Mountains & Wonders
From the peaks of Zhangjiajie to the sugar loaves of Guilin, a journey to the heart of ancestral Miao and Dong lands.
Duration
16 days
From
€2,130/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
This circuit takes you to discover the spectacular landscapes of southern Chine, connecting by land Zhanghiaje to Guilin, two regions recognized among the most beautiful in the country.
From the Zhangjiajie forest park, famous for its thousands of rocky peaks rising from dense subtropical vegetation, you head south, through regions long isolated, inhabited by ethnic minorities. You discover authentic timeless villages:
Furong, a Miao village clinging to a waterfall,
the ancient town of Fenghuang,
Zhaoxing, a Dong village renowned for its wooden architecture,
and Ping'an, nestled in the heart of the Longji terraced rice fields, ranked among the five most beautiful in Chine.
This diverse itinerant journey concludes with the discovery of spectacular karst landscapes between Guilin and Yangshuo, along the mythical Li River.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Zhangjiajie!
Pékin → Parc forestier de Zhangjiajie
Arrival in Beijing at 12:25, then transit at the same airport for your flight to Zhangjiajie at 18:45.
Arrival in Zhangjiajie at 21:10. Airport pickup by your English-speaking driver and guide, then transfer to your accommodation.
Night at Muzitang Lee's Boutique Hôtel, located in the center of Wulingyuan, near Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Hallelujah Mountain and Tianzi
Meet your guide and transfer to the entrance of Zhangjiajie Natural Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. Transportation within the park is by shuttle bus included in the entrance fee.
You will first head to the Bailong Elevator, standing 326 meters high, considered the world's highest open-air elevator. It takes 1.58 seconds to transport visitors from the base to the top of the ridge.
Visit to the Yuangjiajie sector (Hallelujah Mountain), offering spectacular viewpoints amid lush vegetation and above vertiginous rock walls, which inspired the scenery of the Avatar film.
Transfer by shuttle (approximately 40 minutes) to the Tianzi Mountain site, dotted with nearly 100 natural platforms, 2000 steep peaks and dozens of waterfalls.
At the end of the day, you will be able to watch the sunset after tourists depart from 5:00 PM onwards.
Overnight at Tea Garden Yolo Hostel (standard comfort with private facilities).
Large luggage will be left at the hotel at the base.
Sunrise, Yangjiajie and Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
At dawn, a short walk to the "Arranging Battles" platform, renowned for its sunrises in the mist. Transfer then to the Yangjiajie sector.
Visit to the hamlets of Wulong and Tianbo, accessible by small narrow passages between the gorges. Impressive cable car descent from Yangjiajie to the bottom of the park.
Shuttle then walk through the forest towards the Huangshi village.
In the afternoon, vehicle transfer to the Grand Canyon and its famous glass bridge. Crossing the bridge, then walking down to the bottom of the canyon.
Meet your driver for the return to Wulingyuan, at the Muzitang Lee's Boutique Hôtel.
Tianmen Mountain
This morning, climb up the Tianmen mountain using the world's longest cable car (7,455 meters). At 1,518 meters elevation, it is the highest mountain in Zhangjiajie.
Short walk around the promontory with passage on glass walkways attached to the cliffs, up to the Tianmen cave and its arch, made famous by Russian pilots who flew through it. Descent by the world's longest escalator, then on foot via a large staircase below the arch.
In the afternoon, 3-hour drive to the old Miao town of Furong, perched in an arc around a large waterfall, still relatively unvisited by Western tourists.
Dinner at a restaurant overlooking the waterfalls.
Night in Furong at Annai Xizhou Ji Hotel, located at the entrance to the village (away from the noise of the falls).
Red Rocks of Hongshilin & Old Town of Fenghuang
This morning, departure towards Hongshilin, the Redstone national geopark, famous for its undulating rock formations with changing colors, ranging from black to red depending on the light and weather.
Continue towards the old town of Fenghuang, cultural heart of the Miao ethnic minority.
In the evening, dinner in one of the stilt restaurants overlooking the Tuo River, beautifully illuminated.
Night at the Riverside Homestay Jiāng Jing Hotel, located on the riverbank.
Old Town at Sunrise and Great Wall South
The most courageous can wake up early to discover the old city of Fenghuang without tourists, and get lost in its many traditional alleyways.
Mid-morning, private vehicle transfer to the Great Wall of the South, built under the Ming dynasty to separate the Han population from Miao minorities. Originally over 190 km long, it today presents a few visible kilometers, including a restored section reminiscent of the famous Great Wall of the North.
