6-Day Private Tour from Guilin to Yunnan Lijiang

A Complete Look at the 6-Day Private Tour from Guilin to Yunnan Lijiang

Traveling through China’s picturesque landscapes and vibrant towns is an adventure that few will forget. This 6-day private tour offers a well-paced journey from the karst wonders of Guilin to the cultural richness of Lijiang in Yunnan. With knowledgeable guides, smooth transportation, and carefully curated stops, it promises a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and eye-catching scenery.

One of the highlights we love is the balanced itinerary—you get a taste of Guilin’s famous limestone formations, Yangshuo’s relaxed riverside vibe, and the historic charm of Lijiang. The experience is designed to be flexible with some optional night activities, like the ‘Impression Sanjie Liu’ show, which adds a dash of local color.

A potential drawback? The tour covers a lot of ground in just six days, so if you’re looking for deep immersion or to explore off-the-beaten-path spots, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for travelers who want a rundown with a good mix of guided highlights and free time, this tour is quite a solid choice.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate scenic views, cultural insights, and comfortable guided logistics—ideal for first-timers or those wanting to maximize their time without worrying about planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: From Guilin’s limestone caves to Yangshuo’s river views and Yunnan’s snow-capped peaks, scenery is a major highlight.
• Expert Guides: Local guides provide insightful commentary that enhances understanding of each site.
• Comfortable Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicles and seamless transfers keep the journey smooth.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting minority villages and historic towns offers genuine glimpses into local culture.
• Value for Money: With entrance tickets, lunches, and transport included, the tour provides a lot of value for its price.
• Flexible Options: Optional activities like night shows or extra days can be added for a more personalized experience.

A Deep Dive Into the Itinerary

Day 1: Guilin’s Natural Wonders and Longji Rice Terraces

Starting from your Guilin hotel around 9:30 AM, the tour kicks off with a visit to the Reed Flute Cave. This cavern is a must-see with its glittering stalactites and stalagmites shaped like bamboo shoots, flowers, and miniature forests. The lighting inside really accentuates the formations, turning the cave into an underground palace of sorts. Expect about 40 minutes here, and the experience is enhanced by your guide’s storytelling, making each formation’s story come alive.

Next, the journey takes you to the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces. The terraces, with their 650-year-old history, are a marvel of rice farming ingenuity. You’ll spend around four hours here, exploring the tiered fields at Ping’an Village. The terraced landscape is compelling not just visually but also as a testament to traditional agriculture. Photographers will love the No.2 Viewing Platform, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the winding rice terraces—perfect for capturing sweeping landscape shots.

Arriving in Ping’an Village, you’ll walk through the local Zhuang people’s wooden stilted houses. The walk takes about 40 minutes, a moderate trek that offers a chance to experience traditional village life. After a modest lunch, you’ll head to the two viewing platforms, each offering distinctive perspectives of the terraces.

The day wraps up back in Guilin around 6 PM, giving you free time to relax or explore the city’s evening scene.

Day 2: From Guilin’s Iconic Li River to Yangshuo’s Charm

Early morning, around 7:45 AM, you’ll set off for a Li River cruise. The 4-hour journey on a 4-star boat is the centerpiece of this day. The views along the river are famed for a reason—carved karst hills, tranquil villages, and misty mornings create scenes that look like they’re straight out of a traditional Chinese painting. The buffet lunch onboard makes it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery without missing a beat.

After disembarking in Yangshuo, the highlight is a climb to Xianggong Hill—a 15-minute trek to an observation point renowned for its sweeping view of the river’s famous bend. The scenes here are so iconic that many photographers say it’s the best spot to capture the essence of Guilin’s landscape.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Yangshuo, with plenty of free time to wander or relax. Optional night shows like Impression Sanjie Liu are available, set against the stunning backdrop of the Li River. The show showcases local singing, dancing, and costumes, giving a lively flavor of the region’s ethnic minorities.

Day 3: Scenic Countryside and Historic Towns

The day begins with a bamboo boat ride on the Yulong River, which offers a peaceful alternative to motorized tours. Sitting on a traditional bamboo raft, you’ll glide past farmhouses and limestone peaks—an experience praised for its tranquility and simplicity.

Next, you’ll visit Fuli Ancient Town, a quiet spot where you can observe local farmers’ life and browse markets that sell traditional crafts. The town’s charm lies in its authenticity and unhurried pace.

Later, the journey takes you to Xingping Town, a picturesque village whose scenery was immortalized on China’s 20 RMB note. The town’s long history and preserved architecture make it an easy, one-hour stroll filled with local markets and scenic views.

In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Yangshuo for more free time, perhaps to relax or explore further.

Day 4: From Guilin to Lijiang

Today is primarily a travel day. After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Guilin Airport for your flight to Lijiang, an approximately 2-hour journey. The flight is straightforward, with the tour providing the transfer to and from the airports, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery en route or simply relax.

