Today you will go to the airport and take a flight to Urumqi, Xinjiang, have a pleasant trip!

Arrival in Urumqi:
Welcome to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. After checking in, you are free to explore the city independently and take care of your meals accordingly.

Free pick-up time on the day of the tour is a fixed time (In case of changes, please communicate with customer service staff in advance, other different times for paid pick-up, please know!) Thank you for your understanding.

Later, you can go sightseeing on your own.

Itinerary: S21 Desert Highway-Ulungu Lake-Wucai Beach

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements.)

After breakfast at hotel, we will embark on a journey to Burqin along the "most beautiful desert highway" in Xinjiang - S21 Desert Highway. This newly opened highway in December 2021 offers excellent road conditions and stunning desert landscapes. The highway traverses the Gurbantunggut Desert, the second-largest desert in China, and passes through the Junggar Basin and the unique Yardang landforms. Along the way, you'll witness the desert's "three treasures" - pikes, red willows, and various wildlife. This journey is an excellent opportunity to experience the vastness and grandeur of the Gobi Desert.

 Upon arriving in Fuhai County, we will have lunch, or you may opt for a light meal at one of the roadside rest stops (please note that Xinjiang's rest stops may not offer the same variety as mainland China).

Then We will visit Ulungu Lake in Fuhai, commonly known as Burento Sea, the second-largest lake in Xinjiang. Along the lakeside highway, you'll be able to admire the lake's varying colors and farmland backdrop, making for stunning photo opportunities.

Arrival at the renowned "World's First Beach" - Wucai Beach, located approximately 24 kilometers northwest of Burqin County. Here, you can appreciate the breathtaking Yadan landscapes, which are also a photographer's paradise.

After dinner, check-in at the hotel for a relaxing evening.

Tips:

1.Our tour vehicles are equipped with GPS monitoring, ensuring safety. Drivers must take a mandatory 20-minute break every 4 hours of driving, and there are speed checks and limits throughout the route. We appreciate your understanding.

2.While the sunset at Wucai Beach is indeed breathtaking, please be aware that the waterfront area is prone to mosquitoes. We recommend taking adequate mosquito repellent measures.

3.Burqin's night market is lively but may have varying levels of sanitation. Please keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your health and safety. Before ordering snacks, please check the price list and agree on the price with the vendor.

Itinerary: Kanas National Geopark- Wolong Bay-Moon Bay- Bay

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements.)

After breakfast, we will depart to the entrance of Kanas Scenic Spot at Jiadengyu. Take the shuttle bus to enter Kanas National Geopark (inclusive of tickets and shuttle bus service). Kanas is considered one of the last untouched landscapes in the world. Along the way, you'll pass through the stunning Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, Shenxian Bay, and Yaze Lake, ultimately arriving at the breathtaking Kanas Lake.

In the afternoon, explore "Wolong Bay," "Moon Bay," and "Fairy Bay" (also known as Shenxian Bay). Alternatively, embark on a boat ride on the edge of Kanas Lake to search for the elusive Kanas Lake Monster. Take a stroll through the authentic Tuvan villages to immerse in their unique Scandinavian-inspired landscapes.

These remarkable experiences are exclusive to those staying in the heart of Kanas' scenic area!

After dinner, check-in at the hotel for a relaxing evening.

Tips:

1.Please be prepared for the limited facilities and higher consumer prices (meals, shopping, etc.) in Kanas.

2.Kanas is located in a mountainous high-altitude region with complex terrain and rugged roads. Please prioritize your safety and avoid entering areas designated for mountaineering or forest activities.

3.Due to the significant temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, ensure to pack appropriate clothing, including warm coats, sweaters, sweater pants, and thick jackets, even in summer, to prevent catching a cold.

Itinerary: Hemu Village-Hemu View Platform- Meili Peak

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements)

After breakfast, we embark on a journey to the entrance of Hemu, taking the scenic bus to enter the "God's Own Land"- Hemu Village. Once there, we'll wander through the village, capturing the unique customs of the Tuvans and admiring the breathtaking scenery surrounding WoWu Village.