Return to Fenghuang.
Afternoon free.
From Fenghuang to Danian, in the Heart of Miao Country
Free morning (without guide), then transfer to Tongren railway station to take the 12:05 high-speed train.
Arrival at Guiyang North at 14:06, then connection by rapid train to Congjiang (14:47–16:18).
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your driver (without guide) and transferred to the village of Danian, located in the heart of the mountains, in a region long isolated, within Miao Country.
Check-in at the Miao Country welcome center and first discovery of the activities of the Couleurs de Chine association, which supports schooling for children from ethnic minorities.
Night in Danian (simple comfort).
Trekking in the Miao Mountains
Today, with your English-speaking guide, hiking in the Great Mountains and villages, where ancient traditions are still present and traditional lifestyle has changed little.
The walking excursion along the terraced rice fields allows a concrete approach to the reality of work and life of Miao and Dong farmers. You will witness rural work according to the season: rice transplanting, crafts (embroidery, weaving, dyeing, basketry), wood transport in the mountains…
Depending on the day and dates, you may also accompany children leaving school on small paths through the fields to their hamlet or village.
Also visit a Yao village, where inhabitants are accustomed to taking rejuvenating baths based on medicinal herbs, which you can try if you wish.
Dong Villages: from Zhanli to Zhaoxing
After a short morning walk and lunch at a local home, return to your vehicle and head towards the region of Dong villages.
Along the way, visit the village of Zhanli, recognized for its aligned perches along the river and the belief that each family gives birth to one boy and one girl.
Continue to Huanggang, a lively and well-preserved Dong village, where you can see a fighting buffalo, carefully installed in its stall within the drum tower.
Then drive to the village of Zhaoxing, a large Dong village crossed by canals and streams.
Night in Zhaoxing at the Creekside Inn, located at the edge of the village, facing the fields, near the historic center.
Zhaoxing and hiking from Tang'an
Discovery of the Zhaoxing village, more touristy but still well preserved, with its many traditional wooden buildings that made the fame of the Dong people: Dong Opera theaters, five Drum towers erected by each of the five clans of the village, and the magnificent Wind and Rain bridges.
Then departure by vehicle to reach Tang'an, starting point of a hiking trip to Zhaoxing, offering a grand panorama over the valley.
Perhaps you will have the chance, in the evening, to attend a traditional Dong singing show, celebrating moments of daily life (not included).
From Zhaoxing to Ping'an and Hiking in the Longji Terraced Rice Fields
In the morning, discover the Zhaoxing village, then transfer by vehicle to the high-speed train station in Congjiang to take the train to Guilin.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by a new driver and then travel to the Ping'an region (approximately 2.5 hours journey), renowned for its spectacular terraced rice fields.
The Dragon's Backbone is among the most beautiful terraced rice fields in Chine. Arrival at the foot of Ping'an Village, then check-in at your wooden guesthouse.
In the afternoon, a short walk of approximately 2 hours through the Longji rice fields, until the different viewpoints.
Night in Ping'an at the Baike Hotel 3* (good comfort, with air conditioning).
From Longji to Yangshuo: rice terraces, tea and sunset on Cuiping Hill
This morning, a short hike to the old village of Longi. After lunch, meet your vehicle and driver to head towards the karst peaks region, south of Guilin.
On the way, an immersive visit to a tea plantation, with discovery of tea fields, explanations about tea cultivation, traditional ceremony and tasting.
In the afternoon, a short hike (approximately 20 minutes) to Cuiping Hill, to admire the sunset from one of the most popular viewpoints for photographers.
Transfer then to Yangshuo and check-in at the Riverside Retreat 3* hotel, located on the heights of the town, with views over the hills and the Li River.
Xianggong, hiking to Xingping and cruise on the Li River
After breakfast, departure by vehicle to the Xianggong viewpoint. Climb to the summit for views over the hills and the Li River site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Meet your vehicle which will drop you off 5 km further on, at the start of a trail you will walk along through citrus orchards and small hamlets to Xingping Village (1h30 to 2h00 of hiking). The path offers a beautiful perspective over the river.
You will also visit a small temple nestled on the banks at the entrance to the Snail Cave, where a few monks still live. Cross the river by local ferry and discover the old street of Xingping, where you can have lunch.
In the afternoon, raft ride on one of the most beautiful sections of the Li River between Xingping and the Hill of 9 Horses, through fishing villages, rice paddies and bamboo groves (approximately 45 minutes of cruise). It is a landscape from this section that inspired the illustration on the Chinese 20 RMB banknote.
Return to Xingping village.
