2 Days Private Zhangjiajie National Forest Park In-depth Tour (Avatar Mountain)

Traveling to Zhangjiajie often means preparing for a landscape that feels straight out of a fantasy novel—towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and clouds wrapping peaks like a mystical cloak. This 2-day private tour offers a comprehensive dive into the park’s most breathtaking sights, from the famous Avatar Mountain to hidden scenic areas. It’s designed for those eager to see the highlights with the benefit of a private guide, ensuring a personalized experience and insider tips.

What we really love about this tour is the seamless combination of transportation, guided insights, and entry to key attractions—all within a manageable schedule. The inclusion of private transport between sites and eco-friendly shuttle buses inside the park makes for a smooth, stress-free trip. However, keep in mind that private vehicles are not allowed inside the park itself, which might be surprising for those expecting to drive freely. This setup works best for travelers who want a curated experience without the hassle of navigating on their own.

This tour is ideal for travelers who are keen on seeing Zhangjiajie’s most famous vistas but prefer a structured, guided approach. It also suits those who want to maximize their time and avoid long queues, as all entrance tickets and transportation are arranged in advance. If you’re a nature lover, an avid hiker, or simply fascinated by the park’s UNESCO status and connection to the film Avatar, this experience could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour covers entrance fees, transportation, and local guides, offering great value for a comprehensive experience.
• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas, cloud-kissed peaks, and the iconic Hallelujah Mountain that brings the film Avatar to life.
• Eco-Friendly Transport: Inside the park, you’ll use shuttle buses and cable cars, respecting the environment while saving energy and effort.
• Well-Planned Itinerary: The two days touch on all major highlights, including Tianzi Mountain, BaiLong Elevator, and Huangshi Village.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is quite packed, which is ideal for efficient sightseeing but might feel rushed if you prefer a leisurely pace.
• Weather Dependent: Many of the most spectacular views hinge on good weather; fog or clouds can obscure some sights, especially Tianzi Mountain and Xihai Stone Forest.

The Full Experience: An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: The Heart of Zhangjiajie

The adventure begins with an early pickup around 9:00 am, setting the tone for a full day of awe-inspiring sights. Your guide, Larry Li, or another local expert, will lead you through Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a sprawling landscape that’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, the real star of the show is the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park—a section that has become synonymous with dramatic sandstone pillars and lush greenery. It’s a place where you’ll feel like walking through a natural sculpture gallery.

One highlight is the BaiLong Elevator, which is claimed to be the highest outdoor elevator in the world. Its glass windows offer a vertigo-inducing view of the landscape below and a quick ride to the top. From there, you’ll explore Yuanjiajie, the section nicknamed Avatar Mountain, where the iconic Hallelujah Mountain and Avatar Pillar are located. These formations gained fame after they inspired the floating mountains in the Avatar film, and standing beneath them, you can’t help but marvel at their scale and symmetry.

Next up is Yangjiajie Scenic Area, a less crowded but equally stunning part of the park that offers a quieter, more intimate connection with nature. Later, the day culminates at Tianzi Mountain, one of the most breathtaking spots. If the weather cooperates, you’ll be treated to views from over 4,000 feet above sea level, often with clouds swirling around the peaks—a sight that countless reviewers describe as “magical” or “like walking above the clouds.” On clear days, the Xihai Stone Forest provides a jaw-dropping vista of towering stone formations that resemble a natural art installation.

Day 2: Hidden Gems and Mountain Top Views

The second day begins with a visit to Ten Miles Gallery, a natural sculpture park featuring stream-fed landscapes that evoke old Chinese paintings. The carved peaks and flowing water create a serene setting, perfect for gentle exploration and photography. Many visitors mention the Herb Collecting Old Man and Immortals Worshipping Guanyin as particularly striking features.

Following this, a hike along Golden Whip Brook offers a chance to see wild monkeys and enjoy forest scenery at a relaxed pace. This segment is ideal for nature enthusiasts who seek a peaceful, nature-filled experience away from the crowds.

The tour’s highlight is the ascent to Huangshi Village via cable car, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Once at the top, you’ll discover several viewing platforms, including the Six Strange Pagoda, Picking Star Platform, and Lover Peaks—each providing unique perspectives of the park’s rugged beauty. The trip concludes with a cable car ride down, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the landscape you’ve just explored.

Practical Details: Transportation and Logistics

Since private vehicles are not permitted inside the park, the tour makes excellent use of environmentally friendly shuttle buses and cable cars, which are included in the package. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also helps keep the experience smooth and efficient. The guide handles all the ticketing, so you don’t have to worry about long lines or confusing entries.

The tour is priced at $499 per person, which covers all main entrance tickets, transportation, guide services, and some meals if you opt for lunch. Keep in mind, this is a guided experience, so there’s less flexibility for spontaneous detours but a lot of value in the curated route.

What You Should Know Before Booking

• The tour is structured but somewhat intensive; expect busy days with a lot of walking and sightseeing.
• Good weather is crucial for the best views—fog, rain, and clouds can significantly obscure the scenery.
• Accommodation is not included, so plan to stay in Wulingyuan for easy access.
• This tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging, especially the hikes and cable car rides.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized expedition into Zhangjiajie’s most iconic sights, this 2-day private tour delivers impressive value. It’s perfect for travelers who want the convenience of a guided experience, with all logistics taken care of, and who are eager to see the park’s highlights without missing out. The inclusion of attractions like Avatar Mountain, Tianzi Mountain, and Huangshi Village ensures you’ll leave with a full appreciation of Zhangjiajie’s geological marvels.

While the itinerary is quite packed—meaning you need to be ready for some early mornings—the payoff is a deep, immersive experience that balances spectacular views with insightful guidance. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the vistas you’ll encounter here are exceptional, especially when the weather is clear.

This tour is best suited for those who value curated experiences, convenience, and authentic nature encounters. It’s ideal for first-timers or busy travelers who want a reliable way to see the park’s major highlights without the stress of planning every detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize this tour?
This particular tour follows a set itinerary designed to maximize sightseeing within two days. Customization isn’t specified, but since it’s private, you might be able to discuss additional interests with your guide.

Are meals included?
Lunch is available as an optional addition. Dinners and breakfasts are not included, so plan to arrange your own meals in Wulingyuan.

Is transportation private or shared?
Transportation between sites is private, but inside the park, you will use environmentally friendly shuttle buses and cable cars, as private vehicles are not allowed inside.

What are the highlights I shouldn’t miss?
Expect to see Avatar Mountain (Yuanjiajie), Tianzi Mountain, the BaiLong Elevator, and Huangshi Village. Each offers unique views and photo opportunities.

How long is the day at each site?
Most stops are around 1-2 hours, but some, like Tianzi Mountain and Huangshi Village, can take longer due to the cable car rides and exploration.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, but travelers with mobility issues should be aware of the walking and cable car sections, which may be challenging for some.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and perhaps a light raincoat, depending on the forecast.

Final Words

This 2-day private tour of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park offers a fantastic way to experience the park’s most stunning sights with expert guidance and minimal hassle. It balances incredible landscapes like Avatar Mountain and Tianzi Peak with practical perks like included tickets and transportation. While it’s a busy schedule, the payoff in breathtaking views and memorable moments makes it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a comprehensive adventure.

Ideal for first-time visitors, nature lovers, and those who prefer a guided, all-inclusive approach, this tour ensures you won’t leave Zhangjiajie without a deep appreciation of its natural wonders. Prepare for some early mornings, bring your camera, and get ready to be wowed by one of China’s most extraordinary landscapes.