If you're interested, you can opt for a horseback ride to photograph the magnificent Lifeng peaks (additional charges apply; please be mindful of horseback riding safety). We'll then proceed to the Hemu Viewing Platform to take in a panoramic view of Hemu Village, the smoky Tuvan villages, grazing cattle and sheep, and the birch forests along the Hemu River.

Heading west from Hemu Village and deeper into the Altai Mountains, in a vast valley, there stands a beautiful peak. The hillside is pyramid-shaped, with the sunny slope covered in lush meadows and the shady slope shaded by towering taiga forests. This peak is named Meili Peak. In the Kazakh language, it is called "Surujueke," which roughly translates to "the beauty of a young girl." In the Tuva language, it is known as "Boshida," meaning "solitary peak." It is connected to nine surrounding mountains, yet it seems distinct from them. Its high recognizability makes it stand out among the peaks. 

At its foot, only ten families still live a traditional, undisturbed lifestyle.

Tips:

1.Since it rains often in the mountains, we recommend tourists bring an umbrella for both rain and sun protection.

2.During the tour, please follow the guide's instructions and do not enter the forest without permission to avoid any potential dangers.

Itinerary: Wuerhe Ghost Town

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements)

After the Breakfast, we will depart to Wuerhe Ghost Town, Karamay.

Visit Ghost City (Tour duration: Approx. 2 hours, including scenic area bus ride). about 100km away from Karamay, is renowned for its howling winds between the stone pillars, giving off a unique sense of terror. Standing in the Gobi Desert, it resembles a castle, leaving one in awe of nature's ingenuity. As the sun sets, the diagonal sunlight scattered among the rock formations creates an illusion of movement, bringing the labyrinth world to life. This magical landscape has been recognized by "China National Geographic" and "Beautiful China" as one of "China's Three Most Beautiful Yadan Landforms," and it was even the backdrop for films like "No Man's Land" and "Seven Swords Down to Tianshan."

Then take bus to Kuitun/Dushanzi for dinner and check into the hotel for a restful evening.

Itinerary: Tianchi Lake

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements)

After breakfast,we depart to Heavenly Lake (Tianchi Lake).

Arrival at the ancestral court of Taoism, the Queen Mother's ascent to heaven — [Tianshan Tianchi] (including ticket and shuttle bus). Nestled in the East Tianshan Mountains, Tianchi sits halfway up the peak of Bogda, at an altitude of 1980 meters. Formed by the melting snows of the Tianshan Mountains, standing on the shores of Tianchi, one can clearly see the snow-capped peaks of Bogda across the way. Walking along the azure waters beneath the blue sky, with snow-covered mountains in between, creates a serene and cozy atmosphere.

Have dinner and check into the hotel for a restful evening.

Itinerary: Tuyu Ditch-the Mountain of Flames-Local Uyghur Home-Jiaohe Ruins

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements)

After breakfast, we will head to Tuyu Ditch, and visit the Mountain of Flames on the way.

Visit Tuyu Ditch, situated in the South Gully of the Tuyu Ditch Grand Canyon. This ancient Uyghur village in Xinjiang belongs to the climate zone south of the Flame Mountain, where humanistic and natural landscapes coexist. It encapsulates the history and culture of Buddhist and Western influences, boasting a history spanning over 2,600 years. Serving as a reflection of eastern Xinjiang, it is a typical representative of village patterns within an Islamic cultural backdrop, showcasing the traditional Uyghur style of "ancient villages, dwellings, lanes, and trees." Here, you can also visit Local Uyghur Home to immerse yourself in Uyghur lifestyles, flavors, national songs and dances, and taste a variety of Xinjiang's seasonal fruits. Afterward, head to Turpan's most comprehensive ancient city - Jiaohe Ruins. Jiaoxi's history dates back to the 2nd century BC, during the Western Han Dynasty, when it served as the royal capital of the former state of Cheshi. The Han army also stationed here, and later, the Gaochang Dynasty established Jiaoxi County, which surrendered to the Tang Dynasty and formed the Anxi Prefecture until the end of the Yuan Dynasty. Because of the wars, Jiaohe has since become a ruin.

Tips:

1. Turpan has intense ultraviolet rays. Please ensure to bring your own sunscreen, umbrellas, and other sun protection equipment to protect yourself.