Option : for the more athletic, watch the sunset from Laozhai Hill (free entry, 30 to 40 minutes of steep climb).
Return by vehicle to Yangshuo and your hotel.
In the evening, opportunity to attend the sound and light show "Liu San Jie", based on a very popular Chinese musical comedy, directed by Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou. It takes place on the Li River in a beautiful natural setting surrounded by karst mountains (not included in the quote: 300 RMB/person, comfort seat B2 with transport).
Cycling tour along the Yulong River and discovery of Yangshuo
After your breakfast, bike ride (or electric scooter with a supplement of 80 RMB/scooter, including for the guide) towards the Wild Grotto perched on the cliff, which has remained off the beaten tourist trail. The climb takes you up a mountain crevasse via steps carved into the rock. Superb panoramic views from inside the grotto.
Continue the ride along the Yulong River, through hamlets, rice fields and fish farming ponds to the village of Jiuxian. Lunch at an inn located in an old village house (at your own expense).
Return to Yangshuo after lunch, or you have the option to extend your visit to the Dragon Bridge or take a traditional bamboo raft ride (motorless, propelled by a gondolier) on the Yulong River (supplement to be paid on site).
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Yangshuo's pedestrian shopping streets, which are very touristy but representative of a modern aspect of China.
Other activities available by choice (not included): local cooking class, calligraphy class, tai chi class, etc.
Have a good return flight and see you soon!
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Lunches and dinners not mentioned (see L D)
- Chinese visa fees & personal expenses
- Travel Insurance and Optional Expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Activities not explicitly mentioned in the program and options
- International and local flights
Included
- The charming hotels mentioned with breakfast included every day on site
- English-speaking guide services from day 2 to day 8 morning
- English-speaking guide except for the days called "free"
- All private minivan or minibus transportation
- Lunches and dinners mentioned by the acronyms: L = Lunch, D = Dinner
- TGV trains 2nd class seats
- Admission fees for the visits mentioned in the programme with a guide
- Telepheriques and elevators mentioned
- The activities mentioned in the itinerary (shows, cruises, etc.) excluding optional extras
- Guarantee of our French travel agency
- 24/7 Assistance from our local agencies
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to China for tourism purposes. Since entry rules may change, we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter China, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry date and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
China has extended its unilateral visa exemption program to numerous countries. Nationals of most European Economic Area countries, as well as Switzerland, benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays. Canadian nationals are also eligible for this exemption following the recent expansion of the program.
Currently, this exemption allows a stay of up to 15 days upon entry to the territory, for transit or tourism purposes. The exact duration and conditions may vary depending on nationality; it is advisable to verify the provisions applicable to your passport before departure.
Authorities may also request:
an outbound ticket (return or onward flight),
proof of accommodation booking for the duration of your stay,
proof of sufficient financial resources.
Tourist visa (type L)
For travelers not eligible for visa exemption, or wishing to stay for a longer period, you must obtain a type L tourist visa from the competent Chinese embassy or consulate before departure.
The application file generally includes:
the completed visa application form,
a recent identity photograph meeting requirements,
the valid original passport,
proof of flight and accommodation booking,
any document evidencing sufficient financial resources.
Processing times may vary; it is recommended to submit your application several weeks before departure.
Entry registration card
Upon arrival in Chinese territory, foreign travelers must complete an entry registration card provided on board the aircraft or available at border posts. This document must be presented to immigration services when passing through passport control.
Furthermore, any foreigner staying in China must register with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival:
at a hotel, registration is completed automatically by the establishment,
if staying with a private individual, the traveler must visit the local police station to complete this registration.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccines are mandatory to enter China for travelers from the EEA, Switzerland, or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are recommended depending on the regions visited and length of stay:
hepatitis A and B,
typhoid,
Japanese encephalitis (for stays in rural areas),
rabies (for extended or adventure stays).
It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination center at least four to six weeks before departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should inquire at the Chinese embassy or consulate of their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the detailed policy outlining all coverage and claims procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claims declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Visitors benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays, provided they hold a valid passport for at least 6 months after entry. Beyond exemption periods, a standard tourist visa can be obtained from the consulate. Conditions change regularly: check with your country's consular authorities for the rules applicable to your nationality before departure.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 160 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. Chinese high-speed trains are an experience in their own right.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to suit our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage that protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Karst South
Explorer of a Plural China, based in Yunnan
China impresses with its vastness, but it's often the details that leave the deepest mark: a forgotten village, an encounter, a market, a light over the mountains of Yunnan.
— Paul
