Private Day Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall & Badaling Great Wall with Local Lunch

Experience the Great Wall of China like never before with this private day tour, covering the iconic Badaling and scenic Mutianyu sections. Priced at $238 per person, it offers a comprehensive deep-dive into one of the world’s most astonishing marvels, with the convenience of private transport and expert guides. This tour is especially appealing for those who want a flexible, personalized experience that balances history, stunning views, and local flavors.

What we love about this experience is how it combines two famous sections of the Wall into a single day—each offering something distinct. Badaling is known for its impressive scale and accessibility, while Mutianyu’s lush surroundings and winding path make for a more picturesque stroll. The option for a local lunch adds a flavorful touch, giving you a taste of authentic Beijing cuisine. However, keep in mind the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some elevation, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

This tour is ideal for travelers who are eager to see different facets of the Great Wall, want the convenience of private transport, and prefer guided insights rather than exploring alone. It’s perfect for history buffs, those seeking memorable photo opportunities, and anyone wanting to maximize their time without the hassle of logistics. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour a truly worthwhile adventure.

Key Points

• Two UNESCO World Heritage sites in one day, offering diverse perspectives on the Great Wall.
• Private transportation and guided service ensure comfort and personalized attention.
• All-inclusive upgrade includes round-trip cable car tickets at Mutianyu and a local lunch.
• Flexible options for hiking or taking cable cars, catering to different energy levels.
• Authentic local cuisine provides a taste of Beijing’s culinary traditions.
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views as major highlights.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Ease and Convenience of Pickup

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Beijing, which is a significant time-saver and stress-reducer. Knowing that your private driver and guide will be waiting to whisk you away means you can relax and focus on the experience ahead. No need to coordinate public transport or worry about navigating busy roads—this setup is perfect for travelers who want a seamless start.

First Stop: The Great Wall at Badaling

We loved how the tour kicks off at Badaling, the most accessible and well-preserved section of the Wall. Located about 75 km north of Beijing, this stretch is famous for its impressive scale and historical significance. The 2.3-mile (3.7 km) length of the Wall here is wide enough for five horses to ride side by side, giving a sense of the grandeur of ancient construction.

What makes Badaling special? It’s the section most visitors recognize from postcards, and it offers a comfortable, well-developed experience with paved pathways and restored watchtowers. If you’re a history enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the informative guides who share fascinating details about its construction and strategic importance.

A highlight is the option to hike for two to three hours or take the cable car (own expense). For those who prefer a less strenuous experience, the cable car provides a quick ascent to enjoy the views without the climb. Reviewers mention that guides like Jeffrey and Yang are particularly helpful and insightful, sharing stories that bring the Wall’s history alive.

Scenic and Authentic: Mutianyu Great Wall

After the first stop, the tour includes a local lunch at a nearby restaurant, giving you a chance to savor authentic Beijing-style dishes—an appreciated detail. The midday meal fuels you for the afternoon adventure at Mutianyu, renowned for its lush surroundings and winding pathways.

The Mutianyu section is about 1,000 meters long, winding over mountains and through dense woods, changing colors with each season. It’s considered one of the most beautiful parts of the Wall, especially with its panoramic views and fewer crowds compared to Badaling.

Here, you can choose to take the cable car or chair lift—and optional toboggan rides are available for the adventurous. We found that the toboggan, mentioned fondly in reviews, offers a fun way to descend after a walk along the ramparts. The guide will help you decide based on your energy and interest level.

The Authentic Touch: The Guides and the Attentiveness

Reviewers rave about guides like Jeffrey and Yang, describing them as knowledgeable, helpful, and eager to enhance the experience. They share insights about the Wall’s history, construction, and the surrounding landscape, transforming a sightseeing trip into a mini-lesson in Chinese history.

This personalized approach makes a difference. Instead of a rushed group experience, you get tailored attention and the flexibility to spend more time at points of interest or take breaks as needed.

Transportation and Timing

Travel time from Badaling to Mutianyu is approximately 2 hours—a good opportunity to relax in the private vehicle and enjoy the scenery. The entire day spans about 8 hours, including pickup, visits, lunch, and return to Beijing, arriving around 5-6 pm.

The private vehicle ensures a comfortable journey, and the flexible timing allows for a more relaxed pace compared to crowded group tours. The inclusion of round-trip transport is a major value addition, removing the hassle of arranging separate rides.

Value and Practicality

When considering the $238 per person price, this tour offers notable value. The cost covers private transport, guided insights, entrance fees, and the optional cable cars and toboggan rides. The all-inclusive upgrade—which adds round-trip cable car tickets and a local meal—further enhances the experience, especially if you’re short on time or prefer convenience.

The reviews affirm that the experience is well-organized and insightful, with guests appreciating the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. They also highlight the breathtaking views that make the long day worthwhile.

Considerations

While the tour is comprehensive, travelers should be prepared for moderate physical activity—hiking, climbing stairs, and walking on uneven surfaces are part of the experience. It operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for weather is advisable. For winter travelers, snow and cold weather are common, adding to the charm but requiring warm clothing.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private, flexible tour is perfect for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to see different sides of the Great Wall. It suits travelers who value guided insights and want a stress-free, comfortable day without sacrificing authenticity. It’s also ideal for those who prefer customizable experiences—like choosing to take the cable car or toboggan—rather than rigid group tours.

Families with children should note that moderate physical activity is involved, but with flexibility, it can be suitable for most ages. The private nature makes it a quieter, more personalized experience, especially appreciated by travelers craving a tailored exploration.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and convenience. Combining two major sections of the Great Wall in one day ensures you get a comprehensive view of this iconic marvel, while the private guides make sure you don’t miss out on the stories behind the stones.

The inclusion of authentic local lunch and optional cable cars or toboggan rides adds to the value, making it a well-rounded experience. Guests consistently praise the guides’ expertise and the stunning vistas that make the long day feel worthwhile.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, insightful, and flexible tour that caters to your interests and comfort, this is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize their time, avoid crowds, and enjoy a personalized journey through one of China’s most famed landmarks.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation from and back to your Beijing hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.

Can I take the cable car at both Great Wall sections?
The tour includes the option for round-trip cable car tickets at Mutianyu, but at Badaling, visitors typically hike or can choose to buy a cable car separately if available.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll spend about 2 hours at Badaling and roughly the same at Mutianyu, with time for lunch and optional activities like tobogganing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome, but since some walking and climbing are involved, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. Always consider your child’s comfort with uneven terrain and elevation.

What should I wear?
Dressing appropriately for weather conditions is essential. The tour operates in all weather, so layers, comfortable shoes, and sun protection or rain gear are advisable.

Can I customize the experience?
As a private tour, there’s flexibility to spend more or less time at each site, and guides are helpful in tailoring the experience based on your preferences.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled closer to the date, a full refund isn’t available, so plan accordingly.

This tour stands out as a fantastic way to see two of the most famous sections of the Great Wall with ease, expert guidance, and local flavors—an experience sure to be a highlight of your trip to Beijing.