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7-Day Dunhuang, Zhangye, and Ejina Qi Photography Tour

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.

the poplar forests in desert
the wonderful view of poplar forests 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.

The Rainbow Mountain
The Crescent Lake

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.

The renowned Mogao Grottoes
Jiayuguan Fort

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Tour Map

When Silk Road Culture Meets Fabulous Fall Colors tour map

Itinerary Quick Look

Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.

DAY 1 Dunhuang Arrival

Railway station or airport transfer. Saty overnight at Dunhuang.

DAY 2 Dunhuang Highlights Discovery

Mogao Caves, Singing Sand Mountains, Crescent Moon Spring, and camel riding. Stay over night at Dunhuang.

DAY 3 Dunhuang to Jiayuguan

Great Wall Museum, Jiayuguan Fort. Stay overnight at Jiayuguan.

DAY 4 Jiayuguan to Ejina Qi

The Black City, Strange Forest sunset shoot.Stay overnight at Ejina Qi.

DAY 5 Lost in the Beautiful Ejina Poplar Forest

Visit Poplar Forest National Nature Reserve, immerse yourself in the fabulous fall views.Stay overnight at Ejina Qi.

DAY 6 Ejina Qi to Zhangye

Juyan Lake sunrise shoot. The Rainbow Mountains sunset shoot.Stay overnight at Zhangye.

DAY 7 Zhangye Departure

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.

Dunhuang Hotel lobby
Dunhuang Hotel bedroom
FromCNY 12850p/p Based on a private tour for 2 people. price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people and chosen hotel

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

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