Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town Trip with English speaking driver

If you’re visiting Beijing and eager to see more than just the city’s bustling streets and historic sites, this private tour offers a fantastic way to combine natural beauty, historical wonder, and peaceful old-town charm. It pairs the untouched grandeur of the Simatai Great Wall, known for its steepness and stunning surroundings, with the serene waters and ancient architecture of Gubei Water Town, all in a manageable 9-hour window.

One of the things we love about this experience is the personalized touch—you travel with just your party and an English-speaking driver, which translates into genuine flexibility and insider knowledge. Plus, the tour’s emphasis on authentic, less-restored portions of the Wall means you get a more raw and awe-inspiring view of China’s most iconic structure.

However, a point to consider is that some parts of the tour, like the cable car ride to the Wall’s summit, are not included in the price. This means you’ll need to budget for those tickets separately if you want the full experience. Still, for travelers who want a blend of adventure and relaxation, and who value a private, well-organized trip, this tour hits the right notes.

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an introduction to China’s natural and historical treasures, as well as those seeking a less crowded, more genuine experience of the Great Wall and old water town charm.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Operated solely with your group and an English-speaking driver for personalized attention.
• Flexible Itinerary: You set your own pace at each stop, with no strict schedule.
• Stunning Views: The Simatai Wall offers spectacular scenery, with an untouched, rugged feel.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The Gubei Water Town provides a peaceful, old-world vibe away from tourist crowds.
• Cost-Effective: At $168 per person, the tour offers good value considering transportation, entrance fees, and personalized service.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Perfect for those new to China who want a curated, manageable day trip.

Deep Dive into the Experience

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Transfer

The adventure kicks off early at 7:30am with hotel pickup—a welcome feature since it spares you the hassle of navigating Beijing’s busy streets. Your driver, who speaks English, calls ahead the day before—a thoughtful touch that ensures smooth coordination. This personalized service means your trip starts relaxed and well-organized.

The two-hour drive to Gubei Water Town is often comfortable, with reviews praising the friendly, informative drivers like Ben, who not only provides a smooth ride but also shares insightful tidbits about Beijing and the surrounding areas. One reviewer mentioned that despite a slight delay in departure, the journey remained enjoyable, highlighting the flexibility and attentive service.

Exploring Simatai Great Wall: Raw and Stunning

Once you arrive at Simatai, the highlight awaits—the Great Wall at Simatai remains one of the most authentic and least restored sections of the Wall. This means you’ll see the rough stone and rugged terrain that characterize the original Ming Dynasty construction, making it a striking contrast to the more commercialized sections like Badaling or Mutianyu.

Getting to the Wall involves taking a ferry to its foot, followed by a cable car ride to the summit (own expense). The cable car is often recommended by travelers who want to maximize their time and energy for walking along the wall. The views from the top are breathtaking, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The Wall here is known for its steepness and somewhat challenging terrain, which makes it perfect for those looking for a more authentic and less crowded experience. One reviewer described the walk as “fantastic,” noting how the untouched nature of the Wall creates a sense of stepping back in time.

Walking the Wall and Taking in Views

You are free to explore at your own pace—some visitors spend a couple of hours wandering along the ancient stone pathways, stopping to admire the quaint watchtowers and panoramic vistas. Since it’s a less restored section, the experience feels more genuine, and you’ll find fewer travelers blocking your view or rushing you along.

Remember, you’ll need to budget separately for the cable car tickets if you want an easier ascent and descent, which many reviewers recommend for comfort, especially if you’re not keen on strenuous hikes. One reviewer appreciated the flexibility that this afforded, saying it allowed for a more personalized and relaxed visit.

Gubei Water Town: Old-World Charm and Natural Beauty

After descending the Wall—either on foot or via cable car—you’ll be transported to Gubei Water Town. This ancient-style town is a peaceful retreat featuring waterways, traditional architecture, and the famous Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir.

The town’s charm lies in its combination of mountains, water, and ancient village structures. It feels like stepping into a different era, away from Beijing’s modern hustle. Visitors often spend about two hours here, wandering along cobblestone streets, browsing artisan shops, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

A reviewer noted that the town offers a unique mix of natural beauty and old-world architecture, making it a great spot for photos and peaceful strolls. The water town is especially lovely in the early evening when the setting sun reflects off the water, creating a picture-perfect scene.

Lunch and Local Flavors

You can choose to enjoy a meal within Gubei Water Town—many restaurants serve local Chinese dishes, and the reviews suggest that the food is tasty and satisfying. Alternatively, you might prefer to wait until after your visit for a relaxed meal, as lunchtime is flexible.

Returning to Beijing

Your driver will pick you up from Gubei Water Town around 2 pm and return you directly to your hotel by approximately 4:30 pm. This organized, stress-free transfer is appreciated by travelers who wish to avoid city transit worries.

Valuable Tips for Travelers

• Comfortable shoes are a must, especially since you’ll be walking on uneven, steep terrain on the Wall.
• If you want to maximize your experience, consider purchasing the cable car tickets in advance or on-site; many reviewers found it helpful.
• Bring bottled water (provided in the tour), especially if you plan to hike or walk extensively.
• Dress appropriately for the weather—this tour runs rain or shine, and the outdoor parts can be chilly in winter or hot in summer.
• The tour’s flexibility is a key benefit, so don’t hesitate to communicate your preferences to your driver.

The Sum Up

This tour strikes a great balance between authenticity, comfort, and value. Its private nature ensures personalized attention, and the combination of the rugged Simatai Wall with the peaceful Gubei Water Town offers a well-rounded glimpse into China’s natural and historic landscape.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want an immersive experience without the crowds, as well as those eager for a more adventurous and genuine look at the Great Wall. The seamless logistics, friendly driver, and stunning views make this a memorable day trip that’s worth the reasonable price.

Travelers looking for a less commercialized, more authentic experience will find this tour particularly rewarding. Just plan ahead for the cable car tickets if you want to avoid climbing, and be ready for some walking—this is a trip for those with a moderate physical fitness level.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, your driver will pick you up from your Beijing hotel early in the morning, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the drive from Beijing to Gubei Water Town?
The journey takes approximately two hours, offering a comfortable ride with a friendly driver who can share insights along the way.

Are the cable car tickets included?
No, the cable car tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you wish to ride up and down the Wall more easily.

Can I walk along the Great Wall at Simatai?
Absolutely. You’re free to explore the Wall at your own pace, taking in the views and the rugged scenery of this less-restored section.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential due to uneven terrain. Dress appropriately for weather conditions—layers are recommended.

How much time will I have at each stop?
You can spend about 2 hours at the Great Wall and 2 hours in Gubei Water Town, but this is flexible depending on your pace and interests.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the physical demands of walking and hiking.

This private day trip from Beijing offers a great way to see some of China’s most stunning sights with ease and flexibility. Whether you’re after breathtaking views, authentic history, or peaceful old-town charm, this tour delivers on all fronts.