Upon arrival in Lijiang, a driver will pick you up for a quick transfer to your hotel. There’s no guide included for this section, so you’ll need to manage your luggage and logistics—something to consider if you’re traveling with lots of bags.

Day 5: Lijiang and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Your local guide will meet you at 9 AM, and the day’s focus is the impressive Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. You’ll take cable cars to different parts of the mountain, enjoying the views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and alpine meadows. The system of cable cars makes it accessible even if you’re not up for strenuous hikes.

You might also catch the Impression Lijiang Show, an outdoor performance featuring local ethnic song and dance, staged at the mountain’s foot. It’s a lively, colorful display of Naxi culture and certainly adds a memorable touch.

Next, you’ll visit Blue Moon Valley, a strikingly blue river winding through the lush valley at the mountain’s foot. The water’s turquoise hue is especially captivating, and the surrounding scenery makes for excellent photos.

The afternoon includes a visit to Baisha Village, notable for its ancient murals and Dongba pictograms. This town was historically a political and cultural hub for the Naxi people, and you can explore its old streets and learn about its past.

Day 6: Tiger Leaping Gorge and Lijiang’s Old Town

The final day begins with a drive to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest river gorges in the world. The hike along the plank road offers dramatic views of the Jinsha River roaring below and the towering cliffs above. Many reviewers mention the impressive sight of a giant rock sitting in the middle of the river, which cuts the torrents in two—an incredible photo opportunity.

After a couple of hours exploring the gorge, your guide will take you to Black Dragon Pond Park—a peaceful spot reflecting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in its waters. The park features traditional architecture and lush greenery, making it a relaxing stop.

You’ll then visit Shuhe Ancient Town, a quieter alternative to Lijiang’s main old town. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, with cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and scenic views. The town’s charm is preserved, and it offers a glimpse into local life away from tourist crowds.

Your journey concludes with a return to your hotel, marking the end of the memorable six-day adventure.

The Value of This Tour

At $1,471.21 per person, this package offers a comprehensive experience with most essentials included—entrance tickets, lunches, private transportation, and guided insights. For travelers wanting convenience without sacrificing authenticity, this tour delivers. The inclusion of well-known sites like Reed Flute Cave, Longji Rice Terraces, Li River cruise, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain means you’ll see the highlights while benefiting from local knowledge that enhances each visit.

The private aspect ensures a flexible, personalized experience, with sufficient free time for you to soak in the sights or relax. The guides, known for their expertise, are praised for their storytelling and helpfulness, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This tour works best for travelers seeking a well-organized, immersive overview of southern China’s most famous landscapes and cultural gems. It’s particularly suitable for first-time visitors, or those who want an efficient, guided experience with minimal planning stress. Adventure seekers will enjoy the scenic hikes and boat rides, while culture enthusiasts will appreciate the visits to ancient towns and minority villages.

However, if you prefer deep-dive exploration or more off-the-beaten-path spots, this tour might feel somewhat fast-paced. But for most, it strikes a good balance between sightseeing, comfort, and cultural authenticity.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day private tour from Guilin to Yunnan Lijiang provides a solid introduction to some of China’s most iconic sights. The combination of natural beauty, cultural towns, and engaging guides makes it a worthwhile choice for those looking to maximize their time in this region.

While the itinerary is packed, it ensures you won’t miss the must-see highlights, all while offering enough flexibility for personal exploration or relaxation. The value for money is clear, given the inclusions and the quality of experiences, especially if you want a hassle-free way to see the best of southern China.

Ideal for first-timers, cultural enthusiasts, and landscape lovers, this tour will leave you with plenty of memorable moments and stunning photos. Just pack your camera, your curiosity, and your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, the tour includes transfers to Guilin airport and from Lijiang airport, making travel between destinations straightforward.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is private and flexible, the itinerary is pre-set. You can add more days or activities if desired, but check with the provider in advance.

Is there a guide available throughout the trip?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide accompanies you in Guilin, Yangshuo, and Lijiang, providing insights and assistance. The transfer from Guilin to Lijiang Airport does not include a guide.

Are entrance fees included?
All listed entrance tickets, such as Reed Flute Cave, Longji Rice Terraces, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, are included in the tour price.

What meals are provided?
Five lunches are included during the tour. Dinner options are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local cuisine on your own.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. This private tour is perfect for solo travelers who want a guided experience without sharing with strangers.

How physically demanding are the activities?
Most activities involve walking and a few moderate treks, such as the walk to Ping’an Village or the hike at Tiger Leaping Gorge. If mobility is a concern, inform the guide in advance.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, options like the ‘Impression Sanjie Liu’ show can be reserved for you, usually at an additional cost.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layers for varying weather, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Some sites are at higher altitudes, so packing a light jacket is advisable.

This tour offers a compelling blend of natural wonders, cultural sights, and expert guidance—perfect for anyone wanting a well-rounded introduction to China’s scenic south.