9 Days Private Self-guided Tour to Guizhou with Driver

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of exploring China’s lesser-trodden regions, this 9-day private self-guided tour to Guizhou and Guilin offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and local authenticity. Starting from Chongqing Airport, you’ll travel in comfort with your own driver, covering some of China’s most scenic and culturally fascinating spots.

What we love about this experience is how it combines guided convenience with the freedom to explore at your own pace — perfect for travelers who want structure but also flexibility. Plus, the inclusion of chauffeur-driven transport means you can sit back and enjoy the scenery without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. One possible thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll want to budget an extra 900 CNY per person for tickets. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to soak in authentic village life, stunning landscapes, and vibrant ethnic cultures, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and tailored pacing.

Key Points

• Flexible Self-Guided Experience: Enjoy the freedom of a private driver and the independence of exploring at your own pace.
• Diverse Cultural Encounters: Visit traditional villages, ethnic minority towns, and historic sites for an authentic Chinese experience.
• Stunning Landscapes: From the Huangguoshu Waterfalls to the Longji Rice Terraces and Li River cruise, the scenery is spectacular.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering major highlights over 9 days, including Chongqing, Guiyang, Kaili, Congjiang, and Guilin.
• Value for Money: For $1,830 per person, you get a well-curated mix of culture, natural beauty, and comfortable transportation.
• Extra Costs: Entrance tickets are not included, so be prepared for approximately 900 CNY per person, but the tour’s flexibility ensures you can choose your preferred sites.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Chongqing to Guiyang

The journey begins with your driver meeting you at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, holding a welcome board with your name. The transfer to Guiyang takes around five hours, covering 406 km — a good opportunity to kick back and start digesting the upcoming adventures. The drive itself is a scenic prelude, with chance to see some of China’s southwestern landscapes rolling by.

Once in Guiyang, you check into your hotel with the driver’s assistance, leaving you free to relax or explore the city casually. It’s a calm start after the long flight, and the hotel stay provides a comfortable base for the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: Guizhou’s Natural Wonder — Huangguoshu Waterfalls

Your guide will meet you early to head out around 9 am for the Huangguoshu Waterfalls, just over two hours away by car. This massive cascade is Asia’s largest waterfall, with a height of 74 meters and width of 81 meters. It’s a true marvel and a highlight of any Guizhou trip.

The park offers different viewpoints — from the Waterfall-Viewing Pavilion, where you get a panoramic shot, to the Water-Viewing Pavilion that captures the power of surging water. The night scene is particularly atmospheric, with lighting illuminating the falls in a way that creates lasting images.

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Tunbao Village, where traditional dress, masks, and local drama performances bring the region’s culture to life. The Tunbao people retain unique customs, and their theatrical Di Xi performances are a highlight for culture buffs.

Returning to Guiyang in the evening, you’ll have a relaxed night to reflect on the day’s natural and cultural spectacles.

Day 3: From Guiyang to Kaili and Miao Villages

The drive to Kaili takes about four hours, giving you time to settle into this lively town. Before checking in, you’ll visit nearby Miao villages like Langde and Jidao, where cobbled streets, traditional stilt houses, and Miao folk songs create an authentic atmosphere. Drinking “block-the-way” wine upon arrival is a warm local custom, and the villages are perfect for strolling and soaking up the simple rural charm.

The day offers a glimpse into Miao traditions, with the chance to see their folk music, dance, and architecture, making it a culturally rich experience.

Day 4: Exploring Congjiang and Ethnic Villages

Today, your journey takes you northeast through stunning rural landscapes. The stops include Shiqiao Village — renowned for traditional paper-making — and Yintan Dong Village, where the Dong minority’s wooden architecture and communal spirit shine.

The highlight is a visit to Basha Village, an untouched Miao enclave perched on a hill, where centuries-old customs still thrive. The legends of ancestral immigration add a layer of intrigue to this remote, authentic community.

In the evening, you’ll stay overnight in Zhaoxing village, one of Guizhou’s largest Dong villages, known for its intricate wooden stilt houses and natural beauty.

Day 5: More Dong Culture and Mountain Walks

The day begins by exploring Tang’an Village, a small but historically significant settlement. You can walk around the village, observe the traditional clan layout, and see the local Dong architecture. Then, a visit to Zhanli Village — a hub for Dong culture — provides a chance to witness local festivals and customs if your timing aligns.

The charm of these villages lies in their preserved traditions and natural settings, with verdant mountains and crystal streams framing the scene.

Day 6: Chengyang and Longsheng Rice Terraces

Heading north, you’ll visit Chengyang Village to see the iconic Wind and Rain Bridge — a stunning example of Dong craftsmanship. Walking across this bridge, you’ll appreciate its blend of functionality and artistry, with some reviews noting it as a perfect photo spot and a glimpse into the Dong people’s architectural ingenuity.

