8 Days Guilin and Guizhou Tour: Nature & Culture
Tour Overview
Explore the captivating landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Guilin and Guizhou on this 8-day adventure. Begin in Guilin, where ancient charm meets natural wonders at Daxu Ancient Town, Elephant Trunk Hill, and Reed Flute Cave. Cruise the Li River, cycle through Yangshuo’s countryside, and experience bamboo rafting on the Yulong River. Venture into Guizhou to hike terraced landscapes, immerse in Dong and Miao cultures, and witness traditional crafts. From wax dyeing to paper-making, savor the diverse flavors of these enchanting regions before bidding farewell in Guiyang.
Highlights of this tour:
1. Roam cobbled streets, absorb ancient charm, and delve into Guilin’s history in the well-preserved Daxu Ancient Town.2. Stand in awe at Elephant Trunk Hill, cruise the Li River, and explore Reed Flute Cave’s mesmerizing underground formations.
3. Drift serenely on bamboo rafts along the Yulong River, surrounded by tranquil landscapes and iconic karst formations.
4. Hike through stunning terraced landscapes, uncover hidden villages, and immerse in Dong culture at Zhaoxing Village.
5. Craft unique paper in a Miao village, savor local fare, and witness the vibrant art of wax dyeing and traditional skirt-making.
Day-by-day Itinerary
- Day 1: Welcome to Guilin - City Exploration
Upon your arrival, your guide and driver will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Guilin, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, is a city where stunning karst mountains meet the Li River, creating a breathtaking backdrop. Take some time to settle in and relax.
The rest of the day is free for you to explore the charming city of Guilin at your own pace. Stroll through the vibrant streets, discover local markets, or simply unwind and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Meal: N/A
- Day 2: Historical Daxu and Natural WondersDaxu Ancient Town, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave
Begin your day with a visit to Daxu Ancient Town, a living testament to Guilin's rich history. This well-preserved town showcases traditional architecture, ancient stone streets, and old bridges.
Daxu Ancient Town After a delightful lunch, venture to Elephant Trunk Hill, an iconic limestone formation that resembles an elephant drinking from the Li River. Later, explore the enchanting Reed Flute Cave, an underground wonder adorned with stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, illuminated by colorful lights.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Reed Flute Cave - Day 3: Guilin to YangshuoLi River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside Cycling
Embark on a 4-hour cruise along the picturesque Li River, surrounded by iconic karst peaks and lush landscapes. Disembark in the charming Yangshuo Town, known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery.
Luxury cruise ship on Li River In the afternoon, explore the countryside by bike, winding through idyllic villages and enjoying the tranquility of the rural surroundings.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
- Day 4: Tranquil Train Journey to CongjiangBamboo Rafting
Experience the tranquility of the Yulong River with a morning bamboo rafting adventure. Absorb the peaceful scenery as you gently float along the river, surrounded by bamboo groves and limestone peaks.
Yulong River bamboo rafting In the afternoon, transfer you to Yangshuo Railway Station and take a scenic 1.5-hour train journey to Congjiang Railway Station. Upon arrival, your local driver will pick you up and assist with your hotel check-in.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
- Day 5: Terraced Hike and Dong VillageTerraced Landscapes, Zhaoxing Dong Village
Embark on a 2.5-hour hike through breathtaking terraced landscapes, discovering hidden villages along the way. These terraces, carved into the hillsides by generations of farmers, offer a spectacular display of agricultural ingenuity.
In the afternoon, visit Zhaoxing Dong Village, known for its unique Drum Towers. Immerse yourself in the Dong ethnic minority culture, admiring the craftsmanship and cultural richness of this fascinating village.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Hike the Rice Terraces - Day 6: Miao Paper Crafts and Da Boji Miao VillagePaper Making, Da Boji Miao Village
After breakfast, delve into the cultural heritage of the region by visiting a Miao village. Learn the ancient art of paper-making from wood and use your hands to create unique paper crafts. Enjoy a locally cooked lunch at a farmer's house, experiencing the authentic flavors of the region.
Learn the ancient art of paper-making Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to Da Boji Miao Village, named after its shape resembling a dustpan. Follow your guide to admire their stilted buildings - usually have three floors. The first floor is used for livestock, the second floor is for living, and the third floor is used for storing food.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Da Boji Miao Village - Day 7: Miao Culture ExperienceWax Dyeing, Traditional Skirts
Discover a village renowned for its wax dyeing, an ancient art passed down through generations. Enter a dyeing workshop and witness the fascinating process of transforming white cloth into vibrant blue, adorned with intricate wax patterns.
Wax dyeing process After a cultural immersion, head to another village famous for its traditional short skirts. Explore the unique attire and delve into the stories behind these traditional garments.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Short-skirt Miao Village - Day 8: Departure from Guiyang
Enjoy a leisurely morning with free time for personal exploration. Your driver will then escort you to Guiyang, where you will catch your flight or train to your next destination or return home. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories gathered during your journey through Guilin and its captivating surroundings.
Accommodation: N/A
