Private 2 Day Beijing Tour Including Mutianyu Great Wall And Longqing Gorge

Experience the Best of Beijing in Two Days

This private 2-day Beijing tour offers a well-balanced mix of iconic sights and lesser-known gems, perfect for travelers who want an authentic and hassle-free experience. You’ll visit the stunning Longqing Gorge, often called the “Little Three Gorges,” and the quieter, scenic Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, away from the crowds. With private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and included meals and entrance fees, it’s a comprehensive option that maximizes your time and minimizes stress.

One thing we particularly like about this experience is its customized approach—it’s just your group, allowing for more flexibility and personal attention. However, do keep in mind that with a packed schedule and roughly two hours each at the key sites, this tour is best suited to those with a good level of mobility and a keen interest in seeing both natural and historical highlights. Overall, if you’re eager for an immersive, comfortably organized trip that covers some of Beijing’s most photogenic spots, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private Tour for Flexibility: Enjoy a personalized experience with a dedicated guide and vehicle.
• Visit Iconic and Hidden Sites: Longqing Gorge and Mutianyu Great Wall offer contrasting scenic and cultural experiences.
• Includes Meals and Entrance Fees: No hidden costs—lunch and tickets are covered, offering great value.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned private van makes the journey smooth and relaxing.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help bring the sites to life with insights and local tips.
• Ideal for Active Travel: The tour involves walking and boat rides, so comfortable shoes are advisable.

Discovering Longqing Gorge

Your adventure begins early in the morning, with a pickup from your centrally located Beijing hotel at 7:30 am. The two-hour drive takes you to Longqing Gorge, a stunning canyon famed for its resemblance to the Three Gorges along the Yangtze River. As you approach, the landscape is immediately striking—towering waterborne peaks and lush forested slopes.

Our guide, a fluent English speaker, shared that Longqing is sometimes called the “Little Three Gorges,” thanks to its dramatic canyon walls and scenic waterway. You might find it comparable to the famous Li River scenery, especially with the boat ride at the base of the gorge. The boat ride is a significant highlight—a tranquil cruise that offers breathtaking views of the towering cliffs and lush surroundings. Visitors have raved about how peaceful and photogenic this part of the trip is, with one comment noting, “The boat ride through the canyon was magical, like stepping into a landscape painting.”

The reservoir flooding the canyon after the Longqing Dam construction adds an extra layer of serenity to the landscape, turning the scenery into a peaceful haven. The entire visit lasts around three hours, giving ample time to soak in the views and take plenty of photos.

Exploring Mutianyu Great Wall

The second day begins with an 8:00 am pickup from your hotel, heading toward the famous Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. This part of the wall is about 87 km from downtown Beijing and offers a more tranquil and less touristy experience compared to the bustling Badaling. This quieter setting allows for a more immersive walk along the ancient bricks, with fewer crowds to contend with.

Once there, you can choose to walk or take the cable car or toboggan to reach the top—both options are included in the tour. We loved the flexibility here; the cable car provides spectacular aerial views, while the toboggan offers a fun descent back down the mountain. Expect about two hours of exploring the wall—enough time to appreciate the engineering marvel and take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.

Following your hike, a delicious local lunch awaits at a Jade factory restaurant, where you can also learn about jade culture—an unexpected cultural twist. Visitors appreciated the quality of the meal, noting it’s a refreshing break after the morning’s activity.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is priced at $700 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, when considering the inclusion of private transportation, professional guides, entrance fees, and meals, it’s a convenient and relatively cost-effective way to see significant highlights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. The small group or private setup means you get a more personalized experience, and you avoid the jostling and crowds common in larger tour groups.

The transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey, crucial given the distance between sites. The guides, who speak both English and Chinese, help interpret the sites’ history and quirks, making each visit richer and more engaging.

The itinerary’s timing is fairly tight, which is great if you’re eager to see as much as possible in two days but might be a bit rushed for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. Also, the focus on natural and cultural highlights means no visits to urban landmarks like Tiananmen Square or the Forbidden City—perfect if you want to bypass the city’s busy streets.

Authentic Experience and Tips

Many travelers have noted how guides like “Mr. Liu,” who was mentioned in reviews, make a difference with their local knowledge and friendly attitude. They often point out interesting details—like the significance of the carved bricks at Mutianyu or the best photo spots around Longqing Gorge.

Be prepared for a fair amount of walking and some boat riding, so comfortable shoes are essential. Also, since the tour involves outdoor activities, dressing in smart casual and bringing layers is wise, especially if the weather shifts.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private Beijing tour offers a thoughtful mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and convenience. You’ll appreciate the effort to include both natural wonders and a world-famous historic site, all while maintaining a relaxed, personalized atmosphere. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value tailored experiences, want to avoid the crowds, and are interested in exploring beyond just the city’s core attractions.

While the price isn’t cheap, the logistics are taken care of, which saves you time and energy. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and authentic moments make it an excellent option for those looking to deepen their understanding of Beijing’s diverse landscape and history.

For anyone eager to see a different side of Beijing—away from the hustle and bustle—this tour delivers a memorable two days filled with natural beauty, history, and cultural insight.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included. The guide will meet you at your central Beijing hotel lobby at 7:30 am on Day 1 and at 8:00 am on Day 2.

What’s the approximate duration of each day’s activities?
Day 1, Longqing Gorge, involves about three hours including the boat ride. Day 2, at Mutianyu Great Wall, also involves around three hours of exploration, including the optional cable car or toboggan.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all site entrance fees are included in the price.

Can I use the cable car or toboggan at the Great Wall?
Yes, both are included, offering flexibility for how you wish to ascend or descend the wall.

What meals are covered?
Lunch is included both days—on Day 1 at a local restaurant near Longqing Gorge, and on Day 2 at a Jade factory restaurant.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Mostly, yes. However, keep in mind the walking involved—comfortable shoes and a reasonable level of mobility are recommended.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is suggested, with layers suitable for outdoor activities. Sun protection and comfortable shoes are advised.

How many people typically join this tour?
It’s a private tour, so it’s just your group, ensuring a more tailored experience.

If you’re looking for a way to experience Beijing’s natural beauty and historical sites in a relaxed, guided manner, this tour offers an excellent balance of convenience, value, and authentic encounters.