Later, the awe-inspiring Longji Rice Terraces await. These terraces, built over centuries by Zhuang farmers, are a mesmerizing display of human effort adapting to the mountain terrain. Walking through Ping’an Village, you’ll get sweeping views of the “Dragon’s Backbone,” especially from viewpoints like the Nine Dragons and Seven Stars.

Day 7: Guilin’s Natural Wonders and City Sights

The morning begins with a scenic Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, which is often regarded as the most scenic part of this trip. You’ll glide past karst peaks, lush forests, and small villages, with plenty of photo opportunities on the 4-hour boat ride. The buffet lunch onboard makes the journey enjoyable and fuss-free.

In Yangshuo, Xianggong Hill offers panoramic vistas of the winding Li River, and the famous Elephant Trunk Hill anchors the city’s skyline. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free — some travelers opt for the Impression Sanjie Liu light show, a spectacular performance set on the river, though this is an optional extra.

Day 8: From Guilin to Yangshuo — River and Towns

A bamboo raft on the Yulong River provides a peaceful way to see rural life and limestone formations from a different perspective. The slow pace and gentle sway of the raft make for a calming experience, especially after days of sightseeing.

Later, exploring Fuli Ancient Town and Xingping offers a peek into traditional village life and scenic landscapes immortalized on Chinese currency. The town’s old buildings and local markets are lively and photogenic, offering a more intimate look at regional life.

Day 9: Farewell with Scenic Final Stops

Your last morning includes a visit to the Yulong River again for a bamboo boat ride, emphasizing relaxation and the natural beauty of the area. Then, a visit to Fuli Town provides a final taste of local rural culture before heading back to Guilin or Yangshuo for your departure.

Transportation and Value

The private car and English-speaking driver form the backbone of this tour, ensuring seamless transfers and allowing you to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of navigation. The air-conditioned vehicle offers comfort, especially during long drives like Chongqing to Guiyang or Guilin to Longsheng.

For $1,830 per person, this tour packs in value through comfort, flexibility, and cultural depth. While entrance tickets cost around 900 CNY, the flexibility means you can choose which sites to prioritize, making it adaptable to different interests and budgets.

The Real Benefits

Travelers have noted the knowledgeable guides and drivers, which enhance the experience by sharing local insights and making logistical transitions smooth. The scenic views — especially in the rice terraces, Li River, and Dong villages — are truly unforgettable, and staying in local villages offers a more authentic taste of regional life.

Possible Drawbacks

One consideration is that entrance fees are additional, which can add up if you visit all the recommended sites. Also, some travelers might find the schedule quite packed, especially with long drives and early mornings. However, for those who enjoy a mix of guided exploration and free time, this itinerary offers a good balance.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value culture and spectacular scenery but prefer the convenience of private transportation. If you’re interested in ethnic minority cultures, traditional villages, and stunning landscapes, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a well-organized trip but still want the flexibility to explore independently.

It’s also a good fit if you appreciate authentic local experiences, like traditional performances, village visits, and countryside walks. If you prefer a very relaxed pace with optional activities, you might want to customize or extend the tour.

The Sum Up

This 9-day self-guided tour offers an excellent blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and hassle-free travel in Guizhou and Guilin. With private transport as your backbone, you can focus on the sights and experiences that appeal most to you, from majestic waterfalls and rice terraces to traditional villages and scenic river cruises. The inclusion of local ethnic village visits provides a genuine insight into China’s diverse cultures, making this an enriching trip for curious explorers.

The value lies in the comfort, flexibility, and extensive itinerary this tour provides — a smart choice for travelers eager to see some of China’s most captivating landscapes and communities without the constraints of group tours or rigid schedules.

Who is this best for? This tour is perfect for independent-minded travelers who want a guided structure but the freedom to explore. Culture and landscape enthusiasts will find plenty to love, especially if they’re keen on authentic village life and spectacular scenery. If you’re comfortable with some long drives and are ready to learn about local customs, this tour could be your ideal adventure.

FAQ

Is this a guided or self-guided tour?
This is a private self-guided tour with a driver. You have the flexibility to explore independently, but your driver will handle all transfers.

Are entrance tickets included in the price?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You should budget around 900 CNY per person for site entrances, but you can choose which sites to visit.

What transportation is provided?
A private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver is included for all transfers, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the trip.

Can I extend or customize this tour?
Yes, the tour can be expanded with additional days if desired, allowing more time in specific locations or for extra activities.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
While moderate physical activity is involved, the tour is designed for travelers who are comfortable with walking, some hiking, and long drives.

How early should I book?
It’s best to book at least a few weeks in advance to secure availability, especially if you want to customize or extend your trip.

This detailed, authentic, and flexible itinerary is designed to help you enjoy Guizhou and Guilin in a way that balances adventure with comfort. Whether you’re a cultural explorer or a scenery lover, this tour offers a memorable way to experience China’s southwestern gems.