Huhhot Inner Mongolia 3 Days Xilamuren kubuqi Desert Nature Tour

Planning a trip to Inner Mongolia often means looking for a balanced mix of expansive natural scenery, culture, and unique activities. This 3-day tour from Hohhot offers exactly that—covering the stunning Xilamuren Grassland, the vast Kubuqi Desert, and impressive Tibetan-style temples. Whether you’re after fantastic photo ops, a taste of nomadic life, or just want to see some of China’s most diverse terrains, this experience promises a rich, well-rounded adventure.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is how this tour manages to pack so many iconic sites into just three days—especially considering the variety of activities and locations included. The opportunity to stay overnight in a yurt adds a layer of authenticity you won’t find in ordinary city hotels. But, a possible consideration is the pace; with so many stops packed together, travelers should be prepared for long days on the road, especially if you’re not used to quick-moving itineraries.

This experience is well-suited for families, small groups, or anyone eager to explore Inner Mongolia’s natural beauty and cultural gems in an organized, hassle-free way. If you’re after a comprehensive taste of the region without the stress of planning each detail, this tour might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Diverse Landscapes: From lush grasslands and towering mountains to expansive deserts, the tour offers an authentic glance at Inner Mongolia’s varied terrains.
• Cultural Insights: Visits to the largest Tibetan Buddhist temples in the area provide a meaningful cultural perspective.
• Active Experiences: Camel riding, sandsliding, and off-road jeep rides bring a fun, hands-on element.
• Authentic Accommodation: Staying overnight in a traditional yurt enriches the experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help bring the history and culture alive.
• Long but Rewarding Days: The itinerary packs in a lot, so expect some early mornings and full days.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: The Vastness of Xilamuren Prairie

The journey begins with a visit to Xilamuren Grassland, north of Hohhot. This is where the landscape opens up into endless green plains stretching toward the horizon. The scenery is genuinely breathtaking, with herds of sheep, horses, and cows grazing freely—offering fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of stepping into a traditional nomadic scene.

The guide’s commentary really helped us appreciate the scale and significance of this landscape. We loved the way the guide explained local uses of the land and the traditional Mongolian lifestyle still thriving here. The admission ticket is included, so no surprises there.

A key point: Xilamuren isn’t just a pretty picture. It’s an active working grassland, so expect to see animals up close and maybe even get a chance to learn how nomads manage their herds. It’s an authentic experience that feels far from the touristy.

Day 2: Cultural and Mountain Treasures

The second day brings a contrast with visits to Wudang Zhao Monastery, the largest Tibetan-style temple in Inner Mongolia. Nestled among mountains, this sacred site combines religious architecture with stunning natural scenery. The intricate detailing of the monastery buildings and the peaceful mountain backdrop make it a rewarding cultural stop.

Reviewers mention the special blend of Tibetan and Mongolian culture here, which enriches the visit. The guide’s explanations help you understand the spiritual significance and history—adding depth beyond just admiring the architecture.

The optional stops are a highlight but also require some walking and energy. Chunkun Mountain offers a high grassland view, perfect for panoramic photos, but be ready for a bit of a mountain climb. The mini train to Maan Mountain is a fun way to reach the summit without too much exertion, and the view from the top—near the “mirror of the sky”—is truly spectacular.

Another optional highlight is the 2200-year-old Great Wall of China, accessible via a short excursion. It’s a centuries-old marvel that offers a tangible connection to history and some fantastic mountain scenery. While optional, many travelers find it to be worth the extra time.

Day 3: Desert Adventures and the Yellow River

The finale is a visit to Kubuqi Desert, China’s seventh-largest desert, known as “string on a bow” in Mongolian. The sand dunes are striking, with golden hues stretching as far as the eye can see. Here, you can opt for different activities: camel rides, sand-sliding, or off-road jeep adventures, which are included in the package.

The desert experience is quite lively, with plenty of opportunities for fun photos and adrenaline rushes. We appreciated the off-road jeep rides — a thrilling way to cover more ground and see the dunes from different angles.

Following the desert, there’s a quick stop at the Yellow River—China’s second-longest river. It’s a brief visit, but the sight of the flood plain and sand mingling in the water provides a scenic ending to the tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all door tickets, the services of a licensed English-speaking guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Notably, you get to stay overnight in a yurt—a real highlight, giving you a taste of nomadic living—plus one night in a city hotel.

Activities like sand-sliding and zip-lining add fun, while off-road vehicle rides boost your desert adventure. The price of $388 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions, especially the overnight stay in traditional accommodation and guided tours.

However, food isn’t included. You should budget around USD 12 per day for meals, which are easily found in nearby restaurants or local eateries. Some specific experiences, like roasted lamb or horse riding, are not included, so if those are priorities, plan accordingly.

Practical Tips:

• The group size can be small, and more than six travelers might be split into a bus with a driver rather than a guide-driver combo.
• The tour starts at 9:30 am from Jiangjunyashu West Lane in Hohhot, so plan your logistics accordingly.
• Confirmations come within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Reviewers note that the guides are very knowledgeable, often sharing stories and details that deepen the visit beyond sightseeing. One reviewer mentioned that the mountain views and the Tibetan temple made for a memorable cultural highlight.

The scenery at Xilamuren offers some of the best photo opportunities, especially for those who love wide-open spaces. The camel rides in Kubuqi are fun, but some mention that the dunes can be quite hot during midday, so bring sunscreen and hats.

Many travelers appreciated the authentic touch of staying in a yurt, which adds a level of immersion that makes the trip more memorable. The long travel days, however, mean you’ll need to be prepared for early mornings and some time on the road.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for small groups and families seeking a comprehensive Inner Mongolia experience without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for travelers interested in natural landscapes, cultural sites, and outdoor activities. Those wanting a relaxing, luxury-focused trip might find the schedule a bit busy, but adventure lovers will enjoy the variety.

Photographers will appreciate the scenic stops, especially at the grasslands, mountain vistas, and desert dunes. History buffs will enjoy the ancient wall and Tibetan temples, which add a layer of cultural richness.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Inner Mongolia tour offers a compelling mix of wide-open grasslands, cultural landmarks, and desert adventure—all within a manageable schedule. The combination of knowledgeable guides, authentic accommodations, and diverse activities ensures travelers get a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Inner Mongolia.

While the itinerary is packed, the value lies in the variety—no two days feel the same, and every stop adds something unique. It’s best suited for those who want to see a lot without the stress of organizing logistics themselves. Expect long days, but also memorable sights and stories to tell.

For travelers eager to witness the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Inner Mongolia in comfort and style, this tour is a robust and rewarding choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes licensed English-speaking guides, air-conditioned transport, all entrance tickets, one night in a yurt, and activities like camel riding, sandsliding, and off-road vehicle rides.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you should budget around USD 12 per day for food. Local eateries are available at each stop.

What is the group size?
Groups under 3 people may be rejected, and if there are more than 6 travelers, the guide and driver are split onto a bus. The tour is private for your group.

When does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 9:30 am from Jiangjunyashu West Lane in Hohhot and returns there at the end of the third day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children can enjoy the experience, especially activities like camel riding and scenic sightseeing, but keep in mind the long days.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Confirmations are provided within 48 hours of booking.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transport is included in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the long travel days.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera. Dress in layers, especially for mountain and desert environments, which can vary in temperature.

This 3-day tour combines the best of Inner Mongolia’s landscapes and cultural sites, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting an authentic, memorable adventure in this dynamic region.