2. Due to the high temperatures, remember to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to avoid heatstroke.

Itinerary: Karez Well- Liuyuan Station- Dunhuang-Shazhou Night Market

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements)

After breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the renowned  Karez Well, one of the ancient three major projects. This tour takes approximately 40 minutes. Karez, a unique water conservation project, is located mainly in the Turpan and Hami areas of Xinjiang, China. This type of engineering makes clever use of the natural slope of the mountain, which leads to groundwater for irrigation and residential use. (Please note that if the attraction is closed, tickets will be refunded.)

Then depart for the railway station to take a train to Liuyuan station.

Upon arrival, you will be picked up by a bus and continue your journey to Dunhuang.

After enjoy a delicious dinner, we will explore the Shazhou Night Market: Walking through this vibrant market feels like stepping into an ancient bazaar where goods from the western region and the central plains converge. Merchants and businessmen bustle about, and the brilliant lights paint a picturesque Dunhuang nightscape.

Itinerary: Mogao Crottoes-Echoing-Sand Mountain-Crescent Moon Spring

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements)

After breakfast we will visit Mogao Crottoes, where hundreds of grottoes display the iconic "Flying Heaven" image, symbolizing the essence of Dunhuang. These caves are renowned worldwide for their exquisite murals and statues, hailed as one of the 20th century's most valuable cultural discoveries. Listed as a national key cultural relic protection unit and a world cultural heritage site, Mogao Crottoes offer a unique glimpse into history and art.

AfterLunch, we continue to explore the National 5A-Level Scenic Spot - Mingshashan·Crescent Moon Spring. Venture into this stunning natural wonder, where the desert camel caravan marches gracefully under the setting sun. The chiming of camel bells fills the air, while the serene crescent springs nestle among the undulating dunes of Singing Sand Mountain. The contrasting beauty of the blue water and golden sands creates a breathtaking visual spectacle.

After a day of exploration, enjoy a sumptuous dinner and then check in at the hotel.

Itinerary: Children of the Earth Sculpture- Jiayuguan 

After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Jiayuguan and see the magnificent Children of the Earth sculpture on the way, which stands at an impressive 15 meters long, 4.3 meters high, and 9 meters wide. Utilizing cutting-edge digital technology, this work is crafted from red sandstone blocks, making it the largest digital carving of stone sculpture both domestically and internationally. The sleeping baby sculpture serves as a powerful reminder that, just like us humans, we must cherish and protect our beloved planet Earth, for only in this way can we ensure its sustainability and our own survival for generations to come.

Have lunch at the restaurant on the way.

Then visit the Jiayuguan Tower. Because of the dangerous terrain, Jiayuguan is majestic and has the "world's most powerful pass" "the key to the border" of the name, from the pass out of the entire pass city in full view, the distant vague Qilian snow mountains in the distance under the more majestic atmosphere! On the way through the endless black and white Gobi, experience the vastness of the Great Northwest, the ancient road is still flowing color.

Enjoy dinner and check into Hotel in Jiayuguan.

Itinerary: Ejin Banner-Heicheng Ruoshui Huyang Senic Area- Black City Ruins- Strange Grove-Ruoshui Populus Euphratica Forest

(Note: Travel time is approximate and subject to the guide's final arrangements)

After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Ejin Banner(or Ejina, Ejina Banner, Ejina Qi), enjoy the desert Gobi along the way, have lunch at the restaurant on the way, and visit Black city weak water Jinsha poplar scenic spot(Heicheng Ruoshui Huyang Senic Area) after arrival (including entrance tickets + shuttle bus). Here, you'll find a captivating blend of weak water, desert, poplar, mysterious woods, and the ruins of Xixia. The scenic spot comprises three unique areas: the Weak Water Poplar Forest, the Old City of Black Water, and the Strange Grove.

The Black City Ruins (Heicheng Ruins) showcase the rich history and culture of the Black City, reconstructed 1:1 to its former glory. This ancient city site is a must-visit on the northern route of the Silk Road.

The Strange Grove is a marvelous sight, featuring vast areas of ancient dead poplar forests that have stood strong for thousands of years. They tell the story of the land, singing a song of resilience.

