3-Day Private Tour to Zhangjiajie National Park and Glass Bridge from Xian

Travelers seeking a blend of jaw-dropping natural beauty and exhilarating experiences will find this 3-day private tour from Xi’an to Zhangjiajie a compelling choice. From soaring elevators to glass bridges suspended hundreds of meters above the ground, this journey offers some of China’s most iconic sights wrapped into a carefully curated itinerary. What makes this experience particularly appealing is the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide—all bundled into a competitive price.

One of the standout features we love about this tour is the seamless logistics, with flights included, so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery without worrying about transfers or tickets. However, keep in mind that the pace can be quite full, especially on the third day with two major attractions—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re after authentic, guided exploration with excellent views, this trip fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour covers flights, entrance fees, guide, and lunch, offering excellent value for a comprehensive experience.
• Iconic Sights: Highlights include the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Mountain, Tianmen Mountain, and the world’s longest glass bridge.
• Expert Guidance: An English-speaking guide makes navigating the parks easier and enriches your understanding of the sights.
• Early Starts and Full Days: Expect busy mornings with early pick-ups and packed itineraries, suitable for energetic travelers.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Enjoy local cuisine during lunches and get insider tips from guides familiar with the area.
• Flexible Endings: Finish in Zhangjiajie or choose to be dropped off in Xi’an or Shanghai, depending on your travel plans.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Xi’an to Zhangjiajie

The adventure begins with a pickup from your Xi’an hotel, setting the tone for a smooth journey. The transfer to Xi’an International Airport is quick—about 1.5 hours—and the included flight transports you directly to Zhangjiajie. While the flight is straightforward, it’s worth noting that this adds time to the overall experience, so you’ll want to start your day early or plan accordingly.

Upon arrival, a driver will meet you at Zhangjiajie Airport and transfer you to your hotel—your base for the next two days. While the hotel isn’t included in the package, choosing a centrally located option can enhance your overall comfort and ease.

Day 2: Exploring Zhangjiajie’s Natural Wonders

The second day is packed with highlights. Your private guide and driver gather you early, and your first stop is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its otherworldly peaks and lush scenery. The entry ticket is included, and you’ll be glad to have a guide to help navigate the park’s extensive trail system and points of interest.

The Bailong Elevator is next—a highlight that’s often called the world’s tallest outdoor elevator. This glass elevator whizzes you up to Yuanjiajie, a scene that inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. From here, you can enjoy spectacular views and take photos of the towering pillars.

Traveling into Yuanjiajie, your guide will point out the Southern Sky Pillar, which is iconic enough to have influenced Hollywood. Walking across the “First Bridge Under Heaven” is a thrill, offering a tangible sense of standing on a natural masterpiece.

After a local lunch, your journey continues to Tianzi Mountain, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and cloud-shrouded peaks. The shuttle bus and cable car rides make the ascent and descent manageable, and your guide will share legends and geological insights along the way. The panoramic views from the summit are worth every step, providing that classic mountain-top perspective.

Day 3: Tianmen Mountain and the Glass Bridge

The final day kicks off with a visit to Tianmen Mountain, accessible via the world’s longest cable car. This ride offers sweeping views of the karst landscape, and the famous Heaven-linking Avenue—known as 99 Bending Road—adds a dash of daring, with its 99 sharp turns visible from the cable car.

Tianmen Mountain is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a peaceful sky garden full of ancient trees and lush scenery. Your guide will help you appreciate the beauty and history of the area. After a hearty lunch, you’ll head to the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge—the highlight for many thrill-seekers. Suspended 300 meters above ground, this 375-meter-long glass walkway offers exhilarating views and a chance to challenge your nerves.

The experience of crossing the glass bridge—often described as both terrifying and unforgettable—is a must-do for adventure lovers. Following this, you’ll visit Tianmen Cave, a natural hole in the mountain that has earned its nickname “Heaven’s Gate” due to its shape and dramatic appearance.

Finally, depending on your preference, your guide will either return you to your hotel or arrange a transfer to Zhangjiajie Airport for your next destination, whether that be Beijing or Shanghai.

What Travelers Can Expect

Transport & Comfort: The tour’s inclusion of flights and private transfers means you won’t need to worry about logistics. The private guide ensures a personalized experience, answering questions and providing context that enriches each stop. Expect a fair amount of walking and some shuttle rides, especially at Tianzi Mountain and Tianmen Mountain.

Guided Insights: Many reviews mention guides who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the experience more meaningful. From geology to local legends, guides help bring the scenery to life.

Scenic Highlights: Expect stunning vistas at every turn—from the floating mountains that inspired Avatar to the dizzying heights of the glass bridge. The views are undeniably breathtaking, often leaving travelers speechless.

Crowd Management: Early starts help avoid some of the crowds, especially at popular spots like the Bailong Elevator and Tianmen Mountain. But be prepared for some busy moments, especially during peak season.

Food & Rest: Lunches are included, typically at local restaurants, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. While the meals are generally simple, they provide much-needed energy for the day’s adventures.

The Value of the Experience

At a price of $718 per person, the tour offers a compelling blend of convenience and adventure. The inclusion of all transportation, entry fees, guide services, and flights provides a hassle-free experience that could be more costly if booked independently—especially when considering the logistics of flights and park entrances.

This trip is especially valuable for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves. It’s also excellent for those who prefer guided visits, as the guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy active exploration combined with awe-inspiring scenery. It’s ideal for those comfortable with early mornings and physical activity, as many attractions involve walking and some steep climbs or shuttle rides. The inclusion of flights makes it perfect for visitors short on time, wanting to see a lot in a compressed schedule.

If you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group seeking a comprehensive, guided adventure that covers top sights with minimal fuss, this tour fits well. However, those looking for a more leisurely pace or hotel stays included in the price might need to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This 3-day private tour to Zhangjiajie from Xi’an offers a fantastic introduction to some of China’s most iconic natural landmarks. The combination of breathtaking vistas, thrilling glass bridges, and expert guides creates a memorable experience that balances adventure with convenience. While the itinerary is packed, it’s perfect for travelers eager to pack as much as possible into a short trip, without the hassle of logistics management.

It’s particularly suitable for those who value guided insights, stunning scenery, and a well-organized schedule. The included flights and transportation streamline the journey, making it a good value for a comprehensive tour. Just be prepared for early mornings and full days—this is a trip that rewards active explorers.

Overall, if you’re after a blend of natural beauty, thrill-seeking, and expert guidance, this tour delivers on all fronts, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to experience Zhangjiajie’s legendary landscapes.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transfers, flights from Xi’an, and transportation within Zhangjiajie, such as shuttle buses and cable cars.

Are entrance fees covered?
All entrance fees for attractions like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Mountain, Tianmen Mountain, and the glass bridge are included.

Can I choose to finish the tour in a different city?
Yes, you can finish your tour in Zhangjiajie or opt to be dropped off in Xi’an or Shanghai, depending on your travel plans.

What meals are included?
Two lunches are included, typically at local restaurants, providing a taste of regional cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers can participate, those with mobility issues or a dislike for heights might find some attractions challenging, especially the glass bridge and mountain hikes.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for all the stunning views. The tour guide can offer tips specific to each site.

Is the tour available year-round?
While not explicitly stated, most outdoor tours like this are best enjoyed during mild weather seasons. Check with the provider for seasonal availability.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect some walking and shuttle rides, with activities like hiking and cable car rides. The tour is best suited for those in good health and comfortable with physical activity.

This comprehensive, well-organized trip combines natural splendor, guided expertise, and logistical ease, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Zhangjiajie without the hassle of independent planning.