Private Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Great Wall One Day Tour

A balanced look at the Private Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Great Wall One Day Tour

This private day trip from Beijing combines two of the region’s most notable attractions: the historic Badaling Great Wall and the breathtaking scenery of Longqing Gorge. With a private guide, vehicle, and included lunch, it promises a personalized experience designed to showcase these iconic sites in a manageable, organized manner.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to visit both a UNESCO World Heritage site and a lesser-known natural wonder—offering a mix of history and natural beauty. The expert guidance adds value, making the experience more enriching than a self-guided visit.

However, one potential drawback is the timing and logistics—the tour can be quite rushed, especially with only 1.5 hours at each major stop. Plus, the reported issues with last-minute cancellations or closures, as highlighted by a previous reviewer, could be a concern if your schedule is tight or if you’re relying on this tour to be your main sightseeing plan.

This experience works best for travelers who appreciate a full-day, hassle-free package that covers must-see attractions with a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially suitable for those who want a comfortable, guided experience without worrying about transport or planning the logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Private, guided tour provides personalized attention and insight.
• Includes entrance fees, lunch, and cruise, offering good value.
• Good for travelers with moderate physical fitness due to some walking and climbing.
• Timing can be tight, so expect a fast-paced day.
• Mixed reviews highlight excellent guides but also some concerns about tour cancellations.
• Perfect for those wanting a curated experience of Beijing’s highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Transfer

Your day starts early—around 8:00 AM—when your private guide and vehicle arrive at your hotel. The convenience of hotel pickup is a big plus, eliminating the hassle of public transport or navigating busy streets. The drive to Badaling takes approximately 1.5 hours, covering around 47 miles northwest of Beijing. Along the way, you’ll get your first glimpse of the countryside outside the city. Your guide, speaking fluent English, will share stories about the Great Wall’s history, giving context to what you’re about to see.

Visiting The Badaling Great Wall

Once at Badaling, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore this iconic section of the wall. The site is well-developed, with paved pathways and facilities, making it accessible for most visitors. You can choose to climb the wall at your own pace or opt for the gondola (payable separately), which offers a quick and less strenuous way to reach higher sections—especially helpful if you’re concerned about walking.

Our review of the experience indicates that guides are knowledgeable, with one reviewer, Elodie, praising Shane, their guide, as attentive and caring. Having a guide who can share stories about the wall’s construction and historical significance makes a real difference.

One thing to note: a previous guest highlighted an issue where the tour was canceled unexpectedly due to government shutdowns for maintenance. This points to the importance of confirming arrangements in advance, especially during unpredictable periods.

Transition to Longqing Gorge

Post-visit, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Longqing Gorge, often called the “Small Three Gorges” of China. This region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with unique rock formations and clear waters. It’s considered one of Beijing’s top 16 tourist attractions, and rightly so.

Longqing Gorge Cruise

The highlight here is the boat ride along the river, expected to last about 2 hours. The cruise offers views of over 30 natural spectacles, such as the stone screen on water and ax-split mountain. It’s a relaxing way to experience the gorge’s otherworldly landscapes and take in the sights without strenuous hiking.

A reviewer, Elodie, mentions that the views are spectacular, and the quiet cruise provides a peaceful respite from the busy city. It’s worth noting that the inclusion of admission tickets means no extra cost, making this part of the day quite convenient.

Return to Beijing

Following the gorge visit, your private car will take you back to your hotel in downtown Beijing, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. This seamless return encapsulates the comfort of a private tour, letting you relax after a busy day.

The Value of This Tour

At $226 per person, the price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, guide services, entrance fees, lunch, and the cruise ride—which are significant inclusions. Considering the convenience of having all logistics handled, this can be a good deal for those wanting a stress-free day without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets.

That said, some travelers might find the timing tight, especially if they prefer more time at each site or wish to avoid rushing. For example, one reviewer pointed out the possibility of last-minute cancellations or closures, which could affect the experience.

Practical Considerations

The experience is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as there’s some walking and climbing involved, particularly on the Great Wall. The option to take the gondola helps alleviate some of that exertion.

While the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s worth noting that extra costs such as the cable fee at Badaling (RMB140/pp) are payable separately if you choose to take the gondola.

Insights from Reviews

The mixed reviews reveal the importance of managing expectations. On the positive side, guides like Shane are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge, making the visits more meaningful. The scenic views at Longqing Gorge are consistently appreciated, with many describing the cruise as a highlight.

Conversely, a reviewer expressed frustration over a last-minute cancellation due to government maintenance, which underscores the importance of confirming arrangements close to your departure date. It’s also a reminder that even well-organized tours can encounter unexpected hiccups.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is an excellent fit for travelers seeking a guided, all-in-one day trip that combines a historic icon with scenic natural beauty. It’s ideal if you prefer comfort and convenience, and don’t want to worry about transport or tickets.

However, those who prioritize more flexibility or wish to spend more time at each site might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s also best for travelers comfortable with moderate walking and who want an organized, worry-free experience.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Beijing’s highlights, showcasing the grandeur of the Great Wall at Badaling and the serenity of Longqing Gorge. The inclusion of a private guide, lunch, and transport makes it a convenient choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive, guided day with minimal hassle.

While some reviews suggest that last-minute cancellations and tight schedules could be issues, many travelers find the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery make up for it. It’s a solid option for those wanting a structured day with a touch of adventure and a lot of natural beauty.

In essence, if you’re looking for a comfortable way to tick off two major attractions in one day and appreciate guided insights, this tour delivers good value. Just remember to confirm your bookings and be prepared for a busy, yet rewarding, day of exploring.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Beijing hotel, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the drive to Badaling take?
It typically takes about 1.5 hours to reach Badaling from central Beijing.

Can I choose to take the gondola instead of climbing the Great Wall?
Yes, though the gondola is paid separately (RMB140/pp) and not included in the tour price.

How much time do we have at each site?
Expect around 1.5 hours at Badaling and 2 hours at Longqing Gorge for the cruise.

What’s included in the tour price?
Guided service, entrance fees, lunch, boat cruise, and bottled water are included. Additional costs, like gondola rides, are extra.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s suitable for those with moderate fitness, as some walking and climbing are involved.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund.

This tour balances iconic sights with natural beauty, perfect for those wanting a guided, relaxed day in Beijing. Just stay flexible and confirm details in advance to ensure everything runs smoothly.