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Itinerary: Badao Bridge Sand Sea Kingdom- Ejin Museum (Accordingly)

After breakfast, we will visit the filming location of Zhang Yimou's movie "Hero"—Populus euphratica forest Core Scenic Spot + Badao Bridge Sand Sea Kingdom (including entrance tickets and shuttle buses). The Poplar Forest Scenic Area is divided into eight smaller sections (1st to 8th Bridge) along a single line, each offering unique scenery. Shuttle buses connect the sections, making it convenient for sightseeing.

• 1st Bridge: The closest to Dalaihubu Town, where you can capture the reflection of poplars and the setting sun across the river.
• 2nd Bridge: Located on the east bank of the Heihe River in Ejina Banner, which is flooded during the National Day holiday. The poplars along the shore reflect golden hues on the blue waters. This is the filming location for "Hero," offering stunning views of the evening glow and the majestic golden poplars in autumn.
• 3rd Bridge: Features fewer poplars but large patches of red willows, resembling colorful flames dancing among the sand dunes.
• 4th Bridge: The poplar forest here is well-arranged, offering many photographic opportunities. The 4th Bridge Old Tree Nest is home to golden poplars, Mongolian herders, white flocks of sheep, and scenes of a tranquil pastoral life.
• 5th Bridge: Dominated by massive poplars growing naturally in saline-alkali soil and deserts.
• 6th Bridge: Boasts vast expanses of poplar leaves. Occasionally, you can see rugged Mongolians riding tall camels or dust clouds raised by passing flocks of sheep, creating dynamic scenes in the light and shadow.
• 7th Bridge: The poplars here are tall and uniquely shaped, with increasingly larger trees deeper into the area. The ground is covered with dead branches and withered poplar trunks.
• 8th Bridge: Combines the Badain Jaran Desert and poplar forests, offering a rich landscape where deserts, poplars, camel caravans, and sunrises blend perfectly—a paradise for photography enthusiasts.

1. Please protect your cameras and smartphones when entering the desert.
2. For poplar and desert photography, it is recommended to wear bright and colorful clothing.
3. Lunch cannot be arranged within the Poplar Forest Scenic Area, thus we offer light lunch. Food and water inside the scenic area are expensive, so please prepare water and snacks as needed.

Itinerary: Juyan Lake- Zhangye Danxia Landform-Danxiakou town

Embark on a journey through the ancient and enigmatic Juyan Lake(estimated visit time: 1 hour, inclusive of tickets and shuttle service) to witness the sunrise, where gulls soar above the shimmering lake, reeds bloom, and red waves surge. As the sky brightens, the vast blue heavens expand, and visitors traverse the trestle into the heart of the reeds, inhaling their warm, fragrant essence. This striking contrast is a remarkable gift from nature, leaving visitors awestruck and expressing their admiration with the crisp click of a camera shutter!

Then take bus to Jiayuguan for lunch.

Embark on a drive to Zhangye, following in the footsteps of history to admire the snow-capped peaks of Qilian and the ruins of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall, feeling the pulse of the Silk Road. Upon arrival in the western river region of Jin Zhangye, explore the spectacular [Zhangye Danxia Landform] (inclusive of tickets and shuttle service, estimated visit time: 1.5 hours).

Zhangye Danxia Landform stands unique in China as a complex area encompassing both Danxia formations and vibrant colored hills. Dubbed as one of the seven most breathtaking Danxia landscapes in the country by China National Geographic magazine, it is a sight to behold, especially during sunset. Photography enthusiasts go wild, unreservedly clicking their shutters to capture the grandeur of the Danxia, which resembles a tapestry of rich colors. Colorful towers, vibrant shells, knife-like mountains, and a sea of fire—all these elements are intricately woven together into a captivating landscape painting.

After exploring Zhangye Danxia, visit the charming Danxiakou town, where you can experience its unique food stalls and thematic performances. Here, you can  immerse yourself in the folklore and rich history of Gansu, and feel the vibrant spirit of the Silk Road.

After breakfast, we'll transfer you to the airport to check in!

Please Note: Complimentary airport transfer service from the hotel is available at a fixed time. Please contact  our customer service in advance to confirm the details, additional charges will apply for transfers outside this time period.Thank you for your understanding.