Private Tour: Badaling Great Wall and Kangxi Grasslands on Horseback

Discovering the Best of Beijing: Badaling Great Wall and Kangxi Grasslands on Horseback

When it comes to experiencing Beijing’s iconic sights along with its natural beauty, this private tour offers an engaging blend of history and outdoor adventure. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the most well-preserved section of the Great Wall and then escape the city’s hustle for some horseback riding in a scenic grassland setting. What’s particularly appealing is that it’s a private experience, so you’ll have personalized attention from your guide, making it a flexible and tailored day out.

One of the standout features of this tour is the opportunity for riders of all experience levels to enjoy the horseback ride, whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a complete beginner. Plus, the inclusion of a buffet lunch helps fuel your day of exploration. However, it’s worth noting that some past travelers experienced delays with the horses, which might slightly affect the overall flow of your day. This tour suits those who crave a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and a chance to enjoy Beijing’s less-traveled outdoor spaces.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour with just your group and a guide, perfect for tailored experiences.
• Visit the renowned Badaling Great Wall, the most complete and well-preserved section with stunning panoramic views.
• Horseback riding at Kangxi Grasslands, suitable for all levels, with options for beginners and experienced riders.
• Buffet lunch included, giving you energy for the afternoon’s outdoor activities.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics seamless, saving time and effort.
• Limited group size (1-10 people) ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with the Great Wall at Badaling

The day begins with a pick-up from your Beijing hotel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Your private driver and guide will then take you directly to Badaling, often regarded as the crown jewel of the Great Wall. This section is famous for its exceptional preservation—you’ll walk along ramparts that have withstood centuries, with some parts dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

Once there, you’ll have around two hours to explore. You can choose to walk or take a cable car up to the Sun-view Tower, which provides spectacular panoramic views of the wall snaking across the mountains. The guide will point out notable features and help you appreciate the strategic importance of this fortress. It’s a busy spot, often filled with travelers, but its grandeur makes it worth the visit.

One traveler, Marj_E, noted that the portion with the wall was better than expected, especially after some initial hiccups with the tour organization. She highlighted that her guide, Kevin, went above and beyond to secure an hour-long horse ride after some logistical frustrations, which she appreciated. This suggests that even if things don’t start perfectly, guides are willing to adapt to ensure you enjoy the experience.

Cultivating a Midday Break: Buffet Lunch

After conquering the wall, a buffet lunch awaits. It’s a practical inclusion that offers a variety of options, whether you’re craving traditional Chinese dishes or vegetarian choices. The meal is meant to replenish your energy before heading to the grassy plains. The value here is clear—no need to hunt for food afterward, and you get to sample local flavors in a relaxed setting.

The Scenic Escape to Kangxi Grasslands

Post-lunch, your adventure shifts gears to the Kangxi Grasslands, a lesser-known but beautiful ecological area just outside Beijing. This vast prairie offers a change of scenery and a chance to connect with nature. It’s a summer resort for locals, but visitors often overlook it, making it a peaceful retreat away from crowds.

The highlight here is the horseback riding experience. The guide will assist you in selecting a suitable horse, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. The riding takes place on a standard course designed to ensure safety and enjoyment. Reviewers mentioned that the staff are helpful, and the guide will instruct you on how to ride at an appropriate pace—these details matter if you’re nervous or inexperienced.

One rider reflected that the horse riding was enjoyable, with the guide’s help making it accessible for all levels. The experience also includes options such as strolling on a camel or simply walking around the grassland, offering flexibility depending on your mood or physical fitness level.

Authentic and Relaxed Outdoor Experience

The scenery at Kangxi Grasslands is characterized by wide-open spaces, lush greenery, and distant mountain views, perfect for photos and a peaceful break from city sightseeing. The grassland is also a functional racecourse, adding a touch of local sporting culture to your visit.

Practical Details and Logistics

The entire tour is designed to last around 9 hours, making it a full-day experience but manageable with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The small group size (up to 10 people) ensures personalized attention. The tour also provides bottled water and a professional guide, which enhances comfort and convenience.

For those concerned about physical activity, the tour notes that travelers should have moderate fitness levels. The horseback riding lasts about an hour, so it’s not overly strenuous but does require some balance and comfort on a horse.

Considerations Based on Past Reviews

While the majority of travelers enjoyed their day, some experienced logistical delays, particularly with the horseback riding arrangements. Marj_E’s review mentions a “cluster” caused by initial difficulties in securing the ride, but her guide, Kevin, made efforts to turn things around. This highlights the importance of flexibility and the role of a helpful guide in overcoming unforeseen issues.

Plus, some add-on costs are not included, such as additional horseback riding hours, cable car fees on the Wall, or tips for the guides. It’s good to plan for these potential extras if you want to extend your adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a combination of iconic sights and outdoor fun—particularly families or small groups who appreciate a personal touch. The horseback riding aspect makes it appealing for those interested in a more active, authentic experience rather than just sightseeing from afar.

It’s also well-suited for visitors who prefer flexible, private tours over large group excursions, and those who enjoy scenic landscapes and a bit of adventure in their travel plans. However, if you’re very pressed for time or looking for a more intense, high-adrenaline riding experience, you might find this tour a bit relaxed.

The Sum Up

In essence, this private tour offers a well-rounded taste of Beijing’s most famous historical site, the Badaling Great Wall, combined with an immersive experience in the Kangxi Grasslands. The inclusion of horseback riding, a buffet lunch, and hotel transfers provides excellent value for those seeking both cultural insight and outdoor leisure.

The tour’s success hinges on the quality of the guides and the scenic environment, making it a favorite for travelers who prioritize authentic, personalized experiences. While some past guests encountered minor logistical bumps, the overall impression is of a thoughtfully curated day that balances history, nature, and adventure.

If you’re after a memorable day that combines Beijing’s history with outdoor fun, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for a full day, and perhaps a dash of flexibility if the logistics aren’t flawless.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without hassle.

How long is the horseback riding?
The horseback riding lasts about one hour, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, with guidance provided.

Can children participate?
Children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult, and children under 7 ride for free, usually sharing a horse with an adult.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level, especially for the horseback riding portion. If you’re comfortable walking and riding, you’ll likely enjoy it.

Are there additional costs I should be aware of?
Potential extras include additional horseback riding hours, cable car fees on the Great Wall, and tips. These are not included in the base price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. For horseback riding, wear clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and bring sun protection if necessary.

Is the experience customizable?
While the tour follows a set itinerary, guides are generally flexible and aim to ensure you enjoy each part of the day, especially with the private setting.

This tour offers a balanced, authentic glimpse into Beijing’s celebrated landmarks and landscapes, perfect for travelers seeking an active, personalized day out that combines history with nature.