive into China’s scenic and cultural marvels without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those who love landscapes that look like they belong in Hollywood, combined with comfort, knowledgeable guides, and a touch of cultural insight.