When Silk Road Culture Meets Fabulous Fall Colors
Start from the mysterious city of Dunhuang, pass by historical Jiayuguan, and then go to Ejina Qi, which is famous for its golden poplar trees, and end the trip in Zhangye with its unique Danxia (red sandstone) landforms. Usually the poplar trees' leaves take on their gold color from mid-September to late October, so this tour is only available in this autumnal period each year. With perfect weather conditions and picturesque wild beauty, we will give you an unforgettable experience.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Admire the Splendid Golden Euphrates Poplar Forests
Visit Ejina Qi National Nature Reserve of Poplar Trees, which is one of the three remaining Poplar Tree reserves in the world. The famous movie "Hero", directed by Zhang Yimou, was shot there. It is a paradise for photographers in fall.
Capture Spectacular Views of Wild China
Visit Zhangye Danxia Geological Park and take stunning photos of the rainbow mountain and Binggou ('ice valley') Danxia landforms. Stroll beside Echoing Sand Mountain and witness the desert wonder — Crescent Lake. Shoot the marvelous desert sunset in Dunhuang.
Discover Unique Historical Sites along the Hexi Corridor
Appreciate amazing murals, sculptures, and grottoes in the renowned Mogao Caves. Visit "the First and Greatest Pass under Heaven", also the westernmost starting point of the Great Wall in the Ming Dynasty — Jiayuguan.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
Xian City is a must to Visit with local guide
If you looking to visit, late Oct is the best time. We had booked with China highlights and Jenny Yang was our guide for 3 days. Jenny is local and grew up in the city, so she knew everything about the streets, food, where to buy, and history about Xian. She has that energy and we can feel the passion instantly when we met her. We had asked specifically for mandarin guide and she nailed it out of the park! I would highly recommend her for any expats that is looking for great customer experience and someone with the attention to details, she is the ONE! I would be back again and Jenny would be my choice of guide. more
Oct 2024, Jerry T
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Ken Zhu: Best Guide in Xi’an
Our guide, Ken Zhu, spoke English well, was knowledgeable about the history of each site, had interesting insight into the people and places that we saw, and was able to recommend excellent places for local food, entertainment and culture.He is able to assist you with the planning of your trip, integrate worthwhile suggestions into your plan, and provide the guidance in the actual tour. He is resourceful and has a pleasant disposition. In Xi’an, Ken is simply the best! more
Oct 2024, Bob F
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Perfect tour guide for Xi’an
Sherry Li was an extraordinary guide to the wonders of Xi’an and surrounds. Her English was impeccable and her knowledge of the region’s history was both deep and broad. In a couple of days we squeezed in the Terracotta Warriors (mind boggling), the beautiful Big Wild Goose Pagoda, muslin quarter and mosque, and the city wall. She also guided us to some amazing food, including my new favourite Biángbiáng noodles. Not only was she first class in her official duties, she also bent over backwards to help us with anything rise we needed, including organizing a massage for my bad back and finding a laundry service so we didn’t have to find the time to do our own laundry in the hotel. We could have spent several more days with Sherry, but time didn’t allow. I highly recommend Sherry and China Highlights. more
Oct 2024, NATHAN G
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Tour Map
Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
Railway station or airport transfer. Saty overnight at Dunhuang.
Mogao Caves, Singing Sand Mountains, Crescent Moon Spring, and camel riding. Stay over night at Dunhuang.
Great Wall Museum, Jiayuguan Fort. Stay overnight at Jiayuguan.
The Black City, Strange Forest sunset shoot.Stay overnight at Ejina Qi.
Visit Poplar Forest National Nature Reserve, immerse yourself in the fabulous fall views.Stay overnight at Ejina Qi.
Juyan Lake sunrise shoot. The Rainbow Mountains sunset shoot.Stay overnight at Zhangye.
Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple.Zhangye Railway station or Zhangye Airport transfer.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: gs-2