Private Tour: 4-Day Great Wall Hiking and Camping from Beijing

A Hands-On Journey through the Great Wall: A 4-Day Hiking and Camping Tour Review

Travelers seeking more than just a snapshot of the Great Wall will find this 4-day private tour offers an immersive, outdoor adventure. Instead of rushing from one tourist spot to another, you’ll spend multiple days hiking different sections of this historic marvel, accompanied by knowledgeable guides and camping under the stars. While the experience promises authentic views and active exploration, it also comes with some logistical considerations, especially around accommodations.

One aspect we love? The focus on wild Wall sections that most travelers never see—these stretches feel rugged and untouched, giving a real sense of what the Wall was like centuries ago. The inclusion of guided hikes ensures you won’t get lost on the sprawling structures, which can be a concern given the Wall’s vastness. On the flip side, a potential drawback noted by travelers is the quality of accommodations, with some mentioning that camping sites can be basic or, at times, less than pristine.

This tour is best suited for outdoor lovers, hiking enthusiasts, and those eager to experience the Great Wall beyond its popular tourist spots. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and enjoy camping, this adventure could be a memorable highlight of your China journey.

Key Points

• Authentic Hiking Experience: Explore lesser-visited wild sections of the Great Wall for an immersive experience.
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides help navigate the Wall and share insights about its history and structure.
• Multi-Day Camping: Spend three nights camping, soaking in the scenery and enjoying outdoor nights under the stars.
• Balanced Itinerary: Each day offers a different section, combining natural beauty with historical remnants.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included, making logistics easier and more convenient.
• Stress-Free Travel: Hotel pickup and drop-off eliminate transportation worries, allowing you to focus on the experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Gubeikou’s Wild Wall and the Hundred Family Names Village

Your adventure kicks off at 9:00 AM with pickup from your Beijing hotel, giving you a comfortable start to the day. After a roughly 2.5 to 3-hour transfer, you’ll arrive at Gubeikou, a section renowned for its untamed beauty and authentic ruins. Unlike the heavily restored sections, Gubeikou’s wall is largely in its original state, with crumbling battlements that evoke a sense of history and ruggedness.

Post-lunch, the day’s hike covers about 5.5 miles, with a total ascent of 515 meters, and takes roughly 3 hours, plus time to relax and take in the views. The highlight? Walking along the entirely wild Wall, which, despite its decay, still radiates grandeur. Our review notes that most of this section isn’t restored, so expect uneven steps and rough terrain—perfect for those craving an authentic challenge.

At the base of the wall, the Hundred Family Names Village offers a glimpse into Ming Dynasty life, with its 600-year history linked to a general named Qi Jigua. It’s a quiet, historical spot that adds context and depth to your hike. While the scenery is stunning, a reviewer mentioned that the “accommodations were below par and very unsanitary,” highlighting the importance of preparing for basic facilities despite the adventure.

Day 2: Inner Wall and Continued Wild Wall Exploration

Starting with a hearty local breakfast—corn porridge, eggs, and a delicious pancake—you’ll spend the day exploring the inner circle of Gubeikou, which was historically the Wall’s second line of defense. This section also remains wild and less restored, featuring lush greenery that provides a striking contrast to the stonework.

The day’s hike is longer—around 13 miles with an ascent of 1,100 meters—taking roughly 6 hours. The pace is steady, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and take breaks. The highlight is the picnic lunch on the Wall itself, a true highlight for outdoor lovers seeking to dine with panoramic views. In the afternoon, you’ll continue from Gubeikou to Tou Liang Village along the wild wall, with some sections quite steep and rugged.

Day 3: Jinshanling’s Historic Ruins and Inner Circle Walks

On Day 3, the focus shifts to Jinshanling, famous for its well-preserved watchtowers and scenic vistas. Breakfast is served early at your campsite, fueling up for the approximately 3.5-hour hike to Laodongpo via Jinshanling. The journey includes passings through areas where locals took bricks in the 1950s to build their homes—an example of how the Wall has been affected over decades.

