Simatai Great Wall & Gubei Water Town Private Trip English Driver

If you’re planning a trip to Beijing and want to see the Great Wall beyond the usual tourist spots, this private tour offers a fantastic way to explore three quite different sections of this historic marvel. From the well-preserved Simatai to the tranquil waterside Huanghuacheng, plus a scenic water town experience, this trip promises a blend of adventure, culture, and stunning views—all with the comfort of private transport and a dedicated guide.

One element we really love about this tour is the customized experience it offers—visiting less crowded, authentic parts of the Wall that many visitors miss. Plus, the inclusion of fun activities like riding a toboggan down Mutianyu adds a playful element to your day. However, a consideration is that entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll need to budget cash for those.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and authentic Great Wall experience without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It suits those with moderate fitness levels and a curiosity for less-touristed, picturesque sites.

Key Points

• Three Unique Sections: Explore Simatai, Xiangshuihu, and Huanghuacheng for diverse perspectives on the Wall.
• Private, Customized Experience: Door-to-door transfers and a dedicated driver ensure comfort and flexibility.
• Active and Fun: Includes hiking, a toboggan slide, and scenic walking, catering to those who enjoy outdoor activities.
• Authentic Local Dining: Enjoy a traditional meal near Xiangshuihu, adding flavor to your cultural journey.
• Cost-Effective: At $124 per person, the tour offers good value, especially given the personalized service.
• Authentic Insights: Multiple reviewers praise knowledgeable guides and relaxed drivers, enhancing the trip’s authenticity.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Simatai Great Wall: The Most Restored and Dramatic Section

Your day starts with a stop at Simatai, a section of the Wall renowned for its dramatic, rugged scenery and relatively fewer visitors. With a 2-hour visit (admission not included), this part offers breathtaking views and an authentic feel—rougher and more original compared to the heavily restored Mutianyu.

Travelers who have been here share glowing feedback. One reviewer appreciated the “amazing” experience, praising the driver’s relaxed attitude—”Xie was very chilled and relaxed,” which sets the tone for a stress-free day. Expect steep staircases, narrow pathways, and plenty of photo opportunities. Be prepared with comfortable hiking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.

Gubei Water Town: A Waterside Escape

Next, your journey takes you to Gubei Water Town, a charming lakeside town combining traditional architecture with scenic waterways. Spend around 2 hours here, wandering through cobbled streets, enjoying cafes, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

This stop offers a different flavor from the Wall’s ruggedness, providing a tranquil break and a glimpse into local life. Reviewers mention the convenience of the private transfer, which makes the experience smooth. While admission isn’t included, you can expect to find options for tickets on site, priced around 230 RMB (cash recommended).

Huanghuacheng: The Hidden Gem with the Lakeside Wall

Finally, the tour ventures to Huanghuacheng, known as the “Lakeside Wall,” where the Wall actually runs along a lake, creating stunning reflections and scenic vistas. This part allows for some leisurely hiking and photography, making it a favorite for those craving quieter, less touristy scenes.

Fun Activities and Local Flavors

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to slide down the Mutianyu section’s toboggan—a highlight for many. It’s a playful way to descend from the Wall, especially appreciated by younger visitors or those looking for a bit of fun. Reviewers often note the ease of ticket handling and the friendliness of the driver, with some even mentioning that their guide purchased tickets for them and provided bottled water.

Lunch is enjoyed at a local restaurant near Xiangshuihu, offering authentic Chinese cuisine in a relaxed setting. While not included in the tour price, reviewers have found the meal to be a worthwhile addition, adding to the culture.

Practical Aspects: Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

The tour features door-to-door private transfers with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. This is a significant advantage, eliminating the need to navigate public transportation or worry about parking. The entire trip lasts around 9 hours, making it an ideal full-day option, especially if you want a thorough sampling of the Wall’s different faces.

Timing is flexible, with confirmation at booking and the possibility of tailoring the experience slightly—like spending more or less time at each stop. Reviews praise the punctuality and professionalism of the drivers—”Our driver, Martin, was punctual, professional, and a pleasure to travel with.”

You’ll need to bring approximately 230 RMB in cash for entrance tickets, as they are not included, but the guide or driver can assist with ticket purchases. Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes and consider any dietary requirements beforehand.

Authentic Experiences Shared by Reviewers

Multiple reviews highlight the quality of guides and drivers. Rocky, Bruce, and other drivers are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ease. One reviewer shared how Bruce “had the walls completely to ourselves” at a lesser-known spot, making it a truly personal experience.

Another reviewer appreciated the relaxed vibe: “Xie was very chilled and relaxed,” which helped create a laid-back, enjoyable atmosphere. Such insights reassure that you’re in good hands, especially if you prefer a more personalized journey over crowded group tours.

Analyzing the Value

At $124 per person, this private tour offers solid value, especially considering the personalized service and access to quieter, less-visited sections of the Wall. While you’ll need to pay extra for entrance tickets and lunch, the convenience of private transfers and the opportunity to visit three unique sites makes it a worthwhile investment.

On top of that, the experience caters to those with moderate physical fitness—expect some walking, hiking, and the fun toboggan ride—so packing comfortable shoes is essential.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to see more than just the crowded tourist sections. If you’re after authentic, scenic, and less-touristed parts of the Great Wall, combined with the ease of private transportation and a knowledgeable driver, it’s a strong choice.

It’s ideal for those with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and sliding down a toboggan. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate flexibility and personalized service will find this tour especially satisfying.

If you want an immersive, relaxed, and scenic day that covers multiple aspects of the Great Wall’s history and beauty, this trip delivers on all fronts. Expect stunning views, friendly guides, and a memorable experience that’s well worth the price.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, including all stops, transfers, and activities.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You should budget around 230 RMB cash per person for tickets.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, a private air-conditioned vehicle is used for pickups and drop-offs, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, which often allows for some flexibility, but specific customization details are not explicitly mentioned.

What should I wear?
Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended since walking and hiking are involved at each site.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, but a local restaurant near Xiangshuihu is suggested for those who want to try authentic Chinese cuisine.

Who are the guides and drivers?
Drivers like Xie, Martin, or Bruce are praised for their professionalism and friendliness; guides are not included but can be arranged separately.

Is this suitable for children or elderly?
Likely suitable for those with moderate fitness levels who can handle walking and some uneven terrain, but check individual health considerations.

What makes this tour stand out?
Access to lesser-visited Wall sections, the fun toboggan ride, and the scenic lakeside at Huanghuacheng make this trip unique.

Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance—full refund available.