The hike covers just under 5 miles with a total ascent of 697 meters, and includes walking around the inner circle of the wall, another part built as a backup defense line. Expect lush greenery and interesting ruins, along with the opportunity to see local villages and perhaps interact with villagers. The guide’s commentary adds context, making this more than just a walk—it’s a layered experience of history, nature, and local life.

Day 4: The Famous Simatai Section and Views of Beijing

The final day offers a slightly shorter hike, focusing on Simatai, known for its dramatic scenery and steep, intricate pathways. The trek to Wang Jing Tower provides spectacular vistas, with some claiming you can see Beijing on clear days—a tempting thought for those interested in panoramic views.

The hike is about 3.88 miles with an ascent of 539 meters, taking just under 2 hours of moving time, plus breaks. After lunch at your campsite, you’ll be transferred back to Beijing, ending your outdoor adventure with a sense of fulfilled exploration.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transportation and Logistics: Your guides handle all transfers, from hotel pickup in Beijing to each Wall section, making this a hassle-free experience. The private nature of the tour means your group has personalized attention, which enhances the quality of the hike and overall experience.

Meals and Camping: Included meals provide energy for the active days, though the reviews suggest that accommodations for camping might be basic. One reviewer noted that they stayed in someone’s backyard rather than a dedicated campsite, which could be a consideration if comfort is a priority. Nevertheless, the experience of camping on or near the Wall itself is unique.

Cost and Value: At almost $2,000 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. However, considering the comprehensive nature—guided hikes, camping, meals, and transport—it offers good value for those wanting an authentic and active Great Wall adventure. It’s especially appealing if you’re tired of crowded tourist spots and want to see the Wall’s wild, untouched sections.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 4-day trek is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and active travelers who want to combine hiking, history, and camping into one trip. It’s perfect for those prepared for moderate physical activity and who enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences. If you’re seeking a high-energy, immersive way to explore the Great Wall beyond the usual touristy photos, this tour delivers.

However, if you prefer luxury accommodations or easy, flat walks, this might not be the best fit. The basic camping facilities and long hikes through rugged terrain require a certain spirit of adventure and resilience.

The Sum Up

This private 4-day Great Wall hiking and camping tour offers a rare chance to see sections of the Wall that most travelers never access. With knowledgeable guides, scenic vistas, and the thrill of camping overnight on historic structures, it’s a memorable experience for those who love outdoor activities and authentic travel. The focus on wild, unrestored sections ensures you get a genuine sense of what the Wall was like centuries ago.

While some accommodations might fall short of luxury standards, the value lies in the immersive experience, stunning landscapes, and deep connection to history. It’s best suited for adventurous souls ready for moderate trekking and outdoor nights under the stars.

If you’re craving a physical challenge combined with the serenity and grandeur of the Great Wall, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within Beijing, making it convenient and stress-free.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy four lunches, three breakfasts, and three dinners, all included in the price. Vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

How physically demanding is this tour?
Expect moderate physical activity, including hikes of between 3 to 6 hours per day, with varying ascents. A moderate fitness level is recommended.

Are the camping accommodations comfortable?
The included camping is basic, with some reviews indicating that facilities may be less than luxurious, and sometimes set up in unconventional places like someone’s backyard.

Can I see Beijing from the Wall?
At Simatai, atop Wang Jing Tower, some say you can see Beijing on clear days, offering a spectacular view from the final section.

What section of the Wall will we explore?
You’ll visit Gubeikou, Jinshanling, and Simatai, each offering different views—wild, historic, and steep, with fewer crowds and more authenticity.

What is the best season to do this tour?
While not specified, outdoor hiking in China is generally best in spring or fall when temperatures are mild, and the scenery is most vibrant.

This comprehensive, adventurous tour unlocks a side of the Great Wall that many never see—raw, historic, and breathtaking. Perfect for those eager to go beyond the postcards and truly connect with one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.